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 11 with Intel Core i7-1165G7, 32GB Ram, 1TB PCle SSD, 12MB Cache, Up to 4.70 GHz Intel Nuc with WiFi 6, Bluetooth, 8K Support, Win11 Pro
  • Storage Expansion Option - Intel NUC 11 i7 has built-in high speed 32GB dual channel DDR4-3200MHz RAM(Can be expanded max to 64GB), 1TB PCle 4.0 SSD (Support of 2.5-inch PCle Gen4 SSD or SATA HDD, not included) that take storage and performance to the next level
  • Small But Mighty - Newest 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7, 2.8 GHz - 4.7 GHz Turbo, 4 core, 8 thread, 12MB cache meet various work or entertainment needs, and thanks to its small form factor, You can use our included Vesa bracket to mount the intel nuc 11 i7 behind a large screen monitor to save even more space
  • Multi-display Video and Graphics - Support 4 x 4K screen displays to work simultaneously or 1 x 8k screen display to work, while processing multiple streams of incoming video via Thunderbolt 3 technology. Built-in 28W Intel Iris Xe Graphics can easily handles 3D animation, CAD models and video rendering, etc
  • Robust Connectivity - Get internet connectivity and more. Intel nuc 11 i7 squeeze all the ports and wireless connections you would expect from a desktop PC—USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt technologyFront and rear Thunderbolt 3 ports, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi—into the smallest space we can engineer
  • - - Customers are Always Right ! ! - - We offer a 3-year warranty, a 2-year money-back guarantee for any reason, and lifetime worry-free user support. If you have any product concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us, and Waitloan support team will reply and resolve the issue within one hour
#2 Best Choice
Intel NUC 11 with 11th Gen Core i7-1165G7 Processor, Intel Nuc 11i7 Quad-Core 32GB DDR4 RAM & 1TB NVMe SSD Versatile NUC with WiFi, Bluetooth, 8K Support - Built-in Windows 11 Pro
  • 【Storage Expansion】Intel NUC Seal is opened for Hardware/Software upgrade RAM+SSD only to enhance performance; Intel NUC 11 i7 has built-in high speed 32GB dual channel DDR4-3200MHz RAM(Can be expanded max to 64GB), 1TB PCle 4.0 SSD (Support of 2.5-inch PCle Gen4 SSD or SATA HDD, not included) that take storage and performance to the next level
  • 【Powerful Inside But Small Outside】Newest 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7, 2.8 GHz - 4.7 GHz Turbo, 4 core, 8 thread, 12MB cache meet various work or entertainment needs, and thanks to its small form factor, You can use our included Vesa bracket to mount the intel nuc 11 behind a large screen monitor to save even more space
  • 【4K Screen Display and Iris Xe Graphics】Support 4 x 4K screen displays to work simultaneously or 8k screen display to work, while processing multiple streams of incoming video via Thunderbolt 3 technology. Built-in 28W Intel Iris Xe Graphics can easily handles 3D animation, CAD models and video rendering, etc
  • 【Multi-Interface Specifications】Get internet connectivity and more. Intel nuc 11 i7 squeeze all the ports and wireless connections you would expect from a nuc 11 i7 - USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt technologyFront and rear Thunderbolt 3 ports, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi—into the smallest space we can engineer
  • 【AFTER-SALE WARRANTY】 We offer a 3-year warranty, and lifetime worry-free user support. If you have any product concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us, and Geekplus support team will reply and resolve the issue at once
#3 Best Choice
Intel Nuc 11 Nuc11Pahi7 Panther Canyon Mini Pc, I7-1165G7, 32Gb Ram, 1Tb Ssd, Mini Computers Windows 11 Pro For Business Home Office, Support 8K/Wifi 6/4K Quad Display/Bluetooth 5/Thunderbolt 3
73 reviews
Intel NUC 11 NUC11PAHi7 Panther Canyon Mini PC, i7-1165G7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Mini Computers Windows 11 Pro for Business Home Office, Support 8K/WiFi 6/4K Quad Display/Bluetooth 5/Thunderbolt 3
  • 【Small but Powerful】Compared with other desktop PC, Intel Panther Canyon NUC11PAHi7 Mini PC has a smaller size of only 4.6*4.4*2-inch, but the Intel NUC 11 has strong performance with 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor 2.8GHz–4.7GHz Turbo, 4 cores, 8 thread,Intel Iris Xe Graphics, A fast & smooth and power-saving mini PC, It can meet your diverse scenarios use such as home entertainment, Web browsing , video clip, reading email, editing documents, home office, Corporate Office etc!
