ASUS NUC 14 Pro+ Barebone Mini PC Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How alternatives compare to this barebone

Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

The Reatan Intel NUC 13 Pro uses an older Core i5-1340P processor, offering less raw power than the NUC 14 Pro+ Core Ultra 9. However, it includes Wi-Fi 6E networking, which the 14 Pro+ does not specify. It is slightly wider and heavier, measuring 4.4 by 4.6 inches with a 2.1-inch height. This makes it bulkier than the slim 1.61-inch ASUS chassis. You should choose this if you need proven Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and do not require the latest AI-ready Core Ultra performance. It is a solid choice for office work and light gaming where peak processor speed is less critical than stable wireless connections.

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM UM880 Plus features a Ryzen 7 processor instead of Intel’s Core Ultra architecture. It supports 2.5G LAN for faster wired networking compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet often found in similar Intel barebones. This system is designed for users who want external GPU support, offering a different expansion path than the ASUS model. The build is versatile and customizable, allowing you to tailor performance for specific tasks. If you prefer AMD’s Ryzen ecosystem or need high-speed wired networking for a homelab, this is a strong alternative. It gives up Intel’s Arc Graphics for Ryzen’s integrated graphics but gains flexibility for external hardware additions.

GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC

The GEEKOM A8 Max is significantly larger than the compact ASUS NUC 14 Pro+. It measures 8.96 inches in length and 6.92 inches in width, making it unsuitable for tight spaces. However, this size allows for greater internal flexibility and network isolation options. It uses a Ryzen 7 processor, differing from the Intel Core Ultra 9 in the ASUS model. This unit is ideal for users who prioritize customizable storage and network security over a small footprint. If you have ample desk space and need a barebone system that supports complex network setups, the GEEKOM offers a more robust physical platform for expansion and management.

MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC

The MINISFORUM M1 Pro uses a Core Ultra 5 125H processor, which is less powerful than the Core Ultra 9 185H in the ASUS NUC 14 Pro+. However, it features an OCuLink connection, enabling high-speed external GPU attachment. It also supports dual RAID-capable storage slots and up to 96GB of RAM. This makes it better for modular builders who want to connect external graphics cards or configure storage arrays. If you need external GPU performance or specific RAID configurations, this Mini PC provides those capabilities. It trades the highest CPU tier for specialized expansion ports that the ASUS model does not explicitly highlight.

MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC

The MINISFORUM MS-01 is built for heavy-duty networking and homelab virtualization. It features high-speed network bandwidth and internal PCIe expansion, which are not standard in the consumer-focused ASUS NUC 14 Pro+. It uses a Core i9 processor, offering strong multi-core performance for virtual machines. This unit is heavier at 3.13 pounds and is designed for network administrators who supply their own memory and storage. If your primary goal is running multiple virtual machines or managing a network lab, this barebone provides the necessary expansion and connectivity. It sacrifices the compact aluminum design of the ASUS for greater internal hardware flexibility.

MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone

The MINISFORUM MS-03 is optimized for local AI inference and edge computing. It uses a Core Ultra 5 processor, which is a step down from the Core Ultra 9 in the ASUS NUC 14 Pro+. However, it prioritizes networking speed and storage flexibility over compact convenience. This system is tailored for users who need specialized hardware for AI workloads or edge deployments. If your projects involve local AI processing or require specific networking configurations, this barebone is a suitable alternative. It gives up the premium Core Ultra 9 chip for a setup focused on connectivity and storage adaptability for specialized computing tasks.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

ASUS NUC 14 Pro+ Barebone Mini PC

Best for: DIY builders needing Core Ultra 9 power

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 9 185H

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

Intel Arc Graphics

High-Speed Expansion

2xTBT4

Networking

WiFi 6E

View on Amazon: ASUS NUC 14 Pro+ Barebone Mini PC

The ASUS NUC 14 Pro+ is a barebone mini PC built around the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor and Intel Arc Graphics. It supports up to 96GB of RAM and dual storage drives. The toolless chassis allows for easy upgrades. This unit suits users who need local AI processing power and a compact, anodized aluminum design.

