ASUS NUC 15 Pro Core Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The ASUS NUC 15 Pro Core 7 Tall Barebone delivers a durable, compact platform with Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4. If you need asus nuc 15 pro barebone alternatives, you might want different specs, size, or brand. This guide compares 6 similar picks that share key capabilities with the original.
We selected these options because their specifications overlap with the ASUS NUC 15 Pro. You may prefer a smaller footprint, a different processor, or specific connectivity like OCuLink or 10Gbps networking. Each alternative here offers a barebone design, letting you customize RAM and storage. The list covers various form factors, from ultra-compact tall units to larger desktop-style chassis. You can find models with Intel Core Ultra, Ryzen 7, or older Core i5 processors. This selection helps you find the right balance of performance, expandability, and size for your specific DIY project.
Comparing barebone mini pc options
Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone
The Reatan Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone uses a 13th-generation i5-1340P processor. This is a previous generation compared to the NUC 15 Pro’s Series 2 Core 7 240H. You get Wi-Fi 6E instead of the newer Wi-Fi 7 standard found in the NUC 15. The physical dimensions are nearly identical, measuring 4.4 by 4.6 inches. However, the Reatan unit weighs 3.3 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the 12.8-ounce NUC 15 Pro. This option suits builders who prefer older Intel architecture and do not need the latest connectivity speeds or the MIL-STD-810H durability rating. It is a solid choice for standard office tasks without the premium features of the newer model.
MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC
The MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 8845HS Barebone Mini PC offers an AMD Ryzen processor instead of Intel. This provides eight cores for heavy multitasking. A key difference is the inclusion of OCuLink for external graphics expansion, which the NUC 15 Pro lacks. You also get 2.5G LAN connectivity. The NUC 15 Pro focuses on Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4 for display output. The MINISFORUM unit is designed for builders who want to add a dedicated GPU via OCuLink. It is ideal for users who prioritize raw CPU core count and external graphics flexibility over the NUC’s advanced wireless standards and multi-display Thunderbolt capabilities.
GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC
The GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC is much larger than the ultra-compact NUC 15 Pro. It measures 8.96 by 6.92 inches, compared to the NUC’s 4.61 by 4.41 inches. This form factor allows for dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, offering network isolation that the NUC 15 Pro does not provide. It also supports eGPU expansion via USB4. The NUC 15 Pro is built for small spaces and high-speed Wi-Fi 7. The GEEKOM is better for users who need robust wired networking and do not mind a larger footprint. It is suitable for office environments where network separation and hardware customization are more important than a tiny size.
MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC
The MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC uses a Core Ultra 125H processor, which is a different architecture than the NUC 15 Pro’s Core 7 240H. This unit emphasizes OCuLink expansion for external GPUs. It also supports high DDR5 memory overhead, catering to builders who need significant RAM capacity. The NUC 15 Pro relies on Thunderbolt 4 for connectivity and display output. The MINISFORUM M1 Pro is a better fit for users who want to attach external graphics cards via OCuLink. It sacrifices the NUC’s latest Wi-Fi 7 and MIL-STD-810H certification for greater flexibility in memory and external hardware configurations.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC is designed for high-performance workstations. It features 10Gbps networking, which is far faster than the NUC 15 Pro’s standard connectivity. It also supports vPRO security features, making it suitable for enterprise use. The NUC 15 Pro is a general-purpose compact PC. The MS-01 is a robust platform for users who need massive storage options and high-speed fiber connectivity. It is heavier at 3.13 pounds. This option is ideal for builders who prioritize network speed and enterprise-grade security over the NUC 15 Pro’s portability and modern consumer features like Wi-Fi 7.
MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone
The MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone is built for local AI inference and enterprise tasks. It offers extensive storage options and high-speed fiber connectivity. The NUC 15 Pro is a compact DIY kit focused on general use and multi-display support. This MINISFORUM unit is a powerful workstation platform. It is better for users who need to run AI models locally or require enterprise networking features. It sacrifices the NUC’s small size and Wi-Fi 7 for greater processing power and specialized connectivity. This choice is for builders who prioritize computational intensity and professional features over compact form factor and consumer-grade wireless standards.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ASUS NUC 15 Pro Core 7 Tall Barebone
Best for: DIY builders needing Wi-Fi 7 and multi-display support
- Processor
- Intel Core 7 240H
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Intel Graphics
- High-Speed Expansion
- Thunderbolt 4
- Operating System
- No OS (Barebone)
The ASUS NUC 15 Pro is a barebone mini PC featuring the Intel Core 7 240H processor. It supports Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed connectivity. You can connect four 4K displays via HDMI 2.1. The chassis allows tool-less upgrades for RAM and storage. This kit suits users who want a compact, durable DIY system with modern expansion options.
Pros
- Intel Core 7 240H processor with integrated graphics
- Wi-Fi 7 with certified Bluetooth
- Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1 ports
- Supports four 4K displays
- MIL-STD-810H durability certification
Cons
- Sold as a barebone kit requiring separate RAM and storage
- No dedicated discrete graphics card
- Limited to integrated Intel Graphics
Good fit if
- You need a compact system with Wi-Fi 7
- You want to connect multiple 4K monitors
- You prefer tool-less upgrades for RAM and storage
Skip if
- You need a pre-built system with installed RAM and SSD
- You require a discrete graphics card for gaming
- You want a smaller slim chassis option
Verdict: The ASUS NUC 15 Pro Barebone Kit offers a durable, compact platform for users who value modern connectivity like Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4. It is ideal for DIY builders who want to customize their own RAM and storage within a MIL-STD-810H certified chassis.
Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone
Best for: DIY users needing compact i5 performance
- Processor
- Intel Core i5-1340P
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Use
- Gaming
- Networking
- WiFi 6E
This Reatan-branded Intel NUC 13 Pro barebone kit uses the Core i5-1340P processor with Intel Iris Xe graphics. It measures 4.4 by 4.6 by 2.1 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds. You get Intel Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable networking. It suits you if you want a compact system for light office tasks, school work, or basic gaming without pre-installed memory or storage.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-1340P with 12 cores and 16 threads
- Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics
- Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 with Bluetooth 5.3
- Compact 4.4 x 4.6 x 2.1 inch chassis
Cons
- Sold as a barebone kit without RAM or SSD
- Only includes integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics
- 3.3-pound weight is heavier than some competitors
Good fit if
- You need a small form factor for tight spaces
- You want to choose your own RAM and storage
- You require Wi-Fi 6E for faster networking
Skip if
- You need a pre-built system with memory and storage
- You require dedicated graphics for heavy gaming
- You prioritize the lowest possible weight
Verdict: Reatan Intel NUC 13 Pro i5-1340P Barebone is a compact DIY option for users who want to customize their own RAM and storage while relying on integrated graphics for light gaming and office work.
MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC
Best for: builders wanting OCuLink external graphics 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
This barebone mini PC runs on an 8-core AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor paired with integrated Radeon 780M graphics. You supply your own DDR5 memory, storage, and operating system. With high-speed OCuLink and USB4 ports alongside dual M.2 slots, it suits DIY users wanting external graphics expandability and multi-display support without buying bundled parts.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with 8 cores and 16 threads
- Dedicated 64Gbps OCuLink connection for external graphics cards
- Supports up to 96GB of DDR5 memory
- Triple display output via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB4
- 2.5Gbps wired Ethernet with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2
Cons
- Using the OCuLink port requires occupying one of the two M.2 SSD slots
- Barebone unit ships without memory, internal storage, or an operating system
Good fit if
- You want to connect an external desktop GPU via an OCuLink interface.
- You already have DDR5 memory, M.2 SSDs, and an operating system ready to install.
- You run up to three external monitors via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB4.
Skip if
- You want a fully assembled system that runs right out of the box.
- You need to use two M.2 SSDs at the same time as the OCuLink adapter.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 8845HS Barebone Mini PC provides strong 8-core processing and OCuLink expansion for builders who want to configure their own memory, storage, and external GPU setup.
GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC
Best for: users needing dual 2.5G Ethernet and eGPU support
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- Dual 2.5G
- High-Speed Expansion
- USB4
The GEEKOM A8 Max is a barebone mini PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor with 8 cores and 16 threads. It features dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for network separation and a USB4 port for high-speed expansion. You can customize memory and storage with SO-DIMM DDR5 slots and M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD bays. The unit supports up to four displays and includes a Kensington lock slot for security. It is designed for users who need flexible OS options and robust connectivity.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor with 8 cores and 16 threads
- Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for physical network isolation
- USB4 port supporting eGPU and high-speed RAID storage
- Supports up to four displays via dual HDMI 2.0 and Type-C
- Customizable SO-DIMM DDR5 RAM and M.2 SSD slots
Cons
- Barebone kit requires separate purchase of RAM and storage
- Larger physical dimensions compared to ultra-compact competitors
- HDMI ports are limited to version 2.0
Good fit if
- You need dual 2.5G Ethernet for network separation
- You want to customize RAM and storage capacity
- You require eGPU support via USB4
Skip if
- You need a pre-built system with RAM and SSD included
- You prefer an ultra-compact form factor under 7 inches
- You require HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz output
Verdict: The GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC fits users who prioritize network isolation and hardware customization over a tiny footprint. Its dual 2.5G ports and USB4 expansion make it ideal for specific office or creative workflows.
MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC
Best for: DIY builds needing OCuLink and high RAM
- 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)
This barebone mini PC runs an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor with integrated Intel Arc graphics. You get two DDR5 SODIMM slots handling up to 96GB of memory, plus dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots with RAID support. With dual USB4 ports and an OCuLink port for external GPU expansion, it fits users needing compact DIY workstation flexibility.
Pros
- OCuLink interface and dual 40Gbps USB4 ports for external expansion
- Memory support up to 96GB DDR5-5600 across two SODIMM slots
- Dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 storage slots supporting RAID 0 and RAID 1
- Quad display output via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and dual USB4
- Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity built in
Cons
- Barebone configuration excludes system memory, storage drives, and operating system
- Onboard HDMI 2.1 output is limited to 4K at 60Hz
- Lacks internal discrete graphics hardware
Good fit if
- You plan to attach an external graphics dock via the dedicated OCuLink port.
- You need high-density memory capacity reaching up to 96GB of DDR5.
- You want dual PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives configured in RAID 0 or RAID 1.
Skip if
- You require an out-of-the-box system with RAM, SSD, and an OS pre-installed.
- You want an internal dedicated graphics card contained inside the computer chassis.
Verdict: MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC serves builders who require modern Core Ultra processing, OCuLink expansion, and massive DDR5 memory overhead in a DIY kit.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC
Best for: 10Gbps networking and vPRO workstations
- 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
The MINISFORUM MS-01 is a barebone mini workstation built around the Intel Core i9-13900H processor. It offers 14 cores and 20 threads for heavy multitasking. The system includes dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports and two 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports for high-speed networking. You can expand storage with up to three M.2 NVMe SSDs. This unit supports vPRO technology for enterprise-level security and hardware virtualization.
Pros
- Intel Core i9-13900H processor with 14 cores
- Dual 10Gbps SFP+ and two 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports
- Supports up to three M.2 NVMe SSDs
- Intel vPRO enterprise security features
- PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for external GPUs
Cons
- No RAM or storage included in barebone kit
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity listed
- Heavier build at 3.13 pounds
Good fit if
- You need 10Gbps fiber or copper networking
- You require vPRO management capabilities
- You want to build a high-storage NAS
Skip if
- You need a complete system with RAM
- You require built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- You want a lightweight portable device
Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation is a robust barebone platform for users needing 10Gbps networking and vPRO security. It suits those building high-storage workstations who prefer to select their own memory and drives.
MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone
Best for: local AI inference and enterprise networking
- 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 heavy local AI workloads and enterprise networking. It uses the Intel Core Ultra 5 336H processor and supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 memory. You get three M.2 SSD slots and dual 10G SFP+ fiber ports. This setup handles large models and high-speed data transfer efficiently. It suits developers and IT managers who need robust, expandable hardware for demanding tasks.
