ASRock NUC BOX-255H Review: Unleashing Core Ultra 7 Power on Linux
The world of mini PCs has evolved from low-power novelties to compact workstations capable of replacing full-sized desktops. At the forefront of this evolution is a new generation of hardware powered by Intel’s cutting-edge “Meteor Lake” architecture. The ASRock Industrial NUC BOX-255H is a prime example, packing the formidable Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor into a chassis that fits in the palm of your hand.
This isn’t just another small form factor PC; it’s a statement about the future of compact computing. Offering a blend of high-performance CPU cores, a revolutionary integrated GPU, and dedicated AI processing, the NUC BOX-255H is a compelling choice for developers, power users, and homelab enthusiasts, especially those running a Linux environment.
At a Glance: Key Specifications
Before diving into performance, let’s look at the hardware that makes this machine tick:
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 255H (4 Performance-cores, 6 Efficient-cores, 12 Threads)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc Graphics (4 Xe-cores)
- Memory: 2x DDR5-5600 SODIMM slots, supporting up to an incredible 96GB of RAM
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe Gen4x4 slot for NVMe SSDs, 1x SATA 3.0 port for a 2.5-inch drive
- Networking: Dual Intel i226-LM 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3
- Connectivity: 2x USB4/Thunderbolt 4, 3x USB 3.2 Gen2, 1x USB 2.0, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1
- Display Support: Capable of driving up to four 4K displays simultaneously
The Heart of the Machine: Intel Core Ultra 7 Power
The star of the show is undoubtedly the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor. This chip represents a significant architectural shift, combining different types of cores for optimized performance and efficiency. The P-cores (Performance) handle demanding, single-threaded tasks, while the E-cores (Efficient) manage background processes and multi-threaded workloads, resulting in a system that is both powerful and responsive.
The most significant upgrade, however, lies in the integrated graphics. The move from older Iris Xe graphics to the new Intel Arc Graphics architecture is a game-changer. This provides a substantial boost in graphical performance, making the system viable for light gaming, GPU-accelerated content creation, and media transcoding.
Furthermore, the Core Ultra series introduces an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a dedicated processor designed to accelerate AI workloads. For users experimenting with local AI models, this hardware can offload tasks from the CPU and GPU, improving overall system performance and efficiency.
Performance in a Linux Environment
A powerful machine is only as good as its software support. Fortunately, the NUC BOX-255H demonstrates excellent compatibility with modern Linux distributions. When tested with a recent OS like Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, the experience is largely seamless out of the box.
Actionable Tip: To ensure full hardware support and unlock the potential of the Arc Graphics and NPU, it is crucial to use a modern Linux kernel. We recommend running Linux kernel 6.8 or newer. This ensures that all the necessary drivers are present to correctly initialize the hardware, providing stability and optimal performance.
With the right kernel, the system delivers impressive results. CPU performance is robust, easily handling tasks like software compilation, running multiple virtual machines, and heavy multitasking. The dual 2.5GbE ports make it an exceptional candidate for a high-performance homelab server, a powerful pfSense/OPNsense router, or a network-attached storage (NAS) device.
Connectivity for the Modern Power User
ASRock Industrial did not cut corners on connectivity. The inclusion of two USB4/Thunderbolt 4 ports is a massive advantage, offering 40Gbps of bandwidth for high-speed external storage, docking stations, and external GPUs.
Combined with the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, the NUC BOX-255H can power a quad-monitor setup, making it a productivity dream for developers, traders, and content creators who need maximum screen real estate. The dual 2.5GbE networking is a standout feature that sets it apart from many consumer-grade mini PCs, catering directly to users with high-speed networking needs.
Final Verdict: Who is This Mini PC For?
The ASRock NUC BOX-255H is not an entry-level machine. It is a high-performance, feature-rich mini PC designed for users who demand power, connectivity, and expandability in a compact form factor.
This device is an ideal choice for:
- Homelab Enthusiasts: The powerful CPU, high RAM capacity, and dual 2.5GbE ports make it perfect for running virtualization platforms like Proxmox or serving as a core component of a home network.
- Developers and Engineers: The strong multi-core performance and excellent Linux support provide a fantastic environment for coding, compiling, and running complex applications.
- Content Creators: The potent Arc graphics and quad-display support create a capable, space-saving workstation for video editing and graphic design.
- Anyone seeking a powerful, quiet, and efficient desktop replacement that can handle nearly any task thrown at it.
By combining Intel’s forward-thinking Core Ultra architecture with a robust feature set and solid Linux compatibility, the NUC BOX-255H stands out as a top-tier option in the premium mini PC market.
Source: https://www.linuxlinks.com/asrock-nuc-box-255h-running-linux-intel-core-ultra-7-processor-255h/
