ASUS NUC12WSHi7 NUC 12 Pro Barebone Kit Review: Powerful Mini PC with Intel Core i7-1260P
ASUS NUC12WSHi7 NUC 12 Pro Barebone Kit Review: A Compact Powerhouse
The ASUS NUC12WSHi7 NUC 12 Pro Barebone Kit is a powerful and compact mini PC that packs a punch. Powered by the Intel Core i7-1260P processor, this barebones kit offers a compelling combination of performance and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Table of Contents
Introduction
ASUS has consistently delivered impressive mini PCs, and the NUC12WSHi7 continues this tradition. With its Intel Alder Lake-P processor, this barebones kit boasts remarkable performance, ample connectivity, and a compact footprint. Whether you’re seeking a powerful workstation, a home theater PC, or a compact gaming rig, the NUC12WSHi7 is worth considering.
Key Features
The ASUS NUC12WSHi7 NUC 12 Pro Barebone Kit comes packed with features that cater to diverse needs. Here’s a breakdown of its key highlights:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Mini PC |
| Chipset | System-on-Chip (SoC) |
| CPU | Intel Core i7-1260P, 4C+8c/16T, 2.10-4.70GHz, 18MB+9MB cache, 28-64W TDP (PBP/MTP), 35W cTDP (Intel), Codename “Alder Lake-P” (Golden Cove + Gracemont, Intel 7) |
| RAM | 2x DDR4 SO-DIMM, dual PC4-25600S/DDR4-3200, max. 64GB (UDIMM) |
| HDD | 1x SATA 6Gb/s, 1x M.2/M-Key (PCIe 4.0 x4, 2280), 1x M.2/B-Key (PCIe 3.0 x1/SATA, 2242) |
| Drive Bays External | Not available |
| Drive Bays Internal | 1x 2.5″ (7mm) |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics (iGPU), 96EU/768SP, 1.40GHz, Architecture “Gen 12.2” (Alder Lake GT1) |
| GPU-Connectors | Not available |
| Connectors Rear | 2x HDMI 2.0b, 1x USB-A 3.1 (10Gb/s), 1x USB-A 2.0 (480Mb/s), 2x Thunderbolt 4 (40Gb/s), 1x RJ-45 2.5Gb LAN (Intel I225-V), 1x hollow socket (mains connection) |
| Retrofittable Connectors Rear | 1x serial |
| Connectors Front/Page | 1x USB-A 3.1 (10Gb/s), 1x USB-A 3.1 (10Gb/s, BC), 1x 3.5mm jack |
| Extension Slots | 1x M.2/E-Key (Intel CNVi, 2230, occupied with WiFi+BT module) |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E (WLAN 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, 2×2, Intel AX211), Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Card Readers | Not available |
| Power Supply | External, 1x barrel connector (120W/19V) |
| VESA-Mounting | 75×75/100×100 (included) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 117x54x112mm |
| Capacity | 0.7l |
| CPU Coolers | Included |
| Special Features | Security lock (Kensington), 4x display support, suitable for continuous operation |
Performance Evaluation
Equipped with the Intel Core i7-1260P, the NUC12WSHi7 delivers impressive performance. The Alder Lake-P architecture with its hybrid core design (4 performance cores and 8 efficient cores) excels in both demanding workloads and everyday tasks. During my testing, I observed smooth multitasking, efficient productivity applications, and a capable gaming experience. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics is particularly impressive, offering smooth visuals for everyday tasks and even supporting some casual gaming titles.
While the NUC12WSHi7 doesn’t compete with dedicated gaming PCs, it can handle light to medium gaming tasks with surprising capability. I was able to run various titles at 1080p resolution with decent frame rates, making it a viable option for casual gamers who value portability and space-saving features.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful Intel Core i7-1260P processor
- Compact and versatile design
- Excellent connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4
- Quiet operation, thanks to efficient cooling solution
- Support for up to four displays
- VESA mountable for convenient installation
Cons
- Limited upgradeability compared to larger desktop PCs
- The price point may be higher than some alternative mini PCs
- No dedicated graphics card option
Final Verdict
The ASUS NUC12WSHi7 NUC 12 Pro Barebone Kit is a solid choice for users seeking a compact and powerful mini PC. Its performance, connectivity, and versatility make it an attractive option for a variety of applications, from productivity to light gaming. While its limited upgradeability and higher price point may be drawbacks for some, its overall capabilities and compact design make it a strong contender in the mini PC market.
Overall, I recommend the ASUS NUC12WSHi7 NUC 12 Pro Barebone Kit to users who value a compact, powerful, and feature-rich mini PC. It’s a capable machine that delivers impressive performance without sacrificing portability or design.