  • 【Memory & Storage & OS】Mini desktop pc equiped with the internal 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB M.2 SSD, make your entire system more responsive. If you feel that the storge is not enough, you can also add a 2.5-inch solid state drive for expansion. Get more storage space for your favorite videos, important work files or other data! Pre installed with Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit OS, supports Linux operating system.
  • 【Other Features & Technology】HDMI 2.0b port, Mini DisplayPort 1.4 port, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports (fast charging), 3.5mm front stereo headset jack, Intel Ethernet Controller i225-V, Intel Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5,Three USB 3.1 Gen2 port, SDXC slot with UHS-II support, Beam-forming, far-field, quad-mic array, with Alexa support,Quad display, and 4K support, Front consumer infrared port, Kensington Lock Ready, 3-Year Limited Warranty.
  • 【Support Quad Screen Display/4K/8K, Meeting the Various Needs in Life】Our nuc 11 mini pc supports 4K Quad Display or 8K One Screen Display. Mini pc desktop computers features a variety of interfaces design. The latest wireless connectivity with 802.11ax Dual Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz Wi-Fi6. Mini PC supports many device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, home theatre, Ideal for home, industrial and commercial applications.
  • 【3-Year Global Warranty from Intel & GEEK+】 We are the Intel NUC Authorised Agent on Amazon. All products sold from GEEK+ are will automatically receive a 3-year free Warranty Service from Intel, You can go directly to the local Intel NUC offline after-sales location if any issue with the NUC Barebone part, or send us a message for help. Warm Tips: To ensure your privacy and security, please remove the Memory and SSD before aftermarket. Three-year warranty on RAM, SSD, OS provided by GEEK+!
#4 Best Choice
Intel NUC 11 with Core i7-1165G7 Processor(Quad-Core & Up to 4.70 GHz), 4" Intel Nuc 11 16GB DDR4 RAM & 512GB SSD - Versatile Nuc 11 i7 with WiFi, Bluetooth, 8K Support - Built-in Windows 10 Pro
  • Storage Expansion Option - Intel NUC 11 i7 has built-in high speed 16GB dual channel DDR4-3200MHz RAM(Can be expanded max to 64GB), 512GB PCle 4.0 SSD (Support of 2.5-inch PCle Gen4 SSD or SATA HDD, not included) that take storage and performance to the next level
  • Small But Mighty - Newest 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7, 2.8 GHz - 4.7 GHz Turbo, 4 core, 8 thread, 12MB cache meet various work or entertainment needs, and thanks to its small form factor, You can use our included Vesa bracket to mount the intel nuc 11 behind a large screen monitor to save even more space
  • Multi-display Video and Graphics - Support 4 x 4K screen displays to work simultaneously or 8k screen display to work, while processing multiple streams of incoming video via Thunderbolt 3 technology. Built-in 28W Intel Iris Xe Graphics can easily handles 3D animation, CAD models and video rendering, etc
  • Robust Connectivity - Get internet connectivity and more. Intel nuc 11 i7 squeeze all the ports and wireless connections you would expect from a nuc 11 i7—USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt technologyFront and rear Thunderbolt 3 ports, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi—into the smallest space we can engineer
  • - - The Customer Always Right ! ! - - We offer a 3-year warranty, a 2-year money-back guarantee for any reason, and lifetime worry-free user support. If you have any product concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us, and Waitloan support team will reply and resolve the issue within one hour
#5 Best Choice
Intel NUC 11 NUC11PAHi7 32GB DDR4 RAM,1TB SSD,Win 11 Pro Mini PC,Core i7-1165G7 Processor 12M Cache, up to 4.7 GHz Mini Desktop Computer, Thunderbolt 4/Support 8K/WiFi 6/4K Quad Display/Bluetooth 5
  • 【11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 CPU, XS Size. XL Performance Mini PC】 With their boundary-breaking performance, modern design, and cutting-edge features, Intel NUC 11 Performance Mini PC usher in the new age of small-compute innovation. Small enough to take with you and attractive enough to feature in any home or office, Intel NUC 11 Performance Mini PC feature a range of 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 (12M Cache, up to 4.70 GHz)CPU to accelerate everyday home theater and home office tasks.
