9 Best Intel NUC Mini PCs (October 2026)

The best Intel NUC mini PCs include the Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro for a balanced ready-to-use setup, the GMKtec Mini PC Intel Core i7-1185G7 for dual-drive flexibility, and the GMKtec M2 Pro S Mini PC Intel for adding storage over time.

On this page (6 sections)

1. How we chose these Intel NUC mini PCs
2. How these Intel NUC configurations compare
3. The best Intel NUC mini PCs for different setups
4. What should you compare before choosing an Intel NUC?
5. How much storage and memory do you need?
6. Which Intel NUC is the right fit?

The best Intel NUC mini PC for most people is the Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro, with a 13th Gen Core i5, 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. Choose the NUC 15 Pro+ for its newer Core Ultra 9 platform, or the NUC 10 barebone if you want to select and install your own parts.

Intel NUC systems come in different generations and configurations, so compare the specific processor, memory, storage and ports rather than relying on the NUC name alone. Some systems arrive ready to use, while a barebone option needs components before setup.

For a broader checklist, see our step-by-step guide to choosing a mini PC. This roundup focuses on Intel NUC-style systems and compact PCs with Intel processors, including where each configuration leaves room to expand.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a balanced ready-to-use setup

   Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for dual-drive flexibility

   GMKtec Mini PC Intel Core i7-1185G7

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for adding storage over time

   GMKtec M2 Pro S Mini PC Intel

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ Mini PC

   Best for a newer high-end platform
   Check it
5. 5

   GMKtec Mini PC

   Best for everyday basics
   Check it
6. 6

   NENCHIN Intel NUC 13Pro for ASUS NUC13ANHi5

   Best for a Core i5 NUC 13 bundle
   Check it
7. 7

   GMKtec G3S Mini PC Computers Intel N95

   Best for light office and media use
   Check it
8. 8

   Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro

   Best for more memory out of the box
   Check it
9. 9

   Geekplus Intel NUC 10 NUC10i5FNHN Barebone Mini

   Best for a build-your-own NUC
   Check it

How we chose these Intel NUC mini PCs

We compared processor models, included memory and storage, display connections and stated expansion options to match different buyer needs. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

A higher score reflects a stronger fit for this roundup's mix of everyday use, ready-to-use configurations and upgrade flexibility. Scores are editorial comparisons, not lab test results.

How these Intel NUC configurations compare

The biggest differences are included parts and upgrade paths: some picks start with 16GB or 32GB RAM, while the NUC 10 is a barebone kit. Use the table to narrow your choices by processor, storage and expansion.

The best Intel NUC mini PCs for different setups

The Geekplus NUC 13 is the most balanced ready-to-use pick, while the other systems suit distinct needs such as more storage, a newer platform or a build-your-own configuration. Match the pick to the parts and connections you need.

1

Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro: Best for a balanced ready-to-use setup

9.7/10Our score

• Intel Core i5-13420H
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 512GB M.2 NVMe SSD
• 2.5-inch storage expansion

A ready-to-use NUC 13 configuration with a 13th Gen Core i5, 16GB of memory and 512GB SSD. It also supports added 2.5-inch storage.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD included
• 2.5-inch storage expansion
• Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet

Cons

• Memory is DDR4
• Expansion drive is sold separately

The Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro is the strongest all-around choice here because it combines a 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13420H with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD. That gives you a complete starting configuration for office work, browsing and everyday multitasking.

Its storage can grow with a 2.5-inch SATA or PCIe drive, with support up to 2TB for that added drive. The system also includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 and 2.5G Ethernet, giving you wired and wireless connection options.

For displays, the configuration lists HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4 connections. It is a good fit if you want a compact NUC with memory and storage already included, plus a clear path to add more local capacity.

Before choosing, check that the included 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD fit your apps and files. Our ASUS NUC 14 Pro review covers another generation in the same compact family.

