Best NUC for Virtualization: Easy Homelab

Best Nuc For Virtualization

Introduction to Intel NUC

NUC (A.K.A. Nuke) stands for Next Unit of Computing…

It is a small, powerful, and efficient computer that can be used for various purposes, including as a virtualization server.

There are many different types of NUCs out there, but when it comes to virtualization, which one is the best for a homelab?

Some people might say that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question and that the best NUC for virtualization will vary depending on your specific needs and requirements.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the NUC so great for virtualization and see if it might be the right hardware choice for your homelab!

Interesting information for you in this guide:

  1. NUC Hypervisor Options
  2. NUC VM Server Use Cases
  3. Intel NUC Home Server
  4. Intel NUC Server Build
  5. Frequently Asked Questions

For more ways to use your NUC, please visit this guide on NUC uses and applications to learn how to get the most out of your mini-pc.

NUC Video Training: Setup VMware ESXi


Need more storage for your NUC? Check out this portable NAS.


NUC Hypervisor OptionsBest Nuc For Virtualization

A NUC hypervisor is a great way to set up a homelab.

It’s small, efficient, and easy to manage. You can use it to run all sorts of different virtual machines, making it a great way to test out new software or configurations. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about how hypervisors work.

There are a few different NUC hypervisors out there. The most popular is probably VMware’s ESXi. But there are also options like Hyper-V, KVM, and Xen.

Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll need to decide which one is right for you.

Hypervisor Software

KVM is a type 1 hypervisor that is used to manage virtual machines. It is open source and can run on a variety of platforms. It is a good choice for small businesses because it is easy to use and relatively cheap. However, KVM may not be as robust as some of the other options available. And it will require Linux admin skills to grow and support it.

Xen is another type 1 hypervisor that is used to manage virtual machines. It is also open source and can run on various platforms, including a NUC. Xen is considered to be more robust than KVM, but it is also more complex to use. Additionally, Xen can be expensive if you do decide to license it.

Hyper-V is another type 1 hypervisor that you may want to consider. Microsoft developed it and is only available for use on Windows platforms. Hyper-V is considered to be a reliable and robust option, but it is also expensive. Additionally, Hyper-V can be difficult to use for those who are not familiar with Windows products.

Best Nuc For Virtualization

ESXi is a type 1 hypervisor that is used to manage virtual machines. It is developed by VMware and is only available for use on VMware platforms. ESXi is considered to be the most robust and reliable hypervisor option available. However, it is also the most expensive. Additionally, ESXi can be difficult to use for those who are not familiar with VMware products.

When choosing a NUC hypervisor, it is important to consider your homelab needs. If you are looking for a cheap and easy option, KVM may be the best choice. If you are looking for a more robust and reliable option, Xen or ESXi may be better choices.

My preference is Hyper-V because it can be installed via Windows 10/11 Pro which will run great on a NUC.

Another option that can run from Windows or Linux is VirtualBox. VirtualBox is a Type 2 hypervisor that is made by Oracle. It is free to use and has a wide variety of features. However, it may not be as robust as some of the other hypervisor options.

But, no matter which NUC hypervisor you choose, it is important to do your research and make sure that it is the best option for you.

There are a variety of different NUC hypervisors available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Choose the one that fits your needs and you will be able to create a great homelab.

Related guide: Hypervisors & Virtual Machines Software Alternatives

Intel NUC Server Build

Intel’s NUC line of mini-PCs is a great option for those looking to build a homelab server for virtualization.

The small form factor makes them ideal for use in a home environment, and the fact that they come with pre-installed Intel vPro technology means that they are ready for virtualization out of the box.

When building a homelab server for virtualization, choosing a processor that can handle the task is important. Intel’s NUC line of mini-PCs comes with a range of processors, from the dual-core Celeron to the multi-core Core i7.

This gives you plenty of options to choose from depending on your needs and budget.

Another important factor to consider when building a home server is the amount of storage you will need. Intel’s NUC mini-PCs come with a range of storage options, from 128GB to 2TB. This gives you plenty of room to store your virtual machines and data.

When it comes to virtualization, Intel’s NUC mini-PCs are hard to beat. With a range of powerful processors and plenty of storage options, they are perfect for any home server build. So if you’re looking for a small form factor mini-PC that is ready for virtualization, the Intel NUC is the perfect option.

