Six Years Ago in Tow Started Producing the Next Unit of Computing Better Known as Nook: A Line of Compact PCs Aimed Mostly at Businesses But Recently They've Started Producing Nuts for Gaming as Well, Such as This.
The Hades Canyon nook is a new addition to the nook line of compact PCs, which were initially aimed at businesses but have recently started producing gaming-capable models. What's notable about this system aside from its size is that it features an Intel Core i7-8809G processor. The "G" in the processor model stands for graphics, specifically AMD Radeon Vega graphics, which pair Intel with AMD and represent a unique alliance between the two companies.
The Hades Canyon nook is actually the largest nook system available to date, but its compact size belies its capabilities. It measures approximately 8 inches by 5 inches and weighs less than 2 inches thick, making it one of the most compact gaming-capable PCs on the market. This compact design makes the Hades Canyon nook an attractive option for those looking for a powerful gaming PC that can be easily transported or stored.
One important feature of the Hades Canyon nook is its ability to be customized with RAM and hard drive upgrades. The system comes without these components, allowing users to upgrade them as needed. This approach reflects Intel's strategy of targeting enthusiasts who are interested in building their own PCs and customizing them to meet their specific needs.
The Hades Canyon nook's design is also noteworthy for its sleek, compact aesthetic. When the system is turned on, the keyboard lights up with a skull design, providing a unique visual effect that shows off the PC's gaming capabilities. The LED lights can be adjusted or turned off as needed, allowing users to customize their experience.
The port selection on the Hades Canyon nook is also impressive, featuring two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, a USB-C port, a headphone jack, and a card reader. This comprehensive set of ports makes it easy for users to connect their devices and peripherals, providing ample opportunities for expansion or upgrade.
In terms of performance, the Hades Canyon nook's Intel Core i7-8809G processor provides strong gaming capabilities. Although it may not match the performance of a full-sized gaming PC with a more powerful processor, such as the Intel Core i7-8700K, the 8809G still delivers impressive results.
The system's multi-core score in Geekbench 4 is an impressive 15,100, which puts it on par with entry-level gaming tower PCs that cost significantly more than this model. This performance level makes the Hades Canyon nook a viable option for those looking to play popular games at high settings without breaking the bank.
One notable example of a game that can be played on the Hades Canyon nook is Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, which is one of the most demanding games available for PC. In this test, the system was able to maintain around 33 frames per second at 1080p resolution and ultra detail settings. While it may not be enough to achieve high frame rates or resolutions on more powerful hardware, the Hades Canyon nook still provides an excellent gaming experience.
In real-world use, we found that the Hades Canyon nook provided satisfactory performance when playing popular games like Overwatch. However, there are some limitations to consider, such as the fact that it may not be able to maintain high frame rates or resolutions on more demanding titles or at higher settings. Nevertheless, for casual gaming and general use, this PC provides a great balance of power and portability.
The price of the Hades Canyon nook is $1,000 without RAM, hard drive, or operating system, making it an affordable option for those looking to build their own gaming PC. While it may not be the cheapest option available in the market, its performance capabilities and compact design make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who want a powerful gaming PC that they can customize themselves.
In Conclusion
The Hades Canyon nook is a unique addition to Intel's nook line of compact PCs, which has recently expanded into the gaming market. With its compact size, impressive port selection, and strong performance capabilities, this system provides an excellent option for those looking to build their own gaming PC or upgrade their existing hardware with a more portable solution.
Intel's decision to focus on enthusiasts who are interested in building their own PCs reflects the company's commitment to providing solutions that cater to the needs of specific user groups. By targeting these users, Intel can provide high-quality components and systems that meet their unique requirements without being too expensive or complex for mainstream consumers.
Overall, the Hades Canyon nook is a great option for those looking for a powerful gaming PC that they can customize themselves. Its performance capabilities, compact design, and impressive port selection make it an attractive choice for anyone who wants to experience high-quality gaming on their own terms.