What is the ASUS Chromebox 3 CN65?
The ASUS Chromebox 3 CN65 is a small form factor mini PC that ASUS launched in 2018, running Google's Chrome OS. Internally it is built around 8th Generation Intel processors, with configurations ranging from an Intel Celeron 3865U up to an Intel Core i7-8550U, paired with integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620. According to ASUS's own datasheet, the CN65 supports 4 GB up to 16 GB of DDR4 SODIMM memory and M.2 storage from 32 GB up to 256 GB. It measures 148.5 x 148.5 x 40 mm, weighs around 1 kg, and ships with either a 65 W or 90 W power adapter.
Key specifications at a glance
| Feature | ASUS Chromebox 3 CN65 |
|---|---|
| Processor options | Intel Celeron 3865U, Core i3-7100U, i3-8130U, i5-8250U, i7-8550U |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 620 |
| Memory | 4 GB to 16 GB DDR4 SODIMM |
| Storage | M.2, 32 GB to 256 GB |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
| Networking | Gigabit LAN, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Ports | 5x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (1x Type-C), 1x HDMI, RJ45 LAN, audio jack, card reader |
| Power | 65 W / 90 W adapter |
| Dimensions | 148.5 x 148.5 x 40 mm |
The CN65's appeal was its compact footprint, VESA mountability, dual-display support and tight Chrome OS integration with Google Play apps and automatic updates. It found a niche in kiosks, digital signage, meeting rooms and lightweight desk-based browsing and cloud work.
Where this class of device fits today
Organisations evaluating a Chromebox-class machine are usually looking for a small, quiet, low-maintenance desktop that can drive a couple of displays, run a browser-centric workload and sit unattended for years. The main considerations are the operating system (Chrome OS versus Windows or Linux), the processor tier, memory and storage headroom, and how the device handles dust, heat and continuous operation in commercial environments.
Many deployments that once standardised on Chrome OS hardware have since moved toward Windows 11 or Linux mini PCs, because they need to run local line-of-business software, remote management agents, or virtual desktop clients that are not available as Chrome extensions. In those cases, a mini PC with a modern Intel processor, 8–16 GB of RAM, SSD storage and dual display outputs is the natural replacement.
Choosing the right mini PC for your workload
For basic kiosk, signage or thin-client duty, a 4-core Intel processor with 8 GB of RAM and a 128 GB SSD is generally sufficient, and fanless designs are preferred where dust or noise is a concern. For multi-tab browsing, light content creation or virtual desktop use, a 6- to 10-core Intel chip with 16 GB of RAM and a 256 GB or larger SSD gives noticeably better responsiveness. Ports matter too: two HDMI outputs or HDMI plus USB-C make dual-monitor setups straightforward, and dual Gigabit Ethernet is valuable where a device sits on two networks or needs failover.
Thinvent mini PCs for Chromebox-class deployments
Thinvent builds fanless and compact industrial computers, mini PCs, thin clients and all-in-one PCs designed for continuous, unattended operation in commercial and industrial settings. Our Aero mini PC range uses Intel processors with up to 16 GB DDR4 memory and SSD storage, and is available with Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 IoT, Ubuntu Linux, Thinux embedded Linux or without an OS, so you can match the platform to your application rather than the other way around. For organisations moving away from Chrome OS hardware or standardising on a new fleet, Thinvent offers a reliable, globally supported alternative with the I/O, mounting options and long-lifecycle supply that professional deployments require.
Thinvent Alternatives to Asus
| Specification | Asus Chromebox 3 CN65 | Thinvent Aero Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i7-8550U (8th Gen) | Intel Celeron N5095A (11th Gen) |
| Cores/Threads | 4C / 8T | 4C / 4T |
| RAM (max) | Up to 16GB DDR4 | 16GB |
| Storage | 32GB SSD (M.2 slot) | 128GB SSD |
| Form Factor | Mini PC | Mini PC |
View these products:
The Thinvent Aero Mini PC is the closest match in form factor, offering the same compact mini-PC footprint and expandable 16GB RAM ceiling as the Asus Chromebox 3 CN65. The honest trade-off is processor class: the Aero runs an 11th-gen Celeron N5095A rather than a Core i7, so it suits everyday productivity, browsing, and light office workloads rather than heavy multitasking. In return, it ships with a larger 128GB SSD out of the box.
