Asus lowers the entry price for its ROG NUC 16 mini PC to bring high-end gaming performance to a more accessible budget. This new configuration targets PC gamers who want compact hardware without paying the premium for top-tier components. Buyers can now secure a system with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and an Nvidia RTX 5060 GPU for significantly less than the flagship model.
New configuration targets budget gamers with RTX 5060
The new variant swaps the previous Core Ultra 9 and RTX 5080 combination for a more balanced Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus and RTX 5060 setup. This shift allows Asus to offer a powerful gaming machine in a compact 3L chassis. The system retains the same form factor but adjusts the internal components to hit a lower price point.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus
- GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060
- Memory: 32GB DDR5-6400
- Storage: PCIe Gen 4
- Chassis: 3L
Asus equips this model with 32GB of DDR5-6400 memory to handle modern gaming workloads efficiently. The storage interface uses PCIe Gen 4 drives for fast data access. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 to ensure stable wireless performance. These specs provide a solid foundation for high-refresh-rate gaming in a small footprint.
Pre-orders are now open on Amazon for the US market at a price of $2,499. This price is $1,300 less than the Core Ultra 9 and RTX 5080 model, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious gamers. Shipping is scheduled to begin on August 1, 2026. We looked at the Asus ExpertCenter PB64 Mini PC with Core Ultra 7 earlier while tracking Asus launches.
The ROG NUC 16 with Core Ultra 7 and RTX 5060 is now available for pre-order in the US. The system ships on August 1, 2026, at $2,499. It is currently unclear if Asus will release this configuration in other global markets.
Source: NotebookCheck
