NUCs vs. SBCs: How Do They Compare?
People often compare Intel’s Next Unit of Computing (NUC) devices to single-board computers. The comparison is based on the belief that both devices are more or less the same. While not completely unfounded, this assumption is wrong.
While NUCs, or mini-PCs in general, are made to be portable desktop replacements, single-board computers are usually designed to serve as controllers in embedded systems. There can be overlap between these types of computers, but there are also certain key differences which we explore in detail later.
What Is an NUC?
Short for Next Unit of Computing, NUC is a series of small, compact computers with a minimal footprint and designed to be assembled by the user after purchase. The first NUC was based on the Sandy Bridge line of Intel processors and was launched in early 2013. There have been 12 generations and millions of NUC units have been sold since then.
NUC systems offer surprising levels of power and utility in compact, complete systems you can hold in one hand. NUC products are available in different sizes, from the 4 x 4 mini-PCs to the considerably larger gaming NUCs. We will be focusing on the smaller NUCs in this article. We have written an in-depth article onIntel NUCs and what they areif you want to learn more about NUCs.
What Is a Single-Board Computer?
A single-board computer (or SBC for short) is a complete computer, with the processor, RAM, storage, and other components built on a single circuit board. The most popular single-board computers by far are theRaspberry Pi series, with the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B being the latest and most powerful.
Single-board computers are famed for their affordability, portability, and the wide range of input/output features they offer. This makes them perfect for home automation, robotics, edge computing, and electronics projects.
Basically, a single-board computer can do everything a NUC is capable of, up to a certain point. However, NUCs are often limited in the ways that matter to electronics tinkerers and hobbyists, namely access to GPIO pins, along with a higher price and power consumption.
What Do They Have in Common?
Generally, NUCs and SBCs are two unique types of computers designed for different, specific purposes but due to the nature of computing, there is usually overlap between the use cases of both devices.
For example, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is often described as a desktop replacement, and it is possible to use the GPIO interface on certain Intel NUC devices.
Also, both single-board computers and Intel NUCs are designed to be portable enough to move around with. However, you’ll need to use an external keyboard, mouse, and display, and connect any other peripherals you need.
NUCs vs. SBCs: Price
NUCs are often a lot more expensive than the average single-board computer. They also offer more power, which can be a boon in most cases. It’s important to note that NUCs and mini-PCs in general are often created with portability and offering a modular experience in mind, rather than affordability.
Although single-board computers run the gamut fromvery cheap such as the Raspberry Pi Zeroto very expensive such as the Khadas Edge2, they offer a lot of bang for your buck and are the better choice if you’re mostly concerned about price.
If you are in the market for a cheap, non-Intel NUC, be sure to check out ourreview of the GMK NucBox 2.
NUCs vs. SBCs: Power Consumption
While NUCs are often very power-efficient compared to most desktops and laptops, they can’t match the efficiency of ARM-based single-board computers. The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B will typically use five times less power under full load, compared to a standard Intel NUC.
It could be argued that these single-board computers are also less powerful, but it still stands that if power consumption is a major concern for you, you are much better off with a single-board computer.
NUCs vs. SBCs: Expansion and Input/Output Options
NUCs and SBCs are pretty much evenly matched when it comes to the expandability options they offer. Depending on the model, you will find both NUCs and SBCs that feature expansion slots that allow you to add specialized hardware components such as graphics cards, storage drives, or networking cards.
Both types of computers also typically offer multiple USB ports, allowing for the connection of peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and external hard drives. Other interfaces such as Ethernet, HDMI, and DisplayPort over USB are commonly found on both NUCs and SBCs. Overall, the expandability of an NUC or SBC depends on the specific model you opt for.
However, theGeneral-Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) interfaceon most single-board computers is what helps them stand out from NUCs. This header usually contains a row of either 26 or 40 pins that serve different functions and connect the Raspberry Pi or other SBC to the real world, whether it is to sensors, LEDs, motors, or other electronic components.
NUCs vs. SBCs: Customization
Customization is where Intel NUCs shine. This is because they allow you to add your own RAM and storage whereas SBCs require you to work with a fixed amount. This means that you may always upgrade your NUC to suit your project requirements, unlike single-board computers where the RAM is soldered onto the board.
NUCs vs. SBCs: Use Cases
If you’re choosing between a NUC and an SBC, it’s important to consider what you’ll be using it for. NUCs typically offer more processing power and have better graphics cards, compared to single-board computers. They’re better suited for tasks that can be processor-heavy, such as gaming, transcoding, hosting, and video editing.
The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B SBC, on the other hand, is sort of an all-rounder for physical computing. It is cheap, compact, and powerful enough for most electronics projects. In addition to the official documentation, beginners will find numerous online tutorials on how to use this single-board computer.
Basically, if you are looking for a portable, and modular replacement for your desktop computer, then NUCs are the way to go. They are relatively high-powered, energy-efficient, and offer a lot of customization.
However, suppose you are more into electronics and would like to use general-purpose input/output (GPIO) connectors in your projects. In that case, a single-board computer is the better choice for you. They offer more expandability and can be connected to other peripherals and components for physical computing. Be sure to check out our guide tothe best projects you can make with a Raspberry Pi.
Which Small Computer Should You Buy Then?
As always, the answer is to choose the one that suits your budget, style, and project requirements. NUCs definitely have an edge over SBCs in customization and performance. If you’re interested in streaming, emulation, or other processor-intensive tasks, an NUC will suit you just fine. However, if you want to light things up or make things move with code, a single-board computer or microcontroller is what you should go for instead.
Based on ARM chips with eight or more cores, these single-board computers provide blazing speed on a budget.
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