ASUS will launch a new range of mini-PCs this November. The new barebones PCs are dubbed the VivoMini range. The Intel Haswell powered NUC-alikes will start at a price of $149.
As barebones PC offerings the ASUS VivoMini range will require you to source your own OS such as Windows or Linux. You'll also need your own memory, storage device and wireless card, reports Liliputing. So even the entry level $149 VivoMini, with Intel Celeron 2957U Haswell CPU, will start to add up in price with the necessary components/software to create a fully working system. Unfortunately for Windows enthusiasts, a barebones system like this doesn't qualify for the free Windows 8.1 with Bing OS.
While the Celeron model will be the first out of the ASUS factory gates it will be joined by Core i3-4030U and Core i54210U processor versions at a later date with the expected hike in barebones pricing.
The ASUS VivoMini PC barebones feature the following ports; 4x USB 3.0 ports, an SD card slot, audio/headphones, HDMI, DisplayPort and Ethernet. Inside you will find 2x SODIMM slots capable of handling up to 16GB of RAM, Mini PCIe ports x2 (half and full length) and an m.SATA connector.
ASUS's new mini PCs are VESA mountable should you wish to squirrel them away out of sight behind a living room TV for example. The chassis measures just 4.9″ x 4.9″ x 1.7″.
While Liliputing have quoted a $149 entry level price for US customers the UK's PCR Online magazine reports that an ASUS spokesperson said the VivoMini will cost between £199.99 and £289.99 depending on configuration. UK availability is also scheduled for November.
