In the ever-evolving landscape of personal computing, mini PCs have carved out a significant niche, offering reasonable performance in an incredibly compact form factors. ASUS has recently introduced its latest contender, the ASUS NUC 14 Essential. This ultracompact, entry-level mini PC, powered by the Intel N-series processor, aims to deliver a compelling balance of energy efficiency and performance for daily computing needs.
Designed for Durability and Versatility
Starting off with the design and build. The compact 0.56-liter chassis (135 x 115 x 36mm) makes it incredibly versatile for all sorts of setup. No matter you’re planning to use the NUC for home or enterprise purposes. All the ports and buttons are within reach.
Furthermore, the inclusion of a VESA mount kit allows for discreet attachment to the rear of a monitor, digital signage, or kiosks, making it an excellent choice for space-constrained environments or specialized applications.
Its easy-access design simplifies memory and SSD upgrades, extending the lifespan and adaptability of the device.
ASUS has engineered the NUC 14 Essential with a focus on robust reliability. The device undergoes rigorous testing, including over 1000 hours of bake testing at 100°C and 1400 hours of humidity testing at 70°C, exceeding standard industry benchmarks. This commitment to durability suggests a long-lasting and resilient mini PC, capable of handling various environmental conditions.
Performance and Efficiency for the Modern User
At the heart of the NUC 14 Essential lies the Intel N-series processor. Depending on your region, the configuration varies. Our review sample has the Intel Core 3 N355, featuring eight E-core architectures that turbo boost up to 3.9GHz. It is paired with a 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD.
ASUS highlights a significant 42% improvement in performance over previous-generation processors, indicating a substantial leap in capability for an entry-level machine. This makes the NUC 14 Essential well-suited for a variety of common tasks, from web browsing and video conferencing to streaming media and even light content creation. It’s an ideal solution for office workers and students who require a reliable and responsive system without the bulk of a traditional desktop.
For those who seeks for exceptional graphical performance, you might be looking at the wrong device as the small form factor limits the use of dedicated GPU. In other word, integrated GPU is all you can get.
The Malaysian retail unit will come with Intel Processor N97 barebone unit whereby customers are free to purchase their own RAM and SSD. The advantage of barebone unit? Huge savings as it is sold for just RM 1028. Depending on customer’s requirements, they can choose to spend on different RAM and SSD configuration according to their budget.
Connectivity That Keeps You Moving
Connectivity is a critical aspect of any modern PC, and the NUC 14 Essential doesn’t disappoint. It comes equipped with Intel Wi-Fi 6E (Gig+) and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring high-speed data transfers. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E leverages the less congested 6GHz channels to provide superior performance and responsiveness, even in crowded network environments. Of course, the network infrastructure need to be Wi-Fi 6E ready in order to capitalising on the advantage.
The physical I/O selection is also robust for such a small device. On the front, users will find a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, and a 3.5mm headset jack.
The rear offers a comprehensive array including a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 support, two more USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, a USB 2.0 Type-A, an HDMI 2.1 (TMDS), a DisplayPort 1.4, an RJ45 LAN port for wired networking, and a DC-in. This extensive selection ensures compatibility with a wide range of peripherals and display setups.
Triple 4K Display Support for Enhanced Multitasking
One of the standout features for productivity-focused users is the NUC 14 Essential’s ability to support up to three 4K displays simultaneously. This is achieved through its HDMI, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (with DisplayPort support) outputs. This triple display capability significantly enhances its use case for multitasking as well as digital signage purposes.
Conclusion
The ASUS NUC 14 Essential emerges as a highly capable and energy-efficient mini PC, perfectly positioned for the entry-level market. Its latest Intel N-series processor delivers a solid performance uplift, while comprehensive connectivity options, robust durability testing, and support for triple 4K displays make it a versatile tool for both home and office environments. The easy upgradability and VESA mount compatibility further add to its appeal, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a compact, reliable, and efficient computing solution.
