ASUS NUC 15 Pro Review: The Ultimate AI-Powered Mini PC?

ASUS has made a significant mark in the mini PC market with the ASUS NUC 15 Pro, a compact yet powerful device offering impressive AI performance and top-tier hardware. But is this the right mini PC for you? Let's break it down.

ASUS NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Features

1. Powerful Performance

At the heart of the ASUS NUC 15 Pro is Intel’s Arrow Lake-H and Raptor Lake-H/U chips. The high-end model features an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H CPU, capable of handling multitasking, content creation, and AI-driven tasks with ease.

2. Massive Memory & Storage Options

• Supports up to 96GB of DDR5-6400 RAM, ensuring seamless multitasking.
• Dual M.2 slots (2280 & 2242) allow storage expansion up to 4TB SSD.

3. Integrated Graphics for Moderate Workloads

• Comes with Intel Arc 140T iGPU, suitable for video editing and casual gaming.
• Not ideal for high-end gaming or 3D rendering, as it lacks a dedicated GPU.

4. Extensive Connectivity Options

ASUS packed this mini PC with various ports to ensure maximum versatility:

• Dual HDMI 2.0
• Dual Thunderbolt 4
• Triple USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
• USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2
• USB 2.0
• 2.5G Ethernet port
• Audio jack
• Bluetooth 5.4 & WiFi 7 for fast wireless connectivity

5. Exceptional AI Performance

• Delivers up to 99 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) of AI processing power.
• Outperforms Snapdragon X Elite, which offers only 45 TOPS.
• AI performance will largely depend on software optimization and implementation.

6. Two Size Options

• Available in Tall and Slim variants.
• Both models offer identical performance, so the choice comes down to personal preference and space constraints.

ASUS NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Price

ASUS has yet to announce an official price for the NUC 15 Pro. However, given the high-end hardware and advanced AI capabilities, it is expected to be a premium-priced mini PC.

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ASUS NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Review

Performance & Usability

Users seeking a compact yet powerful workstation will find the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H and 96GB RAM support highly beneficial. The Arc 140T iGPU is sufficient for productivity and creative work but isn’t built for hardcore gaming.

AI Capabilities

With 99 TOPS of AI performance, the ASUS NUC 15 Pro is ideal for AI-driven applications, machine learning, and automation tasks. It easily surpasses Snapdragon X Elite’s AI capabilities, though real-world performance depends on software integration.

Connectivity & Design

The versatile port selection makes it a great option for professionals needing multiple peripherals. The two form factors allow users to choose between a taller model for extra internal expansion or a slim version for a compact setup.

ASUS NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High AI performance (99 TOPS)
• Powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor
• Expandable RAM (up to 96GB) and storage (up to 4TB SSD)
• Extensive port selection for connectivity
• Supports latest WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
• Two size variants for space optimization

Cons:

• No dedicated GPU, limiting high-end gaming capabilities
• AI performance depends on software optimization

Should You Buy ASUS NUC 15 Pro Mini PC?

The ASUS NUC 15 Pro is an excellent choice for users looking for a compact yet powerful workstation with cutting-edge AI capabilities. It’s perfect for content creators, AI developers, and professionals needing high-end performance in a small form factor.

However, if you’re a gamer or require a dedicated GPU for 3D work, this might not be the best option. But if you need a future-proof, AI-driven mini PC, the ASUS NUC 15 Pro is definitely worth considering.

Final Verdict: 9/10

With its impressive AI performance, powerful processor, and excellent connectivity, the ASUS NUC 15 Pro is one of the most powerful mini PCs available today.

Disclaimer: This review is based on available information at the time of writing. Pricing and specifications may change. Always check the official ASUS website for the latest updates.

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