Best NUC for Virtualization (Intel CPU)

#1 Best Choice
Intel NUC 12 Pro Business Mini Desktop, Intel Core i7-1260P (12C/16T, Up to 4.7GHz) Mini Pc, 32GB DDR4 RAM 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, 8K/HDR/WiFi 6E/BT5.3/7x24 Hours Quiet Operation/Windows 11 Pro
  • [The Perfect Combination of Performance and Power Consumption] Equipped with the latest 12th generation Intel Core i7-1260P processor (18MB L3 cache, up to 4.7 GHz) 12 cores (4P+8E), 16 threads, the powerful performance and stable power consumption of business intel nuc 12 make it the best choice for office, business, home, gaming and daily use. Powerful heat dissipation achieving 7X24 hours of quiet operation. Intel Iris Xe graphics can easily handle 3D rendering, video editing, etc
  • [Better Mass Storage, Better Storage Scalability] The intel nuc 12 pro with Windows 11 Pro takes storage and performance to the next level with 32GB Dual Channel DDR4-3200 SODIMMs Ram (Supports up to 64GB DDR4 Ram) and 1TB PCle 4.0 NVMe SSD (Supports 2.5" PCle Gen4 SSD or SATA HDD, not included)
  • [8K HDR & 4K HDR 4 Screens Support] Intel NUC 12 has dc input, dp2.1, HDMI 2.0, Thunderbolt4 ports, outputs clearer and more advanced picture quality, Intel NUC 12 Pro i7 support one 8K display or four 4K displays for multitasking at the same time. Come experience an immersive visual experience. The included VESA mounting bracket can better reduce the space occupied, the space looks more simple
  • [Say Goodbye to Delays] The latest wifi 6E has three frequency bands: 2.4G, 5G, 6G, with faster speed, lower latency and stronger bandwidth. Bluetooth 5.3 has a longer and more stable transmission distance, allowing you to connect to other devices faster and seamlessly with basically zero latency. 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet provides you with unimaginable surfing speeds, loading pages, videos, etc. faster than other
  • [Rich Interfaces] Including 4 X USB 3.2 Gen 2 type A, 2 X HDMI2.0, 2 X Thunderbolt4 ports, DC input port, 2500MB Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headphone/mic jack—all packed into a range of flexible, customizable form factors
#2 Best Choice
Intel NUC 13 Pro, for ASUS NUC 13 pro NUC13ANHi7 Arena Canyon Mini PC, Core i7-1360P, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Mini Computer Win 11 Pro for Business Home Office Support 8K/4K Quad Display/Wifi6E/BT 5.3/TB 4
  • 【13th Gen Intel Core i7-1360P CPU】Intel NUC 13 Pro Mini PCs, Kits, offer the perfect combination of size, performance, sustainability, and reliability to drive modern business. It all starts with 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1360P processor that deliver outsized performance in a 4x4 form factor. up to 12 cores (4P+8E), 16 threads,18MB Intel Smart Cache, P-Cores: Up to 5.00 GHz Turbo, E-Cores: Up to 3.70 GHz Turbo, Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU, 1.50 GHz, and up to 64GB dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory.
  • 【Intel NUC 13 pro configured with 32GB DDR4 RAM & 1TB M.2 PCIe SSD,Win 11 Pro】The Mini computer loaded with 2*16GB SODIMM DDR4(3200MHz). Dual channel DDR4 upgradeable to max 64GB(2 * 32GB), And 1024GB M.2 22x80 PCIe x4 Gen4 NVMe SSD. M.2 22x42 key B slot for PCIe x1 Gen3, USB 3.2 Gen2 and SATA SSD expandability. Reduce latency, powerful loading and processing capabilities for a smoother experience. Preinstalled with Windows 11 pro.Just plug it in and go
  • 【Thunderbolt, Wireless,Other Features & Tech.】2x Thunderbolt 4 ports (incl. DisplayPort 2.1 and USB4) via back panel type C connectors,Intel i226V 10/100/1000/2500 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port, 2*front and 1*rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 type A ports 1*rear type A and 2*internal USB 2.0 headers, 2* HDMI 2.1 TMDS Compatible (4K@60Hz), with built-in CEC per port. 3.5mm front stereo headset jack, Up to 7.1 multichannel (or 8-channel) digital audio on HDMI and DP type C ports, Intel Wi-Fi 6E (Gig+),Bluetooth 5.3
  • 【Business Driver, Space Saver】 The Intel NUC Pro Software Suite (NPSS) helps to ensure digital signage applications keep running during any unexpected system failures. Businesses also benefit from advanced features including power control, hardware alarm clock, hardware KVM, boot redirection, beyond firewall support, cloud-based manageability, remote PC remedy, and unattended system control. NUC 13 Upgradable, repairable, and reusable.To provide an eco-friendly foundation for businesses.
  • 【3-Year Global Coverage from Intel/ASUS & GEEK+】We are the Intel/ASUS NUC Authorised Agent on Amazon. All products sold by GEEK+ automatically get a complimentary 3-year service coverage from Intel/ASUS. If the NUC Barebone has issue, you can go straight to the local Intel NUC in-person after-sales hub, or send us a message for help. Warm Tips: To ensure your privacy and security, please remove the Memory and SSD before after-sales service. A 3-year coverage for RAM, SSD, OS is provided by GEEK+
#3 Best Choice
Intel NUC 12 Pro, for ASUS NUC 12 Pro Wall Street Canyon Mini PC, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Intel Core i7-1260P CPU (18M Cache, up to 4.70 GHz), WiFi 6E, BT 5.2, 2*Thunderbolt 4, Win 11 Pro(NUC12WSHi7)
  • 【Powerful Performance & Built-in OS】 The Intel NUC 12, model NUC12WSHi7, also known as Wall Street Canyon, is a compact powerhouse. It is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1260P CPU, boasting 12 cores and 16 threads, with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.7GHz. This robust performance makes it ideal for high-demand tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and heavy multitasking. The unit comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, providing a seamless out-of-the-box experience.
  • 【Superior Memory & Expandable Storage】 The Wall Street Canyon comes with a whopping 32GB of dual-channel RAM and a 1TB SSD, offering swift response times and ample storage for your files and applications. But that's not all. The system supports up to 64GB of RAM and provides space for an additional 2.5-inch SSD or HDD, making it a perfect fit for memory-intensive applications and future storage expansion.