  • 【Revolutionary Intel Iris Xe GPU】 Make every experience more immersive and fun—from binging shows in 4K UHD to playing arcade games, creating content, and multitasking across up to four screens. Connecting at will to any screen, anywhere, is made easy with 10 ports & slots—including 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports and an ultra-fast Ethernet port—plus support for Intel WiFi 6. For work, study, play, look no further than powerful and innovative mini PCs built with Intel NUC 11 Performance Mini pc.
  • 【Other Features & Technology】Two Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI 2.0b port, Mini DisplayPort 1.4 port, 3.5mm front stereo headset jack, Intel Ethernet Controller i225-V, Intel Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5,Three USB 3.1 Gen2 port, SDXC slot with UHS-II support, Beam-forming, far-field, quad-mic array, with Alexa support,Quad display, and 4K support, Front consumer infrared port, Kensington Lock Ready, 3-Year Limited Wa-rranty.
  • 【32G DDR4 RAM & 1TB M.2 PCIe SSD,Win 11 Pro installed】The Mini computer loaded with 32GB SODIMM DDR4(3200MHz). Dual channel DDR4 upgradeable to max 64GB(2 x 32GB, up to 3200MHz). And 1TB M.2 PCIe 2280 SSD, Supporting external 2.5-inch 7mm HDD expansion (not included). Reduce latency, powerful loading and processing capabilities for a smoother experience.Preinstalled with Windows 11 pro.
  • 【3-Year Global Warranty from Intel & GEEK+】 We are the Intel NUC Authorised Agent on Amazon. All products sold from GEEK+ are will automatically receive a 3-year free Warranty Service from Intel, You can go directly to the local Intel NUC offline after-sales location if any issue with the NUC Barebone part, or send us a message for help. Warm Tips: To ensure your privacy and security, please remove the Memory and SSD before aftermarket. Three-year warranty on RAM, SSD, OS provided by GEEK+!

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
ACEMAGICIAN [Dual LAN Mini Gaming PC] AMD Ryzen 7 5700U Mini PC (8C/16T, up to 4.3Ghz) 16GB DDR4 512GB NVMe SSD Mini Computers, 4K Triple Display Mini Desktop Bluetooth/WiFi 6/Dual Channel
  • 【AMD RYZEN 7 5700U PROCESSOR】ACEMAGICIAN Micro PC is equipped with AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor (8C/16T, 16M Cache, up to 4.3GHz). Compared with AMD Ryzen 5(5600U/5500U), AM06 PRO MINI PC 5800U CPU performance +30%, GPU +35%, more powerful performance and smoother running
  • 【MINI PC PERFECT FOR GAMING】Powered by AMD Zen3 Ryzen 7 5700U and Radeon RX Vega8 Graphics(2000 MHz), our mini computer delivers up to 3.4% better performance in multitask computing compared to previous Zen 2 processors. Play your favorite games like APEX, CSGO, PUBG, COD, DOTA2, RUST, GTA5, and more with ease
  • 【DUAL 1G 2.5G RJ45 PORTS】Fast Network Speeds: Enjoy up to 1000Mbps data transmission speed without worrying about lagging. Ideal for working, gaming, and surfing the internet. Great for Untangle or Pfsense or as a basic office PC
  • 【DUAL CHANNEL 16GB RAM 512GB SSD】Mini Computer is equipped with high-speed dual channel 16GB DDR4 and 512GB NVMe SSD, which allows the small PC to run several high performance operations simultaneously. If you want more storage space, you can also add a 2.5" SSD (no included) to expand the memory upgrade storage to 2TB to suit your needs
