The NUC 16 PRO mini PC will be available in various configurations and looks like it won't be cheap if you are considering the Ultra X7/X9 chips.
ASUS Launches Ultra X7 358H-Powered NUC 16 Pro Mini PC With 32 GB/1 TB Configuration at $1600 in China
Looks like the Ryzen AI Max-based mini PCs aren't the only ones that cost over $1500. With RAM and SSD shortages affecting almost every system, you can expect even higher prices for mini PCs based on the higher-end Panther Lake chips. ASUS has recently debuted its NUC 16 PRO mini PC 2026 edition based on these CPUs, and it will be available in various configurations, bringing different processor models, RAM, and storage capacities.
The NUC 16 Pro will be available with up to the flagship Intel Core Ultra X9 388H, delivering the best possible computing performance through a powerful combination of CPU+NPU+GPU for various workloads. Another configuration involves the Core Ultra X7 358H processor, which is also a 16-core processor like the Ultra X9 388H, but offers slower clocks. However, the chip brings the same Arc B390 iGPU with 12 Xe3 cores.
As per @realVictor_M, this configuration has been launched in China, featuring 32 GB RAM and 1 TB storage. This configuration costs 10,999 Yuan or US$1600, which is quite expensive, and according to the reporter, it's the most expensive iGPU NUC Mini PC by ASUS. The price is definitely competing with high-end Zen 5 chip-based mini PCs such as Strix Point and Strix Halo, but other configurations cost much less.
For instance, ASUS launched the NUC 16 Pro Barebone Mini PC with the Core Ultra 7 356H at $999 on Newegg. It's also based on the 16-core Panther Lake CPU, but offers a much slower 4 Xe3-based integrated graphics. Since it doesn't have any pre-included RAM and storage, it's understandable why it costs $600 less. As far as the AI capabilities are concerned, the Ultra X7 358H edition will be much faster, delivering up to 180 TOPS of AI power through the CPU+GPU+NPU combination. The flagship model will also have similar AI performance, but should be slightly more expensive, but shouldn't touch $2000.
About the author: Sarfraz Khan is a hardware reporter with a focus on PC components and the builder community. With years of experience writing about PC hardware and laptops, his work has been featured on several reputable technology publications. Sarfraz's hands-on experience is demonstrated through his first-person accounts of using and comparing different hardware configurations, providing practical and relatable insights for everyday users. His technical analysis is respected by peers in the enthusiast community and has been cited by specialized hardware sites such as Germany's Igor's Lab.
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