Category: Gaming

  • Steam Machine price over $1000 Valve readies release-date bundles

    Steam Machine price over $1000 Valve readies release-date bundles

    Key Takeaway

    – Price uncertainty: leaks suggest Steam Machine could exceed €1,000 (~$1,160) for a bundle with a mini PC and Steam Controller.
    – Possible alternatives: backend hints could also point to the Steam Frame VR headset with a rumored MSRP of $800–$1,000.
    – Configurations and flexibility: multiple SKUs (512GB/2TB SSDs) and Steam Controller variants, with pricing potentially adjustable in the UI due to memory shortages.
    – Mixed expectations: some support a lower-end target around $600–$650, while the overall trend hints at a higher price and a release date getting closer.

    Even as leaks suggests the Steam Machine release date is approaching, estimates of its cost vary widely. The discovery on Valve’s backend won’t calm gamers anxious about a high price. However, the code could refer to a bundle with the mini PC and the Steam Controller, a deal that sounds good for some buyers.

    Leaked Clues

    Discussed on Reddit, Steam Tracking found traces of a reservation queue for Valve hardware. Formatting in a few lines implies the Steam Machine price will exceed 1000 euros. Converted to USD, that figure becomes an imposing $1160. Some commenters noted the log could be misread, but the numbers stay firm.

    Price Guesswork

    Since the site doesn’t mention the product by name, it could also be referring to the Steam Frame. Fewer leaks about the upcoming VR headset’s MSRP circulate, but $800-$1,000 is a popular guess. Its maker indicated that it would be less expensive than the discontinued $999 Valve Index kit, a claim some doubt.

    VR Headset Tie-ins

    Perhaps a more likely explanation is a bundle that stretches buyers’ wallets. It’s known that gamers will be able to choose from versions of the Linux system with 512GB and 2TB SSDs. Accounting for two more SKUs could be variations of each with the recently debuted Steam Controller, a pairing that will complicate choices.

    Bundles and SKUs

    Some Redditors point out the code may also be written with flexibility in mind. Amid the memory shortage, Valve reportedly considered various responses. As configured, the site’s UI would accept a range of Steam Machine prices, which hints that the final cost might wobble depending on stock, demand, and unseen factors.

    UI and Market Reactions

    Regardless of the reason, the discovery adds uncertainty ahead of the hardware’s release date. Even though the manufacturer said it would mirror an increasingly costly gaming PC, asking $1000 invites criticism. Still, not all insiders see worst-case scenario, and some whisper the frame might ship sooner than skeptics expect, if only quietly. Steam Machine subreddit, Steam Tracking@GitHub

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  • Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo GX651 Review: Unique but Expensive

    Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo GX651 Review: Unique but Expensive

    Key Takeaway

    – Dual 16-inch OLED touchscreens with a removable keyboard and stylus support enable versatile multitasking, backed by improved battery life.
    – RTX 5090 delivers strong gaming performance at max details, with quieter modes available (sound trade-offs at full power).
    – Premium price (~$5,500) and upgrade limitations: memory soldered to 64 GB (128 GB only on the Core Ultra 9 386H with SO-DIMM); no Thunderbolt 5.
    – Fast storage options with PCIe 5.0 SSD out of the box and a second M.2 PCIe 4.0 slot, but RAM expansion paths remain constrained.

    Some laptops have a certain wow-factor, perhaps because of a very low weight, high performance or because they are just very unique. The new Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo is one of these devices and impressed with high performance figures as well as perfect multitasking with two 16-inch OLED touchscreens during our review. Thanks to a removable keyboard and stylus supports, the usage scenarios are very versatile and the Zephyrus Duo GX651 is an unrivaled package right now, but it also comes with a corresponding price tag. The SKU with 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD storage and the RTX 5090 retails for $5,500.

    Dual-Screen Prowess and Price Tag

    Even though the new concept sacrifices some performance compared to the previous model from 2023, there are massive advantages in terms of multitasking, because you can use two identical screens and you simply notice that Asus has plenty of experience with dual-screen devices for a smooth user experience. The battery runtimes are also significantly improved and the new Asus Pen 3.o also worked flawlessly during our tests.

    Performance versus Efficiency Trade-Offs

    The gaming performance is obviously also very good and the RTX 5090 also handles demanding games at highest details without any issues. If you use the maximum performance, you will obviously hear the two fans, but you can also use quieter operating modes if you want. This part of the test showed that the GPU headroom exists, yet the system remains practical for everyday use in balanced settings.