  • 【Stunning Display Capabilities】 With the ability to support up to four screens simultaneously, the NUC 12 is perfect for multitaskers and digital creatives. It can display in 4K@120Hz and even 8K@60Hz, offering crystal clear visuals for professional video editing, immersive gaming experiences, or simply streaming your favorite shows in ultra-high definition.
  • 【Next-Gen Connectivity】 Equipped with WiFi 6E, the NUC 12 supports 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, ensuring fast and stable internet connections. It also features Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless device pairing. The Gigabit Ethernet port provides a reliable wired connection for data-intensive tasks, making it an excellent choice for remote work or online gaming.
  • 【Versatile I/O Ports】 The compact design of the NUC 12 packs in a variety of ports. The front features two USB ports and a 3.5mm audio jack, while the back offers two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two HDMI ports, two additional USB ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. This wide range of connectivity options makes it easy to connect multiple peripherals, from monitors to external storage devices.
#4 Best Choice
ASUS NUC 13 Pro, Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon NUC13ANHi7 Mini PC with Intel Core i7-1360P Processor,32GB RAM&1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD (12C/16T/18M,Up to 5.0GHz) 8K/4 Screen/WiFi6E/BT5.3/Windows 11 Pro
  • 【Small But Powerful Performance】ASUS NUC 13 Pro, Intel NUC 13 Pro get the latest in business performance with the 13th Gen Intel Corei7-1360P processor features 12 cores (4P+8E), 16 threads, 18MB Intel L3 Cache, and 35W TDP. Intel NUC 13Pro Mini PCs, Kits, and Boards offer the perfect combination of performance, connectivity, and graphics for a wide range of businesses, school, office and home.
  • 【Storage Expansion Option】Intel NUC 13 i7 desktop Mini PC has built-in 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB PCle X4 NVMe SSD (Businesses get the fast memory they need with up to 64GB dual-channel DDR4-3200 SODIMMs. Also support up to 2TB of 2.5-inch PCleX4 Gen4 SSD or SATA SSD, not included) that take storage and performance to the next level. You can use the included Vesa bracket to mount the intel nuc 13 mini pc behind a large screen monitor to save even more space.
  • 【HD Display Technology & Compact Size】 Intel NUC 13i7 Pro Output 4K@60Hz HD display via DP2.1, HDMI2.1, Thunderbolt4 ports give flexibility to connect up to 4x4K extended displays simultaneously or 8k screen display to work, while processing multiple streams of incoming video via Thunderbolt 4 technology. Built-in 35W Intel Iris Xe Graphics can easily handles 3D animation, CAD models and video rendering, etc
  • 【Intel Wireless Technology】 Intel NUC 13 Pro integrated Intel's original network card, Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 on M.2 slot, supporting 802.11ax and Bluetooth 5.3 w/internal antennas. Provides higher concurrency, lower latency and greater bandwidth, bluetooth5.2's longer transmission distance, better transmission stability, and lower power consumption.
  • 【Rich interfaces】Intel i225 -v 10/100/1000/2500 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet | Discrete TPM 2.0 | 2x front and 1x rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 type A ports ; 1x rear type A and 2x internal USB 2.0 headers | 2x HDMI 2.1 TMDS Compatible (4K@60Hz), with built-in CEC per port; 3.5mm front stereo headset jack | Up to 7.1 multichannel (or 8-channel) digital audio on HDMI and DP type C ports.
#5 Best Choice
Intel NUC 12 Pro, for ASUS NUC12 Pro Wall Street Canyon Mini PC, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Intel Core i7-1260P CPU (18M Cache, up to 4.70 GHz), WiFi 6E, BT 5.2, 2*Thunderbolt 4, Win 11 Pro(NUC12WSHi7)
  • 【Powerful Performance & Built-in OS】 The Intel NUC 12, model NUC12WSHi7, also known as Wall Street Canyon, is a compact powerhouse. It is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1260P CPU, boasting 12 cores and 16 threads, with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.7GHz. This robust performance makes it ideal for high-demand tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and heavy multitasking. The unit comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, providing a seamless out-of-the-box experience.
  • 【Superior Memory & Expandable Storage】 Intel NUC 12 Pro Wall Street Canyon comes with a whopping 16GB of dual-channel RAM and a 512GB SSD, offering swift response times and ample storage for your files and applications. But that's not all. The system supports up to 64GB of RAM and provides space for an additional 2.5-inch SSD or HDD, making it a perfect fit for memory-intensive applications and future storage expansion.
  • 【Stunning Display Capabilities】 With the ability to support up to four screens simultaneously, the Intel NUC 12 is perfect for multitaskers and digital creatives. It can display in 4K@120Hz and even 8K@60Hz, offering crystal clear visuals for professional video editing, immersive gaming experiences, or simply streaming your favorite shows in ultra-high definition.
  • 【Next-Gen Connectivity】 Equipped with WiFi 6E, the NUC 12 supports 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, ensuring fast and stable internet connections. It also features Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless device pairing. The Gigabit Ethernet port provides a reliable wired connection for data-intensive tasks, making it an excellent choice for remote work or online gaming.
  • 【Versatile I/O Ports】 The compact design of the NUC 12 packs in a variety of ports. The front features two USB ports and a 3.5mm audio jack, while the back offers two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two HDMI ports, two additional USB ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. This wide range of connectivity options makes it easy to connect multiple peripherals, from monitors to external storage devices.

