Computer Hardware Desktop
Rank 14
ASUS ROG NUC (2025) / ROG NUC 15
The only current mini that puts a real RTX 50-series laptop GPU on a desk: 1440p desktop-rivaling games in ~3 liters, with three independent labs behind it.
Why it is here
PCMag 4.5 Editors’ Choice SFF gaming (2025-12-17, RTX 5070 Ti / Ultra 9 275HX, $2,799 as tested), Notebookcheck (RTX 5080 top SKU, $3,199 / ~€2,500, 2.5–3 L), and PCWorld. PCMag: beats desktop RTX 5060 Ti towers at 1080p/1440p; Core Ultra 9 275HX outran several desktop midrange CPUs in CB/Geekbench/HandBrake. Independent benches: CB R23 multi ~33,964–34,191; CB2024 multi ~1,897–1,930.
Who it is for
Gamers and creators who want 1440p (and compromised 4K with DLSS 4) without a tower, and who will buy the GPU they need up front (soldered mobile CPU/GPU; RAM/SSD upgradable to 96 GB / dual M.2).
Sources
- Asus ROG NUC (2025) Review: This Tiny Terror of a Gaming PC Is a Big Winner4.5 Editors’ Choice SFF gaming. Ultra 9 275HX + RTX 5070 Ti Laptop, 32 GB/2 TB, $2,799. Beats RTX 5060 Ti desktop towers at 1080p/1440p; CPU beats several midrange desktop chips. RAM/SSD upgradable, CPU/GPU not.
- Best Mini Gaming PC 2025: Asus ROG NUC 15 with GeForce RTX 5080 & Core Ultra 9 review2.5–3 L, Ultra 9 275HX + RTX 5080 Laptop 16 GB (115+25 W). Smooth 1080p and often QHD. $3,199 / ~€2,500. High idle/load power the main criticism.
- Asus ROG NUC 2025 review: Mini PC in size, massive in performanceUltra 9 275HX + RTX 5080, 32 GB, 2 TB. Noise 0–45 dBA, power 25–310 W. ~$3,600 street for that config. Strong 1440p, premium for the shrink.
