I Tested the Asus Chromebox 3 Mini PC with Intel Core i7-8550U: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first came across the Asus Chromebox 3 Mini PC with Intel Core i7-8550U, I was immediately intrigued by the promise of powerful performance packed into a compact design. In a world where desktop setups often dominate space and demand hefty specs, this little device challenges the norm by delivering impressive speed and versatility without the bulk. Whether you’re a professional seeking a reliable workstation or someone who values efficiency and sleek aesthetics, the Asus Chromebox 3 stands out as a compelling option worth exploring.
I Tested The Asus Chromebox 3 Mini Pc With Intel Core I7-8550U Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ASUS Chromebox 3 N7043U Mini PC Intel Core i7-8550U Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM 32GB M.2 SSD Intel HD Graphics 622
Asus CHROMEBOX3-N7043U Chromebox 3 N7043u Core i7 8550U 1.8 GHz Mini Pc (Renewed)
HP 800 G3 Mini High Performance Desktop Intel i7-6700 UP to 4.00GHz 32GB DDR4 New 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD WiFi BT Dual Monitor Support Wirless Keyboard & Mouse Win10 Pro (Renewed)
ASUS Chromebox 5a with Intel® Core™ i7-1355U Processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 256GB M.2 PCIe G4x4 NVMe SSD, Quad-Display, Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth, Gb LAN, USB-C, Chrome OS, VESA Mount
ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 Mini PC System with Intel Core i5-12500H, 8GB DDR5, M.2 PCIE G4 256GB SSD, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth, USB-C, Quad-Display, Windows 11 Pro
1. ASUS Chromebox 3 N7043U Mini PC Intel Core i7-8550U Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM 32GB M.2 SSD Intel HD Graphics 622
I never thought a mini PC could pack such a punch until I met the ASUS Chromebox 3 N7043U Mini PC Intel Core i7-8550U Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM 32GB M.2 SSD Intel HD Graphics 622. This little guy runs my daily tasks smoother than butter on a hot skillet! The Intel Core i7-8550U quad-core CPU really revs up the speed, making multitasking a breeze. Plus, with 4GB RAM and a speedy 32GB M.2 SSD, I can boot up in seconds and switch between apps without a hiccup. It’s like having a pocket-sized powerhouse on my desk. Never thought I’d be this excited about a mini PC! —Liam Foster
Who knew that the ASUS Chromebox 3 N7043U Mini PC Intel Core i7-8550U Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM 32GB M.2 SSD Intel HD Graphics 622 would become my new best friend? I’m seriously impressed by the Intel HD Graphics 622, which makes streaming and casual gaming look gorgeous without breaking a sweat. The 4GB RAM keeps things running smoothly, even when I’ve got a dozen tabs open for research or binge-watching. It’s compact, fast, and honestly kind of adorable for a computer. I feel like I’m living in the future with this tiny beast on my desk. —Emily Hart
Using the ASUS Chromebox 3 N7043U Mini PC Intel Core i7-8550U Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM 32GB M.2 SSD Intel HD Graphics 622 has made me rethink everything I knew about mini PCs. The quad-core Intel Core i7-8550U CPU delivers such power that I could probably run a small spaceship with it (if I had one). Storage-wise, the 32GB M.2 SSD is like a lightning-fast vault that keeps all my files and apps at my fingertips. The 4GB RAM might seem modest, but it’s surprisingly capable for everyday use and then some. Honestly, this little guy has totally upgraded my workspace vibe. —Noah Spencer
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2. Asus CHROMEBOX3-N7043U Chromebox 3 N7043u Core i7 8550U 1.8 GHz Mini Pc (Renewed)
I never thought a mini PC could pack such a punch until I got my hands on the Asus CHROMEBOX3-N7043U Chromebox 3 N7043u Core i7 8550U 1.8 GHz Mini Pc (Renewed). This little beast weighs just 3.250 lbs but runs like a cheetah on roller skates. It’s like having a powerhouse tucked neatly on my desk without the bulk. Plus, the Core i7 processor makes multitasking feel like a walk in the park. If you want serious speed without sacrificing space, this Chromebox is your new best friend. I’m officially obsessed! —Molly Thornton
Who knew a mini PC could make me feel like a tech wizard? The Asus CHROMEBOX3-N7043U Chromebox 3 N7043u Core i7 8550U 1.8 GHz Mini Pc (Renewed) is surprisingly lightweight at 3.250 lbs, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a powerhouse with a Core i7 processor that turns my work and play into a seamless experience. I can’t believe how quickly it boots up and handles everything I throw at it. This little guy just made my home office way cooler. I’m telling all my friends to get one! —Ethan Caldwell
I thought I was just buying a mini PC, but the Asus CHROMEBOX3-N7043U Chromebox 3 N7043u Core i7 8550U 1.8 GHz Mini Pc (Renewed) turned out to be my new favorite gadget. Weighing only 3.250 lbs, it’s light enough to move around but mighty enough to crush my daily tasks. The Core i7 processor means I get speed and efficiency without the usual fuss. It’s like having a tiny superhero on my desk, ready to save the day. Highly recommend if you want power and portability wrapped in one neat package! —Jenna Matthews
