Intel nuc i5 8th gen review

Intel has embraced small form factor systems for many years. Whether it be high-end mini-PCs like the Hades Canyon NUC, complete with discrete graphics for gamers, or ultra-tiny devices like the Compute Card, Intel has consistently pushed small form factor markets forward, for just about as long as ‘performance per watt’ has been a thing.

The Hades Canyon NUC and Compute Card target some rather niche markets, however. For more mainstream, everyday computing applications, Intel’s standard 4"x4” NUC (Next Unit of Computing) systems are much more apropos, and the Intel NUC8i7BEH we’ll be showing you here may just be the best all-around unit yet.

The Intel NUC8i7BEH features a full quad-core 8th generation Core i7 processor, support for up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM (in a dual-channel configuration), accommodations for both SATA and M.2 storage devices, and enough IO for just about any mainstream desktop user – including Thunderbolt 3. Intel has also updated the chassis and designs of these latest NUC systems to improve thermals and enhance the overall aesthetic.

The exact model system we have on hand here today is Intel model BOXNUC8i7BEH1. This particular machine is a barebones model that does not include memory, storage, or an operating system. Models with the same processor and base configuration are also available with a shorter chassis height (that omit the 2.5” drive bay), or which include memory and storage, but those will riff off of the NUC8xxxx naming convention. There are Core i5 based models as well.

The Intel Core i7-8559U With Iris Plus 655 Graphics

Intel NUC NUC8i7BEH Specifications & Features

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The system’s main features and specifications are outlined in the tabled above. This mini machine is built around the Intel Core i7-8559U 4C/8T processor, which has a base clock of 2.7 GHz and a turbo boost clock of 4.5 GHz, along with 8MB of shared cache. Handling graphics duties is Intel’s Iris Plus Graphics 655 graphics engine, which is packing 48 execution units and 128MB of embedded DRAM. And the whole package has just a 28W TDP.

Other goodies integrated into the system include Intel Gigabit LAN, Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 9560 (802.11 ac, 2x2, up to 1.73Gbps), Bluetooth 5.0, Thunderbolt 3, and an array of USB 3.1 ports, including a charging port that still works when the system is asleep.

We’ll dive further into the hardware and build on the pages ahead, but before we do, we should also quickly cover what’s included with the Intel NUC8i7BEH. Inside the box, along with the system itself, you’ll find a VESA mount (to affix the system to the back of most monitors), an 8th Gen Core case badge, various screws for mounting drives, etc., some basic literature and warranty information, and a19V / 90w AC adapter power brick.

The overall design of the NUC8i7BEH doesn’t stray too far from previous models, but it does feature a darker gun-metal finish, and more ventilation, thanks to its mesh side panels. The front of the Intel NUC8i7BEH is home to a pair of USB Type A ports (USB 3.1, including the aforementioned charging port), a 3.5mm audio jack, a power button, and an activity LED (not lit in the photo).

The back of the system features a circular power port, a full-sized HDMI output (capable of powering a 4K display), an RJ45 LAN jack, two more USB 3.1 Type A ports with power share, and a Type C Thunderbolt 3 port. With this IO configuration, some users may be left wanting for additional USB ports, but it’s probably enough for most office / casual desktop users who aren’t likely to have much more than input devices and maybe a printer plugged in.

Eagle eyed observers will also notice something nestled on the left side of the system. Along with an obvious lock port, there’s also a microSDXC slot on the NUC8i7BEH, just the thing for external storage access or expansion.

Last month, Intel�s ultra-compact form-factor PCs hit the shelves � blending a combo of Intel�s 8th Gen Core i3/i5/i7 processor (Whiskey Lake)and AMD�s Radeon 540X discrete GPU. Beyond the obvious space saving advantage that a compact system like this brings � users won�t have to build the system themselves and the units typically eat up less power.

Depending on which of Intel�s NUC 8 Mainstream G is purchased, users will either have an Intel 8th Gen Core i3, Core i5 or Core i7 processor. The storage configuration may differ also. In the model we�ll be looking at today (BXNUC8i5INHPA1) we have the Intel� Core� i5-8265U Processor, 8GB 2133MHz LPDDR3, and a 256GB Intel SSD 545S.

On top of this, our petite computer system has 802.11ac via Wireless AC-9560, USB 3.1 Gen2 functionality and HDMI 2.0b/DP 1.2 for video out � all alluding to an intriguing piece of kit!

Intel on their NUC8i5INH

Introducing the first Intel� NUC with 8th Generation Intel� Core� processors and Radeon 540X discrete graphics for all your gaming and entertainment needs. Play casual games, binge watch the latest series, or stream digital music like never before with a quad-core processor that delivers 2x faster performance.1 2.

Is Intel discontinuing NUC?

Intel's belt-tightening continues as it hands off small-form-factor PC development to Lian Li, Cooler Master, and others. Intel has decided to stop making its Next Unit of Computing (NUC), but the company will encourage partners to keep making the small form-factor (SFF) PCs, the company said Tuesday.

What are Intel NUCs good for?

2. Energy-efficient: Intel NUCs typically use less power than a traditional desktop PC, making them more energy-efficient and cost-effective over the long term. They can also be configured to run on battery power, making them ideal for use as portable media centers or home theaters. 3.

How much power does a 8259U use?

With a TDP of 28 W, the Core i5-8259U consumes only little energy. Intel's processor supports DDR4 memory with a dual-channel interface.

What is Intel NUC 12 Pro?

Intel® NUC 12 Pro Mini PCs, Kits, and Boards raise the bar for performance and connectivity in a 4x4 device for productivity, collaboration, and edge compute. 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors—plus up to 64GB dual channel memory and massive SSD capacity—drive enterprise-class performance in a pint-sized PC.