Now that Valve’s new Steam Machine seems closer than ever, a type of PC that was once very popular could return to the spotlight among players. These are the mini computers once known as NUCs, and ASUS has now introduced its new ROG NUC 16, a very powerful machine built for the most demanding gamers.
The ROG NUC 16 is the most powerful mini PC ASUS has ever made, which is why it feels like a “Steam Machine on steroids” when looking at its specifications.
It is a compact PC that includes an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor with 24 cores. Along with the integrated graphics, it can also include up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, 32 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM that can be expanded up to 128 GB, and 1 TB of NVMe SSD storage.
ASUS Reveals ROG NUC 16 Mini PC With RTX 5080 and High-End Specs
Connectivity is also one of the strongest parts of the system. The NUC includes WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, second-generation USB 3.2 ports, two DisplayPort 2.1 ports, two HDMI 2.1 ports, Thunderbolt 4, a 2.5G RJ-45 connector, USB Type-C, and a headphone jack.
In terms of size, the system measures 282.4 mm x 189.5 mm x 56.5 mm. It is smaller than a PS5 or Xbox Series console, while also being thinner but slightly larger than Valve’s Steam Machine. It is also heavier, weighing 3.12 kg compared to the Steam Machine’s 2.6 kg.
Even though ASUS and Valve are following a similar idea by creating a small PC designed for the living room and easy transport, they are targeting completely different audiences.
ASUS is aiming at enthusiast gamers who want the best possible hardware in this format without caring about the price. The system is expected to cost around 4500 dollars.
Valve, on the other hand, wants to offer a more balanced device aimed at a wider audience. It will not be as powerful, but it should allow players to enjoy most of their favorite Steam games at a lower price, which according to rumors and estimates could be between 800 and 1000 dollars.