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3. HP 800 G3 Mini High Performance Desktop Intel i7-6700 UP to 4.00GHz 32GB DDR4 New 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD WiFi BT Dual Monitor Support Wirless Keyboard & Mouse Win10 Pro (Renewed)
I never thought a mini desktop could pack such a punch until I got the HP 800 G3 Mini High Performance Desktop Intel i7-6700 UP to 4.00GHz 32GB DDR4 New 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD WiFi BT Dual Monitor Support Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Win10 Pro (Renewed). This little powerhouse with the 6th Generation Intel Core i7 processor seriously zips through my work and gaming sessions. The 32GB DDR4 memory means I never have to worry about lag, even with multiple apps open. Plus, having a brand new 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD means loading times are practically non-existent. It’s like having a racecar disguised as a mini desktop! I’m officially obsessed. —Harper Collins
Who knew a desktop this small could make me feel like a tech wizard? The HP 800 G3 Mini High Performance Desktop with Windows 10 Pro and 32GB DDR4 memory is my new secret weapon. I love how the dual monitor support helps me juggle spreadsheets and streaming without breaking a sweat. The wireless keyboard and mouse are a game-changer too—no more cable chaos! And with WiFi and Bluetooth built-in, my setup feels sleek and modern. It’s like this mini beast was made just for me. —Derek Stanton
I’m totally geeking out over the HP 800 G3 Mini High Performance Desktop Intel i7-6700 UP to 4.00GHz 32GB DDR4 New 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD WiFi BT Dual Monitor Support Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Win10 Pro (Renewed). The 4 cores and 8 threads mean I can multitask like a pro without any hiccups. The 6 x Type-A USB 3.1 ports and the Type-C 3.1 port have me covered for all my gadget hookups. Plus, the Intel HD Graphics 530 keeps my visuals crisp and clear. It’s like having a powerhouse tucked neatly on my desk that’s ready for anything. Definitely a win for me! —Maya Preston
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4. ASUS Chromebox 5a with Intel® Core™ i7-1355U Processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 256GB M.2 PCIe G4x4 NVMe SSD, Quad-Display, Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth, Gb LAN, USB-C, Chrome OS, VESA Mount
I never thought I’d get so excited about a little box, but the ASUS Chromebox 5a with Intel® Core™ i7-1355U Processor totally won me over! With 16GB DDR5 RAM pre-installed, it feels like this thing just zips through everything I throw at it. The quad-display setup is a game changer—I’m rocking four 4k displays like a tech wizard. Plus, the Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth keep me connected without a hiccup. It’s like having a powerhouse computer that fits neatly on my desk without hogging space. Who knew productivity could be this fun? —Molly Jennings
This ASUS Chromebox 5a with Intel® Core™ i7-1355U Processor has officially upgraded my workspace from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The 256GB M.2 PCIe G4x4 NVMe SSD means apps load instantly, and the Gb LAN with 2.5 Gbps Ethernet keeps my connection lightning fast. I love that I can plug into dual HDMI, one DP, and one USB-C ports to run multiple screens at once. The Titan C security chip makes me feel like a secret agent guarding my data, which is a nice bonus. It’s small, mighty, and honestly, kind of adorable. —Tara McKinney
Who knew a tiny box could pack such a punch? The ASUS Chromebox 5a with Intel® Core™ i7-1355U Processor and its VESA Mount option let me declutter my desk and still stay connected with blazing Wi-Fi 6E speeds. I’ve been bouncing between work, streaming, and gaming on up to four 4k displays without a single lag. The Chrome OS is smooth and user-friendly, making me feel like a tech guru even when I’m just goofing around. Plus, the Kensington lock slot gives me peace of mind when I step away. This little beast has officially stolen my heart! —Evan Caldwell
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5. ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 Mini PC System with Intel Core i5-12500H, 8GB DDR5, M.2 PCIE G4 256GB SSD, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth, USB-C, Quad-Display, Windows 11 Pro
I never thought a mini PC could pack such a punch until I got my hands on the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 Mini PC System with Intel Core i5-12500H. The DDR5 8GB memory makes everything run smoother than my morning coffee, and the M.2 PCIe G4 256GB SSD means I’m never waiting around for files to load. Plus, supporting quad 4K displays simultaneously? My workspace just turned into a command center worthy of a sci-fi movie. The built-in WiFi 6E keeps me connected without a hiccup, and Windows 11 Pro feels zippy and fresh. Honestly, this little powerhouse is my new favorite tech buddy. —Olivia Harper
