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The Akasa Newton TN turns a compatible Intel NUC11 Pro Tiger Canyon system into a fanless mini-PC, and the conversion works well for everyday computing, media playback, and other moderate workloads. In the 2022 review, most ordinary benchmark results stayed close to those of the actively cooled NUC. But extended CPU-heavy stress eventually pushed the processor to its 105 °C junction limit and triggered throttling—even after the sustained power limit was reduced to 25 W.
That makes the Newton TN a strong choice when eliminating CPU fan noise, adding VESA mounting, or gaining a 2.5-inch drive bay and serial connectivity matters more than maximum sustained performance. It is not a guarantee that every 28 W workload will run indefinitely without throttling.
What was tested: NUC11TNBi5 board versus NUC11TNKi5 kit
The names are easy to confuse. The NUC11TNBi5 is the board version of Intel’s 11th-generation NUC Pro “Tiger Canyon” platform. The NUC11TNKi5 is a kit with Intel’s original chassis and active blower cooling. In the 2022 review, the reviewer tested a NUC11TNKi5, then moved its board into the Newton TN. So the fanless machine was a board transplant, not a factory-built Intel fanless PC.
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Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The tested systems used the same Core i5-1135G7 platform, but a board, kit, and complete system can differ in included chassis, power adapter, wireless accessories, warranty, and availability. Check the exact SKU and what a seller includes rather than treating “Bi5” and “Ki5” as interchangeable. The review’s configuration and results are documented in the 2022 test report.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Powerful Performance with Intel Core 1165G7】11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor (2.80 GHz, up to 4.70 GHz with Turbo Boost, 4 Cores, 8 Threads, 8 MB Cache)
- 【Customization】Seal is opened for Hardware/Software Upgraded only to enhance performance. Upgraded to 16GB DDR4 3200Mhz RAM, 256GB M.2 Solid State Drive + 1TB HDD, No buit-in DVD
- 【Connectivity】Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 802.11AX (2 x 2) & Bluetooth 5, 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN (RJ45), Front: 1 x Thunderbolt 3 (thru USB-C), 1 x USB 3.2 (Gen 2) Type A, 1 x Headphone/Microphone Combo 7.1 multi-channel; Rear: 1 x Thunderbolt 3 (thru USB-C), 2 x USB 3.2 (Gen 2) Type-A, 1 x HDMI2.0, 1 x mini-Display Port (upto 8k)
- 【Compact and Robust Design】The Intel NUC 11 Tiny Mini Client PC is extremely compact at 96% smaller than a traditional desktop tower. The Panther Canyon delivers a unique combination of commanding performance, immersive graphics, fast and flexible connectivity, and innovations like wireless charging, remote control, and voice control.
- 【Rock eDigital Enhancement】Upgraded to Windows 11 Pro, Height: 2''(51mm) Width: 4.6''(117mm) Depth: 4.4''(112mm) in Dimensions, Intel provides three-year global warranty for Barebone products, 120W Power Supply, Black Color.
What the Tiger Lake platform offers
The reviewed configuration used Intel’s Core i5-1135G7, a four-core, eight-thread processor with a 2.4 GHz base frequency and up to 4.2 GHz boost, plus Iris Xe graphics with 80 execution units. The review reported a configurable processor power range of 12–28 W; its default limits were 28 W PL1 and 64 W PL2. The Newton TN is specified for processors up to 28 W TDP, but that rating is not proof that every workload will sustain that power without reaching a thermal limit.
- Two DDR4-3200 SODIMM slots support memory; the review used 32 GB as two 16 GB modules.
- The platform supports PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe storage. The test system used a Samsung 980 PRO.
- Networking includes 2.5 Gb Ethernet and Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201. The Wi-Fi radio needs external antenna hardware after this case conversion.
- The platform includes HDMI and Thunderbolt/USB-C connectivity, with display output available over Thunderbolt. Check the exact board I/O and verify ports after assembly.
The test kit included a 120 W, 19 V, 6.32 A power supply and ran Windows 11 Enterprise build 22000.739. Those are details of that particular review system, not a guarantee of what comes with a used board or case.
What the Newton TN adds—and what it does not
Akasa’s Newton TN is an aluminium passive-cooling chassis measuring approximately 176.5 × 200 × 53.5 mm. Akasa lists compatibility with specified NUC11 Pro Tiger Canyon boards and kits, maximum 28 W TDP support, VESA mounting, Kensington lock support, two antenna mounting holes, and a 2.5-inch SATA drive bay for drives up to 9.5 mm thick. Its official product page also identifies the optional AK-PD120-04M power adapter.
