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Intel NUCs are still a good fit when you need a small desktop with upgradeable memory and storage, but the NUC 13 Pro and NUC 14 Pro are discontinued models as of October 2026. The NUC 13 Pro is the clearer choice if you want well-documented expansion and broad connectivity; the NUC 14 Pro offers newer processor and memory technology. Either makes sense only if the specific unit’s price, configuration, warranty, and remaining support suit your needs.
What an Intel NUC is—and what this review covers
NUC stands for Next Unit of Computing. It describes a family of compact desktop PCs, not one fixed configuration. This review focuses on the Intel-era NUC 13 Pro (Arena Canyon) and its ASUS-developed successor, the NUC 14 Pro. Both are small enough for space-constrained desks or VESA mounting, but processor, memory, storage, and included components depend on the particular kit or mini-PC configuration.
Intel introduced the NUC 13 Pro on March 27, 2023, as a 4-by-4-inch-class system using 13th-generation Intel Core processors. Intel described its kits and mini PCs as upgradable and repairable, with selected vPro configurations aimed at business security and remote management. ASUS announced the NUC 14 Pro on March 27, 2024.
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NUC 13 Pro vs. NUC 14 Pro
The practical difference is a trade-off: the NUC 13 Pro has detailed, flexible storage options and DDR4 memory, while the NUC 14 Pro moves to newer processor families, DDR5, and Intel Arc graphics on specified configurations.
#1 Best Overall
- [AI Capabilities: Powering the Future] The ASUS NUC 14 Pro Mini PC is not just a computer—it's an AI dynamo. Equipped with a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU), in addition to a GPU and CPU, this machine is primed for AI-intensive tasks. Whether it's medical imaging, content creation, or AI development, the NUC 14 Pro is your go-to. Here's a mini PC that offers remarkable efficiency and performance in AI-assisted tasks and AI-generated content applications. Welcome to the future of computing.
- [Unleashed Performance: Ultra 7 155H Processor and Integrated GPU] The NUC is a powerhouse of performance. At its heart is the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, boasting 16 cores, 22 threads, and a turbo frequency of 4.8 GHz. But that's not all. It's paired with an Intel Arc GPU, supporting ray tracing, DirectX* 12.2, OpenGL* 4.6, and OpenCL* 3.0. Whether you're gaming, 3D modeling, or video editing, expect top-notch graphics performance. Get ready for a smooth, visually stunning experience.
- [Effortless Upgrades: Superior Memory, Versatile Storage, and Tool-Free Design] The NUC is a standout in the NUC world with its tool-free design. It comes equipped with 32G DDR5-5600MHz RAM, expandable up to a whopping 96G. Storage? It's got a 1T M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe SSD, with additional slots for extra SSDs. And the best part? The tool-free design allows for easy SSD upgrades and installations, giving you the flexibility to expand your storage as needed. This is versatility at its best.
- [Connectivity Galore: Versatile I/O Ports for All Your Needs] The NUC 14 Pro is a master of connections. It comes with a slew of I/O ports, including Thunderbolt 4 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type C, USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A, USB 2.0 Type A, HDMI 2.1, and a 2.5G Ethernet port. Whether you're setting up a home theater or a complex office workspace, this mini PC ensures seamless integration. It's all about making your life easier.
- [Stay Cool: Advanced Cooling Technology for Optimal Performance] Don't let the heat slow you down. The NUC 14 Pro features advanced cooling technology to keep performance at its peak. Large heat sinks and efficient heat pipes effectively dissipate heat, while the intelligent fan control adjusts speed based on load. The result? A perfect balance between cooling efficiency and noise reduction. Enjoy a quiet, comfortable user experience.