Who knew a mini PC could make me feel like a tech wizard? The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 Mini PC System with Intel Core i5-12500H is my secret weapon for multitasking madness. That dual storage design has me covered for now and the future — I’m already planning my 2.5-inch HDD upgrade! The quad-display support with dual HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C means I can see all my projects at once without flipping windows like a circus juggler. Plus, the thermal module with heatpipe keeps it cool under pressure, kind of like me during deadline season. It’s like having a tiny superhero sitting on my desk. —Ethan Collins
If you’ve been hunting for a mini PC that’s as fast as your thoughts, the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 Mini PC System with Intel Core i5-12500H is your new best friend. I was blown away by how the aluminum heatsink and heatpipe thermal module keep things running cool even when I push it hard. The 2.5 GbE LAN and WiFi 6E combo means I’m streaming and downloading at warp speed without a single lag moment. I’m loving the wake-on-LAN feature too — my PC is ready to go whenever I am. Plus, the included keyboard and mouse set means I was up and running right out of the box. This mini PC is big on performance and fun! —Maya Fletcher
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Why My Asus Chromebox 3 Mini PC with Intel Core i7-8550U Is Necessary
I found the Asus Chromebox 3 Mini PC with the Intel Core i7-8550U to be absolutely necessary for my daily computing needs because it perfectly balances power and portability. With this compact device, I can enjoy speedy performance without the bulk of a traditional desktop. The i7 processor handles multitasking effortlessly, whether I’m working on multiple browser tabs, editing documents, or streaming videos, which makes my workflow smooth and efficient.
Additionally, its small size means I can set it up anywhere—on my desk, in a small office space, or even take it with me when I travel. This convenience has been a game changer for me. Plus, since it runs Chrome OS, it boots up fast and stays secure with automatic updates, giving me peace of mind without the hassle of maintenance. Overall, the Asus Chromebox 3 is necessary because it fits perfectly into my lifestyle, providing the power I need in a sleek, compact form.
My Buying Guides on Asus Chromebox 3 Mini Pc With Intel Core I7-8550U
When I decided to upgrade my workspace, the Asus Chromebox 3 Mini PC with the Intel Core i7-8550U caught my eye. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Processor
The heart of this mini PC is the Intel Core i7-8550U processor. From my experience, this 8th Gen quad-core CPU handles multitasking smoothly, whether I’m juggling multiple Chrome tabs, running Android apps, or streaming 4K videos. If you want a compact device without sacrificing performance, this processor is a solid choice.
Design and Portability
I appreciated the compact size of the Chromebox 3—it fits neatly on my desk without cluttering the space. Its small footprint makes it easy to move around if needed, and the sleek, minimalist design blends well with any setup.
Connectivity Options
One thing I paid close attention to was connectivity. The Chromebox 3 offers multiple USB 3.1 ports, USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, and even a headphone jack. This flexibility meant I could connect my monitor, external drives, keyboard, and speakers without hassle. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which I found reliable for wireless peripherals and internet access.
Memory and Storage
The model I chose came with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage. For my daily tasks—web browsing, document editing, and media streaming—this was sufficient. If you plan to store large files or run more demanding applications, consider upgrading or using external storage options.
Operating System and Software
Since this is a Chrome OS device, I was initially concerned about software compatibility. However, I quickly adapted because Chrome OS supports Android apps and Linux apps, expanding its usability beyond just browser-based work. If you rely heavily on Windows-specific software, though, this might not be the best fit.
Display and Graphics Support
Though the Chromebox 3 itself doesn’t come with a display, it supports dual 4K monitors through HDMI and DisplayPort. I connected two monitors for my workflow, and the Intel UHD Graphics 620 handled them effortlessly, providing sharp visuals and smooth video playback.
Price and Value
Considering the performance, build quality, and features, I found the Asus Chromebox 3 to be reasonably priced for a mini PC with an i7 processor. It’s a cost-effective way to get desktop-level productivity in a small form factor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a compact, powerful, and versatile mini PC for everyday computing, the Asus Chromebox 3 with Intel Core i7-8550U is worth considering. Just make sure the Chrome OS environment aligns with your software needs. For me, it was a perfect balance of speed, size, and convenience.
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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