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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The enclosure exposes or routes motherboard connectivity through its own openings and front panel; it does not mean every port has a new controller behind it. Akasa lists two front USB 3.2 ports, two front USB 2.0 ports, two rear USB Type-A ports, two rear USB Type-C ports, two HDMI outputs, LAN, and a serial port opening. The extra USB 2.0 ports suit low-bandwidth devices, not high-speed peripherals. Akasa also says the audio jack is not supported in this configuration.
Rank #2
- 【Storage Expansion RAM+SSD Upgraded】Intel NUC Seal is opened for Hardware/Software upgrade RAM+SSD only to enhance performance ; Intel NUC11 i5 has built-in 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB PCleX4 SSD (Support up to 1TB of 2.5-inch PCleX4 Gen4 SSD and M.2 SATA, not included) that take storage and performance to the next level. Wi-Fi 6 AX201 Wifi, Bluetooth 5.2, No Webcam, No Display.
- 【Powerful Performance with 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 Quad Core】 11th Gen Intel NUC Intel Core i5-1135G7 2.40GHz Processor (upto 4.2 GHz, 4 Cores, 8 Thead, 6 MB Cache, ) , 4 Cores, 8 Threads, built-in 28W Intel Iris Xe Graphics, up to 1.3 GHz, With US AC Cord and 120W Power Supply, Black Color.
- 【High Speed and Multitasking】 Conference Rooms and Live Collaboration - Our intel nuc 11mini PC can drive 4 x 4k displays or 8k display, Intel NUC 11 i5 offers HDMI ports and 2X Thunderbolt 3 connectivity (Type-C port with 5V/9V fast phone charging profiles.), power all of your conference room technology, drive multiple displays and projectors, and stream live collaboration. Add cameras and interactive displays for immersive experiences.
- 【Interface Specifications】Choose the latest Gen Intel Core i5 processors with extensive I/Os; Dual Channel DDR4 SODIMMs, 1.2V, 64GB max,M.2 22x80 key M slot, PCIe x4 Gen4 NVMe or SATA3 SSDs; 1 HDMI2.0b, 1 mini Displayport 1.4 Ports, Ethernet LAN (RJ-45), 3.1Gen USB port 1 Front+2 Rear, 3.5mm Headset Jack, SD Reader, No Optical Drive; Preinstall Operating System Windows 11 Pro .
- - - Customers always THE NUMBER ONE. ！！- - All Intel mainstream kits and barebones with upgraded RAM, SSD, and OS are covered by a three-year warranty (Professionally upgraded by intel Partner Store). If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, and our customer service reply at once .
The 2.5-inch bay is useful for extra storage, but a mechanical hard drive will make noise and defeat a completely fanless system’s quiet-room advantage. A 2.5-inch SSD avoids that particular noise source.
How difficult is the conversion?
This is a careful board-and-cooling transfer, not a simple case swap. The review documented teardown, board preparation, chassis preparation, motherboard installation, and M.2 installation. Use the case instructions for the exact board and hardware revision; do not assume the stock Intel cooler hardware or standoffs can be reused in a particular arrangement.
- Prepare the system. Shut down, unplug the NUC, and remove it from its original chassis. Keep screws and small parts organized as the stock enclosure and blower assembly come apart.
- Check the board and case hardware. Identify the correct standoff positions and mounting parts for the exact NUC SKU. Incorrect standoff placement can damage the board or create unwanted contact.
- Fit the CPU thermal interface. Clean the contact surfaces, apply the supplied paste as directed, and confirm that the heat-transfer block sits squarely on the processor package. Akasa identifies its supplied AK-TC5026 paste as selected for its passive cases, citing thin bond lines, low thermal resistance, and reduced pressure dependence.
- Install the M.2 drive and its thermal parts. Position the supplied thermal block and pads where intended. Do not substitute arbitrary pad thicknesses or leave components that need contact unsupported.
- Route antennas and reconnect cables. Connect suitable Wi-Fi antenna leads to the board and route them to the rear SMA openings. Reconnect the case’s power button, front-panel, storage, and external-I/O hardware as applicable.
- Check before closing. Make sure the heat-transfer block is aligned, pads contact the intended components, and no cable is pinched or under tension. Do not force the cover into place if anything is misaligned.
- Boot and validate. Confirm that storage, wired and wireless networking, display outputs, and the ports you need work. Monitor CPU and SSD temperatures under both ordinary use and a sustained workload before putting the system into service.