Pros
- Intel Core Ultra 5 336H processor with 12 cores
- Supports up to 128 GB DDR5 7200 memory
- Three M.2 SSD slots for flexible storage expansion
- Dual 10G SFP+ fiber ports and 10G RJ45 port
Cons
- Barebone kit requires separate RAM and SSD installation
- Limited to one 2.5G RJ45 port for standard Ethernet
- No pre-installed operating system included
Good fit if
- You need high-speed fiber networking for edge computing
- You plan to run local AI models requiring large RAM
- You want to manage devices remotely with Intel vPro
Skip if
- You prefer a ready-to-use system with pre-installed OS
- You need standard Gigabit Ethernet as your primary connection
- You want a compact unit without expansion slots
Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-03 Mini PC is a powerful barebone workstation for users who require extensive storage options and high-speed fiber connectivity for AI or enterprise tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ASUS NUC 15 Pro Core 7 Tall Barebone | Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone | MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC | GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC | MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC | MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core 7 240H | Intel Core i5-1340P | AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS | AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS | Intel Core Ultra 5 125H | Intel Core i9-13900H | Intel Core Ultra 5 336H |
| Installed RAM | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Storage Capacity | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Memory Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | DDR5 | DDR5 7200 |
| Graphics | Intel Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | Radeon 780M | Intel Arc | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | not specified |
| Ethernet Ports | not specified | not specified | 2.5Gbps LAN | Dual 2.5G | not specified | 2x 10Gbps SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45 | 2x 10G SFP+, 1x 10G RJ45, 1x 2.5G RJ45 |
| High-Speed Expansion | Thunderbolt 4 | not specified | OCuLink, USB4 | USB4 | OCuLink, USB4 | USB4 | Dual USB4, PCIe x16 |
| Operating System | No OS (Barebone) | not specified | No OS (Barebone) | No OS (Barebone) | No OS (Barebone) | No OS (Barebone) | not specified |
| Use | not specified | Gaming | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Networking | not specified | WiFi 6E | 2.5G LAN | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Form Factor | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Dimensions | 4.61 × 4.41 × 2.13 inches | 4.6 × 4.4 × 2.1 inches | not specified | 8.96 × 6.92 × 5.27 inches | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | 12.8 ounces | 3.3 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified | 3.13 pounds | not specified |
| Size | Barebones|Tall | NUC13 i5 Barebone | UM880 Plus 0+0 | White | M1 Pro-125H-Barebone | MS-01-S1390-Barebone | MS-03-S336H-Barebone |
| Color | Black | Black02 | Silver | White | not specified | Black | not specified |
| Model | RNUC15CRHC70000U | core i5 | DeskMini | GEEKOM A8 Max | M1 Pro-125H | DeskMini | DeskMini |
Frequently asked questions
Which barebone mini PC offers the best connectivity for DIY builders?
The ASUS NUC 15 Pro Core 7 Tall Barebone is the top choice. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4 for modern connectivity. The chassis is MIL-STD-810H certified for durability. You can customize RAM and storage within this compact platform.
Is there a compact option with a Core i5 processor?
Yes, the Reatan Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone is a strong option. It uses the i5-1340P processor for light gaming and office work. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and integrated graphics. You can build it yourself with your chosen memory and drives.
Which mini PC supports external graphics via OCuLink?
The MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 8845HS Barebone Mini PC supports OCuLink expansion. This allows you to connect an external GPU for better performance. It features an 8-core Ryzen 7 processor. You can configure your own memory and storage for this setup.
What barebone PC has dual 2.5G Ethernet ports?
The GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC includes dual 2.5G Ethernet ports. This setup helps with network isolation for office or creative workflows. It also offers USB4 expansion for external devices. You can customize the internal components to suit your specific needs.
Can I find a barebone PC with high DDR5 RAM support?
The MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC supports massive DDR5 memory overhead. It uses the Core Ultra 5 processor for modern performance. It also features OCuLink expansion for external devices. You can build this kit with your preferred RAM and storage capacities.
Which barebone workstation offers 10Gbps networking?
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC provides 10Gbps networking capabilities. It includes vPRO security features for enterprise use. This platform is ideal for building high-storage workstations. You can select your own memory and drives for this robust system.
Is there a barebone option for local AI inference?
The MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone is designed for local AI tasks. It offers extensive storage options and high-speed fiber connectivity. This makes it suitable for enterprise networking and AI inference. You can customize the internal components to match your processing requirements.