Mini PC with AMD CPU (NUC Alternatives)

If you’re looking for a NUC alternative with an AMD CPU, there are a few options available.

#1 Best Choice
Beelink Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7 5825U Up to 4.5GHz 8C/16T, SER5 PRO Mini Computer with 32GB DDR4 RAM 1TB M.2 SSD, Support 2.5GLAN/4K Triple Screen Display(HDMI+DP+Type-C)/WiFi6/BT5.2/Home/Office
  • 【Powerful CPU AMD RYZEN 7 5825U】Beelink SER5 Pro mini pc powered with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 8 Cores 16 Threads,L2 4MB L3 16MB Cache. Base Clock 2 GHz, Max up to 4.5GHz. It handles heavy computing tasks smoothly, multitasks better, and provides you with excellent performance. Which can be widely used for gaming(CS:GO GTA V, Fall Guys, etc) office(PPT, AI, PS, PR) and home(video, music and web content)
  • 【32GB RAM 1TB NVMe SSD】Mini Computer is equipped with high-speed 32G dual channel DDR4 and 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD((upgradeable to max 2TB) for faster command processing. Dual channel DDR4 upgradeable to max 64GB(2 x 32GB, up to 3200MHz). The Beelink mini pc can support powerful loading and processing capabilities for a smoother experience. If you need more storage space, you can also add a 2.5inch SSD (not included) to upgrade memory and expand storage to 2TB to suit your needs
  • 【Support 4k Triple Screens Display】Support Beelink gaming mini pc AMD Radeon Graphics 8core 2000 MHz delivers powerful graphics processing. The micro computer Supports 4K three screen display(HDMI DP1.4 Type-C). Enjoy super first-class picture quality and easily improve work efficiency, reduce waiting time. Fully capable of browsing the Internet, using Office, PS applications, 4K video playback and more
  • 【Wifi 6 & Multi-Port】This stable and efficient mini desktop computer is equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2, which makes data transmission faster and more stable without network congestion. Rich interface design, including 1 HDMI interface, 1 DP interface, 3 USB 3.2 Gen2 interfaces, 1 USB 2.0 interface, 1 Type-C (data and video) interface, 1 DC interface, 1 RJ45 2.5G interface, 1 3.5mm audio interface (HP and MIC). We provide a free wall mount bracket, which allows you to install the mini computer on the wall or monitor, replacing the traditional computer and saving more space.
  • 【Technical Support】 We provide technical support, at the same time, if you need auto power on, and Wake on LAN (WOL) please send us the barcode at the bottom of the machine first, we will send you the corresponding tutorial file
#2 Best Choice
KAMRUI E3B Mini Gaming PC, Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7 7730U (Beat Ryzen 7 5825U, Max 4.5GHz 8C/16T) Micro Desktop Computers 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, WiFi 6, BT5.2, Triple Display 4K@60Hz for Office Home
  • 【AMD Zen3 Ryzen 7 7730U 】The KAMRUI E3B mini gaming pc features AMD Zen3 Ryzen 7 7730U, New TSMC 7nm FinFET process,with 8 cores and 16 threads, max turbo frequency up to 4.5GHz, 16Mb L3 cache to make multitasking computing too easy,the default TDP is 15W (maximum 28W). 7he advantage of 6nm technology is particularly high performance and high energy efficiency, with strong single and multi-threaded performance.The Multi-Core performance is 20% better than AMD Ryzen 7 (5825U/5700U), .Provides smooth operation for office, multi software operation, video editing, image processing, and also brings immersive gaming experience.
  • 【16GB DDR4 512GB SSD 】 The mini computer is equipped with up to 16GB DDR4 3200MHz, which can respond to your commands faster. The built-in 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe storage space is sufficient to accommodate system files and a large number of games, with excellent read and write speeds greatly reducing your startup time. Dual channel design, DDR4 memory supports upgrading to 64GB (2x32GB), and M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0/4.0 SSD supports upgrading to 4TB (2x2TB).Micro pc offer More space to store your work files or privacy documents, without worrying about running out of space or information leakage.
