Review: Intel NUC Kit NUC5i5RYH

Conclusion

The latest generation of the Intel NUC is an evolutionary upgrade over earlier models. Now outfitted with a Broadwell Core i5 processor, the tiny PC is as capable as an everyday workstation as it is a dedicated HTPC, and it'll even cope with a touch of light gaming.

The move to a 14nm processor has allowed Intel to increase overall performance while keeping roughly within the same power envelope, and we've seen 10 per cent gains in CPU benchmarks, coupled with a 25 per cent improvement in GPU performance.

Other welcome additions include a replaceable lid that opens the door to end-user customisation, support for the high-speed M.2 storage standard, and a DisplayPort 1.2 jack capable of handling a 4K60 resolution. The omission of HDMI 2.0 is a minor blot of the NUC's specification sheet, but on the whole this is an impressive little box that will meet the requirements of the vast majority of PC users.

The catch? As before, the £315 barebone price tag remains a stumbling block and acts as the one obvious obstacle to mainstream adoption, though, covering financial bases, Intel does offer a Core i3-5010U version for a more modest £230. There's a lot to like, and this is a fine interpretation of a modern desktop PC, but requiring end users to add their own finishing touches will ensure the latest NUC remains a niche solution aimed primarily at PC hobbyists.

Intel NUC Kit NUC5i5RYH

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The Intel NUC Kit NUC5i5RYH barebone PC is available to purchase from Scan Computers.

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