Asus has announced its latest mini PC, the NUC 14 Pro AI, powered by Intel's Lunar Lake processors. The device features up to a Core Ultra 9 288V CPU and 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory. While it lacks discrete graphics and OCuLink support, it offers a compelling overall package.
Compact and Powerful
The NUC 14 Pro AI is remarkably compact with a volume of just 0.6 liters. It can be configured with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 288V "Lunar Lake" processor and 32 GB of onboard LPDDR5X-8533 memory. The system relies on the integrated graphics of the Lunar Lake chips, as discrete graphics are not an option, nor is OCuLink, which is somewhat disappointing.
Storage and Connectivity
Here are the connectivity options:
- Single M.2 2280 slot (up to 2 TB NVMe storage)
- Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Dual USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports
- Dual USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports
- HDMI port
- 2.5G LAN port
- WiFi 7
- Bluetooth 5.4
- Integrated speaker
- Fingerprint scanner
Pricing information is not yet available, but details should emerge soon, likely at CES 2025. For those needing an OCuLink port, the Minisforum UM890 Pro might be a good alternative, though it utilizes last-generation hardware. Overall, the Asus NUC 14 Pro AI looks to be a welcome addition to the mini PC market.