  • 【AMD Radeon Graphics 2000MHz】 KAMRUI MINI PC Gaming is equipped with AMD Radeon Graphics Graphics card frequency: 2000MHz,Graphics core: 8,4K@60Hz, KAMRUI MINI PC Ryzen 7 7730U performance GPU 30% than AMD Ryzen 5 6600U, more powerful performance and smoother,for office work, editing high-resolution videos and images, playing up to 4K multimedia using KODI or IPTV.
  • 【Triple Display】Mini gaming pc equipped with 8-core AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 graphics, frequency 2000MHz, high-definition display 4K@60Hz Support, you can aceve ultra-high image clarity and immersive visual effects. 1 HDMI 2.0 port, 1 DP 1.4 port, and 1 Type-C port, supporting 3 monitors, so you can easily manage multiple tasks, work,and help you concentrate and inspire while creating. Mini computer features a quiet and powerful built-in cooling fan, eliminating the need to worry about noise and heating during multitasking.
  • 【WiFi 6 Bluetooth 5.2】 The Mini desktop computers support WiFi 6 with a transfer speed of 2400 Mbps, and Bluetooth 5.2 technologies, KAMRUI Mini PC supports faster internet speeds, lower latency, and improved network efficiency. It ensures stable and quick connections for online gaming, streaming, and file transfers.
#3 Best Choice
Beelink SER5 Mini PC,AMD Ryzen 5 5500U(6C/12T,up to 4.0 GHz),Mini Computer 16GB DDR4 RAM 500GB M.2 2280 SSD Graphics 7core 1800MHz,Support 4K Triple Display/HDMI+DP+Type-C/Wifi6/BT5.2,Auto Power On
  • 【AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Processor】Beelink SER5 5500U mini pc is powered with AMD Ryzen 5 5500U(6 Cores 12 Threads, max turbo to 4.0 GHz),which creates a very smooth experience for your visually home entertainment,Web browsing,streaming video, office work and some games (such as Call of Duty,Fall Guys,League of Legends).
  • 【High Capacity & Expansion Options】The mini computer is built-in 16GB DDR4-3200MHz RAM (can be upgraded up to 64GB MAX with 2 available memory slots).It also comes with 500GB M.2 SSD NVME 2280,supports upgrade storage to 4TB (not included).Unleash gaming performance that reduces latency and allows you to run multiple tasks at the same time.
  • 【4K Triple Display & Rich interface】The Beelink mini computer comes with AMD Radeon Graphics 7 core 1800 MHz to support 4K FPS video playback,which provides powerful graphics processing and gives you a stunning visual experience.HDMI+DP allows you to connect two displays at the same time,and equipped with Type-C output video, it can be easily expanded to 3 screens,greatly improve your work efficiency.The 5500U mini pc comes with 1x DC Jack, 3x USB3.2Gen2, 1 xUSB 2.0, 1x RJ452.5G, 1x HDMI(max 4k 60hz),1x DisplayPort, 1x Audio Jack(HP&MIC), 1x Type-C(Data&Video).
  • 【Efficient Cooling System & WIFI 6】This mini pc is designed with cooling fan and dual heat conduction tube to provide efficient cooling for CPU and machine.It is also equipped with WIFI 6 (802.11ax),which is about 3 times faster than WiFi 5,lower latency Bluetooth5.2, more stable and efficient to connect to multiple wireless devices and RJ45 2.5G network connectivity to enjoy smooth traffic and low latency.
  • 【Auto Power On & Beelink Technical Support】If you want to set up Auto Power On, please send us the barcode at the bottom of the machine first, and we will send the corresponding tutorial file. All Products has obtained FCC,CE ROSH Certifications.We provide 1 year 7 days / 24 hours service and lifetime help with technical issues.
#4 Best Choice
Getorli Mini PC, AMD 3550H(Max 3.7GHz), Mini Computers 16GB DDR4 RAM 512GB SSD, Mini Desktop Computer 4K 60Hz Displays/Dual HDMI/Type-C&USB3.2 Ports/LAN RJ45/WiFi 5/BT5.0 for Home/Office/Business
