The ASRock DeskMeet B660 presents an interesting proposition in the small form factor PC market. It aims to bridge the gap between budget-friendly mini-PCs and the high-performance, albeit expensive, Intel NUC Extreme systems. Can this compact machine truly deliver a compelling experience without breaking the bank? This review delves into the capabilities of the ASRock DeskMeet B660, examining its performance, features, and overall value proposition to determine if it’s a worthy contender in the realm of small form factor computing. We’ll see if it lives up to the claim of being an affordable alternative to the NUC Extreme, or if compromises were made in pursuit of a lower price point.
Design and Features
The DeskMeet B660 boasts a compact and understated design. It’s significantly smaller than a traditional desktop PC, making it ideal for space-constrained environments. The minimalist aesthetic allows it to blend seamlessly into any home or office setup. It supports 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors, providing a wide range of CPU options to suit different performance needs and budgets.
- Supports 12th & 13th Gen Intel Core Processors
- Up to 64GB DDR4 Memory
- Integrated Intel UHD Graphics (CPU dependent)
- Supports discrete graphics cards (up to 20cm length)
Performance
Performance will vary depending on the CPU and GPU configuration chosen. With a powerful processor and a dedicated graphics card, the DeskMeet B660 can handle demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and content creation. However, with integrated graphics, it’s best suited for everyday computing tasks, productivity applications, and light gaming. The integrated cooling solution appears to be sufficient for most configurations, but overclocking is not recommended.
Gaming Performance
While not designed to be a dedicated gaming rig, the DeskMeet B660 can provide a decent gaming experience with a suitable graphics card. Frame rates will depend on the game and graphics settings, but it’s capable of running many modern titles at reasonable settings. It’s important to consider the power supply limitations when choosing a graphics card.
Value and Conclusion
The ASRock DeskMeet B660 offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and affordability. The ASRock DeskMeet B660 is a solid choice for users looking for a small form factor PC that can handle a variety of tasks. Its flexibility in supporting both integrated and discrete graphics, coupled with its support for the latest Intel processors, makes it a versatile option. Whether it truly lives up to being an “affordable NUC Extreme” is debatable, as it requires additional investment in components like RAM, storage, and potentially a graphics card. Ultimately, the value proposition hinges on individual needs and budget constraints, but the ASRock DeskMeet B660 certainly deserves consideration in the small form factor PC market.
