Really like the NUC size since I don’t need additional boards. They are a convenient size and can be quite powerful. Currently use them for desktop, home automation and network monitoring. Future need for digital musical instrument and replace old system.
With a portable monitor I could use the desktop NUC for travel
1 Like
the desktop should work with a solid state psu in a really compact form factor
1 Like
A NUC is less than 5 cm high and less than 13 cm square in width. Much lighter than a desktop.
Less powerful and they are less than $400 in price. Wouldn’t expect the FW version to be in that price range, but much closer than a desktop.
It is much easier to store in a backpack for travel.
@Andrew_O this is what I was thinking about for the other post
Factor in the power brick, and they often end up being a lot larger (depending on the CPU used).
I think, if the Framework Desktop is a success (and it’s getting good press right now and pre-orders seem good), it wouldn’t be unrealistic to see more motherboards with different CPUs installed which could be sold at different price points. Or, you can just stick a third-party Mini-ITX motherboard into it and run whatever you like.
The primary problem with mini-PCs, or NUCs as most call them, is that they use proprietary standards … and spares are either stupidly expensive or non-existent … meaning if a motherboard dies you end up throwing it all away … ask me how I know.
Asrock have tried something similar with their Deskmini range… and there is a motherboard standard called Mini-STX that fits in there… but I’ve not heard of anyone other than Asrock who makes these… so you’ve very limited options.
Have you seen the Cooler Master Case? Its not specifically the form factor of the nuc because it has to fit the FW13 motherboards but its smaller+lighter than the framework desktop.
@Tom1 Thanks for the idea. It looks like a good way to do it. All I know is the NUC form factor. While it is small, it’s not a easy box to work inside.
I was thinking of using a NUC PC and a portable touchscreen display for travel. This case would pack much easier.
1 Like