2

GMKtec Mini PC Intel Core i7-1185G7: Best for dual-drive flexibility

9.6/10Our score

• Intel Core i7-1185G7
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 1TB NVMe SSD
• Additional M.2 SATA expansion

This GMKtec configuration pairs a Core i7-1185G7 with 16GB RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD. It has room to expand memory and add a second M.2 SATA drive.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 1TB NVMe storage included
• Memory supports expansion up to 64GB
• Three 4K display outputs

Cons

• 11th Gen processor
• Second M.2 drive is not included

GMKtec's M2 Pro S with the Core i7-1185G7 is a practical pick if you want 1TB of NVMe storage and room for a second drive. Its 16GB DDR4 memory can be expanded up to 64GB, which gives you a way to increase capacity as your workload grows.

The processor is an 11th Gen Core i7, so compare its generation with newer NUC options if processor age matters to you. This model's display setup includes two HDMI outputs and USB-C video, with support for three independent 4K screens.

A 2.5Gbps LAN port, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 cover common network and accessory connections. Choose this configuration when a larger included SSD and the option to add M.2 SATA storage matter more than getting the newest processor generation.

3

GMKtec M2 Pro S Mini PC Intel: Best for adding storage over time

9.5/10Our score

• Intel Core i7-1185G7
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 512GB NVMe SSD
• Two M.2 storage slots

The M2 Pro S offers a Core i7-1185G7 and two M.2 storage slots, giving you a path to add capacity without relying only on an external drive.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two M.2 storage slots
• 16GB RAM included
• Three 4K display outputs

Cons

• 512GB SSD is less capacity than the 1TB GMKtec option
• 11th Gen processor

This M2 Pro S uses the same Core i7-1185G7 processor as the preceding GMKtec pick, but it comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD instead of 1TB. It keeps 16GB DDR4 memory and offers two M.2 storage slots, so you can add capacity as needed.

The configuration supports memory expansion up to 64GB and three independent 4K displays through two HDMI ports and USB-C. Its stated connections also include Wi-Fi 6, USB4, DisplayPort and 2.5G Ethernet.

Consider it if you want the M2 Pro S platform and expect to add storage later. If you need more space from the start, the 1TB configuration above reduces the need for an immediate upgrade.

4

ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ Mini PC: Best for a newer high-end platform

9.4/10Our score

• Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
• Intel Arc 140T integrated graphics
• Wi-Fi 7
• Toolless upgrade system

The NUC 15 Pro+ brings a Core Ultra 9 285H, integrated Arc graphics and Wi-Fi 7 in a 0.7L chassis. Its toolless upgrade system supports future customization.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Core Ultra 9 285H processor
• Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
• Up to four 4K displays

Cons

• Memory and storage configuration needs checking before purchase
• Premium platform may exceed basic office needs

The ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ is the newest-generation platform in this group, with an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H and integrated Intel Arc 140T graphics. Its 0.7L chassis and toolless upgrade system make it a strong fit if you want a compact system with a stated upgrade path.

It supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 and up to four 4K displays through dual HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4 ports. The system's dual storage design offers another reason to consider it if you expect to customize the build.

Check the specific memory and storage configuration before buying, since the description emphasizes the barebones kit design and does not give an installed RAM or SSD capacity. Our ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ review looks more closely at this model.

5

GMKtec Mini PC: Best for everyday basics

9.3/10Our score

• Intel Pentium Gold 7505
• 16GB LPDDR4 RAM
• 512GB storage
• Dual 4K HDMI outputs

This GMKtec configuration combines a Pentium Gold 7505 with 16GB memory and 512GB storage. It fits routine computing and a two-screen setup.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 16GB memory and 512GB storage
• Two 4K HDMI outputs
• Secondary M.2 storage slot

Cons

• Pentium Gold processor is aimed at everyday work
• Memory is LPDDR4

The GMKtec Mini PC with Pentium Gold 7505 is aimed at routine computing, with 16GB LPDDR4 RAM and 512GB storage included. Two HDMI 2.0 ports support dual 4K screens, which can be useful for documents, a browser and video on separate displays.

