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Asus ProArt PA90 Review: Power in Miniature

compact powerhouse with versatility

As the creative industry continues to demand ever-increasing processing power in a compact form factor, the Asus ProArt PA90 emerges as a compelling solution for professionals seeking high-performance computing without sacrificing valuable workspace. This diminutive powerhouse, packed with a potent Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA Quadro graphics, presents a tantalizing proposition for those who require the ability to tackle demanding tasks such as 3D rendering and video editing with ease. However, the true measure of the PA90's prowess lies not only in its impressive specifications, but also in its innovative cooling system and user-friendly features that elevate it beyond the confines of a traditional desktop workstation.

Key Takeaways

  • The Asus ProArt PA90 offers a compact and portable design with a sleek, modern aesthetic, making it ideal for small workspaces.
  • Its powerful Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA Quadro graphics card ensure high-performance capabilities for demanding tasks like 3D rendering and video editing.
  • The innovative thermal design with dual fans provides effective cooling, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating under heavy workloads.
  • The wide range of connectivity options, including multiple display support, high-speed USB ports, and Ethernet, cater to the diverse needs of creative professionals.
  • The user-friendly features, such as tool-less access, customizable RGB lighting, and pre-installed software, enhance the overall experience and reliability for long-term use.

The Asus ProArt PA90 is a compact and powerful mini PC workstation designed for professional creators and demanding users who require high-performance computing capabilities in a space-efficient form factor. Regarding performance, reviewers have praised the PA90's ability to handle intensive tasks like video editing and 3D rendering with ease, thanks to its capable Intel Core i7-9700K processor and NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics. Customer testimonials highlight the system's impressive speed and responsiveness, with some users noting that it outperforms their previous desktop setups. The compact design of the PA90 also allows for easy upgrades, with options to expand the RAM and storage as needed. Additionally, the system's ISV certification guarantees compatibility with a wide range of professional software, making it a versatile choice for creative and engineering workflows.

Features and Benefits

The Asus ProArt PA90 Mini PC workstation boasts a compact yet powerful design, featuring a liquid-cooled Intel Core i7-9700K processor and an NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics card for silent operation. Dual Thunderbolt 3 ports provide extensive connectivity options, while ISV certification guarantees seamless compatibility with professional software applications. The system's versatility and performance make it a compelling choice for creative professionals and power users alike.

Compact, yet Powerhouse Design

Compact yet powerful, the Asus ProArt PA90 mini PC workstation packs a punch with its robust hardware specifications designed to meet the demands of creative professionals. Measuring just 6.9 x 6.9 x 14.37 inches and weighing 11.15 pounds, this diminutive powerhouse offers exceptional performance efficiency. Its Intel Core i7-9700K processor, NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics, and 16GB of DDR4 memory guarantee smooth multitasking and seamless handling of resource-intensive applications like Adobe Creative Suite. Despite its compact form factor, the PA90 provides ample connectivity options, including dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit LAN, making it a versatile choice for on-the-go content creation and professional workflow. The carefully engineered liquid-cooling system further enhances the system's capability to deliver power without sacrificing portability.

Dual Thunderbolt 3 Connectivity

Dual Thunderbolt 3 ports on the Asus ProArt PA90 mini PC workstation provide a high-speed, versatile connectivity solution for creative professionals, enabling seamless integration with a wide range of peripherals and external storage devices. With Thunderbolt 3's blazing-fast data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps, users can effortlessly connect to high-resolution displays, external GPUs, and fast SSD storage, streamlining their workflow and maximizing productivity. The versatility of the Thunderbolt 3 interface allows for the connection of various devices, including USB-C accessories, Ethernet adapters, and even power delivery, providing a complete set of connectivity options in a compact, yet powerful form factor. This extensive connectivity empowers creative professionals to push the boundaries of their work with the Asus ProArt PA90.