  • 【4K TRIPLE DISPLAY OUTPUTS】Mini PC office supports triple display output with HDMI, DisplayPort and Type-C ports. The GPU adopts Radeon Graphics (8 GPU cores), the clock speed is 2000MHz, supports ultra-realistic 4K visual effects, which can provide incredible clarity and maximum work efficiency
#2 Best Choice
KAMRUI Mini PC AM06PRO, AMD Ryzen 5 5500U(6C/12T, up to 4.0 GHz), Mini Tower PC 16GB DDR4 512GB M.2 2280 NVME SSD Mini Desktop Computer, Support 2.5 Inch HDD Dual Ethernet HDMI/Type-C/Wifi5
  • 【AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Processor】KAMRUI AM06 PRO Mini PC, the perfect combination of performance, flexibility, and portability. Powered by AMD Ryzen 5 5500U CPU (2.1GHz up to 4.0GHz, L2 3MB L3 8MB Cache) , TDP 15W. 6 Cores and 12 Threads, come with pre-installed Windows 11Pro. You can power up in a flash and load files even faster, turning your desk into a powerhouse workstation.
  • 【16GB RAM DDR4 512GB M.2 SSD】AM06PRO mini gaming pc come with 16GB DDR4 RAM (2666MHz), dual-channel DDR4 upgradeable to a maximum of 64GB (2 x 32GB, up to 3200MHz), and 512GB M.2 SSD NVME 2280 (upgradeable to a maximum of 2TB), this mini computer has powerful loading and ensuring that your data loads quickly and efficiently. Additionally, it supports up to 2TB external 2.5-inch HDD expansion allowing you can accommodate system files and massive games. Recommended games: "League of Legends," "Hearthstone," "Overwatch," etc.
  • 【4K Three-Screen Display & Type-C 】AM06PRO mini desktop computer experience the power of triple screen display with 4K HD output capabilities via 1-DP & 1-HDMI and Type-C ports, all made possible by the powerful AMD Radeon Graphics 7 Core 1800MHz. Whether you're browsing the internet, using Microsoft Office, or running demanding Adobe PR and PS applications, the Mini PC is fully capable of delivering super first-class picture quality and easily improving your work efficiency. It is capable of handling multiple applications with ease, making it an ideal choice for both personal and professional use.
  • 【More Interfaces, More Convenience】The KAMRUI AM06PRO micro computer is equipped with 2 x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1x DP, 1x HDMI 2.0, 2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x audio input/output, and 1 x TYPE-C, making your office and other uses barrier-free, supporting the use of multiple devices and as a server, monitoring devices, office equipment, monitors, projectors, and other multimedia and commercial devices. Wake On LAN, RTC Wake, and Auto Power On are also supported.
  • 【Efficient Heat Dissipation & Stable Network】Mini pc gaming High-efficiency cooling fan, pure copper heat pipe, large area air duct design, With a silent control chip, heat dissipation without noise, heat dissipation performance increased by 40%, the smooth operation. small computers latest wireless connectivity with 802.11ac Dual Band 2.4/5GHz Wi-Fi and support WIFI5 and Bluetooth4.2 have faster connection speed and better anti-interference bringing you a better Internet experience.
