According to newly revealed photos, the NUC 12 could feature a desktop version of the Alder Lake processor rather than a mobile version. Leaked image of the next-generation Intel NUC, based on an Alder Lake processor. These compact systems are characterized by high performance in the smallest space.
Intel NUC based on an Alder Lake processor revealed
Intel NUC systems have always been known for offering very good performance in a very small space. Last June, they even unveiled a NUC 11 Extreme Beast Canyon based on an Intel 11a GEn Core KB processor. This system is based on the Core i9-11900KB processor, which is not part of the Raptor Lake family. This processor is based on the Tiger Lake architecture for notebooks.
It seems that the upcoming NUC Extreme will be based on desktop processors. This means that these compact systems can be equipped with up to 16 processor cores. Note that the Alder Lake-P for notebooks will have a maximum of 14 cores (between P-cores and E-cores).
What’s a bit odd about the leak is that the processor is only supposed to be compatible with DDR4 and PCIe Gen4 RAM. Keep in mind that Alder Lake processors are compatible with DDR5 and PCIe Gen5.
It should be noted that the specifications are similar to those of the NUC 12 Enthusiast that leaked last August. Although everything points to the fact that we are dealing with a new NUC 12 Extreme, due to the processor that would be installed.
According to rumors, this system will be combined with a discrete GPU soldered to the PCIe-based motherboard. Most likely, an entry-level Intel Arc Alchemist will be integrated. Until the company announces more details, there is little information.
Intel will likely unveil the NUC 12 at CES 2022, which kicks off tomorrow in Las Vegas.