ASRock is gearing up for 2026 with a fresh wave of next-generation BOX Mini PCs, aiming squarely at users who want desktop-class features in a compact footprint. The company’s latest small-form-factor lineup is built around upcoming Intel Core Ultra Series 3 “Panther Lake” chips and AMD Ryzen AI 300 “Strix” processors, promising a meaningful jump in performance, connectivity, and multi-display flexibility.
One of the standout models is the NUC Ultra 300 BOX, which pairs Intel’s Panther Lake platform with a feature set that looks designed for power users, creators, and business deployments. It supports dual DDR5 SO-DIMM memory slots with up to 128GB capacity and speeds reaching 7200 MT/s, giving it plenty of headroom for heavy multitasking, content work, and demanding workflows in a tiny PC.
Connectivity is another area where ASRock is clearly pushing hard. The NUC Ultra 300 BOX includes USB4 and Thunderbolt 4, along with four USB 3.2 Gen2 ports for high-speed peripherals and external storage. For expansion, there are dual M.2 slots, which is a big win for anyone planning fast NVMe storage or flexible configuration options. On the networking side, dual 2.5GbE LAN ports are included—great for fast local transfers, small office setups, or users who want more robust wired networking.
Multi-monitor users also get a lot to like here. The system supports quad display output, delivered through two HDMI 2.1 ports plus DisplayPort output options including DP 2.1 via USB4, along with a dedicated DP 1.4 output. Despite the strong spec sheet, the Mini PC stays compact with a fanned 117.5 x 110.0 x 49mm chassis, powered by a 120W adapter.
ASRock is also offering an AMD-based option built around Ryzen AI 300 “Strix” processors. This version keeps the same compact 117.5 x 110.0 x 49mm design while focusing on a balanced mix of performance and I/O. It supports DDR5 SO-DIMM memory up to 96GB, with speeds up to 5600 MT/s. Storage and expansion are similarly flexible with dual M.2 slots, and there’s also an M.2 Key E slot dedicated to Wi‑Fi 6E.
Port selection remains strong on the AMD variant, featuring two USB4 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and one USB 3.2 Gen2 port. Wired networking is handled by two LAN ports in a 1.0GbE + 2.5GbE configuration, and like the Intel model, it supports quad display output—making it a solid fit for productivity setups, digital signage, trading desks, and creator workstations that rely on multiple monitors.
Overall, ASRock’s next-gen BOX Mini PCs look ready to deliver big-PC capability in a small, clean form factor—especially for buyers prioritizing fast DDR5 memory, modern USB4 connectivity, multiple M.2 storage options, and multi-display support. More detailed specifications and launch timing are expected as the release window gets closer.