    Drawbacks Spark the Price Consideration

    However, there are also some drawbacks, and they are suprising considering the high price. The Panther Lake processor from Intel has a bigger focus on efficiency, which results in a comparatively low multi-core performance. Asus also decided to use soldered memory, so the limit is 64 GB. The Core Ultra 9 386H, however, can also be combined with regular SO-DIMM modules, which would increase the maximum capacity to 128 GB. If you purchase such a specialized device you would probably benefit from more RAM as well. Asus does not implement Thunderbolt 5, either, which is a shame. You do get a fast PCIe 5.0 SSD out of the box, though, and there is a second M.2-slot (PCIe 4.0) if you want to expand the storage capacity.

    A Final Note on Build, Specs and Expandability

    To wrap things up, the Zephyrus Duo GX651 clearly emphasizes its wow factor through the two OLED touchscreens and the unusual keyboard detour, while delivering a surprisingly complete package for multitasking and gaming alike. The PCIe 5.0 SSD comes ready out of the box, with an extra M.2 slot (PCIe 4.0) waiting if you want to expand memory or storage further, things considered. Still, the price will remain a hurdle for some buyers and the two-screens setup remains the defining trait that makes this device stand out in its class. And yet the optional upgrades and dual screens make it a unique choice in its class.


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    • Anbernic RG DS: New Linux OS, no Android uninstall needed

      Anbernic RG DS: New Linux OS, no Android uninstall needed

      Key Takeaway

      – Anbernic RG DS can boot a new Linux OS from a microSD card without erasing the preinstalled Android, an update after shipping with Android 14.
      – Installation method: use a microSD card of at least 64GB, flash the Linux image, insert the card to boot into Linux; to return to Android, power off, remove the card, and power on again.
      – Linux OS features: three themes (DS Dark, DS Light, Classic); independent screen brightness; swap content on each screen; custom fonts; new button test interface; secondary screen shows platform icons for single-screen games.
      – Availability and access: Linux OS is downloadable from the provided source link and includes the tools to flash it; the RG DS is listed on Amazon for $124.99.

      Anbernic has released handhelds that ship pre-installed with either Android, Linux, or both as is the case with the RG Vita Pro. However, what is unusual is for it to launch a device with one operating system, and then release a different operating system later that users can manually install, which is what it has done with the RG DS. The approach keeps buyers guessing and curious about what will come next.

      Background

      The Anbernic RG DS ships with Android 14 out of the box. Unfortunately, the software experience leaves a lot to be desired such that people have to resort to installing a custom firmware such as GammaOS. Now, Anbernic has released a Linux OS for the RG DS, that users can install without erasing the preinstalled Android OS.

      Linux OS Details

      The features of the new Linux OS as well as how to install it on the RG DS, priced at $124.99, have been detailed in a video. According to the video, users can flash the new OS onto a microSD card with a capacity of at least 64GB. Once done, simply insert the microSD card into the device, and it will boot into Linux instead of Android. To switch back to Android, power off the device, remove the microSD card, and power it on again.

      Within the Linux OS, you can choose from three themes — DS Dark, DS Light, and Classic — and it brings a handful of practical tweaks that sharpen the handheld’s usability. Independent screen brightness adjustments let you calibrate each display separately, you can swap the content on each screen to suit the game you are playing, you can load custom fonts, and there is a new button test interface to verify input.

      Additionally, the OS design considers multi-screen gaming. When you are playing a single-screen title, the RG DS’s secondary display automatically shows an icon that corresponds to the platform being emulated, for example a PlayStation controller icon for PS1 games or a Game Boy Advance emblem when you enjoy a GBA title. This cue helps players recognize the game family at a glance, even while focusing on action.

      Features and UX

      The Linux OS package is available to download in the referenced location, and it includes the software needed to flash the OS onto a microSD card. For those who want to experiment, the bundle provides flashing tools and a concise guide that walks you through copying the system image, preparing at least a 64GB card, and mounting it so the device boots Linux rather than Android. No data on Android gets erased during the switch.

      Anbernic has a YouTube presence where the maker posts updates, demonstrations, and tips for the RG DS. Viewers can watch hands-on runs of the Linux install, see how the themes change the interface, and get practical advice for maintaining the device alongside Android. The videos add context to the written guides and help new owners get up and running.