  • 【High-Performance Ryzen 5 3550H Mini PC】The GETORLI mini PC is equipped with a high-performance 4-core, 8-thread AMD Ryzen 5 3550H processor, boosting up to 3.7GHz. It effortlessly handles daily office tasks, web browsing, 4K video streaming, video editing, casual games, and more—making it the top choice for work and design!
  • 【Are You still Worried About Insufficient Memory?】-This mini gaming computer is equipped with 16GB DDR4 RAM (2400Mhz) and supports 512GB M.2 2280 SSD hard drive (expandable to 2T), which can smoothly switch more applications and quickly transfer files, allowing you to say goodbye to the trouble of computer lag.
  • 【Multi-Function Connection Port】-The Getorli mini gaming PC is equipped with a full range of ports: 3*USB 3.2 ports, 1 USB 2.0 port, 2*HDMI 2.0 ports, 1*USB 3.2 Type-C port, 1*DC port and 1*3.5 mm audio jack. Getorli computers are also equipped with 1G LAN RJ45 port to enjoy data transmission speeds up to 1000Mbps, which can easily connect to servers, monitors, office equipment, displays, projectors, TVs and other devices without worrying about lag issues.
  • 【HDMI 4K@60Hz Triple-Screen High-Definition Display】This compact mini PC features the new-generation AMD Radeon graphics (Ryzen 5 3550H), supporting flexible multi-display setups via HDMI and Type-C ports. Enjoy unrestricted 4K 60Hz triple-screen output for enhanced productivity and immersive entertainment. Its advanced visual architecture delivers precise 4K UHD/HDR playback, transforming your workflow and gaming experience
  • 【Smart Fan】-The mini pc only 5.02*4.43*1.57 inches, making it easier to carry around and more flexible to work with. The advanced axial-flow fan and internal heat dissipation technology are almost silent under light loads, and the 360° airflow design allows the fan to remain fairly quiet even under high loads. The honeycomb vents maximize airflow, effectively dissipate heat, save energy, and increase the life of the product.
#5 Best Choice
BOSGAME E2 Mini PC, Mini Computers with AMD Ryzen 5 3550H, 16GB DDR4 512GB PCIe SSD, 4K Triple Display, Type-C & USB3.2, RJ45, Wi-Fi 5/BT 5.0, Micro Desktop Computer for Office, Home & Streaming
  • 【Ryzen 5 3550H Performance Processor】The BOSGAME mini pc is driven by the AMD Ryzen 5 3550H (4-core/8-thread, up to 3.7GHz) with integrated Radeon Vega 8 Graphics, delivering reliable power for office productivity, 4K video streaming, and multitasking. Handle daily workloads like spreadsheet calculations, web browsing, and HD video editing effortlessly.
  • 【Integrated Radeon Vega 8 Graphics】Equipped with AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics, this mini computers supports smooth 4K@60Hz video playback, light photo editing, and casual gaming. Perfect for streaming Netflix/Disney+ in HDR, video conferencing with crystal-clear clarity, or running design software like Photoshop.
  • 【16GB DDR4 & 512GB SSD】With 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, this mini desktop ensure quick app launches and efficient multitasking. While the SSD accelerates file transfers—ideal for office documents, media storage, and everyday computing.
  • 【4K Triple Display & USB3.2】The desktop computers Drives three 4K monitors via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C for multi-window productivity or immersive home theater setups—performance rivaling traditional desktop PC. USB3.2 Gen1 (5Gbps) ports and RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet provide reliable data transfers and networking, seamlessly connecting printers, external drives, and peripherals.
  • 【RJ45 LAN & Wi-Fi 5 & BT5.0】Equipped with Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0, this PC ensure stable connections for 4K streaming, video calls, and file transfers. Wirelessly connect keyboards, headphones, and speakers via BT5.0, while the RJ45 port guarantees low-latency online collaboration—ideal for office productivity and home entertainment.

