Looking Beyond the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How alternatives compare to the NUC

Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

This Reatan unit uses the same Intel Core i5-1340P processor and WiFi 6E networking as the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall. Both systems are barebone, meaning you install your own RAM and storage. The Reatan model shares nearly identical external dimensions, measuring 4.4 by 4.6 inches. However, it weighs 3.3 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the ASUS model at 1.3 pounds. You might choose this alternative if you find a better price for similar internal specs. The tall chassis design remains consistent, offering comparable expansion potential for your components. It is a direct substitute for users who want the same CPU performance in a slightly heavier package.

Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

The Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro also features a Core i5 processor and WiFi 6E connectivity. Like the ASUS option, it is a barebone system requiring separate RAM and storage purchases. Its physical size matches the ASUS model at 4.4 by 4.6 inches, but it is slightly heavier at 1.41 pounds. This unit distinguishes itself by including 2.5Gb Ethernet, which offers faster wired networking than standard Gigabit connections. If you need high-speed data transfers for file servers or heavy network traffic, this model provides an advantage. The compact footprint allows it to fit in the same tight spaces as the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall.

Dell OptiPlex Micro WiFi 6E Mini PC

The Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro differs significantly in form factor and configuration. It is a pre-built system with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, whereas the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall is barebone. The Dell unit is larger, measuring 7 by 7 inches, compared to the ASUS 4.4 by 4.6 inches. It weighs 6 pounds, making it much heavier. While it uses WiFi 6E, it lacks the Thunderbolt 4 and triple storage design of the ASUS model. This alternative suits users who prefer a ready-to-use machine for basic office tasks without the need to assemble components. It offers a simpler setup for light media use or secondary display needs.

MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Mini PC

The MINISFORUM NAB6 Lite uses an Intel Core i5-12600H processor, which is a previous generation compared to the 13th Gen in the ASUS model. It comes pre-built with 16GB of RAM, unlike the barebone ASUS option. This unit prioritizes networking with dual network ports, including 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E. It is designed for multi-monitor setups and signage environments. The physical dimensions are not fully specified, but it offers strong connectivity for office use. You should pick this if you need immediate RAM and advanced networking without building your own system. It trades the latest CPU generation for robust connectivity and a ready-to-use configuration.

Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny i5 WiFi 6E PC

The Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q Tiny is a pre-built system with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. It uses an older Intel Core i5-8500T processor, which is less powerful than the 13th Gen CPU in the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall. The Lenovo unit is larger, measuring 7 by 7.2 inches, and is much thinner at 1.4 inches. It includes WiFi 6E and Windows 11 Pro. This alternative is best for users who need a compact, ready-to-use machine for basic productivity. It lacks the high RAM expansion and triple storage capabilities of the ASUS model. Choose this if you prioritize a complete system in a small footprint over raw processing power.

MINISFORUM Core i5 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM MS-01 SE is a barebone system, similar to the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall in that you provide your own RAM and storage. It features an Intel Core i5 processor. The physical size is larger, measuring 7.44 by 7.44 inches, and it weighs 3 pounds. This model emphasizes networking and storage expansion options. It is suitable for users who need extensive I/O capabilities. The larger chassis may accommodate different cooling or expansion needs compared to the compact ASUS design. If you prefer a barebone platform with more room for internal modifications or additional ports, this alternative offers a versatile foundation. It sacrifices the ultra-compact form factor for greater expandability.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall Barebone PC

Best for: multi-monitor setups and high RAM expansion

Processor

Intel Core i5-1340P

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Intel Iris Xe Graphics

High-Speed Expansion

Thunderbolt 4

View on Amazon: ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall Barebone PC

The ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall uses a 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P processor and supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM. Its compact 4x4 design includes a VESA mount for wall or monitor attachment. You get dual HDMI and dual DisplayPort outputs via Thunderbolt 4 for multi-monitor setups. This barebone unit is built for 24/7 operation and includes internal expansion options for storage or I/O modules.

