ASUS ExpertCenter PN52 Mini PC System with AMD 6-Core R5-5600H, 8GB DDR4 RAM, M.2 PCIE 256GB SSD, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth, USB-C, Windows 11 Pro
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN52-SYS582PX1TD is a compact Mini PC designed for personal, gaming, and business use. Packed with an AMD Ryzen R5-5600H processor, 8GB DDR4 memory, and a 256GB M.2 PCIe SSD, this Mini PC aims to deliver powerful performance in a space-saving form factor. In this review, we’ll evaluate its design, performance, connectivity, cooling, upgradability, and operating system to determine whether it’s a worthy investment.
Pros:
Cons:
Design and Build Quality
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The ASUS ExpertCenter features a sleek and understated black design, blending well into any environment. Its compact 0.9-liter volume makes it an excellent space-saving solution for crowded workspaces or small offices. The build quality is solid, with the use of quality materials ensuring durability and longevity. One notable design feature is the triple storage design, which includes one preoccupied M.2 PCIe 256GB SSD, one 2.5-inch HDD, and an additional M.2 slot for future upgrades.
Performance of the ASUS ExpertCenter
The Mini PC’s AMD Ryzen R5-5600H processor provides ample processing power for everyday tasks and even handles more demanding applications relatively easily. The 8GB DDR4 memory might be sufficient for regular use, but heavy multitasking or content creation could benefit from additional RAM. While capable of handling standard displays, the integrated graphics might fall short for serious gaming or video editing needs. Nonetheless, the quad-4K display support is a significant advantage, enabling versatile multi-monitor setups.
Connectivity and Ports
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The ASUS ExpertCenter offers various connectivity options, including seven USB 3.0 ports for various peripherals, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alt mode support. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth ensures seamless wireless connections, while the 2.5 GbE LAN port caters to those who prefer wired networking. Additionally, including a card reader and audio jacks adds to its versatility.
Operating System and Software
The Mini PC comes pre-installed with Linux, which might be a drawback for users who prefer Windows or other operating systems. While Linux offers certain benefits, including customization and security, it might not suit everyone. Users may need to install their preferred operating system or consider the availability of Linux-compatible software for their intended usage.
Cooling and Noise of the ASUS PN52 Mini PC
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The cooling system of the ASUS ExpertCenter appears to be effective, keeping the system’s temperature under control even during extended usage. The noise level remains relatively low during idle and moderate tasks, contributing to a quieter working environment. However, the cooling fans might become audible under heavy load, though not excessively noisy.
Upgradability
The triple storage design allows for future upgradability, providing the flexibility to add more storage or upgrade the existing components. Users can easily upgrade the RAM and storage, making it relatively simple to enhance the Mini PC’s performance and capacity according to their needs. Additionally, multiple USB ports allow for the easy addition of peripherals.
Conclusion: Should you buy the ASUS ExpertCenter?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN52-SYS582PX1TD is a competent Mini PC suitable for personal, gaming, and business use cases. Its compact design and powerful AMD Ryzen R5-5600H processor make it appealing for those seeking a space-saving yet capable computing solution. However, potential buyers should consider the limited RAM and storage in the base configuration and assess whether the pre-installed Linux OS meets their requirements. Additionally, users with demanding graphics needs might find the lack of a dedicated GPU limiting.
Overall, the ASUS ExpertCenter offers excellent performance for everyday tasks and versatility in display options. Its upgradability and connectivity features make it a solid long-term investment for users looking to adapt their Mini PC to changing needs. If you value space efficiency and a powerful processor, the ASUS ExpertCenter is a worthy choice. However, those who require more robust graphics capabilities or prefer a different operating system may need to explore alternative Mini PCs.
