Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC or Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC? Which Geekplus Model to Buy
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You are looking at the geekplus nuc 13 pro core i5 mini PC vs core i7 barebone mini PC. Both devices use the Intel NUC 13 Pro chassis with Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E. They share the same compact 4x4 form factor and business-focused connectivity. The main difference lies in their configuration. One arrives fully equipped with RAM and storage. The other is a barebone unit that requires you to add those components yourself.
Key differences
| Aspect | Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC | Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1340P | Intel Core i7-1360P |
| Memory | 16GB DDR4-3200 (upgradeable to 64GB) | Barebone (no RAM installed) |
| Storage | 512GB M.2 PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD | Barebone (no SSD installed) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro preinstalled | Not listed |
| Ethernet | 2500 Mbps RJ45 | 2500 Mbps RJ45 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC if
- You want a ready-to-use system with Windows 11 Pro preinstalled.
- You need 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD included right away.
- You prefer a complete package without buying separate components.
Choose Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC if
- You already have compatible DDR4 memory and an M.2 SSD.
- You want to customize your storage capacity and memory size.
- You prefer to select specific RAM and SSD brands yourself.
Verdict: Choose the i5 model if you want a complete, plug-and-play experience with proven performance. Select the barebone i7 if you already have parts or want to build a higher-spec configuration with the stronger i7-1360P processor.
i5 Kit vs i7 Barebone Specs
Processor power
Product A uses the Intel Core i5-1340P, while Product B features the Core i7-1360P. Both are 13th Gen chips with 12 cores (4 performance, 8 efficient) and 16 threads. The i7-1360P has a larger 18MB L3 cache compared to the i5’s 12MB Smart Cache. The i7 also reaches higher turbo speeds of 5.0 GHz, whereas the i5 tops out at 4.60 GHz for P-Cores. Both include Intel Iris Xe Graphics with 80 Execution Units. The i7 offers a clear performance head start for demanding tasks.
Memory configuration
Product A comes with 16GB of DDR4-3200MHz RAM installed in a dual-channel configuration. It is upgradeable to a maximum of 64GB. Product B is a barebone unit, meaning it includes no installed RAM. You must purchase and install memory separately for the i7 model. If you want immediate functionality without extra parts, Product A is ready to go. However, Product B allows you to choose your specific RAM capacity and speed if you already have modules or prefer higher specs.
Storage capacity
Product A includes a 512GB M.2 PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD. It also features an additional M.2 2242 key B slot for further storage expansion. Product B is a barebone system with no internal storage installed. You need to buy an SSD separately to use it. The i5 model provides immediate storage for your operating system and files. The i7 model requires you to source and install a drive, which adds an extra step before you can start using the computer.
Operating system
Product A is preinstalled with Windows 11 Pro. This means you can turn it on and start working immediately. Product B is a barebone kit and does not include an operating system. You must purchase and install Windows separately. Windows 11 Pro offers advanced business features like BitLocker encryption and Remote Desktop. If you want a complete solution out of the box, Product A is the better choice. Product B is suitable if you already have a license or prefer to install Linux.
Networking hardware
Both units feature Intel Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity. They share similar front and rear USB ports and dual HDMI 2.1 outputs. The key difference is the Ethernet port. Product A includes an Intel i226V 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port. Product B uses an Intel i225-V 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port. While both support 2500 Mbps speeds, the i226V is a newer controller often found in higher-end configurations. This gives Product A a slight edge in modern networking hardware.
Choose your Geekplus NUC 13 Pro model
Users wanting a ready-to-use system
Product A includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD. It comes with Windows 11 Pro preinstalled. You can plug it in and start working immediately. The i5-1340P processor handles daily tasks efficiently. This kit saves you the effort of sourcing components separately.
Buyers needing maximum CPU performance
Product B uses the Core i7-1360P processor. It features an 18MB L3 cache and higher turbo speeds. This chip offers more raw processing power for demanding workloads. You can install your own RAM and storage to meet specific capacity needs. The barebone design allows for full customization.
Shoppers preferring included memory and storage
Product A provides a complete package with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. You avoid the hassle of purchasing these parts separately. The system is configured for immediate use with Windows 11 Pro. This option is ideal if you want a functional computer without extra assembly steps or component selection.
The products compared
Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC
Best for: Compact business desktops needing Thunderbolt 4
- Processor
- Intel Core i5-1340P
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4 3200MHz
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x 2500 Mbps RJ45
- High-Speed Expansion
- 2x Thunderbolt 4
View on Amazon: Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC Affiliate link
This Geekplus-branded ASUS NUC 13 Pro mini PC uses a 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P processor with up to 12 cores. It comes with 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD. The system includes Windows 11 Pro and features Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. It suits users who need a compact, business-ready machine with strong multi-threading performance and modern I/O options.