#3 Best Choice
ACEMAGICIAN [Dual LAN Mini PC] AMD Ryzen 7 5700U Mini PC (8C/16T, up to 4.3Ghz) 32GB DDR4 512GB NVMe SSD Mini Computers, 4K Triple Display Mini Desktop WiFi6/Bluetooth/Dual Channel
  • 【AMD RYZEN 7 5700U PROCESSOR】The Gaming Mini PC is powered by AMD Zen3 Ryzen 7 5700U, 8 Cores 16 Threads. Base Clock 1.9GHz, Max Boost Clock can up to 4.3GHz. Equipped with Radeon RX Vega Graphics, providing powerful graphics processing capabilities, it can cope with a variety of your favorite games and complex PS office!
  • 【32GB RAM 512GB NVMe SSD】Mini Computer is equipped with high-speed 32G dual channel DDR4 and 512G M.2 NVMe SSD, which allows the small PC to run several high performance operations simultaneously. If you want more storage space, you can also add a 2.5" SSD (no included) to expand the memory upgrade storage to 2TB to suit your needs
  • 【DUAL 1G 2.5G RJ45 PORTS】Fast Network Speeds: Enjoy up to 1000Mbps data transmission speed without worrying about lagging. Ideal for working, gaming, and surfing the internet. Great for Untangle or Pfsense or as a basic office PC
  • 【SMALL BUT POWERFUL MICRO PC】Compared to traditional desktop computers, ACE Mini PC measures only 5x 5x 2 inches. This Mini PC has a cooling module made from a blend of high tech copper alloy for efficient heat dissipation. Built-in silent control chip, heat dissipation without noise. Multiple interface designs (1 x HDMI Port, 1 x Type-C, 1 x DP Port, 2 x 1G RJ45 Ports, 1 x 1G RJ45, 2 x USB 3.0 Ports, 2 x USB 2.0 Ports, 1 x Audio-in/out Jack)
  • 【STABLE TRANSMISSION & INTELLIGENT DESIGN】Mini desktop pc supports automatic power-on, RTC wake-up and wake-on-LAN, equipped with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 4.2 to provide a stable running experience. Our complimentary VESA bracket can mount the computer on the wall or on the monitor, replace the bulky traditional computer and win more free space
#4 Best Choice
Beelink Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5700U (up to 4.3GHz), 16GB DDR4 RAM 500GB PCIe3.0 SSD, SER5 Pro Mini Desktop Computer Support 4K@60Hz Triple Display/WiFi 6/BT5.2/USB3.2/Gaming/Office/Home
  • đŸ”„ă€Superb CPU Performance】Beelink SER5 Pro Mini PC is powered by AMD Ryzen 7 5700U (1.8GHz-4.3GHz, 8C/16T, L3 cache 8MB), built by the latest breakthrough 7nm Zen 2 architecture, ideal for AAA gaming, photo/video editing, rendering, office software, programming etc. Gaming Recommendation: CSGO, Call of Duty, WWII, PUBG, DOTA 2, LOL.
  • đŸ”„ă€Large Capacity + Upgrade-Friendly 】AMD Ryzen 7 mini pc comes with 16GB DDR4 3200MHz RAM & 500GB M.2 NVME 2280 SSD, reading speed up to 3000Mb/S. Dual channel memory slots is expandable up to 64GB (2x32GB), you can also replace the 500GB SSD up to 2TB, or add a 2.5-inch 7mm HDD (max 2TB, not included) to expand the storage. Quicker load times of apps and programs for smoother using experience.
  • đŸ”„ă€4K@60Hz Triple Display】Beelink SER5 mini desktop computer integrated with 8 core 1900MHz AMD Radeon Graphics, supports triple screen display via 1*HDMI2.0(4K@60Hz)+1*DP1.4(4K@144Hz)+1*Type-C(4K@120Hz), which enables you multi-task easily, i.e. browsing the internet, using business Apps(Microsoft Office, Adobe PR, PS, AUTOCAD), 4K videos playback, online class. You can also expand your viewing area across three monitors to enjoy better gaming experience.
