ASUS NUC 14 Pro Review

For years, Intel’s NUC set the standard for powerful, palm-sized computing, but a new era has begun. ASUS has now taken the reins, and its inaugural NUC 14 Pro is a clear signal of intent for the future of the mini PC. This compact machine packs Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors, aiming to be the versatile workhorse for professionals, developers, and home lab enthusiasts alike.

The heart of the ASUS NUC 14 Pro is the new Intel “Meteor Lake” Core Ultra processor, and its performance is impressive for such a small footprint. Our review unit, equipped with a Core Ultra 7 155H, chewed through productivity tasks, code compilation, and multi-tabbed browsing without breaking a sweat. The real story isn’t just raw CPU speed, but the platform’s tripartite architecture: powerful P-cores for demanding tasks, efficient E-cores for background processes, and a new dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU). While the NPU’s utility is still emerging as software catches up, it promises to accelerate future AI-driven applications, making this a forward-looking investment. The integrated Intel Arc graphics are a significant step up from previous generations, capably handling 4K video playback and light gaming, but don’t expect it to replace a dedicated gaming rig for the latest AAA titles.

ASUS has wisely evolved the classic NUC design with a focus on serviceability. The new chassis is entirely tool-less, allowing you to pop the top and access the M.2 slots and RAM with just your fingers. It’s a brilliant quality-of-life improvement that makes initial setup and future upgrades incredibly simple. The build is solid, with a matte black finish that fits unobtrusively into any workspace, though the move to a primarily plastic construction feels like a slight step down from the more metallic feel of some past NUCs. The cooling system does an admirable job under typical loads, but the fan can certainly make its presence known when the CPU is pushed to its limits for extended periods.

Connectivity has always been a NUC strength, and the NUC 14 Pro proudly continues this tradition. The port selection is outstanding, featuring dual Thunderbolt 4 ports that support DisplayPort 2.1, an HDMI 2.1 port, multiple USB-A ports, and a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet jack. This array provides immense flexibility, enabling multi-monitor setups, high-speed storage, and robust networking right out of the box. Combined with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, this mini PC is equipped to connect to virtually anything you can throw at it.

The value proposition is where the NUC 14 Pro becomes a more nuanced discussion. As a barebones kit, it offers a fantastic foundation for a custom build. However, once you factor in the cost of high-performance DDR5 RAM and a fast NVMe SSD, the total price begins to compete with larger desktops or capable laptops. For businesses that need a reliable, VESA-mountable workstation with vPro support, the cost is easily justified. For home users, it’s a premium product for those who value the compact form factor and cutting-edge feature set over raw price-to-performance.

Ultimately, the ASUS NUC 14 Pro is a worthy successor to the Intel legacy. It’s a masterclass in compact engineering, blending excellent performance, top-tier connectivity, and forward-looking AI hardware into a tiny, versatile package. This machine is the ideal choice for developers, IT professionals, and power users who need a potent and compact workstation and are willing to pay a premium for its specific blend of features. It’s not for the budget-conscious or the dedicated gamer, but for its target audience, it’s one of the best mini PCs you can buy today.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon