In the market, there’s a plethora of mini PCs designed for simple office tasks, devoid of gaming aspirations. However, that doesn’t mean a manufacturer couldn’t create a mini PC with potent graphics if they set their mind to it.
ASUS, a manufacturer actively participating in the ongoing CES event in Las Vegas, has confirmed previous rumors by unveiling a NUC (Next Unit of Computing) designed for gaming. This move demonstrates Intel‘s full confidence in ASUS, as Intel recently announced its exit from the NUC product line, transferring that business segment to ASUS.
During CES, ASUS introduced the ROG NUC, a device available in two different configurations. Unfortunately, as is customary at CES, pricing and market availability have not been disclosed.
ROG NUC Specifications for Gaming
The ROG NUC isn’t positioned to compete with the ROG C22H model, a compact desktop computer sporting an Intel Core i9-14900KF processor and an RTX 4070 graphics card. Instead, it’s aimed at replacing the NUC 13 Extreme. The ROG NUC comes in two versions: one featuring the Intel Core i7 155H and another with the Intel Core i9 185H.
The version equipped with the Intel Core i7 155H processor boasts the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, while the Intel Core i9 185H model houses the NVIDIA RTX 4070. Both variants include two DDR5 SO-DIMM memory slots, three M.2 2280 storage slots, WiFi 6E wireless connectivity, and Bluetooth 5.3. Additionally, they feature a 2.5G Ethernet connection.
The power adapter delivers 300W, and the dimensions measure 144 x 112 x 41 mm, with a total weight of 800 grams. In terms of connectivity, the ASUS ROG NUC is equipped with 1 Thunderbolt USB-C port, 2 USB 3.2 Type-A ports, 2 USB 2.0 Type-A ports, 1 HDMI port, 2 DisplayPort ports, an RJ45 Ethernet connection, and a power connector on the back. On the front, you’ll find an SD card slot, 2 USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and a headphone jack.
ASUS ROG NUC Design and Form Factor
The NUC models, although smaller than compact gaming computers like the ROG C22H, have witnessed remarkable growth due to their affordability and integrated graphics capable of handling office tasks. However, they may fall short when it comes to more demanding tasks.
The design of the ASUS ROG NUC resembles Intel’s NUC 12 Enthusiast. This device houses a 12th generation Intel Core Alder Lake processor with Intel Arc A770M graphics. It’s worth noting that ASUS is not exclusively relying on Intel graphics, although it’s not entirely ruled out. The ROG NUC offers a powerful mini PC solution with graphics suitable for gaming and content creation, making it an ideal choice, provided its price aligns with market expectations.
One important aspect to note is that while ASUS has included “NUC” in its name, the ROG NUC is technically a mini PC and does not adhere to the traditional NUC form factor – those square computers with form factor boards invented by Intel that have been a staple on store shelves for years. ASUS’s version is larger but still compact enough to qualify as a mini PC.