5 Best ASUS Intel Core i7 Mini PCs, Compared

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You need a ready-to-use Chrome OS system with dual displays ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC The 128GB SSD and compact chassis make this a practical choice for everyday web tasks.
• You want to build a custom PC with your own components ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim Core i7 Mini PC This barebone model supports up to 64GB RAM and triple storage for DIY flexibility.
• You require a complete Windows system for business workflows ASUS NUC 13 Pro Core i7 Mini PC It includes 16GB RAM, a 512GB SSD, and Windows 11 Pro for professional use.
• You need a Chrome OS setup supporting four monitors ASUS Chromebox 5a Core i7 Mini PC The 256GB SSD and 16GB RAM support four-screen setups in a small form factor.
• You prefer a slim barebone for digital signage or kiosks ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim Mini PC Its slim, lightweight design allows for custom RAM and storage installation in constrained spaces.

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC

Best for: Chrome OS users needing dual displays

Processor

Intel Core i7 (what this guide is about)

Installed RAM

8GB

Storage Capacity

128GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Intel 4K UHD Graphics

Ethernet Ports

Gigabit LAN

View on Amazon: ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC Affiliate link

This ASUS Chromebox 3 packs an 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8550U processor into a compact 5.75 x 5.5 x 1.8-inch chassis. It runs Chrome OS with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128GB SSD. You get integrated Intel 4K UHD graphics and dual monitor support via HDMI and DisplayPort. It includes Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2. This model suits users who need a small, efficient machine for web tasks and media streaming.

Pros

• Intel Core i7-8550U processor for solid performance
• Supports dual 4K displays via HDMI and DisplayPort
• Compact dimensions of 5.75 x 5.5 x 1.8 inches
• Power over Type C reduces cable clutter

Cons

• Only 8GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
• 128GB storage is small for large media libraries
• Chrome OS restricts installation of Windows applications

Good fit if

• You need a small desktop for web browsing
• You want dual monitor support for productivity
• You prefer the simplicity of Chrome OS

Skip if

• You require Windows for specific software
• You need more than 8GB of RAM
• You store large amounts of local data

Verdict: ASUS Chromebox 3 i7 Mini PC is a practical, space-saving choice for users who rely on Chrome OS and web-based applications. It delivers sufficient power for everyday tasks while keeping a low profile on your desk.

2 Best budget

ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim Core i7 Mini PC

Best for: DIY builders needing quad display support

Processor

Intel Core i7 (what this guide is about)

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 Slim Core i7 Mini PC Affiliate link

The ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim is a barebone mini PC built around the 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1360P processor. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and offers triple storage expansion. You get Thunderbolt 4 connectivity and support for up to four 4K displays. This compact unit fits behind monitors or on walls. It is designed for users who want to assemble their own system with specific memory and storage needs.

Pros

• Powered by Intel Core i7-1360P processor
• Supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM
• Triple storage design for expandability
• Quad 4K@60Hz display output capability
• Includes VESA mount for wall installation

Cons

• Sold as a barebone kit without RAM or SSD
• Requires separate purchase of memory and storage
• No included power supply or accessories

Good fit if

• You already have DDR4 RAM and SSDs to install
• You need a compact PC for dual or quad monitor setups
• You want to customize the storage capacity yourself

Skip if

• You need a complete system ready to use out of the box
• You prefer a larger chassis for easier internal upgrades
• You want a pre-installed operating system

Verdict: ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim Barebone i7 is a flexible build for DIY enthusiasts who want high performance in a small footprint. It suits those who already own compatible RAM and storage drives.

3 Best premium

ASUS NUC 13 Pro Core i7 Mini PC

Best for: multi-monitor business workflows

Processor

Intel Core i7 (what this guide is about)

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Ethernet Ports

1 x RJ45 LAN

High-Speed Expansion

2 x Thunderbolt 4

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

View on Amazon: ASUS NUC 13 Pro Core i7 Mini PC Affiliate link

The ASUS NUC 13 Pro packs a 12-core Intel Core i7-1360P processor into a compact chassis. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD for fast multitasking. The system supports four 4K displays via dual HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4 ports. It runs Windows 11 Pro with enterprise security features. This setup suits professionals needing high performance and extensive connectivity in a small footprint.

Pros

• 12-core Intel Core i7-1360P processor with up to 5.0 GHz turbo
• Supports up to four 4K displays with dual HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro with BitLocker encryption
• 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD for quick boot times
• Wi-Fi 6E and RJ45 LAN for reliable networking

Cons

• 512GB SSD storage may fill quickly for large projects
• Only one RJ45 LAN port limits wired network flexibility
• Thunderbolt 4 ports require compatible cables for full functionality

Good fit if

• You need to connect multiple 4K monitors for trading or development
• You require Windows 11 Pro for business security features
• You want a compact PC with high core count for multitasking

Skip if

• You need more than 512GB of storage without upgrading
• You prefer a system with multiple Ethernet ports
• You are looking for a budget option with lower specs

Verdict: ASUS NUC 13 Pro i7 Mini PC delivers strong performance and display flexibility for professionals. It fits users who need enterprise features and multi-monitor setups in a small space.