ISV Certified for Software Compatibility

Boasting ISV (Independent Software Vendor) certification, the Asus ProArt PA90 mini PC workstation guarantees seamless compatibility and optimization with a wide range of industry-leading creative and professional software applications, empowering users to harness the full potential of their preferred tools. This certification is a testament to the extensive performance testing and validation undertaken by Asus to ensure the PA90's hardware and drivers work flawlessly with popular programs such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk, and others. Users can confidently rely on the PA90 to deliver consistent, reliable, and exceptional performance when tackling demanding software-driven workflows, safe in the knowledge that their investment is supported by rigorous ISV certification.

Liquid-Cooled CPU for Silent Operation

The Asus ProArt PA90 features a specialized CPU liquid-cooling system that enables silent operation, effectively dissipating heat and maintaining peak performance under heavy workloads. This advanced cooling solution incorporates a closed-loop liquid-cooling system, which utilizes a compact pump and radiator to draw heat away from the powerful i7-9700K processor. The combination of liquid cooling and a low-noise fan design guarantees the PA90 operates with minimal acoustic output, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments such as design studios or home offices. The efficient cooling system allows the CPU to sustain high clock speeds for extended periods, maximizing productivity and creativity without the disturbance of excessive fan noise.

Product Quality

Overall, the Asus ProArt PA90 impresses with its robust construction and attention to detail, showcasing Asus' commitment to quality engineering for this mini PC workstation. The chassis feels solid and well-built, with no flexing or creaking, even under heavy loads. The internal components are neatly organized, suggesting a thoughtful design process. Performance-wise, the combination of the Intel Core i7-9700K processor and NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics delivers impressive results, easily handling demanding creative workloads and even some gaming. While it may not reach the absolute peak of performance compared to larger, more expensive systems, the PA90 punches well above its weight, offering excellent value and reliability for its compact form factor.

What It's Used For

The Asus ProArt PA90 is a compact, powerful workstation that excels in professional workflows and multimedia creation. Its potent hardware configuration, including an Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA Quadro graphics, makes it well-suited for tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and graphic design. With its ISV certifications and support for high-resolution multi-display setups, the ProArt PA90 positions itself as a versatile solution for demanding creative professionals.

Professional Workflows

Given its ISV certification and powerful hardware configuration, the Asus ProArt PA90 is well-suited for professional-grade media creation and computational workloads. Performance benchmarks demonstrate the system's ability to handle resource-intensive tasks with ease, thanks to the Intel Core i7-9700K processor and NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics. The user interface is designed with creative professionals in mind, providing intuitive controls and seamless integration with industry-leading software suites like Adobe Creative Cloud. The compact form factor and ISV certification guarantee compatibility and reliability, making the ProArt PA90 an attractive choice for creative workflows, 3D modeling, video editing, and other demanding applications. Its versatility and performance make it a compelling option for power users seeking a compact, high-performance workstation.

Multimedia Creation

With its powerful hardware configuration, the Asus ProArt PA90 excels at a wide range of multimedia creation tasks, from high-resolution video editing to complex 3D modeling and rendering workflows. The NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics card, combined with the Intel Core i7-9700K processor, provides exceptional performance for creative projects that demand intensive GPU and CPU resources. The 16GB of DDR4 memory and fast SSD and HDD storage further enhance the system's capability, allowing users to seamlessly handle large video files, complex 3D scenes, and resource-intensive applications like Adobe Premiere Pro and Autodesk Maya. The compact and well-designed chassis of the ProArt PA90 makes it an ideal solution for space-constrained home or professional studios.

Compact Powerhouse

A remarkable combination of compact size and powerful performance, the Asus ProArt PA90 is designed to serve as a versatile workstation for a wide range of demanding tasks. Powered by the Intel Core i7-9700K processor and the NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics, this mini PC offers exceptional power efficiency without sacrificing portability. The compact footprint and lightweight design make it easy to transport, allowing users to take their high-performance computing capabilities on the go. Whether you're editing 4K video, rendering 3D models, or running resource-intensive software, the ProArt PA90 delivers the processing power and graphics performance required for these tasks, all while maintaining a remarkably small and portable form factor.