Pros

• 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P processor with Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• Supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM
• Triple storage design with internal expansion bay
• Quad 4K@60Hz or single 8K display support via dual HDMI and dual DP
• Includes VESA mount for wall or monitor attachment

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system requiring separate RAM and storage installation
• Uses DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5 standard
• Heavier at 1.3 pounds compared to slim variants

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC with high expandability for RAM and storage
• You require multiple 4K displays for digital signage or productivity
• You want a system qualified for 24/7 continuous operation

Skip if

• You prefer a pre-built system with RAM and storage included
• You need the latest DDR5 memory speeds
• You prioritize the lightest possible form factor over expandability

Verdict: The ASUS NUC 13 Pro Tall fits users who need a robust, expandable mini PC with strong multi-monitor capabilities. Its tall chassis accommodates more storage and cooling than slim models, making it ideal for demanding tasks.

2 Best premium

Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

Best for: compact barebone systems with Wi-Fi 6E

Processor

Intel Core i5-1340P

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Use

Gaming

Networking

WiFi 6E

View on Amazon: Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

This Reatan-branded Intel NUC 13 Pro barebone unit houses the 13th Gen Core i5-1340P processor. It features 12 cores, 16 threads, and Intel Iris Xe graphics. The chassis measures 4.4 x 2.1 x 4.6 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds. It includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. You need to add your own RAM and SSD. This setup suits users who want a compact, modern base for office or light creative work.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-1340P with 12 cores and 16 threads
• Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics
• Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
• Compact 4.4 x 2.1 x 4.6 inch chassis

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without RAM or SSD
• 35W TDP limits sustained heavy workloads
• No dedicated discrete graphics card included

Good fit if

• You need a small footprint for tight desks
• You already own compatible DDR5 RAM and NVMe SSDs
• You require Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless connections

Skip if

• You want a ready-to-use system with pre-installed memory and storage
• You need dedicated graphics for heavy gaming or 3D rendering
• You require a processor with higher thermal design power for sustained tasks

Verdict: Reatan Intel NUC 13 Pro i5-1340P Mini PC offers a modern 13th Gen processor in a tiny frame. It fits buyers who want to customize their own memory and storage choices while keeping their workspace clutter-free. The barebone design requires you to source and install components yourself.

3 Best home

Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

Best for: compact setups needing Thunderbolt 4 and 2.5Gb Ethernet

Processor

Intel Core i5-1340P

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Ethernet Ports

2500 Mbps RJ45

High-Speed Expansion

Thunderbolt 4

Operating System

No OS (Barebone)

View on Amazon: Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

This barebone mini PC uses the Intel Core i5-1340P processor with up to 12 cores and 16 threads. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4-3200 memory and includes Thunderbolt 4 ports. You get Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast networking. The compact 4x4 form factor fits small spaces while offering business-grade management features for reliable daily use.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-1340P with up to 4.60 GHz turbo speed
• Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports with DisplayPort 2.1 support
• 2.5Gb Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
• Supports up to 64GB DDR4-3200 RAM

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without pre-installed RAM or SSD
• Requires separate purchase of an operating system
• Limited to DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5

Good fit if

• You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for high-speed peripherals
• You want a compact PC with 2.5Gb Ethernet
• You prefer to choose your own RAM and storage

Skip if

• You need a ready-to-use system with OS and memory included
• You require DDR5 memory for maximum bandwidth
• You want a larger chassis for easier internal upgrades

Verdict: Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon Mini PC provides strong 13th Gen performance in a tiny footprint. It is best for users who want Thunderbolt 4 and 2.5Gb Ethernet in a compact, upgradable chassis.

4 Best budget

Dell OptiPlex Micro WiFi 6E Mini PC

Best for: basic office tasks and light media use

Processor

Intel Core i5-9500T

Installed RAM

8GB

Storage Capacity

256GB

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Memory

8GB RAM

Networking

WiFi 6E

View on Amazon: Dell OptiPlex Micro WiFi 6E Mini PC

The Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro is a compact business PC featuring an Intel Core i5-9500T processor and 8GB of RAM. It includes a 256GB NVMe SSD and runs Windows 11 Pro. This model supports WiFi 6E for reliable connectivity. It suits users who need a small footprint for office tasks or light media consumption. The system is ready to use out of the box with pre-installed software.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-9500T processor for standard computing tasks
• 8GB RAM and 256GB NVMe SSD for quick boot times
• Built-in WiFi 6E for modern wireless connectivity
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro operating system

Cons

• Only 8GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
• 256GB storage fills up quickly with large files
• Uses older 9th Gen Intel CPU instead of 13th Gen

Good fit if

• You need a small PC for basic office work
• You want a system with Windows 11 Pro included
• You prefer WiFi 6E for stable wireless connections

Skip if

• You require high-end gaming performance
• You need more than 8GB of RAM for professional apps
• You want the latest 13th Gen Intel processors

Verdict: Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro fits users who need a reliable, compact machine for everyday tasks without needing top-tier specs. It is a practical option for light office use or as a secondary display PC.