Storage expansion is available through a secondary M.2 2280 SATA slot, alongside a primary M.2 2280 PCIe slot. Its listed connections include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, USB ports and 2.5GbE Ethernet.

Choose this configuration for everyday tasks when you don't need a Core i7 or Core Ultra processor. The Pentium Gold 7505 and integrated graphics place it in a simpler role than the higher-tier options above.

6

NENCHIN Intel NUC 13Pro for ASUS NUC13ANHi5: Best for a Core i5 NUC 13 bundle

9.3/10Our score

• Intel Core i5-1340P
• 16GB dual-channel RAM
• 512GB SSD
• Two Thunderbolt 4 ports

The NENCHIN NUC 13 pairs a Core i5-1340P with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. Its listed configuration includes Windows 11 Pro and supports a 2.5-inch drive.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 16GB memory and 512GB SSD included
• Two Thunderbolt 4 ports
• Memory supports expansion up to 64GB

Cons

• Gigabit Ethernet rather than 2.5G Ethernet
• Drive expansion is sold separately

The NENCHIN Intel NUC 13 Pro pairs an Intel Core i5-1340P with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. It also comes with Windows 11 Pro and supports adding a 2.5-inch drive, while its two Thunderbolt 4 ports add flexibility for displays and accessories.

This configuration supports up to 64GB of memory and four simultaneous displays, according to its feature details. It uses Gigabit Ethernet, so check whether that meets your wired-network needs if you're comparing it with systems that have 2.5G Ethernet.

It makes sense for buyers who want a Core i5 NUC 13 bundle with room to add memory or storage later. For a newer generation and higher-tier processor, compare the NUC 15 Pro+ above.

7

GMKtec G3S Mini PC Computers Intel N95: Best for light office and media use

9.0/10Our score

• Intel N95 processor
• 8GB DDR4 RAM
• 256GB SSD
• Dual 4K HDMI outputs

The G3S is the simpler choice for browsing, office tasks and media playback, with an Intel N95, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Its dual HDMI ports support two 4K displays.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two 4K display outputs
• Wake-on-LAN and PXE boot support
• Compact option for routine tasks

Cons

• 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD are modest starting capacities
• Wi-Fi 5

The GMKtec G3S is a compact option for light office tasks, browsing and home entertainment. Its Intel N95, 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD are more modest than the configurations above, but the dual HDMI outputs support two 4K displays.

It includes Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 and Gigabit Ethernet. Wake-on-LAN, PXE boot and RTC wake are also listed, making it an option to consider for basic always-on or remotely managed tasks.

Choose this model if your workload is light and you want a simple Intel mini PC with two display outputs. The smaller memory and SSD capacity may call for an upgrade or external storage if you keep large files or run several apps at once.

8

Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro: Best for more memory out of the box

9.0/10Our score

• Intel Core i7-13620H
• 32GB DDR4 RAM
• 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
• Two storage expansion slots

This NUC 13 configuration starts with 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD. It suits buyers who want more memory and storage included, with further expansion available.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD included
• Memory supports expansion up to 64GB
• Two storage expansion options

Cons

• Preconfigured memory may be more than light tasks need
• The stated display details vary across the product information

This Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro is the higher-memory NUC 13 configuration, with an Intel Core i7-13620H, 32GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. That combination suits buyers who want more memory and storage included without adding parts immediately.

The system has two storage expansion options: an M.2 2242 slot and an internal bay for a 2.5-inch drive. Memory can be expanded up to 64GB, and the listed connections include 2.5G Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 and Thunderbolt 4.

Its larger starting configuration can be useful for heavier multitasking or large local files. If your work is mostly browsing and documents, the Core i5 NUC 13 may cover your needs with less unused capacity.

