The Asus ROG NUC, unveiled at CES 2024, has generated quite a buzz among tech enthusiasts. With impressive specifications and a sleek design, this compact PC promises high performance in a small form factor. However, with a price tag of €2,500 for the high-end version, is it worth the investment?
According to a pre-order listing on European retailer Proshop, the launch price of the ROG NUC is €2,500. This price includes an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU, RTX 4070 laptop GPU, 2x16GB of DDR5 memory, and a 1TB SSD. The release date is set for April 10, but the steep price may deter some potential buyers.
While the high-end version may not be budget-friendly, Asus plans to release a more affordable variant with a Core Ultra 7 155H processor and RTX 4060 graphics. This version offers a compromise between performance and price, making it a more attractive option for those on a tighter budget.
Specifications and Features
The ROG NUC boasts impressive specifications, including support for up to 64GB of DDR5 SO-DIMM memory, three PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, WiFi 6E, 2.5GB LAN, and Thunderbolt4 / USB4 connectivity. With the ability to connect up to four displays simultaneously, this compact PC is a versatile and powerful solution for multitasking.
Partnership with Intel
As the first Asus NUC following the partnership with Intel, the ROG NUC sets the stage for future collaborations between the two companies. This partnership allows Asus to sell and support 10th to 13th Gen NUC product lines, while also giving them the flexibility to design custom systems like the ROG NUC.
Future Possibilities
With the success of the ROG NUC, Asus may explore other NUC units in the future, such as gaming-focused Strix or TUF models, as well as business-oriented or lifestyle Zen or Vivo variants. By incorporating Intel Xe integrated graphics and offering more affordable options, Asus can appeal to a wider range of consumers without sacrificing performance.
The Asus ROG NUC stands out as a premium compact PC with impressive specifications and a sleek design. While the high price may be a barrier for some buyers, the availability of more affordable options and the potential for future NUC iterations make it an exciting prospect for tech enthusiasts.
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