Thermal interface installation is particularly important: poor contact, an uneven paste layer, or misplaced or unsuitable pads may compromise heat transfer. The review raised thermal-interface performance and imperfect paste application as possible contributors to its results, but did not establish a single definitive cause.
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Does it stay silent, and how does performance compare?
The Newton TN removes the CPU blower from the cooling path, so it eliminates that fan as a source of noise. The review described the converted system as silent and found most real-world benchmark results generally close to those from the active NUC. It did not establish a laboratory noise-floor measurement, and fanless does not mean that every possible noise source disappears: a mechanical drive, coil whine, or external power adapter may still be audible.
Rank #3
- 【Advancing Performance Hybrid Architecture】--Newest 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P 12 Cores CPU, Up to 4.6GHz. 13th Gen Intel Core processors advances performance hybrid architecture with up to 4 Performance-cores and up to 8 Efficient-cores, more powerful performance and smoother running. Easily handle browsing the internet, reading email, editing documents, home office, and more with ease, even for professional uses like photos editing, with a user experience close to a desktop computer.
- 【Small Outside, Powerful Inside】--Intel NUC 13 Pro mini pc, For ASUS NUC 13 Pro with high-speed 16GB DDR4, Built-in 512GB M.2 SSD. 16GB of RAM memory makes your entire system speedy and responsive. That way it can support tasks like memory-hogging multitab browsing and opening a huge graphic file quickly and easily. If you want even more storage, you can also add a 2.5" SSD (not included) to expand the memory for a wonderful secure data bank.
- 【Less Size, More Business Performance】--Intel NUC 13 Pro mini computers measures only 4.6 in * 4.4 in * 2.1 in, you can be easily placed in crowded workstations or small spaces. Because of the small size to put under you big screen TV for internet movies instead of just limited by the smart TV paid options. You can also mount a MINI PC behind a computer monitor using VESA, and turn your monitor into a pseudo "All-in-One" which is cool. Gives you a clean and uncluttered desktop environment.
- 【Clearer Picture】--Intel NUC 13 Pro mini computer comes with Intel Iris Xe Graphics. Supports 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, 4K@60Hz four screen display(2*HDIM 2.1 + 2*Thunderbolt 4). Images come alive with new levels of realism, and colors are more vibrant. You can enjoy 8K Web surfing, video playback, watching TV, home theater, and enjoy the entertainment with your family. Dual HDMI Ports & Dual Thunderbolt 4 Ports easily connecting 4 monitors, efficiency doubled Work, Entertaining and Creation.
- 【Connectivity & Expandability】--Intel NUC 13 Pro small computer comes with Intel i226 Ethernet port for speeds up to 2.5Gbps, supports WiFi 6E with 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz three bandwidths & Bluetooth 5.3. It which could be connected with your mouse, acoustics or headset. It can work with server, monitoring equipment, office equipment, monitor, projector, TV and so on. Built-in fan cooling so you don't have to worry about multitasking overheating your product.
In the tested workloads, SYSmark scores were approximately similar within normal run-to-run variation, and the fanless system used less energy in SYSmark, plausibly because it no longer had a blower to power. Tiger Lake performed well in web and other lightly threaded work, while multi-threaded performance was weaker than that of higher-core-count AMD Renoir systems in the review’s comparisons. Hardware-accelerated 4K playback was smooth in the tested media workloads; 8K60 AV1 playback was the notable exception in that software environment.
Those results date to 2022 and depend on the review’s Windows build, firmware, memory, SSD, and benchmark versions. They are not a direct performance comparison with current mini-PCs.
Thermals: ordinary use is different from prolonged stress
The review’s stress sequence combined Prime95, FurMark, and AIDA64, at an ambient temperature of approximately 78–82 °F with no deliberate airflow across the system. That is a demanding test setup, not a typical office workload. The active NUC initially reached about 92 °C, then peaked around 83 °C during the sustained stock-style CPU segment. The fanless system rose above 90 °C early, reached about 94 °C during the FurMark-only segment, and reached about 102 °C after 30 minutes of AIDA64 CPU/FPU/cache/RAM stress.
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During a four-hour extended stress run, the fanless system reached the processor’s 105 °C junction limit after about an hour and throttled. After throttling, package power oscillated around 25–26 W. In a separate test with PL1 reduced to 25 W, it still reached the junction limit after approximately 165 minutes. These figures and test conditions are from the original review.
