What just happened? Intel is moving its 13th generation Core processors into smaller form factors with the introduction of the NUC 13 Pro line, and there is no shortage of chips to build the system. The customizable NUC 13 Pro, codenamed Arena Canyon, is offered in a variety of configurations, including individual boards, basic kits, and fully embedded systems in thin and high form factors.
The NUC 13 Pro supports a Core i7 processor up to the 13th generation and up to 64 GB of dual-channel DDR4-3200 RAM. There are also two M.2 storage slots — slot 2242 and slot 2280 — as well as an Intel I226-LM Ethernet controller plus support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Other common features include two Thunderbolt 4 ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A ports, one USB 2.0 Type A port, two an HDMI 2.1 port and a 3.5mm headset jack.
It is noteworthy that Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 are not included in separate boards, so if you go down this path, you will need your own wireless equipment.
CPU options include:
- Intel Core i7-1370P or Core i7-1370PE
- Intel Core i7-1360P
- Intel Core i5-1350P or Core i5-1350PE
- Intel Core i5-1340P or Intel Core i5-1340PE
- Intel Core i3-1315U or Intel Core i3-1315UE
Graphical solutions will vary depending on the model. Most configurations package Intel Iris Xe Graphics with either 80 or 96 execution units (EU) — the only exception is the Core i3 variant, which Intel UHD Graphics chooses.
Some Pro Mini systems come with 8 GB or 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB solid-state drive, and Windows 11 Pro or Home preinstalled.
Intel said prices for the NUC 13 Pro and mini PC kits will range from $340 to $1,080 depending on configuration and should be available by the end of the month. Chipzilla primarily sells its new NUCs to businesses and embedded customers, but there’s no reason why one of these pint-sized systems couldn’t work successfully in a home office.
