Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro vs Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This guide compares the geekplus intel nuc 13 pro vs asus nuc 14 essential mini PC. Both units offer Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet for stable networking. They differ significantly in configuration and power. The NUC 13 Pro is a barebone kit centered on the 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P. The ASUS NUC 14 Essential arrives fully assembled with an Intel N150 processor, pre-installed RAM, and Windows 11 Pro. You must decide between raw expandability and immediate readiness.
Key differences
| Aspect | Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone | ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1340P (12 cores, up to 4.60 GHz) | Intel N150 (4 cores, up to 3.6 GHz) |
| Memory | Barebone (supports up to 64GB DDR4-3200) | 16GB DDR5-4800 (pre-installed) |
| Storage | Barebone (supports PCIe Gen4 NVMe) | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD (pre-installed) |
| Operating System | No OS | Windows 11 Pro |
| Dimensions | 4.4 x 2.1 x 4.6 inches | 4.53 x 1.42 x 5.31 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone if
- You need high-performance multitasking for business or creative workloads.
- You want to customize your own RAM and SSD configurations.
- You require Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for high-speed peripherals.
Choose ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC if
- You want a ready-to-use system with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed.
- You prefer lower power consumption for light office tasks.
- You want faster DDR5 memory without buying components separately.
Verdict: The NUC 13 Pro is the better choice for users seeking maximum performance and hardware flexibility. The ASUS NUC 14 Essential suits those who want a simple, energy-efficient setup for everyday computing.
Processor and Core Specs
Processor performance
The Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro features the 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P. This processor offers 12 cores and 16 threads, with P-Cores reaching up to 4.60 GHz and E-Cores up to 3.40 GHz. It includes Intel Iris Xe Graphics with 80 execution units. In contrast, the Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential uses the 12th Gen Intel N150. This chip has only 4 cores and 4 threads, with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.6 GHz. The i5-1340P provides significantly more processing power and multitasking capability than the entry-level N150.
Memory configuration
The NUC 13 Pro is a barebone kit, meaning it includes no installed RAM. You must purchase and install up to 64GB of dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory yourself. This allows for maximum flexibility in capacity and configuration. The ASUS NUC 14 Essential comes with 16GB of DDR5-4800 memory pre-installed. While DDR5 offers higher bandwidth, the NUC 14 is limited to single-channel operation. The NUC 13 Pro wins for users who need more than 16GB or want dual-channel performance.
Storage capacity
The NUC 13 Pro is sold as a barebone unit with no storage included. It supports M.2 22x80 PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs and SATA drives, letting you choose any capacity you need. The ASUS NUC 14 Essential includes a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD out of the box. This SSD uses PCIe 3.0 x4 lanes but is expandable to 2TB. The ASUS model is ready for immediate use, while the Intel model requires you to buy and install a drive separately.
Operating system
The Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro ships with no operating system. You must install your own version of Windows, Linux, or another OS. This is ideal for advanced users or IT departments managing deployments. The Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. It is also compatible with Ubuntu and RedHat Enterprise Linux. If you want a computer that works immediately upon unboxing, the ASUS model provides a complete software experience.
Connectivity features
Both units offer Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity. They both include 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports for fast wired networking. The NUC 13 Pro distinguishes itself with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, which support DisplayPort 2.1 and USB4. This allows for high-speed data transfer and external GPU connections. The ASUS NUC 14 Essential provides HDMI, MiniDP, and USB-C ports for triple 4K display support but lacks Thunderbolt technology. The Intel model offers superior expansion capabilities.
Which Mini PC Fits Your Needs
Users needing full setup out of box
The ASUS NUC 14 Essential arrives with 16GB DDR5 RAM, a 512GB SSD, and Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. You get a ready-to-use system without buying separate components. This configuration handles daily office tasks, web browsing, and 4K streaming efficiently right from the start.
Buyers wanting high performance and expansion
The Intel NUC 13 Pro uses the 13th Gen Core i5-1340P with 12 cores and 16 threads. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and offers Thunderbolt 4 ports. You can customize the memory and storage to match your specific workload and performance requirements.
Those seeking multi-display professional setups
This model supports triple 4K displays via HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and USB-C. The Intel Graphics with 24 execution units allows seamless video editing and data analysis across multiple screens. You benefit from stable connectivity and efficient cooling for sustained professional use.
