Previewed at CES 2023, it seems ASUS will start producing more mini PCs for small-scale deployments that require low to mid-tier computing power when form factor and space restrictions are the top priorities.
Let’s start with the lone wolf of the bunch – the ASUS Chromebox 5. As the 5th iteration of the rounded-square computer that runs ChromeOS, the updates are quite minimal in this case but nevertheless important.
First, the surfaces have been retextured and made with post-consumer recycled plastic for a fingerprint-resistant body while a little feet bump has been added at the bottom to open up more air vents for better heat dissipation. Oh, now you can place your smartphone on top of it for charging since there’s now a 15W Qi-Charge pad!
Computing parts-wise, it can be fitted with a 12th Gen Intel Core CPU of i7/i5/i3 or if your requirements are really low, they don’t mind fitting it with a Celeron processor too. But if you’re opting for the former, the modern class components like Wi-Fi 6E, PCIe 4.0, and 2.5GbE are all present for a machine that is actually living in 2023.
Aside from the Chromebox family, the ExpertCenter series also welcomes the addition of a couple of new members PN42 and PN64-E1. The PN42 aims to bring loads of I/Os which is 7 USB ports by the way while providing just enough power for everyday use since the CPU is the E-Core only Intel N100/N200 but it’s not missing out the Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE treatment so no worries.
On the other hand, the PN64-E1 is the powerhouse model here with a mobile-class Intel Core CPU with Xe Graphics, Up to 32GB DDR5 RAM, PCIe 4.0 storage, and Thunderbolt 4 support. Armed with a cleverly designed chassis, one can fit as many as 3 storage devices (2x M.2 2280 + 1x 2.5-inch SSD/HDD) while keeping everything as compact as possible.
Availability
Everything announced here is still yet to have an actual release date so stay tuned.
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