From PCMAG · Michael Kan · · 2m
Asus launches AI mini PC with Qualcomm's X2 Elite chip
The Ascent QN10 brings 80 TOPS of AI performance to a compact desktop that can run AI agents locally.
In brief
The Ascent QN10 brings 80 TOPS of AI performance to a compact desktop that can run AI agents locally. Asus is entering the growing market for affordable AI-capable mini PCs with a machine that uses Qualcomm's latest chip to run AI tools at home or in the office. Originally reported by PCMAG.
Asus enters the AI mini PC race
Asus launched the Ascent QN10 on Thursday, a compact desktop powered by Qualcomm's X2 Elite processor. The company is marketing it as the world's first agentic AI mini PC with 80 TOPS of AI processing power.
X2 Elite doubles AI performance
Qualcomm's X2 Elite chips nearly double AI performance from 45 TOPS to 80 TOPS, a measurement of AI processing capability. This makes the Ascent QN10 capable of running AI tools and agents like OpenClaw or Hermes Agent directly on the hardware.
Compact design with 18 CPU cores
The Ascent QN10 uses the X2E-88-100 chip with 18 CPU cores and integrated graphics, weighing just 1.65 pounds. Asus promises the mini PC will run cool and quietly while delivering sustained performance.
Windows 11 Copilot Plus ready
The Ascent QN10 runs Windows 11 Copilot Plus and comes with 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM at $1,349 or 32GB at $1,699. It uses Qualcomm's Arm-based architecture rather than the x86 computing associated with Intel and AMD.
Growing demand for home AI
AI enthusiasts have been buying mini PCs to run AI agents locally at home or in the office. Apple and Nvidia are preparing pricier models with 96GB and 128GB of RAM for running larger AI models directly.
Affordable alternative to Mac Mini
The Ascent QN10 offers a more affordable option compared to Apple's recently upgraded Mac Mini. The $1,349 model is available at Best Buy, while the $1,699 version is selling on Amazon, Newegg, and Asus's store with supplies running low.
Expandable storage up to 4TB
The Ascent QN10 offers strong expandability with dual SSD design: one M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 5 slot and one PCIe Gen 4 slot, supporting up to 4TB total storage capacity.
The bottom line
Asus is entering the growing market for affordable AI-capable mini PCs with a machine that uses Qualcomm's latest chip to run AI tools at home or in the office.