Pros

• Powered by Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor
• Includes Intel Arc Graphics
• Supports up to 96GB RAM and dual storage
• Toolless chassis access for easy upgrades

Cons

• Sold as a barebone kit without pre-installed RAM or storage
• Heavier at 1.3 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
• No mention of built-in display or peripherals

Good fit if

• You want to build a high-performance DIY mini PC
• You need local AI workload capabilities
• You prefer toolless chassis access for upgrades

Skip if

• You need a fully assembled system with RAM and storage included
• You require a lighter device under 1.3 pounds
• You want a pre-configured unit ready to use immediately

Verdict: ASUS NUC 14 Pro+ Mini PC is a strong choice for builders seeking the Core Ultra 9 185H processor and toolless upgradeability in a compact aluminum chassis.

2 Best premium

Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone

Best for: Light gaming and office work

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 barebone mini PC uses the Intel Core i5-1340P processor with Intel Iris Xe graphics. It measures 4.4 x 4.6 x 2.1 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds. You get Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable connectivity. The system requires you to add your own RAM and storage. It suits users who need a compact, efficient machine for light gaming and office tasks.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-1340P processor with 12 cores and 16 threads
• Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics for light gaming
• Wi-Fi 6E AX211 and Bluetooth 5.3 support
• Compact 4.4 x 4.6 x 2.1 inch footprint

Cons

• Requires separate purchase of RAM and SSD
• 35W TDP limits heavy sustained performance
• Heavier than some competitors at 3.3 pounds

Good fit if

• You want a small PC with Wi-Fi 6E
• You prefer Intel Iris Xe graphics for light games
• You need a barebone kit to customize storage

Skip if

• You need a pre-installed operating system
• You require dedicated graphics for heavy gaming
• You want a lighter device under 3 pounds

Verdict: Reatan Intel NUC 13 Pro i5-1340P is a compact barebone option for users who value Wi-Fi 6E and Intel graphics in a small form factor. It fits those who want to build their own storage and memory setup.

3 Best budget

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

Best for: Customizable barebone builds with external GPU support

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

AMD Radeon 780M

Ethernet Ports

2.5Gbps LAN

High-Speed Expansion

OCuLink, USB4

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM UM880 Plus is a barebone mini PC built around the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor. It features integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics, which offer performance comparable to entry-level discrete cards. You get an OCuLink port for external GPU expansion, dual M.2 storage slots, and triple display outputs. This setup suits users who want to customize their own RAM and storage while leveraging high-speed connectivity options.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with up to 5.1 GHz boost clock
• OCuLink interface for high-speed external GPU connectivity
• Triple display support via HDMI 2.1, USB4, and DisplayPort 1.4
• Dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 slots for up to 4TB total storage

Cons

• Barebone design requires separate purchase of RAM and SSD
• Relies on integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics without discrete GPU
• OCuLink port is not hot-swappable and requires an M.2 slot

Good fit if

• You want to customize RAM and storage capacity yourself
• You need an OCuLink port for external graphics expansion
• You require triple display output for multitasking

Skip if

• You need a pre-installed operating system
• You prefer a plug-and-play desktop without assembly
• You require a dedicated discrete graphics card

Verdict: The MINISFORUM UM880 Plus Mini PC is a versatile barebone system for users who value expandability and external GPU capabilities. It fits those willing to assemble their own components for a tailored performance setup.

4 Also great

GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC

Best for: network isolation and custom builds

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

Radeon 780M

Ethernet Ports

Dual 2.5G

High-Speed Expansion

USB4

View on Amazon: GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC

The GEEKOM A8 Max is a barebone mini PC built around the AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor. It features dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for network isolation and a USB4 port for high-speed expansion. You can install your own DDR5 memory and PCIe 4.0 SSDs. This kit supports up to four displays and includes a quiet cooling system. It suits users who need flexible storage and strong networking capabilities.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor with 8 cores
• Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for network separation
• USB4 port supports eGPU and fast storage
• Supports up to 64GB DDR5 and 4TB SSDs
• Dual HDMI 2.0 outputs for multi-display setups

Cons

• Sold as a barebone kit with no pre-installed RAM or storage
• Uses HDMI 2.0 ports instead of newer HDMI 2.1
• Limited to two display outputs via HDMI without using USB4

Good fit if

• You need physical network separation for office data
• You want to choose your own RAM and SSD capacity
• You require USB4 expansion for external GPUs

Skip if

• You prefer a ready-to-use PC with pre-installed components
• You need more than two simultaneous monitor connections
• You require Thunderbolt 4 certified connectivity

Verdict: The GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC is a flexible barebone solution for users who prioritize network isolation and customizable storage over out-of-the-box convenience.