| Feature | NUC 13 Pro | NUC 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Processor options | 13th-generation Intel Core i7, i5, or i3, according to ASUS’s 2023 kit specifications. | Intel Core Ultra 7, Core Ultra 5, or Core 3, according to ASUS’s 2024 announcement. |
| Integrated graphics | Intel Iris Xe on i5/i7 configurations; Intel UHD Graphics on i3 configurations (ASUS, 2023). | Intel Arc graphics on Core Ultra 7/5 models; graphics details for Core 3 are not stated in ASUS’s 2024 announcement. |
| Memory | Two DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM slots, up to 32 GB per module (64 GB total), per ASUS’s 2023 specifications. | Up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM memory, per ASUS’s 2024 announcement; the number of slots is not stated there. |
| Storage expansion | One M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe slot, plus an additional M.2 2242 SATA or 2.5-inch SATA drive depending on model and chassis (ASUS, 2023). | Not stated in ASUS’s 2024 announcement. |
| High-speed connections and displays | Two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports with DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.1 outputs, USB-A ports, 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 (ASUS, 2023). | Two Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 (ASUS, 2024); the announcement does not specify the remaining ports here. |
| AI features | Not stated in Intel’s 2023 announcement. | Intel AI Boost is listed for Core Ultra 7/5 models (ASUS, 2024). |
| Lifecycle | Listed as discontinued January 26, 2026, on ASUS’s lifecycle page updated September 7, 2026. | Listed as discontinued June 8, 2026, on the same ASUS lifecycle page. |
How the NUC 13 Pro performs as a compact desktop
Small size, with two chassis choices
The NUC 13 Pro Kit comes in slim and tall chassis options. ASUS lists the slim version at 117 × 112 × 37 mm and about 502 g, and the tall version at 117 × 112 × 54 mm and about 610 g. Intel describes the tall chassis as providing more room for storage and I/O expansion. The kit accessories document VESA mounting options, which can help keep the unit off a desk.
Memory and storage you can configure
Two SO-DIMM slots and an NVMe slot give the NUC 13 Pro more flexibility than a compact PC with fixed memory and storage. Depending on the model and chassis, there is also a SATA route for an M.2 2242 drive or a 2.5-inch drive. Check the exact kit’s specifications before ordering components: the additional SATA option is not universal across chassis and models.
Rank #2
- [𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗦𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗨𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 & 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆] Officially rebranded from Intel NUC to ASUS NUC in July 2023, the ASUS NUC 14 Pro integrates a dedicated NPU chip for full AI acceleration. It supports AI Ready, AI Boost and AI GC, and smoothly runs mainstream local large language models offline without internet access. The low-power NPU cuts video conference power draw and optimizes graphic enhancement, protecting your privacy while boosting productivity for AI creation, local computing and design work.
- [𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗿𝗮 𝟳 𝟭𝟱𝟱𝗛 𝗖𝗣𝗨 & 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗹 𝗔𝗿𝗰 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝗶𝗰𝘀] The ASUS NUC 14 Pro is powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 155H Meteor Lake processor built on Intel 4 process: 16 cores, 22 threads, 24MB cache, up to 4.8GHz turbo frequency, delivering 20% higher performance and 20% better energy efficiency. The built-in Intel Arc GPU lifts gaming & video editing performance by 2.5X, supporting ray tracing, DirectX 12.2, OpenGL 4.6 and OpenCL 3.0 for smooth 3D modeling and AAA games.
- [𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹-𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 & 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗗𝗥𝟱 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘆 & 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶-𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲] This NUC is a tool-free disassembly design lets you upgrade hardware without extra tools. Pre-installed 32GB DDR5 5600MHz dual-channel RAM, expandable to max 96GB. It comes with a 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 NVMe SSD, and reserves extra slots for M.2 2240 PCIe 4 SSD and 2.5-inch SATA/PCIe HDD for flexible storage expansion.
- [𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗦𝗨𝗦 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟳×𝟮𝟰𝗛 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻] The ASUS NUC 14 Pro adopts ASUS customized thermal solution: aluminum fin heat sink + dual direct-contact copper tubes, double-side large air intake meshes and rear turbo fan for efficient heat evacuation. Intelligent fan speed adjustment balances heat dissipation and noise, supporting continuous 7×24 hours quiet stable operation under heavy loads.