  • đŸ”„ă€Reliable Wireless Network Connection 】5700U Mini PC adopts reliable WiFi 6 (802.11ax) with faster transmission speed up to 2.4Gbps, which is about 3 times faster than that of WiFi 5, you will enjoy the stable WiFi transfer speeds, wide network range and reliable wireless signal, perfect for important business online conference and gaming. Mini Gaming PC stays connected to all your wireless accessories more stable and efficient without interference via Bluetooth 5.2 adapter.
  • đŸ”„ă€Meet Deeply Needs】Beelink SER5 Pro measures 4.9x4.4x1.6 inches, only 1/40th size of standard desktop pc, it's convenient to bring it for flexible working or hide it on the back of a monitor via the VESA mount. Ryzen mini pc supports a wide range of operating system, Wake On LAN, RTC Wake, Auto Power On, a great to use as a server for media (Plex or FTP). System fan, SSD cooler and heat sink bring stronger heat dissipation and help the small pc runs smoother and quieter.
#5 Best Choice
Beelink Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 5 5560U (6C/12T up to 4.0Ghz), 16G DDR4 500GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD, SER5 Mini Desktop Computer 4K@60Hz Output HDMI2.0/DP/Type-C/WiFi 6/BT5.2/USB3.2/HTPC/Gaming/Home/Office
  • ✅【Comparable Tower Performance】The Beelink SER5 Mini Computer with AMD Ryzen 5 5560U (up to 4.0GHz, 6C/12T, 8M cache). The base frequency is 2.3GHz / the dynamic frequency can reach 4.0GHz. It can handle heavy computing tasks smoothly and is better for multitasking, giving you excellent performance. With the "Zen 3" architecture, gaming performance at 1080p is increased by an average of 26% over the AMD Zen 2.
  • ✅【16GB DDR4 +512GB PCIe3.0x4 SSD】The Beelink SER5 5560U mini computer built-in 16GB SO-DIMM DDR4& 500GB M.2 NVME 2280 SSD, A single channel up to 32GB of RAM. Dual-channel DDR4 supports up to 64GB of RAM, reducing latency. M.2 2280 Nvme SSD, up to 2TB. reading speed up to 2350mb/s. Supporting up to 2TB external 2.5-inch 7mm HDD expansion (not included). Quicker load times of apps and programs for smoother using experience.
  • ✅【4K@60Hz Triple Screen Display】This Beelink 5560 mini pc equipped with 6core1600MHz AMD Radeon Graphics delivers clean and powerful graphics processing power to easily handle the demands of complex design software, 4K@60Hz UHD video editing, and playback, or light gaming. Triple screen display output via 4K@144Hz DP1.4+ 4K@60Hz HDMI 2.0 + 4K@120Hz Type-C, which enables you to multi-task easily, and improve work efficiency.
  • ✅【Wifi 6 & BT5.2 & USB3.2】The Beelink Ryzen 5 Mini PC Built-in latest-generation Wifi 6 wireless card, which is 3x faster than WIFI 5, The transmission speed is up to 2400Mbps, which is faster and more stable than WIFI 5. The main features of Bluetooth 5.2 are the enhanced ATT protocol, faster connection speed and better anti-interference. USB 3.2 Gen2(10Gbp) has increased the bandwidth rate from the original 5GB/S to 10GB/S.
  • ✅【Small Form Factor & Meet Deeply Needs】The 4.9 x 4.4 x 1.6 inches Beelink SER5 Pro small computer is 1/10 the size of the desktop Tower, which is enough to save a huge space. The Mini computer is Equipped with 1*HDMI2.0 ports, 1*DP Port, 3*Type-A USB3.2 ports GEN2(10Gbps), 1*Type-A USB2.0 port, 1*Type-C(Data&Video) port, 1*DC Jack(25mm*20mm), 1*35mm Audio Jack,1*Gigabit Ethernet, easily meet office business needs, home audio and video needs. Supports Wake On LAN, RTC Wake, and Auto Power On.

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!

VMinstall.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.ca, and other Amazon stores worldwide. *Best Sellers last updated on 2024-04-26 at 06:22.

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