      In summary, Anbernic’s RG DS opens doors to dual-OS flexibility with a path from Android 14 to Linux without erasing the original setup. The Linux option, priced at $124.99, ships with three themes and features tailored for portable gaming and power users alike, while the boot-from-microSD approach keeps the change reversible. Fans should stay tuned for fresh tweaks and enhancements as this line evolves.

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    • Adventure Game on Steam – 75% Off Deal, 83% Positive

      Adventure Game on Steam – 75% Off Deal, 83% Positive

      Key Takeaway

      – Pixel-art indie adventure from D-Pad Studio, released Nov 1, 2016; currently on sale for $4.99 (75% off) through May 18, 2026 (SteamDB), with a historical low of $3.99 on Oct 27, 2025.
      – Play as Otus with Geddy and allies, exploring dungeons and battling pirates in boss-rich encounters, using varied skills and cooperative abilities.
      – Strong reception: ~83% positive on Steam from 6,070+ reviews, praised for its universe, soundtrack, and story.
      – Drawbacks: gameplay can feel simplistic at times and boss fights can be very challenging; development started in 2007 with multiple twists.

      Owlboy is an adventure game developed by the indie studio D-Pad Studio, known for its charming look and careful attention to storytelling. Released on November 1, 2016, on Steam, it is currently 75% off through May 18, 2026. As a result, according to SteamDB, it is available for $4.99 instead of $19.99, which makes the title more reachable for new players and for nostalgic fans alike.

      Price and Availability

      With its pixel art style, the game’s story takes place in the village of Vellie, a quiet place that feels almost alive with color and music. You play as Otus, a young mute boy who belongs to a humanoid race and lives a peaceful life along the cliffside lanes. But your life changes, for your village is attacked by a band of pirates who destroy everything in their path.

      Thus, you must embark on an adventure to save the world from this threat. But you won’t be alone, because your friend Geddy is by your side, and you’ll meet allies during your journey. However, to save the world, you’ll have to fight various enemies in dungeons, as well as bosses. To defeat them, you have several skills at your disposal, and your allies can also help you with their weapons and abilities.

      Gameplay and Development

      Although its development began in 2007 and faced several twists and turns, the game is loved by 83% of players on Steam, based on over 6,070 reviews. Thus, its universe, soundtrack and story are among its strong points. However, it is also a game with several weaknesses. Indeed, it seems quite simplistic, and the fights can be extremely difficult, especially against bosses. Finally, it’s worth noting that its lowest price was $3.99 during an 80% discount on October 27, 2025.

      Prices on Steam and retailers may vary, and discounts come and go according to campaigns, stock, and regional restrictions, so when you read this, the deal could change fast. The information above reflects the situation at the time of writing, but it cannot be guaranteed forever, which means you should double-check the page before hitting the purchase button.

      Steam serves as the platform where Owlboy is sold, played, and updated. Fans of retro style finds a home there, with community reviews, achievements, and occasional sales that echo the once-told price story. Whether you’re revisiting or playing for the first time, Steam keeps the door open for you.


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    • PS5 Now Shows Player Counts for Top PlayStation Games

      PS5 Now Shows Player Counts for Top PlayStation Games

      Key Takeaway

      – PS5 Welcome Hub beta now shows weekly top 10 and trending games with visible concurrent player counts, offering a rare CCU view for consoles.
      – Fortnite leads with 14.6 million players in the past 7 days; GTA V, Call of Duty, and Minecraft hover around 5 million each.
      – Not all PS5 store/retail titles are included; Roblox and NBA 2K appear missing, with unclear criteria (revenue or publisher opt-in may factor in).
      – The top-10 list can be repetitive week to week; trending may offer more variety, but new releases may struggle to break in.
      – Console CCU data comes from third-party sources with limited transparency, though some services offer projections to aid cross-platform engagement comparisons.

      Often, when an anticipated title launches on Steam, fans use player counts to judge its success. Similar concurrent user (CCU) data is much less accessible on consoles, making comparisons difficult for observers who rely on cross platform metrics. Yet a new beta PS5 feature reveals how many gamers are actively playing the top 10 and trending games.

