ASUS Chromebox 5a Mini PC with Celeron 7305 and 8GB RAM: specs and fit

The ASUS Chromebox 5a is a small desktop computer that runs Chrome OS. It comes with an Intel Celeron 7305 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD, and it can drive up to four displays. It suits offices, schools, reception desks and digital signage where a compact, easily managed machine is needed.

What Chrome OS means for a desktop

Chrome OS is Google's operating system, built around the Chrome browser and web apps. It typically starts quickly, updates itself and needs little maintenance, which is why it is popular in schools and businesses. Many tasks run in the browser, although Chrome OS devices can usually run Android and Linux apps depending on the model and settings. Check that the software you need works on it.

Processor, memory and storage

ASUS lists an Intel Celeron 7305 processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128GB M.2 PCIe Gen 4 x4 NVMe SSD. This is a light-duty configuration suited to browsing, documents, video calls and web-based business tools. The NVMe drive generally makes starting up and opening apps fast for its class.

Up to four displays

Two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort and one USB-C port support up to four 4K displays. That makes the Chromebox practical for multi-screen setups such as dashboards, trading-style layouts or shared information screens. Confirm which adapters or cables you need for each display.

Networking

The listing gives 2.5 Gbps Ethernet and dual-band Intel Wi-Fi 6E, along with Bluetooth. The wired connection is the better option when stability matters, and Wi-Fi 6E adds access to the 6 GHz band where your router supports it.

Security and mounting

ASUS says the Chromebox has a Titan C security chip and a Kensington lock slot for business-grade security. The chip handles security tasks in hardware, and the lock slot lets you tether the unit to a desk. A VESA mount is also listed, so the unit can attach to the back of a monitor to save desk space.

Size

It measures about 6.6 x 6.5 x 1.8 inches (17 x 16.5 x 4.6 cm) and weighs 1.8 lb (about 0.8 kg). The listing does not mention a monitor, keyboard or mouse, so plan to supply your own.

What to check before you buy

• That the apps and services you rely on work on Chrome OS.
• That you have a keyboard, mouse and display, and the right cables.
• That your monitors accept HDMI, DisplayPort or USB-C video.
• Whether the Celeron 7305 and 8GB suit your workload.
• How long Chrome OS devices receive updates, which ASUS and Google publish for each model.
• Whether your organisation needs a management licence for its Chrome OS devices.

The short version

• Compact Chrome OS desktop with Intel Celeron 7305.
• 8GB RAM and a 128GB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD.
• Up to four 4K displays through dual HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C.
• 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Titan C security chip and VESA mount.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.