Asus PN64-B Barebone Mini PC Review: Powerful, Compact, But With Trade-offs
Asus PN64-B Barebone Mini PC Review: Powerful, Compact, But With Trade-offs
The Asus PN64-B Barebone Mini PC is a small but mighty machine that packs a serious punch thanks to its Intel Core i7-12700H processor and Intel Iris XE Graphics. Designed for those who need a compact and powerful PC, the PN64-B offers a compelling blend of features and performance. However, its barebones nature presents some challenges and trade-offs that you need to be aware of. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right mini PC for your needs.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Asus PN64-B is a barebones mini PC, meaning it comes without any storage, RAM, or operating system. This gives you the flexibility to customize your setup with the components that best suit your needs and budget. Its compact design makes it perfect for those looking to save space on their desk or mount it behind a monitor using its VESA mount. With its powerful Intel Core i7-12700H processor, the PN64-B promises enough processing power for demanding tasks like content creation, gaming, and multitasking.
Features
The Asus PN64-B is loaded with features that cater to a wide range of users. Here’s a breakdown:
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i7-12700H |
| Graphics | Intel Iris XE Graphics |
| Memory | Up to 64GB DDR4-3200 (2x SO-DIMM slots) |
| Storage | 2.5″ SATA III (up to 2TB) and M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 NVMe (up to 2TB) |
| Networking | 2.5Gb LAN, WiFi 6E |
| Connectivity | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, Audio Jack |
| Other Features | VESA mount, Compact Size |
Performance
The Asus PN64-B delivers impressive performance thanks to its powerful Intel Core i7-12700H processor. It handles demanding tasks like video editing, photo editing, and gaming with ease. In my tests, I found that it consistently provided smooth performance, even when running multiple applications simultaneously. The Intel Iris XE Graphics is capable of handling light gaming and basic graphics-intensive tasks. While it won’t rival dedicated graphics cards, it’s a decent option for casual gamers or those who need a bit of graphics acceleration.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful performance with the Intel Core i7-12700H processor.
- Compact size makes it ideal for space-constrained setups.
- VESA mount option allows for flexible placement.
- Supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM for demanding workloads.
- Offers both SATA and NVMe storage options for versatility.
- Includes 2.5Gb LAN and WiFi 6E for fast and reliable connectivity.
Cons
- Barebones design requires additional investment in RAM, storage, and an operating system.
- Limited expandability compared to larger desktop PCs.
- Integrated graphics are not suitable for demanding gaming.
- No built-in optical drive.
Final Verdict
The Asus PN64-B Barebone Mini PC is a solid choice for users who value performance, compact size, and flexibility. It’s a powerful machine capable of handling demanding workloads and is ideal for home users, content creators, or small businesses. However, the barebones design means you’ll need to factor in the cost of additional components. If you’re looking for a compact, customizable PC, the PN64-B is a great option. But if you need a more budget-friendly solution or require dedicated graphics capabilities, you might want to explore other options.