      PS5 Beta Shows Top 10 and Trending Counts

      On a recent podcast, YouTuber Mystic discussed the Welcome Hub currently in testing. Gamers can choose to see a week’s 10 most popular PlayStation games or which additions are trending. What’s significant is that player counts, normally difficult to gauge, are also visible, providing a rare glimpse that fans and analysts alike have craved.

      Highlights from the Welcome Hub

      Maki on the ResetEra forums shared statistics showing Fortnite dominating with 14.6 million users in the past 7 days. GTA 5, Call of Duty, and Minecraft are all around the 5 million mark. The numbers illustrate a snapshot of the community’s engagement and where attention is currently concentrated, these days.

      Fortnite Leads and Other Big Titles

      Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem that all PS5 games sold on the PS Store or at retailers are considered. One poster noted that ultra-popular Roblox is missing, as are live-service sports titles like NBA 2K. It’s unclear how Sony makes the lists, but revenue or whether a publisher opts in may be factors.

      Missing Titles and List Criteria

      As Mystic explained, another issue is that the same top PlayStation games could appear every week. New releases would struggle to place unless they draw massive audiences, and that’s a risk with the top 10 option, though the trending category may offer more variety. For those watching across platforms, the approach hints where interest lies, yet it may overemphasize big franchises while underrepresenting smaller titles, Mystic YouTube, Maki@ResetEra forums.

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    • Asus 18-Inch Gaming Laptop: 320W Upgrade with 4K Mini LED

      Asus 18-Inch Gaming Laptop: 320W Upgrade with 4K Mini LED

      Key Takeaway

      – Total system power increases to up to 320W (145W CPU + 175W GPU) with the RTX 5090 still capped at 175W; Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus can deliver up to 200W sustained power in some scenarios.
      – A 450W power adapter provides significantly more headroom than the 380W used on 2025 models.
      – 4K Mini LED display with 1,600 nits peak brightness and Nebula ELMB motion clarity (40 zones) without compromising brightness or refresh rate.
      – Expect at least two SKUs (RTX 5080 and RTX 5090) with 64GB RAM and up to 8TB storage (dual SSDs on the 5090), plus a 90Wh battery.

      Asus has finally revealed more details about its latest ROG Strix Scar 18, a machine that seems to be aimed at serious gamers and multitaskers alike. First teased in March, the ROG Strix Scar 18 (2026) G835 was said to deliver a ‘much higher total system TDP than the 2025 model’, with Asus adding that this change would allow the ROG Strix Scar 18 to ‘fully stretch its legs like never before’. The company now points to new power settings and a bigger focus on cooling to justify the leap.

      Performance and power claims

      Fast forward almost two months, and Asus has confirmed the various ways in which the ROG Strix Scar 18 (2026) G835 departs from its 2025 predecessor (curr. $2,699). Unfortunately, the company has been unable to extract any additional wattage from Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5090 laptop GPU. While this remains locked at up to 175 W, Asus’ 2026 model can push 54% more wattage to its CPU in Turbo Mode and 81% in Manual Mode.

      Power distribution and CPU/GPU limits

      As a result, the ROG Strix Scar 18 (2026) can draw up to 320W, with 145 W assigned to its CPU and 175W to its GPU. Asus adds that the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus can deliver up to 200W of sustained power too, albeit without clarifying under what circumstances. The new laptop will also ship with a 450 W power adapter for a 18% higher headroom than the 380W equivalent that came with 2025 models.

      Display technology leap

      This massive power increase is joined by a new Mini LED display. Previously, Asus has offered the ROG Strix Scar 18 with a 2.5K and 240 Hz Mini LED panel. Not only does the 2026 model jump to a 4K resolution, but it also gets 33% brighter at 1,600 nits peak brightness (3% APL). Asus claims that the Scar 18 is the first ROG laptop that supports ROG Nebula ELMB too, which is said to use 40 zones to improve motion clarity by up to 16x without affecting brightness or refresh rates.

      Availability and variants

      Currently, Asus has not clarified when it will begin selling the ROG Strix Scar 18 (2026) G835. At least two SKUs should be available, though, distinguished by GeForce RTX 5080 and GeForce RTX 5090 GPUs, as well as 64 GB of RAM and 8 TB of storage split across two SSDs in the latter’s case. Both variants will ship with the same 4K Mini LED display and 90 Wh battery. Please see the company’s website for more details.