5 Also great

MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC

Best for: DIY builds needing OCuLink external graphics

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 5 125H

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

Intel Arc

High-Speed Expansion

OCuLink, USB4

Operating System

No OS (Barebone)

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC

This barebone unit features an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor with 14 cores and integrated Intel Arc graphics. You get dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 slots with RAID support, two DDR5 slots handling up to 96 GB, and an OCuLink port for external graphics expansion. It suits builders needing high-bandwidth peripherals and custom storage.

Pros

• OCuLink port and dual 40Gbps USB4 ports for high-speed expansion
• Dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots with support for RAID 0 and RAID 1
• Supports up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 SODIMM memory
• Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity
• Quad display output via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and dual USB4

Cons

• Requires you to supply your own memory, storage drive, and operating system
• Under 65W full load, cooling noise reaches up to 45 dB
• Lacks dedicated on-board discrete graphics

Good fit if

• You plan to install your own DDR5 RAM, SSD storage, and operating system.
• You want an OCuLink port to connect an external desktop graphics card.
• You need to drive up to four 4K displays from a single mini PC.

Skip if

• You want an out-of-the-box system with memory, storage, and an OS pre-installed.
• You need internal discrete graphics without adding an external dock.

Verdict: MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Barebone delivers high expandability with its OCuLink connection, dual RAID-capable storage slots, and 96 GB memory ceiling. It fits modular PC builders who want to configure their own components and connect high-speed external peripherals.

6 Also great

MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC

Best for: high-speed networking and homelab virtualization setups

Processor

Intel Core i9-13900H

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR5

Graphics

Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Ethernet Ports

2x 10Gbps SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC

This barebone system pairs a 14-core Intel Core i9-13900H processor with enterprise-focused connectivity, including dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports and dual 2.5Gbps LAN ports. You get room for up to 96GB of DDR5 memory and three NVMe SSDs. It fits you if you need workstation-grade throughput, vPro remote management, and internal PCIe expansion in a compact footprint.

Pros

• Intel Core i9-13900H CPU with 14 cores and up to 5.4GHz boost
• Dual 10Gbps SFP+ and dual 2.5Gbps RJ45 Ethernet ports
• PCIe 4.0 expansion slot supporting add-in cards
• Supports up to 96GB DDR5 memory and three NVMe drives

Cons

• Ships without RAM, internal storage, or an operating system
• Relies on integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics out of the box
• Heavier than standard mini PCs at 3.13 pounds

Good fit if

• You need 10Gbps SFP+ networking for high-speed local data transfer.
• You plan to configure up to 96GB of DDR5 memory and RAID storage.
• You want hardware-level vPro management and PCIe add-in card expansion.

Skip if

• You want a ready-to-run mini PC with pre-installed memory, storage, and an OS.
• You need high-end dedicated graphics included without purchasing a separate card.

Verdict: MINISFORUM Core i9 Barebone Mini PC delivers heavy-duty network bandwidth and internal PCIe expansion for homelab builders and network administrators who supply their own memory, storage, and OS.

7 Also great

MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone

Best for: local AI inference and edge computing deployments

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 5 336H

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR5 7200

Ethernet Ports

2x 10G SFP+, 1x 10G RJ45, 1x 2.5G RJ45

High-Speed Expansion

Dual USB4, PCIe x16

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone

The MINISFORUM MS-03 is a barebone mini PC built for demanding local AI workloads. It features an Intel Core Ultra 5 336H processor and supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 RAM. You get three M.2 SSD slots and dual 10G SFP+ fiber ports for high-speed networking. This setup suits developers and edge computing users who need robust expansion and enterprise-grade management capabilities.

Pros

• Intel Core Ultra 5 336H processor with up to 4.6 GHz boost
• Supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 7200 memory
• Three M.2 SSD slots including two PCIe 5.0 options
• Dual 10G SFP+ fiber ports and one 10G RJ45 port
• Intel vPro technology support for remote enterprise management

Cons

• Barebone kit requires separate installation of RAM and storage
• Lacks built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Physical PCIe x16 slot limits compact desktop placement options

Good fit if

• You need high-speed fiber networking for edge computing tasks
• You require extensive storage expansion for large AI datasets
• You manage remote workstations needing vPro enterprise features

Skip if

• You want a fully assembled PC with pre-installed OS
• You need built-in wireless connectivity for standard office use
• You prefer a smaller footprint without external expansion slots

Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-03 Intel Core Ultra 5 Mini PC delivers specialized hardware for local AI and edge computing. It fits users who prioritize networking speed and storage flexibility over compact convenience.

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