5 Best 2.5g lan

MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Mini PC

Best for: multi-monitor setups and dual network ports

Processor

Intel Core i5-12600H

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

500GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Ethernet Ports

Dual 2.5G

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Mini PC

The MINISFORUM NAB6 Lite pairs an Intel Core i5-12600H processor with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 500GB PCIe 4.0 SSD. It stands out with dual 2.5G Ethernet ports and support for four simultaneous 4K displays. This configuration offers robust connectivity and expandable storage via a SATA slot. It suits users needing stable networking and multi-monitor setups for office or signage tasks.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-12600H with 12 cores and 16 threads
• Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for stable networking
• Supports four 4K displays via HDMI and USB-C
• 16GB DDR4 RAM with expansion up to 64GB
• Includes SATA slot for additional 2.5-inch storage

Cons

• Uses DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5 standard
• Limited to 500GB base storage capacity
• Graphics performance capped at Intel Iris Xe frequencies

Good fit if

• You need dual 2.5G Ethernet for network tasks
• You require four simultaneous display outputs
• You want expandable RAM and storage options

Skip if

• You require DDR5 memory for maximum speed
• You need more than 500GB base storage
• You prefer discrete graphics for heavy gaming

Verdict: MINISFORUM NAB6 Lite i5-12600H 16GB delivers strong multi-monitor and networking capabilities for office or signage environments. It fits users prioritizing connectivity and expandability over cutting-edge memory standards.

6 Also great

Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny i5 WiFi 6E PC

Best for: Compact office setups requiring 16GB RAM

Processor

Intel Core i5-8500T

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

256GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Networking

WiFi 6E

View on Amazon: Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny i5 WiFi 6E PC

The Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q Tiny uses an Intel Core i5-8500T processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes a 256GB NVMe SSD and runs Windows 11 Pro. This model supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for space-constrained setups. It offers a solid foundation for office tasks and general computing needs.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-8500T processor for reliable performance
• 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
• 256GB NVMe SSD for fast boot and load times
• WiFi 6E AX210 adapter for modern wireless connectivity
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro operating system

Cons

• 8th Generation Intel processor is older than 12th or 13th Gen alternatives
• 256GB storage capacity is limited for large media libraries
• No mention of Thunderbolt support in specifications

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC with ample RAM for office work
• You prefer Windows 11 Pro out of the box
• You want WiFi 6E support in a small form factor

Skip if

• You require the latest generation Intel processors
• You need more than 256GB of internal storage
• You are looking for high-end gaming performance

Verdict: Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q Tiny i5-8500T is a practical choice for users who value RAM and modern Wi-Fi over the newest CPU generations. It fits well in tight spaces where basic productivity is the main goal.

7 Also great

MINISFORUM Core i5 Barebone Mini PC

Best for: networking and storage expansion

Processor

Intel Core i5-12600H

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

Intel Iris Xe

Ethernet Ports

Dual 2.5GbE

High-Speed Expansion

Dual USB4

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Core i5 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM MS-01 SE is a barebone mini workstation built around the Intel Core i5-12600H processor. It offers dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports with vPro support for reliable network management. You get three M.2 NVMe slots for up to 12TB of storage and a PCIe 4.0 expansion slot. Two USB4 ports handle high-speed data and display output. This setup suits users needing robust connectivity and expandability.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-12600H processor with 12 cores
• Dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports with vPro support
• Three M.2 NVMe slots for up to 12TB storage
• Half-height PCIe 4.0 x16 expansion slot
• Two USB4 ports supporting 8K display output

Cons

• Barebone version requires separate RAM and storage installation
• Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics limits heavy gaming
• Physical dimensions are bulkier than standard mini PCs

Good fit if

• You need dual Ethernet ports for network redundancy
• You require extensive local storage expansion options
• You want PCIe expansion for specialized hardware

Skip if

• You need a pre-built system with RAM included
• You prioritize compact size over expansion slots
• You require dedicated graphics for gaming

Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-01 SE Mini PC provides a versatile platform for users who need extensive I/O options and storage capacity in a barebone form factor.

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