Pros
- 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P CPU with up to 12 cores
- Thunderbolt 4 ports with USB4 and DisplayPort 2.1 support
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet for faster wired networking
- Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro operating system
Cons
- Uses DDR4 memory instead of the newer DDR5 standard
- Limited to 64GB maximum RAM upgrade capacity
- Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics only
Good fit if
- You need Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed peripherals
- You require 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
- You want a compact PC with Windows 11 Pro
Skip if
- You need dedicated graphics for gaming
- You require DDR5 memory for maximum bandwidth
- You need more than 64GB of RAM
Verdict: Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro i5 Mini PC is a solid choice for professionals who value Thunderbolt 4 speed and 2.5Gb Ethernet in a small footprint. It fits users who prioritize business features and reliable i5 performance over raw graphical power.
Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC
Best for: Business users who want to customize their own hardware
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1360P
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x 2500 Mbps RJ45
- High-Speed Expansion
- Thunderbolt 4
View on Amazon: Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC Affiliate link
This barebone mini PC uses the Intel Core i7-1360P processor with 12 cores and a 35W TDP. It supports up to 4K@60Hz displays via HDMI 2.1 and DP 2.1. You get Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6E, and a 2500 Mbps Ethernet port. Since it is a barebone kit, you must install your own RAM and storage. It suits users who want strong business performance in a compact 4.4-inch chassis.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-1360P with 12 cores and 16 threads
- Thunderbolt 4 port for high-speed data and display output
- 2500 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port for fast wired networking
- Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 with Bluetooth 5.3
Cons
- Sold as a barebone kit without installed RAM or SSD
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics limits heavy 3D gaming
- No pre-installed operating system included
Good fit if
- You need a powerful 13th Gen Intel processor for business tasks
- You want to customize your own RAM and storage capacity
- You require Thunderbolt 4 and 2.5Gb Ethernet connectivity
Skip if
- You want a fully assembled PC with Windows already installed
- You need dedicated graphics for high-end gaming
- You prefer a smaller form factor under 4 inches wide
Verdict: Geekplus Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i7 Barebone delivers strong multi-core performance for office work and light creative tasks. It is ideal for users who value connectivity and want to build their own system with specific RAM and storage needs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC | Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1340P | Intel Core i7-1360P |
| Installed RAM | 16GB | Barebone |
| Storage Capacity | 512GB | Barebone |
| Memory Type | DDR4 3200MHz | not stated |
| Graphics | not stated | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x 2500 Mbps RJ45 | 1x 2500 Mbps RJ45 |
| High-Speed Expansion | 2x Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 4 |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | not stated |
| Memory | 16GB RAM | not stated |
| Storage | 512GB SSD | not stated |
| Use | Home, Business, Office | Home, Business |
| Networking | WiFi 6E | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | Barebone |
| Dimensions | 4.6 × 4.4 × 2.1 inches | 4.6 × 4.4 × 2.1 inches |
| Weight | 1.41 pounds | not stated |
| Size | NUC13 i5 16GB+512GB | NUC13ANHi7 Barebone |
| Color | NUC13 i5 16GB+512GB | NUC13ANHi7 Barebone |
| Model | NUC13ANH | NUC13ANHi7 Barebon |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC come with RAM and storage installed?
Yes, this model includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD. It arrives as a complete kit with Windows 11 Pro preinstalled. You do not need to buy separate components to start using it. This makes it a ready-to-use solution for immediate deployment.
Is the Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC sold with memory and a hard drive?
No, this unit is a barebone system. It does not include RAM or storage drives. You must purchase and install your own memory and SSD separately. This option is designed for users who want to customize their hardware specifications to fit specific business or home needs.
Which Geekplus NUC 13 model is better for users who want a complete system out of the box?
The Geekplus NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Mini PC is the better choice for a complete system. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. It also comes with Windows 11 Pro already installed. You can plug it in and begin working immediately without additional setup.
What is the main difference between the Geekplus Core i5 kit and the Core i7 barebone version?
The Core i5 model is a complete kit with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. The Core i7 model is a barebone chassis that requires you to add your own RAM and storage. The Core i7 also features a more powerful processor for heavier multitasking tasks.
Can I upgrade the RAM in the Geekplus Core i7 Barebone Mini PC?
Yes, since this is a barebone system, you can choose your own RAM modules. You are not limited to pre-installed memory. This allows you to select the specific capacity and speed that matches your workflow, whether for office work or light creative projects.
Which Geekplus NUC 13 Pro is best for professionals needing Thunderbolt 4 and 2.5Gb Ethernet?
Both models share the same chassis with Thunderbolt 4 and 2.5Gb Ethernet. However, the Core i5 Mini PC is highlighted for its compact business utility. It provides reliable performance in a small footprint, making it ideal for professionals who prioritize connectivity and immediate usability over raw graphical power.