I replaced my full-sized desktop with a mini Windows PC, and it's somehow just as capable

Acer's Veriton NUC AI is a compact Windows PC with a bevy of ports and a portable form factor.

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Tech

Computing

PCs

I replaced my full-sized desktop with a mini Windows PC, and it's somehow just as capable

Acer's Veriton NUC AI is a compact Windows PC with a bevy of ports and a portable form factor.

Written by
Cesar Cadenas, Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Feb. 28, 2026 at 3:01 a.m. PT

[[acer-veriton-mini-pc-image-1.png]

Acer Veriton NUC AI PC](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=44583&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newegg.com%2Facer-america-barebone-systems-mini-pc-intel-core-ultra-7-vn1502g-lnl-cu716512g%2Fp%2F1VK-0017-013B8%3F)

ZDNET's key takeaways

• The Acer Veriton NUC AI PC typically sells for around $1,000, depending on the configuration..
• This mini PC has a very small footprint, while offering multi-monitor support, robust cooling, and smooth performance.
• Its best purchased on sale, as there are many competitive options at the regular price point.

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My world largely revolves around laptops; I've spent most of my personal and professional life using them. As a result, mini PCs have mostly been an afterthought, although I've always been curious about their capabilities. Could a tiny desktop offer the same level of satisfaction to pull me away from the notebook form factor?

I confronted that question head on when I recently tested the Acer Veriton NUC AI PC, a tiny Copilot PC designed for businesses.

Also: The best mini PCs you can buy

I'll be honest: I don't plan to ditch laptops anytime soon. However, Acer's mini machine made a very compelling case. I can absolutely see myself adding one of these PCs to my setup in the near future. If you're looking for a new computer, there are certainly reasons to consider a mini PC. Here's why.

[acer-veriton-mini-pc-image-6.png]
[#### ZDNET RECOMMENDS

Acer Veriton NUC AI PC

Acer's Veriton NUC AI PC delivers multi-monitor support, a travel-friendly design, and a robust cooling system. ](https://cc.zdnet.com/v1/otc/00hQi47eqnEWQ6T9d4QLBUc?merchant=02mYzt34zgiAMhBLN13jf2v&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.antonline.com%2FAcer%2F1530696)

details

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Small but mighty

As you can see, the Veriton PC is tiny, measuring just 5.16 x 5.16 x 1.69 inches and weighing about a pound. It's basically a tenth of the size of my big PC tower. I've eaten sandwiches bigger than this.

Even with the included 90W power adapter, this setup will not demand a ton of room, and that's the point here. Acer says the PC is designed for small spaces, especially in a business setting where there's no room for a full office setup. It's also worth mentioning that the PC is VESA-compliant, so with the right accessories, you can attach it to the back of a monitor for an even cleaner setup.

[acer-veriton-mini-pc-image-5.png]

Cesar Cadenas/ZDNET*

Acer didn't waste any valuable surface space, as the device comes with a thoughtful selection of ports. You get four USB-A ports (two USB 3.2 inputs up front and two USB 2.0 inputs around the back). The Veriton also provides three different display ports: HDMI and DisplayPort on the rear, plus DisplayPort over USB-C at the front, supporting up to three external monitors simultaneously.

What's neat about the USB-C is that it supports data transfer and can also be used for charging external devices.

[Acer Veriton NUC AI PC]

Cesar Cadenas/ZDNET*

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