The products compared
Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone
Best for: customizable compact business computing
- 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 Affiliate link
This barebone mini PC features 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 with DisplayPort 2.1. The compact 4x4 form factor fits easily on a desk. It suits users who need reliable performance for business or home office tasks without pre-installed memory or storage.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-1340P processor with up to 4.60 GHz turbo speed
- Supports up to 64GB dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory
- Two Thunderbolt 4 ports with DisplayPort 2.1 support
- 2500 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port for fast networking
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
Cons
- Sold as a barebone system with no RAM, SSD, or OS included
- Uses DDR4 memory which is slower than newer DDR5 standards
- Limited to two display outputs despite having multiple ports
Good fit if
- You want to customize your own RAM and storage configuration
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for high-speed peripherals
- You require a compact computer for business or office use
Skip if
- You need a ready-to-use system with pre-installed memory and storage
- You want the latest DDR5 memory for maximum bandwidth
- You require more than two simultaneous display outputs
Verdict: Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro Mini PC offers strong processing power and versatile connectivity for users who prefer to build their own system. It is ideal for professionals who value customization and reliable business features in a small footprint.
ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC
Best for: Compact multi-monitor office and media setups
- Processor
- Intel N150
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Memory Type
- DDR5-4800
- Graphics
- Intel Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x 2.5Gbps
View on Amazon: ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC Affiliate link
This mini PC uses an Intel N150 processor with 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD. It features a compact 0.56L chassis and supports triple 4K displays via HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and USB-C. You get Windows 11 Pro pre-installed along with Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet. It suits users needing efficient desktop performance for office tasks, web browsing, and media streaming in a small footprint.
Pros
- Intel N150 processor delivers 25% faster single-core performance than N100 models
- 16GB DDR5-4800 RAM accelerates multitasking and system responsiveness
- Supports triple 4K displays through HDMI, Mini DP, and USB-C ports
- Includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet for stable networking
Cons
- Single-channel DDR5 memory may limit peak bandwidth compared to dual-channel setups
- Intel Graphics with 24 execution units offers only basic integrated performance
- Storage uses PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD despite supporting PCIe 4.0 standard
Good fit if
- You need a compact computer for office work and web browsing
- You want to connect three monitors for productivity or streaming
- You prefer a pre-installed Windows 11 Pro system ready to use
Skip if
- You require high-end graphics for gaming or heavy video editing
- You need dual-channel RAM for maximum memory bandwidth
- You want a processor with more cores for intensive multitasking
Verdict: Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC is a practical choice for users who need a small, efficient computer for daily tasks and multi-monitor setups. It fits well in home offices or retail spaces where space is limited but screen real estate is important.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone | ASUS NUC 14 Essential Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1340P | Intel N150 |
| Installed RAM | Barebone | 16GB |
| Storage Capacity | Barebone | 512GB |
| Memory Type | not stated | DDR5-4800 |
| Graphics | not stated | Intel Graphics |
| Ethernet Ports | 2500 Mbps RJ45 | 1x 2.5Gbps |
| High-Speed Expansion | Thunderbolt 4 | not stated |
| Operating System | No OS (Barebone) | Windows 11 Pro |
| Use | Home, Business, Office | not stated |
| Networking | WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E |
| Form Factor | Barebone | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.6 × 4.4 × 2.1 inches | 5.31 × 4.53 × 1.42 inches |
| Weight | 1.41 pounds | 2.66 pounds |
| Size | NUC13 i5 0GB+0GB, Barebone | ASUSNUC14MNKI5-16512 |
| Color | NUC13 i5 0GB+0GB, Barebone | ASUSNUC14MNKI5-16512 |
| Model | NUC13ANH | ASUSNUC14MNKI5 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro a barebone kit?
Yes, this model is sold as a barebone system. You must purchase RAM, storage, and an operating system separately. This setup allows you to customize the internal components to fit your specific performance needs. It is ideal for users who want full control over their hardware configuration.
What processor does the ASUS NUC 14 Essential use?
The Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential is powered by an Intel N150 processor. This chip is designed for efficient daily computing tasks. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, making it ready to use right out of the box without additional software setup.
Which Mini PC is better for multi-monitor setups?
The Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential is better for multi-monitor office and media setups. Its pre-configured nature and efficient processor handle daily tasks and multiple displays effectively. It is a practical choice for home offices or retail spaces where screen real estate is important but space is limited.
How do the dimensions compare between the two models?
The Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro measures 4.4 inches wide, 2.1 inches high, and 4.6 inches long. The Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential is slightly larger at 4.53 inches wide, 1.42 inches high, and 5.31 inches long. Both units remain compact, but their footprints differ slightly.
What is the weight difference between the two Mini PCs?
The Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro weighs 1.41 pounds. The Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential weighs 2.66 pounds. The NUC 14 is heavier, likely due to its pre-installed components and different chassis design. Both weights are manageable for desktop or VESA mount placement.
Does the ASUS NUC 14 Essential come with an operating system?
Yes, the Geekplus ASUS NUC 14 Essential includes Windows 11 Pro. You do not need to install an OS separately. This makes it a turnkey solution for users who want a ready-to-use system for business or home office tasks without the hassle of software installation.
Which Mini PC offers more customization options?
The Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro offers more customization options because it is a barebone kit. You can choose your own RAM, SSD, and OS. The ASUS NUC 14 Essential comes with fixed specs, including 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, limiting your ability to upgrade internal components later.