- [𝟴𝗞&𝟰𝗞 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗱-𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗽𝘂𝘁, 𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗜/𝗢 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 & 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗿𝗮-𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆] The ASUS NUC 14 Pro supports single 8K display or four simultaneous 4K displays via 2 Thunderbolt 4 and 2 HDMI 2.1 ports. Rich interfaces include USB 3.2 Gen2×2 Type-C, multiple USB-A ports and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. Equipped with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, bringing lag-free 8K streaming, online gaming and seamless wireless peripheral connections.
A barebone kit requires you to buy compatible memory and storage separately and install them. That gives you control over capacity and drive choice, but adds cost and setup work; compare the price of a completed mini PC against the combined price of the kit and parts before deciding.
Ports and everyday use
The NUC 13 Pro has a strong selection of connections for a small business desktop: Thunderbolt 4, dual HDMI 2.1, USB-A, 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. The combination is useful for a desk with several peripherals or more than one display. Intel lists DisplayPort 1.4 support over the Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports.
Rank #3
- 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀, 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘄-𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 - The ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC houses an Intel N97 processor (4C/4T, up to 3.6GHz) and Intel UHD Graphics built on the mature Alder Lake-N Platform within an ultra-compact 0.56L chassis measuring 5.31" x 4.53" x 1.42". It delivers 12W peak power to support stable daily multitasking, outperforming N5105 and N100 in single-core performance. This trusted, reliable processor suits office workers and students perfectly, enabling smooth multi-tab browsing and document processing. Ideal for daily office work, web browsing, 4K media streaming and light creative tasks with outstanding energy efficiency.
- 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆-𝘁𝗼-𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘆 & 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 - Preloaded with 8GB single-channel DDR5-4800 RAM for smooth multitasking and a 256GB PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe SSD supporting expansion up to 2TB. Enjoy fast system boot, rapid file transmission and responsive performance for routine data processing and light workloads right out of the box.
- 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 & 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗰𝗲𝗕𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝟮.𝟬 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 - Constructed with reinforced ABS shell, metal mid-frame and baseplate to balance structural strength and thermal dissipation. Equipped with ASUS IceBlast 2.0 cooling: dual copper heat pipes, enlarged silent fan and vortex airflow design efficiently dissipate heat with low operating noise. Tool-free chassis enables easy maintenance and upgrades, paired with vibration-damping feet and optimized 3D antennas for long-term stable operation.
- 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝟰𝗞 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗽𝘂𝘁 & 𝗥𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 - Powered by integrated Intel Graphics, it supports triple 4K displays via HDMI, Mini DP and USB-C. Ideal for multi-tasking professionals to handle coding, data analysis, 4K video playback and live streaming without lag. Abundant interfaces meet diverse peripheral connection demands for office and commercial usage.
- 𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹-𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗙𝗹𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 - Features Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 and a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for stable low-latency wireless connections and high-speed wired networking. Pre-installed Windows 11 for instant use, and fully compatible with Windows 11 64-bit, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and RedHat Enterprise Linux. Suitable for home entertainment, small business offices and lightweight industrial deployment.
Its integrated graphics are a sensible match for office work, media, and light creative tasks. The available specifications do not establish gaming frame rates or sustained creator-workload performance, so do not treat the processor or graphics label alone as proof that a particular configuration meets those demands.
Which NUC should you choose?
Choose NUC 13 Pro when expansion matters most
- You want clearly specified memory and storage options, including a potential SATA drive alongside NVMe.
- You can find a configuration at a worthwhile price and confirm its exact chassis, included parts, and warranty.
- You need its documented combination of Thunderbolt 4, two HDMI outputs, and 2.5Gb Ethernet.
- A selected vPro configuration is important for your organization’s security and remote-management requirements.
Choose NUC 14 Pro when newer platform features matter more
- You want a Core Ultra 7 or Ultra 5 option with Intel Arc graphics and Intel AI Boost.
- You need support for up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM memory, as listed by ASUS.
- You have verified the exact model’s storage, ports, configuration, and support terms, since the ASUS 2024 announcement does not specify all of those details.