4 Best 256gb ssd

ASUS Chromebox 5a Core i7 Mini PC

Best for: four-display ChromeOS workstations

Processor

Intel Core i7 (what this guide is about)

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

256GB

Ethernet Ports

2.5 Gbps Ethernet

Operating System

ChromeOS

Memory

16GB RAM

View on Amazon: ASUS Chromebox 5a Core i7 Mini PC Affiliate link

The ASUS Chromebox 5a pairs an Intel Core i7-1355U processor with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. It runs ChromeOS and supports up to four 4K displays via dual HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. The unit includes Wi-Fi 6E, a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, and Titan C security. It measures 6.53 by 6.56 by 1.81 inches and weighs 1.76 pounds. This model suits users who need strong multi-monitor support in a compact form factor.

Pros

• Intel Core i7-1355U processor with 16GB RAM
• Supports up to four 4K displays simultaneously
• Includes Titan C security chip for business use
• Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet connectivity

Cons

• 256GB SSD is smaller than the 512GB option on the list
• ChromeOS limits software compatibility compared to Windows
• 1.81-inch height is bulkier than the Slim variants

Good fit if

• You need to drive four monitors for productivity
• You prefer the security features of ChromeOS
• You want a compact PC with strong networking

Skip if

• You require Windows for specific professional applications
• You need more than 256GB of local storage
• You prefer the thinnest possible chassis design

Verdict: ASUS Chromebox 5a i7 Mini PC fits users who need four-screen setups and ChromeOS security in a small box.

5 Also great

ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim Mini PC

Best for: customizable compact PCs with multi-display needs

Processor

Intel Core i7 (what this guide is about)

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 Slim Mini PC Affiliate link

This barebone kit uses a 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H processor and supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM. It features a compact 4x4 form factor with a VESA mount for wall or monitor installation. You get dual HDMI and dual DisplayPort outputs via Thunderbolt 4, allowing connections to one 8K or four 4K@60Hz displays. It is built for 24/7 operation and includes internal expansion options for storage or I/O modules.

Pros

• 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H processor
• Supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM
• Quad 4K@60Hz or single 8K display output
• Compact 4x4 slim form factor with VESA mount
• Internal expansion bay for storage or I/O

Cons

• Sold as a barebone kit without RAM or storage
• Uses DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5
• Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics only

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC for digital signage
• You want to install your own RAM and SSD
• You require multiple high-resolution display outputs

Skip if

• You need a pre-built system with RAM included
• You require dedicated graphics for gaming
• You prefer DDR5 memory for maximum speed

Verdict: ASUS NUC 13 Pro Slim Barebone is a compact, expandable solution for users who want to customize their own RAM and storage while needing robust multi-display support. It fits well in digital signage or space-constrained setups where you handle the component installation yourself.

Specifications side by side

Key Specs for Choosing Your Mini PC

1. Check the Operating System

   Verify the installed OS before buying. The ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC runs Chrome OS, which is ideal for web-based workflows and simple management. In contrast, the ASUS NUC 13 Pro Core i7 includes Windows 11 Pro, offering broader software compatibility for business environments. Ensure the OS matches your daily tasks to avoid purchasing extra licenses or dealing with incompatible applications. This choice defines your entire user experience.

2. Evaluate Storage Capacity

   Storage size determines how much data you can keep locally. The ASUS Chromebox 3 offers 128GB, while the ASUS Chromebox 5a provides 256GB SSD storage. More space allows for larger files and smoother multitasking without constant cloud reliance. If you need extra room, consider models with upgradeable slots. Always compare the base capacity against your typical usage patterns to ensure you do not run out of space quickly during regular operations.

3. Confirm Memory Requirements

   RAM affects how many programs run simultaneously. The ASUS Chromebox 5a and NUC 13 Pro include 16GB RAM, supporting heavier multitasking. The barebone NUC 13 Pro Slim lets you install up to 64GB RAM yourself. Higher memory prevents slowdowns when switching between apps. Check if the system comes with RAM pre-installed or if you must buy it separately. This spec is critical for maintaining performance over time.

4. Assess Networking Speed

   Connectivity impacts file transfers and streaming quality. Several models, including the NUC 13 Pro Slim, feature WiFi 6E for faster, more stable wireless connections. This is useful in crowded offices or homes with many devices. Wired connections often provide better consistency, but wireless convenience matters for desk setups. Verify the supported standard to ensure your network hardware can handle the speed. Better networking reduces lag during video calls and large downloads.

5. Review Physical Dimensions

   Size determines where you can place the unit. The NUC 13 Pro Slim measures 4.41 by 4.61 inches, fitting easily behind monitors. The Chromebox 5a is larger at 6.53 by 6.56 inches. Measure your desk or VESA mount space before deciding. A smaller footprint saves room but may limit internal cooling or expansion slots. Choose the size that fits your physical environment while meeting your performance needs without cluttering your workspace.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best ASUS mini PCs with 16GB RAM
• best ASUS mini PCs with 512GB SSD
• best mini PCs with Intel Core i7
• best mini PCs with Core i7