Rank #4
- 【Powerful Foundation for Any Task】 The ASUS NUC 14 Essential, powered by an Intel N150 processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Windows 11 Pro, and Intel graphics, delivers reliable performance. Whether for office work, digital signage, or embedded solutions, it handles multitasking with ease and serves as a solid alternative to Intel NUC.
- 【Fast & Stable Connectivity】 Equipped with Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 (Gig+), Bluetooth 5.3, and a 2.5G LAN port (Realtek RTL8125BG-CG), the ASUS NUC 14 Essential ensures maximum connectivity. Perfect for POS systems, interactive media, or home office setups that demand fast and secure network performance.
- 【Comprehensive Ports & Display Options】 With USB-C/USB-A ports, 3.5mm audio jack, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and RJ45, the ASUS NUC offers versatile connections. Whether monitors, printers, or external storage, it adapts easily—ideal for retail, schools, or edge computing environments.
- 【Easy Upgrades & Low Maintenance】 The ASUS NUC 14 Essential allows quick access to RAM and SSD (DDR5-4800 up to 16GB, M.2 2280/2242 PCIe Gen3x4, supports 128GB–2TB NVMe or SATA). Expand components in seconds, minimize downtime, and reduce IT maintenance costs—perfect for businesses and IT teams.
- 【Compact Design – Flexible Placement】 Measuring just 135 × 115 × 36 mm and weighing 470 g, the ASUS NUC 14 Essential fits anywhere. From small offices and retail counters to classrooms, it saves space while offering more connectivity and power than a standard Intel NUC.
The reviewer did not find that the case exterior had become heat-saturated; the suspected limitation was heat transfer from a localized processor hotspot through the passive interface. The exact cause was not proven. The result shows that this particular demanding, sustained workload could eventually throttle—not that the Newton TN necessarily overheats in normal use, nor that throttling is impossible to encounter. A hotter cabinet or room can reduce thermal headroom, while cooler, ventilated surroundings may improve it.
The test also used a high-performance Samsung 980 PRO, which reached about 86 °C in one stress segment. The M.2 thermal solution is important, and a cooler-running, efficient SSD may be a more sensible choice than a drive selected solely for peak desktop-class throughput.
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Wi-Fi needs antenna hardware
The AX201 radio remains on the board, but the conversion requires an U.FL/IPEX MHF4-to-RP-SMA adapter cable and compatible antennas for practical reception. The review found reception too weak without that add-on. A radio appearing in the operating system is not proof of usable signal: check actual signal strength and throughput after installation. Wired 2.5 Gb Ethernet avoids this particular issue.
Analogue audio is not supported through the original jack
Akasa states that the audio jack is unsupported with the Newton TN. Depending on the setup, use HDMI or DisplayPort audio, a USB audio adapter, a Thunderbolt dock, or network audio instead.
Best Value
- 【13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P CPU】Intel NUC 13 Pro,for ASUS NUC 13 pro Mini PCs, offer the perfect combination of size, performance, sustainability, and reliability to drive modern business. It all starts with 13th Gen i5-1340P processor that deliver outsized performance in a 4x4 form factor. up to 12 cores (4P+8E), 16 threads,12MB Intel Smart Cache, P-Cores: Up to 4.60 GHz Turbo, E-Cores: Up to 3.40 GHz Turbo, Intel Iris Xe Graphics 80EU, 1.45 GHz, and up to 64GB dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory
- 【Intel NUC 13 pro configured with 16GB DDR4 RAM & 512GB M.2 PCIe SSD,Win 11 Pro】The Mini computer loaded with 2*8GB SODIMM DDR4(3200MHz). Dual channel DDR4 upgradeable to max 64GB(2 * 32GB), And 512GB M.2 22*80 PCIe *4 Gen4 NVMe SSD. M.2 2242 key B slot for PCIe *1 Gen3, USB 3.2 Gen2 and SATA SSD expandability. Reduce latency, powerful loading and processing capabilities for a smoother experience. Preinstalled with Windows 11 pro.Just plug it in and go
- 【Thunderbolt, Wireless,Other Features & Tech.】2*Thunderbolt 4 ports (incl. DisplayPort 2.1 and USB4) via back panel type C connectors,Intel i226V 10/100/1000/2500 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port, 2*front and 1*rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 type A ports 1*rear type A and 2*internal USB 2.0 headers, 2* HDMI 2.1 TMDS Compatible (4K@60Hz), with built-in CEC per port. 3.5mm front stereo headset jack, Up to 7.1 multichannel (or 8-channel) digital audio on HDMI and DP type C ports, Intel Wi-Fi 6E (Gig+),Bluetooth 5.3
- Business Driver, Space Saver】 The Intel NUC Pro Software Suite (NPSS) helps to ensure digital signage applications keep running during any unexpected system failures. Businesses also benefit from advanced features including power control, hardware alarm clock, hardware KVM, boot redirection, beyond firewall support, cloud-based manageability, remote PC remedy, and unattended system control. NUC 13 Upgradable, repairable, and reusable.To provide an eco-friendly foundation for businesses
- 【3-Year Global Wa-rranty from ASUS & Seller】 We are the Intel/ASUS NUC Authorised Agent on Amazon. All products sold from us are will automatically receive a 3-year Wa-rranty Service from ASUS, You can go directly to the local ASUS NUC offline after-sales location if any issue with the NUC Barebone part.Warm Tips: To ensure your privacy and security, please remove the Memory and SSD before aftermarket. Three-year wa-rranty on RAM, SSD, OS provided by Seller
Verify the ports you depend on
The case’s openings and pass-throughs are not a reason to assume every USB-C, Thunderbolt, or display function will work exactly as it did in the stock enclosure. Confirm the board’s capabilities and test the actual ports after assembly. Physical port placement also differs from the original Intel chassis.
