Key Takeaways
1. Processor Upgrade: The Kubuntu Focus NX Gen 3 models are now equipped with the latest Intel Arrow Lake mobile processors, offering significant performance enhancements over the previous Alder Lake generation.
2. Rebranding and Custom Tools: The Gen 3 models are rebranded Asus NUC 15 Pro Slim devices, featuring Kubuntu pre-installed along with custom tools like System Rollback and a one-click app installer for easier transitions from Windows.
3. Performance Improvements: The Arrow Lake processors provide a 22% increase in single-core performance and up to 50% in multi-core performance, along with integrated Arc GPUs that enhance graphics capabilities significantly.
4. Specifications and Connectivity: The mini PCs support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and have two M.2 slots for storage, with extensive connectivity options including Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB ports, and HDMI 2.1 outputs.
5. Pricing Comparison: The Kubuntu Focus NX Gen 3 is priced higher than comparable Asus models, with costs starting at $895 for the entry-level version and reaching $1,090 for a model with enhanced specifications.
The mini PC and desktop sector of Kubuntu is updating the Focus NX series with the newest Intel Arrow Lake mobile processors. The earlier generation utilized Alder Lake chips, but the fresh Gen 3 models are equipped with either the Core Ultra 5 225H or the Core Ultra 7 255H SoCs.
Rebranding and Features
It appears that the Gen 3 models are actually rebranded Asus NUC 15 Pro Slim devices that come with Kubuntu pre-installed and several customized tools. These include an integrated System Rollback to mitigate compatibility problems, power and fan management tools, a one-click app installer, and a user-friendly interface aimed at making the transition smoother for Windows users.
Performance Improvements
Internal evaluations by the Kubuntu team indicate that the new Arrow Lake processors offer a 22% boost in single-core performance, with multi-core performance improvements potentially reaching 50%. The most significant upgrade from the previous generation is the inclusion of integrated Arc GPUs, which can provide up to 3x the frames per second (FPS) and support advanced features such as XeSS. Additionally, the SoC is equipped with a 13 TOPS NPU for applications powered by AI.
Specifications and Connectivity
The design includes two SO-DIMM slots, allowing users to expand memory up to 96 GB DDR5-5600 RAM. For storage, there are two M.2 slots—one supporting PCie 5.0 and the other limited to PCie 4.0—offering a total capacity of up to 6 TB.
The unit, measuring 117 x 112 x 37 mm (4.6 x 4.4 x 1.5 inches), provides a generous port selection. It includes 2x Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen2X2, 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB 2.0, 2x HDMI 2.1 video outputs, and a 2.5 GbE jack, although it lacks an audio jack. Wireless connections are facilitated by a Wi-Fi 7 + BT 5.4 card.
Pricing Considerations
In terms of pricing, the Kubuntu Focus NX Gen 3 is somewhat pricier compared to the Asus models that come with Windows pre-installed. For context, the Asus NUC 15 Pro Slim barebones with the Core Ultra 7 255H is listed at $684, whereas the Kubuntu mini PC version with the same CPU, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD retails for $1,090. The entry-level Core Ultra 5 225H option starts at $895.
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