      Looking ahead, Asus frames the Scar 18 (2026) as a premium platform with two SKUs powered by RTX 5080 or RTX 5090, 64 GB of RAM and 8 TB of storage spread across two solid-state drives, all in a chassis designed to handle a 90 Wh battery for longer gaming sessions. The 4K Mini LED panel remains as the bright centerpiece, Nebula ELMB is included, and overall the system is built to push heavy workloads while preserving image quality and stability across frames.


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    • GTA 6 Leak: 6 Editions Confirmed, Trailer 3 Soon

      GTA 6 Leak: 6 Editions Confirmed, Trailer 3 Soon

      Key Takeaway

      – Six editions total: three digital/physical versions, one rarer edition with extras, and two console-specific versions (Pro and standard); bundles will not include a physical copy.
      – Price likely in the $60–$80 range, with some editions potentially reaching $100; exact pricing not disclosed due to market considerations.
      – Trailer 3 expected to drop before pre-orders, possibly May 16–17, ahead of Take-Two’s May 21 earnings call.
      – No official Rockstar update in the past two days amid ongoing leaks and May 18 pre-order rumors.

      The past two days had fans eagerly waiting for some kind of update from Rockstar, whether it be a new GTA 6 trailer or any kind of marketing material, but to everyone’s disappointment, there was nothing. That lull did not quiet the chatter, though, as leaks kept bubbling up and several reports still suggested a May 18 pre-order date. Now, another leaker has shared new information about the bundles, timeline for the new trailer, and also hinted at the pricing.

      Update Pulse

      Detective Seeds, who has been sharing leaks about GTA 6 for quite some time now, posted on X that there will be six ways of purchasing the game, or six editions, in total. The leaker cites the same source that informed them about the pre-order week. According to the post, there will be three digital/physical versions, one version that will be rarer and include additional items, and two more versions for consoles. This breakdown, as described, seems aimed at appeasing both hardcore collectors and casual buyers, while leaving room for multiple bundles in different regions.

      Edition Breakdown

      The leaker adds that these two console versions will be for the Pro and standard models. Furthermore, the bundles for GTA 6 will not come with a physical copy of the game, which its fans would expect for certain editions. The note suggests digital delivery only on those two console variants, possibly aiming to cut manufacturing costs and adapt to a streaming minded market, even if mixed reception looks likely.

      Physical Copies and Pricing

      Responding to the comments, Detective Seeds shared that the game will be priced in the $60 to $80 range but could not share the exact price due to market impacts. Previous leaks suggested an $80 price tag as well, but $60 for any version seems very unlikely. There could even be some editions of the game that are priced at $100. In another response, the leaker stated that the new trailer for GTA 6 will come out before pre-orders go live. That means, if the leaked date is accurate, we could see Trailer 3 either tomorrow May 16 or the day after May 17. Initially, the trailer was expected on May 6 as it marked one year since the second trailer came out, but the long-standing speculation has been that Rockstar will release the trailer before Take-Two’s earnings call on May 21. Detective Seeds on X

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    • Amazon Luna May 2026 Free Games Lineup: Three Titles

      Amazon Luna May 2026 Free Games Lineup: Three Titles

      Key Takeaway

      1) Amazon Luna added three more free games for Prime members in May 2026, bringing the total freebies for the month to 11.
      2) Survival: Fountain of Youth (2024) is a large open-world survival game with 11 islands, crafting, and stat management, but with mixed reviews and some performance issues; Prime members can redeem an Amazon Games code.
      3) 60 Minutes to Extinction: Escape Room (2025) offers real-time bunker puzzle gameplay with a Cold War setting; puzzles can feel repetitive and immersion is limited; a GOG redeem code is included for Prime members.
      4) Lethal Honor – Order of the Apocalypse (2025) is an action roguelike with fast-paced combat and hand-drawn visuals; criticized for repetitive combat and limited content; Prime members can obtain an Epic Games Store code.

      Expanded Free Games on Luna

      Fountain of Youth details

      Additional Free Titles Overview


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    • GuliKit TMR Joysticks Fix Switch 2 Joy-Con Drift

      GuliKit TMR Joysticks Fix Switch 2 Joy-Con Drift

      Key Takeaway

      – Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 uses traditional analog potentiometer joysticks that can drift with wear.
      – GuliKit TMR Joystick uses electromagnetic sensing (contactless) for drift-free, smoother control and is designed for easy solderless installation in Joy-Con 2.
      – Pair price: $19.99/€19.99/£16.99; available on Amazon US/UK/DE (some other locales show listings but are unavailable).
      – iFixit provides replacement guides (video and written) and sells the GuliKit TMR Joystick for $24.99, plus a $29.99 tools bundle.