Product Specifications

The Asus ProArt PA90 Mini PC workstation boasts a powerful Intel Core i7-9700K processor, complemented by an NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics card, providing users with a robust hardware configuration designed for demanding professional applications. This compact powerhouse also features 16GB of DDR4 memory and a storage solution comprising a 512GB SSD and a 1TB HDD, ensuring ample space for both fast boot times and large file storage. The ProArt PA90 further impresses with its advanced connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.0, Gigabit LAN, and dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, making it an ideal choice for creative professionals seeking a versatile and high-performance workstation.

SpecificationDetail
ProcessorIntel Core i7-9700K
GraphicsNVIDIA Quadro P4000
Memory16GB DDR4
Storage512GB SSD + 1TB HDD
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.0, Gigabit LAN, Dual Thunderbolt 3
CoolingCPU Liquid-cooling System
CertificationISV Certified

Who Needs This

The Asus ProArt PA90 Mini PC workstation is a high-performance computing solution ideally suited for creative professionals and power users who need a compact, yet feature-rich system capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. Equipped with a powerful Intel Core i7-9700K processor, NVIDIA Quadro P4000 graphics, and ample storage and memory, the PA90 is a versatile tool for business applications such as video editing, 3D modeling, and data analysis. Its ISV certification guarantees seamless compatibility with leading professional software, while the efficient liquid-cooling system and multiple display support make it an excellent choice for multitasking and maximizing productivity. Whether you're a graphic designer, an architect, or a data scientist, the Asus ProArt PA90 offers the performance and flexibility to meet your demanding workflow requirements in a compact and elegant package.

Pros

Compact and space-saving design makes the Asus ProArt PA90 an ideal choice for users with limited desk space. This mini PC workstation packs a powerful punch, delivering exceptional performance that rivals larger desktop systems:

  • The Intel Core i7-9700K processor and NVIDIA Quadro P4000 GPU provide blazing-fast performance for demanding workloads, such as video editing, 3D modeling, and scientific simulations.
  • With 16GB of DDR4 memory and a combination of 512GB SSD and 1TB HDD storage, the PA90 offers a balanced blend of speed and capacity.
  • The ISV certifications guarantee compatibility with a wide range of professional software, making it a reliable workhorse for creative and engineering tasks.
  • The built-in liquid cooling system and compact design contribute to efficient thermal management, keeping the system cool and quiet during heavy use.
  • At a competitive price point, the Asus ProArt PA90 delivers exceptional value for its performance and features, making it a compelling option for professionals on the go.

Cons

Despite the Asus ProArt PA90's impressive performance and compact design, there are a few drawbacks worth noting. While the machine excels in raw power, the customer support experience has received mixed feedback, with some users reporting delays and difficulty resolving issues. Additionally, the pricing strategy may be a point of contention, as the configuration options can quickly escalate the cost, potentially pricing it out of reach for some professionals.

  • Inconsistent customer support experiences reported by users
  • Pricing can become prohibitive depending on configuration
  • Limited upgrade options for certain components
  • Lack of built-in optical drive may be a dealbreaker for some
  • Cooling system can be noisy under heavy load

What Customers Are Saying

As evident from the customer reviews, the Asus ProArt PA90 has received generally positive feedback, with users praising its impressive performance, sleek design, and overall value proposition. The mini PC has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with many customers highlighting its efficient processing speed and powerful GPU, which make it well-suited for tasks like content creation and gaming. Several users have also noted the ease of upgrading the RAM and storage, further enhancing the system's capabilities. While there have been some mixed feedback regarding customer support, the overall consensus among reviewers is that the Asus ProArt PA90 offers robust performance benefits in a compact, stylish package.