NUC VM Server (Cont.)

A NUC VM server is a great way to get started with virtualization. It’s simple to set up and use, and it’s a powerful platform that can handle a wide range of tasks.

NUC VM servers are perfect for small businesses and home users who need a reliable, affordable virtualization platform. They’re also great for testing and development, and they can be used to create powerful cloud-based solutions.

If you’re looking for a great way to get started with virtualization, a nuke VM server is a perfect solution.

Intel NUC Server for Business

Intel’s NUC can be used as a powerful and compact server that is perfect for virtualization.

They can be configured with a multiple-core i7 processor and 32GB of RAM, making them perfect for small businesses or home offices.

It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to your network and devices.

Intel NUC Home Server

Intel’s NUC is a great option for anyone looking for a virtualization-friendly home server.

For either use case, the NUC comes with a range of features that make it perfect for use in a virtualized environment, including support for Intel VT-x and VT-d. It also has a low power consumption, making it an ideal choice for home or small office users.

If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile NUC that can be used in a virtualized environment, the Intel NUC home server is a great option to consider.

Best Nuc For Virtualization

Related guide: Best Server Hardware for Virtualization

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is Intel NUC powerful?

Intel NUC is a powerful mini-PC that can be used for a variety of different purposes. It’s great for home entertainment, gaming, and even office work. But is it powerful enough to be used as a virtualization platform?

Yes, Intel NUC can be used as a virtualization platform. In fact, it’s one of the best mini-PCs on the market for this purpose. It has a powerful processor and plenty of RAM, which makes it perfect for running virtual machines.

If you’re looking for a mini-PC that can be used for virtualization, Intel NUC is a great option. It’s fast, reliable, and has enough power to handle even the most demanding tasks. So if you’re in need of a virtualization platform, don’t hesitate to give Intel NUC a try.

How long will Intel NUC last?

Intel has been producing NUCs since 2012 and they have been consistently praised for their performance and value.

So how long will Intel NUC last? Given Intel’s track record, we can expect NUCs to be around for many years to come.

In fact, the latest Intel NUCs are even more powerful than their predecessors, so you can be sure that they will handle all of your virtualization needs.

If you are looking for a small, fast and affordable computer for virtualization, Intel’s NUC is a perfect choice. With its wide variety of uses and powerful hardware, NUC is sure to meet your needs.

Can I run ESXi on a NUC?

Yes, you can run ESXi on a NUC.

You’ll need to make sure that your nuc meets the system requirements for ESXi, and then you’ll need to install the VMware vSphere Hypervisor.

A NUC is a great option for running ESXi because it’s small and compact, and it doesn’t require a lot of power. It’s also a good option for homes or small businesses that don’t have a lot of space or money to invest in a full-sized server.

If you’re looking for a NUC that is specifically designed for virtualization, the Intel NUC server is a great option. It comes with an Intel Xeon processor and 8GB of RAM, and it has plenty of storage space for housing your virtual machines.

Does Intel NUC support virtualization?

Intel NUC kits come with hardware-assisted virtualization (HAV) and support for Intel Virtualization Technology (Intel VT) for hardware-based virtualization.

This makes it possible to run multiple operating systems on a single computer.

With Intel VT, you can create and run virtual machines that are completely isolated from the host system. You can also run multiple instances of an operating system on a single computer. This can be useful for testing new software or for consolidating multiple servers onto a single system.

Intel NUC kits do not support AMD-V, AMD’s virtualization technology. If you are running virtual machines that use AMD-V, you will need to use a computer that has an AMD processor.

Related guide: Enabling Virtualization in the BIOS

Is Intel NUC good for servers?

The Intel NUC is a great option for a server, especially in a virtualized environment. Its small size and low power requirements make it an ideal choice for use in a home lab or small office.

The NUC can also be easily overclocked to boost performance, making it a great choice for heavier workloads.

While the NUC may not be the best option for a large enterprise environment, it is perfect for small businesses or home users who need a reliable and affordable server. With its low price and great performance, the Intel NUC is an excellent choice for anyone looking to set up a home lab or virtual server.

Can Intel NUC be a server?

Intel NUC is a powerful and compact device that can be used as a server. It has a range of features that make it an ideal choice for this purpose, including:

  1. A powerful processor that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously
  2. Plenty of storage space for data and applications
  3. A range of ports that allow it to connect to other devices
  4. Reliable performance that won’t let you down

If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful server that won’t take up a lot of space, the Intel NUC is a great choice. It’s perfect for use in a home lab or small business and can handle all of your virtualization needs.