      While the Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Con 2 controllers boast new features, they still use traditional analog potentiometer joysticks. And unlike Hall Effect or TMR joysticks, they are likely to suffer from stick drift after wearing. While, you can simply purchase a third-party controller, you can also simply swap the joysticks for a better one, such as a GuliKit TMR joysticks.

      GuliKit TMR Joystick Overview

      The GuliKit TMR joystick uses electromagnetic sensing for smoother and precise control, a approach that feels almost futuristic, yet you can sense its advantages in practice. It also has a contactless design, so there’s no physical wear, and thus no possibility of stick drift. It is also designed to be easily installed into your Joy-Con 2 controller as there’s no need for soldering, which saves time and nerves.

      Pricing & Availability

      Priced at $19.99/€19.99/£16.99 for a pair (left and right thumbsticks), the GuliKit TMR Joystick for Joy-Con 2 is available to buy now. It is listed by retailers in the US, UK, and DE. There are also listings for the thumbsticks on local retailer websites for France, Italy, and Spain, but they are currently listed as unavailable. Those in the Netherlands can also pick it up on their local retailer website.

      Guides & Accessories

      The folks at iFixit have released a video detailing how to replace the old thumbsticks on the Joy-Con 2 with GuliKit’s. There’s a written guide for those who prefer text over video. iFixit also sells the GuliKit TMR Joystick for Joy-Con 2, although it’s more expensive at $24.99. They also have a $29.99 bundle that includes the pair of joysticks and the tools you need for the replacement.

    • ASUS launches refreshed ROG NUC gaming mini PC at premium price

      ASUS launches refreshed ROG NUC gaming mini PC at premium price

      Key Takeaway

      – 2026 ROG NUC 15 uses Intel Core Ultra 200HX Plus CPU while the GPU remains unchanged from the last generation.
      – Design gets bolder branding with “For Those Who Dare” and introduces a patented removable stand that cradles the chassis.
      – Core specs stay high-end (DDR5 RAM, PCIe 5.0 storage, silent cooling) with WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
      – Front IO features 2 USB-A ports and 1 USB-C; rear IO details are not fully disclosed in the article.
      – China pricing starts at CNY 29,999 (~$4,421) with a white variant at CNY 30,999 (~$4,569); global launch details TBD.

      Asus has launched the successor to the 2025 ROG NUC 15, and as we speculated, the main difference is that the Intel Core Ultra 200HX Plus series powers the gaming mini PC. The GPU department hasn’t seen an upgrade. The design changes include more prominent For Those Who Dare and ROG branding, plus a patented removable stand cradling the chassis instead of a screw-on fit.

      Design and branding updates

      Beyond these cosmetic changes, the rest of the system specs appear to be the same as the last-gen ROG NUC 15. DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 storage stand out as the high-speed backbone, while the cooling remains notably quiet. Wireless connectivity includes WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, and the overall chassis is engineered to house these elements with minimal fan noise.

      Performance and ports

      Port-wise, Asus highlights the rich configuration of the 2026 ROG NUC. The front appears to have two USB Type-A and one USB-C, while the back features the following: In China, the refreshed ROG NUC mini PC starts at CNY 29,999, which is around $4,421. There’s a new white version available, costing CNY 30,999, about $4,569. The top-end option curr. $3,399 remains as a benchmark for the model lineage.

      Pricing and availability

      In China, the refreshed ROG NUC mini PC starts at CNY 29,999, which is around $4,421. There’s a new white version available, costing CNY 30,999, about $4,569. Asus has yet to share details on the available configurations and plans for the global launch. No firm date was given for a worldwide rollout, but fans hope for a formal announcement soon.

      Final thoughts

      Overall, the 2026 ROG NUC balances a strong core with bold styling and practical upgrades like the removable stand. The absence of an GPU upgrade this time around is noticeable, yet the presence of DDR5 RAM, PCIe 5.0 storage, and WiFi 7 keep it competitive in a crowded market. The real question remains the price and availability worldwide.


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