9

Geekplus Intel NUC 10 NUC10i5FNHN Barebone Mini: Best for a build-your-own NUC

8.7/10Our score

• Intel Core i5-10210U
• Barebone configuration
• Two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots
• M.2 and 2.5-inch storage support

This older NUC 10 is a barebone system, so you supply the RAM, storage and operating system. It offers control over the build and supports two storage types.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Choose your own memory and drives
• Two storage formats supported
• Up to three displays

Cons

• RAM, storage and operating system are not included
• 10th Gen processor

The Geekplus Intel NUC 10 is the only barebone kit in this roundup. It includes a 10th Gen Core i5-10210U but leaves out RAM, storage and an operating system, so you must choose compatible parts and install them.

Two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots support up to 64GB memory. For storage, the system supports an M.2 SSD and a 2.5-inch SATA SSD or hard drive, which lets you build around your preferred mix of speed and capacity.

This can suit a builder who already has compatible parts or wants to choose them separately. If you want a ready-to-use setup, pick one of the preconfigured NUC systems instead.

What should you compare before choosing an Intel NUC?

Compare the exact processor model, included RAM and SSD, and the number and type of ports you need. NUC generation names alone don't tell you whether a system is ready to use or how much storage it includes.

Also check upgrade details before assuming a drive or memory slot is free. A preconfigured system may include one drive and leave another slot open, while a barebone model needs components from the start.

How much storage and memory do you need?

For everyday browsing and office work, start by checking how much space your current files and apps use, then leave room for growth. A 512GB SSD is a common starting point in this selection, while the 1TB options reduce the need to manage space as often.

Memory needs depend on how many apps and browser tabs you keep open. The NUC 13 options with 16GB or 32GB RAM and GMKtec systems with memory expansion offer different starting points; see our guide to how much storage a mini PC needs before deciding.

Which Intel NUC is the right fit?

Choose the Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro for a balanced ready-to-use system with a Core i5, 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD. Pick the NUC 15 Pro+ if you want the Core Ultra 9 platform, or the NUC 10 if you prefer selecting every component yourself.

For more memory and storage out of the box, the Geekplus NUC 13 Core i7 configuration starts with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD. If you need a simpler computer for routine tasks, the GMKtec Pentium Gold or Intel N95 models offer lower-tier configurations with dual display outputs.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a balanced ready-to-use setup

   Geekplus ASUS NUC 13 Pro

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for dual-drive flexibility

   GMKtec Mini PC Intel Core i7-1185G7

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for adding storage over time

   GMKtec M2 Pro S Mini PC Intel

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What should I compare when choosing an Intel NUC mini PC?

Start with the processor generation and tier, then check the included RAM and SSD. Next, compare expansion options, display outputs and network connections against your desk setup and workload.

A barebone NUC needs compatible memory, storage and an operating system before you can use it.

Is a Core i7 NUC always better than a Core i5 NUC?

A Core i7 configuration can suit heavier multitasking, but the name alone doesn't decide which is a better fit. Compare the specific processor model, memory, storage and ports.

For ordinary browsing and documents, a more complete Core i5 system may be a better match than an older or barebone Core i7 configuration.

Can an Intel NUC mini PC run multiple monitors?

Several picks here support more than one screen, but the port combination and display limits differ by model. The GMKtec M2 Pro S options support three 4K displays, while the ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ supports up to four 4K displays.

Check the exact ports and cables you need before choosing.

What does barebone mean for an Intel NUC?

Barebone means key components are left for you to add. The NUC 10 option here does not include RAM, storage or an operating system, so budget for compatible parts and setup time.

Preconfigured models include memory and storage, though capacities vary.

How much storage should an Intel NUC have?

A 512GB SSD is a useful starting point for everyday apps and files, while 1TB gives more room for larger local libraries. Your needs depend on what you keep on the computer and whether you use external or network storage.

See our mini PC storage guide for a fuller way to estimate capacity.