Consider another mini PC if the buying risks outweigh the fit
Because both models are discontinued, a low advertised price is not enough by itself. If a seller cannot confirm the unit’s condition, included components, warranty coverage, or return terms, or if you need a longer product lifecycle, compare currently supported alternatives before purchasing. The NUC format remains appealing, but the availability and support situation now matter as much as the hardware.
Rank #4
- Fully Configured: Powered by the latest 14th Gen Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor with Intel Arc Graphics, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, and Win 11 Pro
- AI Ready: Harnesses the prowess of Intel Core Ultra processors’ AI engines – GPU, NPU, and CPU – for high throughput, low power, and fast response
- Customizable: Designed for toolless chassis access making upgrades easier, safer, and faster
- Wi-Fi Sensing: Takes advantage of Wi-Fi sensing to deliver instant availability while reducing power consumption
- Wireless Connectivity: Delivers seamless connectivity for certified Bluetooth dongle-free experiences
Who supports Intel NUC systems now?
Support ownership changed from Intel to ASUS. Intel announced in July 2023 that ASUS would manufacture, sell, and support Intel NUC 10th–13th generation systems and develop future designs. Intel’s support notice says ASUS took over technical, firmware, BIOS, security-advisory, and new warranty support for NUC 7–13 systems on January 16, 2024. It also states a three-year limited warranty for hardware included in ASUS-sold NUC boxes. That warranty statement should not be assumed to cover every used, refurbished, or third-party-sold unit; verify the terms for the exact seller and region.
What discontinuation means for buyers
ASUS’s lifecycle page, updated September 7, 2026, lists the NUC 13 Pro as discontinued on January 26, 2026, the NUC 14 Pro on June 8, 2026, and the NUC 14 Pro AI+ on July 20, 2026. ASUS’s table also gives later software and security-support end dates, so discontinuation is not the same as updates ending immediately. Before buying, check the exact model’s remaining update coverage, regional warranty, stock status, and seller support. ASUS also cautions that specifications, content, availability, and actual performance can vary by country, application, environment, and other factors.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 🚀 Next-Gen Performance with AI Power – The ASUS NUC 14 Pro AI mini pc is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H, featuring a cutting-edge hybrid architecture with 14 cores, 18 threads, and up to 4.5GHz turbo boost. The integrated Intel Arc GPU delivers up to 2.5x better performance for gaming, video editing, and AI-driven workloads. Whether for business, content creation, or AI research, this mini desktop pc sets a new standard in speed and efficiency.
- ❄ Advanced Cooling for 24/7 Stability – Designed for nonstop performance, this mini computers features ASUS’s upgraded thermal module, an aluminum fin heat sink, dual copper heat pipes, and a high-efficiency turbo fan. Enhanced airflow keeps temperatures low while ensuring whisper-quiet operation, even under heavy workloads. Whether for professional AI workloads or intensive multitasking, this small pc runs cool and stable all day.
- ⚡ High-Speed Memory & Flexible Storage Expansion – This small desktop computer supports 16GB to 64GB DDR5 RAM (expandable up to 96GB) and 512GB to 2TB PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD for ultra-fast performance. With additional 2.5-inch SATA slots, it offers seamless storage expansion for gaming, NAS, and creative projects. Its tool-free design ensures effortless upgrades, making this Micro PC a powerful and versatile choice for any high-performance setup.
- 🔗 Ultimate Connectivity & Multi-Display Support – This mini desktop computer is equipped with 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2 x 2 Type C, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A, 1 x USB 2.0 Gen2 Type A,, and 2.5G Ethernet, providing ultra-fast data transfer and seamless multi-device connectivity. Supporting up to one 8K or four 4K HDR displays, this mini computers is perfect for professionals handling video editing, AI processing, and immersive entertainment.
- 🛡 Compact, Durable & VESA-Mount Ready – This micro pc offers premium durability while maintaining an ultra-compact footprint. The included VESA mount allows for a clutter-free workspace, making it ideal for offices, home setups, and embedded applications. Elevate your workspace with a powerful yet space-saving small desktop computer.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
