Next Unit of Computing

Next Unit of Computing (NUC) is a line of small-form-factor barebone computer kits designed by Intel. Previewed in 2012 and launched in early 2013, the NUC line continues to develop over generations of Intel-based CPU launches, spanning from Sandy Bridge-based Celeron CPUs in the first generation, to Raptor Lake-based mobile and desktop CPUs in the thirteenth, and more recently Meteor Lake-based processors with AI capabilities. The standard barebone kits consist of the NUC board, in a plastic case with a fan, an external power supply, and a VESA mounting plate. The plastic case is typically offered on one of two chassis, Tall (allowing for a 2.5" drive bay) or Slim (no 2.5" drive bay). The NUC motherboard measures approximately 10 × 10 centimetres (4 × 4 in), although some models have had different dimensions. Intel also sells bare NUC motherboards, which have built-in CPUs. In July 2023, Intel announced that it would no longer develop NUC mainboards and matching mini PCs. They subsequently announced that NUC products would continue to be—and since that time have been—manufactured, sold and supported by ASUS under a non-exclusive license.