Overall Value

Ultimately, the Asus ProArt PA90 offers considerable value to users seeking a powerful and versatile mini PC workstation. A value analysis of the system reveals a compelling blend of high-end specifications and competitive pricing. When compared to similarly equipped desktop workstations, the PA90 delivers comparable processing power, graphics performance, and storage capacity in a notably more compact form factor. The inclusion of enterprise-grade features like ISV certification and dual Thunderbolt 3 ports further enhance its appeal for professionals in creative and technical fields. While the compact chassis may limit future upgradability, the PA90's overall performance, feature set, and price point make it an excellent choice for those who require a potent yet space-saving desktop solution.

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

Maximizing the Asus ProArt PA90's performance and capabilities can be achieved through several practical recommendations. Upgrading the system's RAM and storage components, for instance, can greatly enhance its responsiveness and file-handling capabilities. Users should consider investing in faster memory modules and high-speed solid-state drives to reveal the full potential of this workstation. Additionally, maintaining proper airflow and monitoring the liquid cooling system are essential for optimized performance, especially during intensive workloads. For troubleshooting, users can leverage the system's ISV certifications to guarantee compatibility with their software ecosystem. By following these tips, ProArt PA90 owners can ensure the full power of this compact powerhouse and achieve exceptional results in their professional workflows.

Conclusion

The Asus ProArt PA90 Mini PC workstation stands out as a compelling option for demanding creative professionals and power users, boasting an impressive array of features that cater to their specific needs. To sum up, this compact powerhouse offers a potent combination of performance, versatility, and design, making it a strong contender in the professional-grade mini PC market. The detailed set of technical specifications, including the high-end Intel processor, dedicated NVIDIA Quadro graphics, and ample storage and memory, positions the PA90 as a capable workhorse. Customer reviews further validate its real-world effectiveness, with praise for its efficiency in creative applications and gaming. Overall, the Asus ProArt PA90 emerges as a well-rounded and attractive option for those seeking a powerful yet space-saving workstation solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Asus Proart PA90 Be Used for Video Editing?

The Asus ProArt PA90's graphic design prowess and gaming performance make it a formidable video editing workstation. With its powerful i7 processor, dedicated Quadro GPU, and ample storage, this compact powerhouse can effortlessly handle even the most demanding video editing tasks.

Is the Asus Proart PA90 Suitable for 3D Modeling and Rendering?

The Asus ProArt PA90 boasts strong gaming performance and a compact, portable design, making it a suitable choice for 3D modeling and rendering tasks. Its powerful hardware, such as the NVIDIA Quadro P4000 GPU, can handle demanding 3D applications efficiently.

What Type of Cooling System Does the Asus Proart PA90 Have?

The Asus ProArt PA90 features a liquid-cooling system for effective thermal management. This advanced cooling solution helps dissipate heat efficiently, enabling consistent high performance from the powerful internal components while maintaining a compact, user-friendly design.

Can the Asus Proart PA90 Drive Multiple High-Resolution Displays Simultaneously?

The Asus ProArt PA90 supports driving multiple high-resolution displays simultaneously, with a dual Thunderbolt 3 interface that enables connection to up to two 8K displays at 60Hz or four 4K displays at 60Hz, showcasing its impressive performance capabilities.

What Is the Warranty and Return Policy for the Asus Proart Pa90?

The Asus ProArt PA90 comes with a standard warranty coverage and return policy. Customers can initiate the return process within 30 days for a full refund, subject to the company's satisfaction guarantee. Asus provides dedicated customer support to address any product-related concerns.

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Author

Hi, I'm the author behind Mini PC Reviewer. With a passion for technology and a deep fascination for mini PCs, I created this website to help you make informed decisions when it comes to choosing the perfect pint-sized computer. As our tagline suggests, we believe in big power in a tiny package. At Mini PC Reviewer, I aim to provide you with all the necessary information about mini PCs, their functionalities, comparisons to other devices, and the essential features to consider when purchasing one. From budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line models, let me be your trusted source for all things mini PC.