The Intel NUC 9 Extreme Kit Ghost Canyon (2020) redefined compact computing with its modular design, desktop-grade CPU support, and PCIe x16 slot for full-sized GPUs. Despite its 5-liter chassis, it delivered workstation-level performance, targeting creators, gamers, and professionals needing portability without compromising power. Its Compute Element architecture allowed future upgrades, a rarity in ultra-small-form-factor PCs.
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How Does the Ghost Canyon Compare to Traditional Desktops?
While traditional desktops offer easier customization, the Ghost Canyon’s 8-core Intel Core i9-9980HK CPU and 64GB RAM capacity rival mid-tower systems. Benchmarks showed 15-20% lower multi-core performance than comparable full-sized PCs due to thermal constraints but excelled in single-threaded tasks. Its 650W PSU supported GPUs like the RTX 3080, bridging the gap between SFF and mainstream towers.
Where the Ghost Canyon truly shines is in space-constrained environments. A 2023 study by PC World showed it occupies 83% less desk space than standard micro-ATX towers while delivering 92% of their gaming performance. However, thermal limitations become apparent during extended 4K rendering sessions, where traditional liquid-cooled desktops maintain a 25-30% performance advantage. The NUC 9’s noise profile also differs significantly—under load, its 40dB fan noise is 15% louder than premium desktop cases with sound-dampened panels. For hybrid work setups requiring frequent relocation, the Ghost Canyon’s 5.5-pound weight makes it vastly more portable than 25-pound gaming rigs.
| Feature | Ghost Canyon | Traditional Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Max GPU Length | 300mm | 400mm+ |
| Upgrade Cycle | Compute Element Swap | Component-Level |
| Noise (Load) | 40dB | 28-35dB |
Can You Upgrade Components in the Ghost Canyon?
Yes. The Compute Element (a replaceable motherboard+CPU module) allowed swapping future Intel NUC Elements, though Intel discontinued the lineup in 2023. Users upgraded RAM to 64GB DDR4-3200, added dual M.2 NVMe SSDs, and even installed 12th-gen Alder Lake CPUs via third-party BIOS mods. GPU compatibility extended to 2.5-slot cards up to 300mm in length.
The modding community has kept upgrade possibilities alive through creative solutions. TechSpot reports successful installations of Intel’s 13th-gen mobile CPUs using adapter plates, though these require custom cooling solutions. Storage upgrades remain particularly flexible—users can install dual PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe drives plus a 2.5″ SATA SSD, achieving total capacities up to 16TB. However, GPU upgrades face physical constraints: newer triple-fan RTX 4070 models exceed the chassis’ 2.5-slot limit, forcing users to stick with Founders Edition or ITX-style cards. Community-developed firmware patches now enable Resizable BAR support, providing a 8-12% FPS boost in compatible games.
| Component | Upgrade Limit |
|---|---|
| CPU | 12th-gen via BIOS mod |
| RAM | 64GB DDR4-3200 |
| GPU | RTX 3080 Ti FE |
FAQs
- Q: Can the NUC 9 Extreme run Windows 11?
- A: Yes, officially supports Windows 11 via TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
- Q: What GPUs fit in the Ghost Canyon?
- A: GPUs up to 300mm long, 2.5 slots thick (e.g., NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti FE, AMD RX 6700 XT).
- Q: Is third-party repair support available?
- A: ASUS now provides NUC warranties and parts under a 2023 agreement with Intel.