Intel's 'NUC' mini PC kits aren't fantastic gaming rigs, due to the lack of dedicated graphics, but they are solid productivity machines that don't take up much desk space. One model with a Core i3 processor and no RAM/storage dropped to $270 two months ago, but now you can get a Core i5 version with 8GB RAM for $350. That's a reduction of $50 from the original price, and RAM usually isn't included.
The kit on sale is model number BOXNUC8i5BEH1, and is equipped with a 28W Intel Core i5-8259U processor (clocked at 2.3-3.8 GHz, 4 cores/8 threads) and Intel Iris Plus 655 graphics. The box has plenty of connectivity options, including two USB 3.1 ports, two USB 3.0, a microSD card slot, a Type-C Thunderbolt 3 port, gigabit Ethernet, and a headphone/microphone combo jack. Support for 802.11 ac Wi-Fi is included, as well as Bluetooth 5.0.
There are two SODIMM slots for memory, and Newegg is throwing in a single 8GB stick of G.Skill Ripjaws DDR4 RAM. You still have to supply your own storage — either an M.2 SSD (it's not clear if NVMe is supported) or a 2.5-inch SSD/hard drive. Since the motherboard/CPU/power supply/RAM is included, all you need to complete the build is a cheap SSD, like this $30 240GB Kingston drive.
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