In recent months, we have witnessed Intel‘s transformation, marked by the discontinuation of the Celeron and Pentium processors. The new Intel N100 processors, known for their impressive power and energy efficiency, have begun to make their way into a select few systems. One such system set to incorporate this chip is the ASUS ExpertCenter PN42.
Mini PCs have emerged as a rapidly growing market within the realm of computing. These compact computers boast surprisingly robust and efficient processors. Thanks to their increased power and affordable prices, many individuals opt for these Mini PCs, leaving behind the days of bulky machines.
While it is unrealistic to expect the same level of performance from these systems as one would from a full-sized computer, there are miniature PCs capable of running games. However, they may fall short when it comes to running demanding Triple A titles. Nevertheless, they are well-suited for games like CS:GO, Minecraft, Fortnite, Dota 2, and other similar titles.
A more than interesting proposal
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN42 stands out primarily for its impressive processing capabilities. It is equipped with an Intel N100 processor featuring 4 cores and 4 threads, clocked at a frequency of 3.4 GHz. The system also integrates an Intel UHD discrete graphics unit operating at 750 MHz. Notably, this processor boasts a remarkably low power consumption of only 6 W.
In terms of memory, the ASUS system supports up to 16 GB of RAM in DDR4, DDR5, and LPDDR5 formats. While this may not be a substantial amount, it proves more than sufficient for tasks such as browsing, office automation, and multimedia usage.
Based on performance data available, the processor demonstrates commendable performance comparable to the Intel Core i3-9100, which was released in the second quarter of 2019. It is worth noting that the N100 processor consumes just 6 W, whereas the Core i3-9100 consumed 65 W, making the N100 significantly more efficient and highlighting the notable improvements achieved in power efficiency.
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN42 is initially sold without any RAM or storage included. However, it provides the flexibility to install up to 16 GB of DDR4 RAM and a maximum of 2 TB SSD storage. The approximate cost of adding 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD would be around 100-120 euros, depending on the specific model and components chosen.
In terms of connectivity, this compact computer offers excellent options. It features four USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, three USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI port, and one DisplayPort 1.4. Additionally, it includes two 2.5 GbE Ethernet ports, along with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5 capabilities. The front of the system is equipped with an infrared sensor for use with a remote control.
It’s important to note that the PN42 is available in different variants, each with variable connectivity options. Some variants may include a DisplayPort, USB-C, HDMI, VGA, and Serial port, so it’s essential to check the specifications to determine the specific connectivity options available for each model.
ASUS PN42 price and availability
While an official release date for the ASUS ExpertCenter PN42 Mini PC has not been announced, it is expected to be available soon. ASUS has already listed the PN42 with a starting price of $270, and pre-orders are currently open. The base configuration of this model includes 4 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128 GB M.2 SSD, which is considered a very basic setup.
However, it is worth noting that one store has listed the PN42 without any RAM or SSD for $220, providing an opportunity for users to customize their configuration according to their needs. As mentioned earlier, adding 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD would require an additional cost of around 100-120 euros. Considering the pricing options provided by ASUS, some users may find the base configuration unappealing and prefer to opt for a more comprehensive setup.