What is a NUC server?

A NUC server is a small, efficient, and low-power server that is designed for use in a virtualization environment. It is a great option for small businesses or home offices that want to reduce their energy consumption and save on hardware costs.

The Intel NUC server is a popular choice for this type of application because it is compact, quiet, and relatively affordable.

How to build a NUC server?

Building a NUC server is a relatively easy process. You will need to purchase a compatible motherboard and processor, as well as some other components such as memory and storage.

The motherboard and processor should be specific to the Intel NUC platform.

Once you have assembled all of the components, you will need to install the operating system and set up the virtualization software.

Related guide: Building a Homelab Server

Why choose a NUC server?

There are several reasons why you might want to consider using a NUC server for your virtualization needs.

First, they are very small and compact, making them ideal for use in a cramped space.

Second, they are very energy efficient and use a fraction of the power of a traditional server.

Third, they are relatively affordable, so they can be a cost-effective option for small businesses or home offices.

Finally, they are quiet and generate little heat, making them ideal for office or home.

How do I connect my NUC?

There are a few ways to connect your NUC.

The most common way is to use an HDMI cable to connect the NUC to a monitor.

If you want to use the NUC as a server, you can install a server OS like Windows Server or Linux.

You can also use a wireless adapter to connect the NUC to a network. For more information, see the following Intel NUC documentation page to learn about:

  1. Connecting a NUC to a Monitor
  2. Connecting a NUC to a Network
  3. Configuring a Wireless Connection on a NUC
  4. Configuring a Wired Connection on a NUC

Does NUC have Bluetooth?

Newer generation NUCs have Bluetooth (BT).

Does Intel NUC have a fan?

Yes, Intel NUC does have a fan. In fact, all Intel NUCs come with a fan.

The fan is necessary to keep the system cool and running properly.

Without a fan, the system could overheat and cause permanent damage.

Some people worry that the fan will be too loud and bothersome, however, the fan on Intel NUCs is actually very quiet.

You may not even notice it is running. So, don’t let the fan scare you away from using an Intel NUC as your virtualization server. It’s a great option!

Are NUCs loud?

NUCs are not as loud as traditional servers, but they are not completely silent.

Does Intel NUC overheat?

Intel NUC has been known to overheat when used in a virtualized environment. In order to prevent this, you can take a few steps to ensure that your Intel NUC doesn’t overheat.

One way to keep your Intel NUC cool is to make sure that you have enough airflow.

You can do this by making sure that your Intel NUC is in a well-ventilated area and by using a fan to blow air onto the NUC.

Another way to keep your Intel NUC from overheating is to make sure that you don’t overload it.

If you need to put more virtual machines on your Intel NUC, you can use a different type of NUC.

If you’re looking for a NUC that is specifically designed for virtualization, the Intel NUC server is a good option.

The Intel NUC server is a small and lightweight nuke that doesn’t require a lot of power or cooling. It also comes with built-in hardware acceleration for virtual machines.

Overall, the Intel NUC server is a good option for virtualization, but it can overheat if it’s overloaded.

Another related guide: The Best Computer for a Virtualization Homelab

Can you use Oracle VirtualBox on a NUC?

Oracle VirtualBox is a powerful x86 and AMD64/Intel64 Type 2 hypervisor that is perfect for homelab use and it allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single physical computer.

VirtualBox also has a feature called “snapshots” which allows you to take a snapshot of a virtual machine while it is running and revert to that snapshot later.

This can be very useful if you make changes to a virtual machine that you don’t like and want to go back to the way it was before.

One of the biggest benefits of using the Oracle VirtualBox on a NUC is its flexibility.

But that’s not all. It’s also very user-friendly, making it easy for even beginners to get up and running quickly. And it also offers a wide range of features and functionality, which can be customized to meet your specific needs.

Best of all, if you run into any VM problems, VirtualBox comes with excellent support from the developers.

So, is the Oracle VM VirtualBox the best software for virtualization?

It certainly has a lot to offer, and it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a powerful and flexible option. However, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone is different, and you may need something that the Oracle VM VirtualBox doesn’t offer.

Be sure to do your research and compare different virtual machine software before making a decision.

Conclusion

The Intel NUC is a great platform for virtualization. Its small form factor makes it perfect for homelabs and its performance is suitable for most use cases.

If you’re looking to build a powerful home lab on a budget, the Intel NUC should be at the top of your list.

Thanks for reading! I hope this guide has helped you in your quest to find the best NUC for virtualization.

Please feel free to share comments and questions below. Happy homelabbing!

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