Newton TN versus Turing TN and Plato TN
All three are deployment choices rather than interchangeable shells. The dimensions below are approximate; case suitability and board compatibility should be checked for the precise SKU.
| Case | Approximate dimensions | Best reason to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Newton TN | 176.6 × 200 × 53.6 mm | Horizontal desktop format, 2.5-inch drive support, VESA mounting, serial connectivity, and expanded I/O. |
| Plato TN | 247 × 240 × 38.5 mm | Broad, low-profile shape. |
| Turing TN | 95 × 113.5 × 247.9 mm | Tall format and more heat-dissipating surface area. |
The original reviewer preferred the Turing TN for thermal performance when the Newton’s footprint, VESA mounting, and I/O were not needed. With the board installed, the review reported about 2,618 g for the Turing TN versus about 1,572 g for the Newton TN configuration—evidence of a substantial mass difference, not a universal thermal guarantee. Check Akasa’s compatibility list for the exact board or kit; processor family alone is not enough to establish fit.
Is this a sensible buy in 2026?
This is an older platform and an availability-dependent conversion. The review’s July 2022 street prices were about $150 for the Newton TN and $420 or, in a separate price line, about $440 for the board. Its example configured system totaled roughly $795–$815 before an operating system, including memory and SSD. Those figures are historical only; they are not current retail guidance. Akasa’s product page provides specifications, not a dependable current street price.
As the product line transitioned from Intel to ASUS, check the ASUS NUC11TNBi5 support page for applicable support information. When buying used, verify whether the listing is for a board, barebone kit, or complete system; check the exact SKU, included power supply, BIOS state, memory, storage, wireless accessories, and physical condition. Do not assume a similarly named NUC11 fits the Newton TN.
The conversion makes the most financial sense if you already own a compatible board or can source the case and NUC inexpensively. Include the cost and availability of DDR4-3200 SODIMMs, an efficient NVMe SSD, Wi-Fi antenna cable and antennas if needed, and a suitable power adapter if the listing lacks one. A premium memory or SSD purchase can erase the value of used hardware. If the combined price approaches that of a newer fanless mini-PC with a current warranty, native antennas, and more performance, the newer complete system may be the better buy.
Quick Recap
Who should choose the Newton TN?
- HTPC or office user: A good fit for quiet-room use, everyday productivity, remote desktop, and tested 4K media playback, provided the port and codec needs match the system.
- Digital-signage or industrial deployment: Potentially useful where VESA mounting, serial connectivity, and fanless operation fit the installation. Validate the exact workload, enclosure temperature, service access, and spare-parts supply before deploying at scale.
- Light home server: Reasonable with wired Ethernet and moderate sustained CPU demand. Consider drive acoustics and monitor temperatures in the actual enclosure location.
- Developer or workstation user: Treat it as conditional for compilation and a poor fit for long CPU rendering or sustained FPU-heavy work if throttling is unacceptable. Power-limit tuning may change when throttling begins, but the 25 W test did not eliminate it.
- Used-hardware buyer: A worthwhile project when the compatible NUC is already available or inexpensive and you are comfortable with careful disassembly and thermal-interface installation. Otherwise, compare total build cost and warranty against newer fanless systems.
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.
