Powerful and Compact: Intel NUC 2021 Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Design and Dimensions
3. Specifications and Features
   • 3.1 Processor
   • 3.2 RAM and Storage
   • 3.3 Connectivity and I/O Ports
   • 3.4 Operating System and Upgradability
4. Performance
   • 4.1 CPU Performance
   • 4.2 GPU Performance
   • 4.3 Thermal Performance
5. Benchmark Results
   • 5.1 Atto Disk Benchmark
   • 5.2 Crystal Disk Mark
   • 5.3 Geekbench
   • 5.4 Cinebench
   • 5.5 3DMark
   • 5.6 PCMark
   • 5.7 Unigine Benchmarks
6. Real-World Tests
   • 6.1 Everyday Use
   • 6.2 Gaming Performance
   • 6.3 Content Creation
7. Pros and Cons
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

The Intel NUC: Small, Powerful, and Versatile 👍

The Intel NUC, also known as the Next Unit of Computing, is a compact desktop computer that was first launched in 2013. Over the years, Intel has continued to improve and update the NUC, and the latest iteration is one of the most impressive yet. In this article, we will dive into the design, specifications, performance, and overall experience of the Intel NUC, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Whether you are looking for a productivity machine, a media center, or a versatile desktop solution, the Intel NUC has a lot to offer.

Design and Dimensions

When it comes to design, the Intel NUC is incredibly compact. In fact, it is small enough to be mounted to the back of a monitor using the included VESA mount. With dimensions of just four and a half inches by four and a half inches, and a motherboard size of four by four inches, it's hard to believe that such a tiny device can pack a powerful punch. The sleek and minimalist design of the NUC makes it a perfect fit for any workspace or home theater setup. However, it is worth noting that despite its small size, the NUC does not compromise on performance.

Specifications and Features

The Intel NUC comes equipped with the latest 10-nanometer 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, specifically the 1185G7 model. This processor boasts a base clock speed of 3 GHz, which can turbo boost up to an impressive 4.8 GHz. Paired with 16 GB of DDR4 RAM clocked at 3200 MHz, the NUC offers smooth and responsive performance for various productivity tasks, internet browsing, and even light gaming. The ample amount of RAM ensures that multitasking is a breeze, and you can effortlessly switch between applications without any noticeable slowdowns.

3.1 Processor

The 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor found in the NUC is built using Intel's 10-nanometer architecture, which brings significant improvements in power efficiency and performance compared to its predecessors. The four cores and eight Threads of the 1185G7 deliver excellent single-core and multi-core performance, making the NUC suitable for both single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks.

3.2 RAM and Storage

In terms of memory and storage, the NUC comes with 16 GB of DDR4 RAM, providing ample capacity for smooth multitasking. What sets the NUC apart from other compact desktops is its upgradability. While the processor is soldered onto the motherboard, the RAM is user-upgradable, allowing you to expand it up to 64 GB for even more demanding workloads. This flexibility ensures that the NUC can adapt to your evolving needs over time.

3.3 Connectivity and I/O Ports

Connectivity is another area where the Intel NUC excels. It offers a wide range of I/O ports to accommodate various peripherals and devices. At the front of the NUC, you will find two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, which provide high-speed data transfer up to 10 Gbps. Moving to the back, there is an additional USB 2.0 port, along with two USB-C ports. The first USB-C port supports Thunderbolt 4 and DisplayPort 1.4a, while the Second USB-C port supports Thunderbolt 3 and DisplayPort 1.4a. This means you can connect external displays, storage devices, and other Thunderbolt-compatible peripherals for enhanced productivity and expandability.

3.4 Operating System and Upgradability

Out of the box, the Intel NUC comes preinstalled with Windows 10 Pro, which offers a familiar and user-friendly interface for seamless productivity. Additionally, the NUC is compatible with Windows 11, providing you with the option to upgrade when it becomes available. The NUC supports secure boot and TPM 2.0, which are essential requirements for Windows 11. This future-proof feature ensures that you can take advantage of the latest operating system without any compatibility issues.

请问还有其他的资源我可以作为参考资料吗？