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- Best overall: ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H)
- Best budget: ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H)
- Best premium: Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch)
- Best for large laptops: Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch)
- The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 is a compact desktop PC, while Targus laptop bags carry laptops; they solve different needs.
- The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 with Intel Core i7-12700H is the strongest mini PC pick in this guide.
- Targus Drifter II Backpack fits laptops up to 17 inches, making it the roomiest bag choice here.
- Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart suits shoppers who value recycled materials and everyday laptop protection.
- Choose a PC by processor, memory and ports; choose a bag by laptop fit, comfort and organization.
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 and Targus laptop bags serve different jobs, so this Black Friday 2026 guide compares 2 compact PCs with 5 carry options rather than treating them as substitutes. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify which product fits each kind of shopper.
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 is a small desktop computer for home offices, media setups and compact workstations. Targus laptop bags are accessories for carrying and protecting a portable computer. My pick for most people depends on whether the need is computing power or a better way to carry a laptop. The picks below explain the strongest use case for every product.
How We Picked
- Compared processor details and upgrade options for the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 configurations.
- Checked laptop-size compatibility and practical organization features across Targus backpacks.
- Prioritized products with a clear use case, from compact desktop work to larger-laptop commuting.
- Reviewed product specifications, owner feedback and manufacturer information without treating different product types as direct substitutes.
- Favored products with useful everyday features instead of relying on Black Friday pricing claims.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Headline fit or processor | Memory or laptop fit | Storage or design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H) | Powerful compact desktop builds | Intel Core i7-12700H, 14 cores | Up to 64 GB DDR5 | 2 M.2 slots |
| ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H) | Everyday compact desktop use | Intel Core i5-12500H, 12 cores | 2 DDR5 SO-DIMM slots | 2 M.2 slots |
| Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch) | Commuters carrying a 15.6-inch laptop | Laptop fit up to 15.6 inches | 1 dedicated laptop compartment | 2 shoulder straps |
| Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch) | Large laptops and travel | Laptop fit up to 17 inches | 1 dedicated laptop compartment | 2 shoulder straps |
| Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch) | Recycled-material everyday carry | Laptop fit up to 15.6 inches | 1 dedicated laptop compartment | 2 shoulder straps |
| Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) | Streamlined daily commuting | Laptop fit up to 15.6 inches | 1 dedicated laptop compartment | 2 shoulder straps |
| Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) | Straightforward school and office carry | Laptop fit up to 15.6 inches | 1 dedicated laptop compartment | 2 shoulder straps |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H)
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H) is the best compact desktop for demanding work-from-home users. The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H)'s 14-core processor and upgradeable barebone design make it a strong foundation for a custom small-form-factor PC.
Best for: Powerful compact desktop builds
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-12700H, 14 cores
- Memory
- 2 DDR5 SO-DIMM slots, up to 64 GB
- Storage
- 2 M.2 slots
- Strong 14-core processor for a mini PC
- Supports up to 64 GB of memory
- Two M.2 slots provide storage flexibility
- Barebone configuration requires separate memory and storage
Is the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H) is worth considering for a compact desktop build that needs a 14-core processor. Check the included configuration carefully, since barebone versions require separate memory and storage.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H)
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H) is the best lower-cost route to a compact ASUS desktop for everyday productivity. The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H)'s 12-core processor and 2 DDR5 memory slots provide a capable base for a customized setup.
Best for: Everyday compact desktop use
- Processor
- Intel Core i5-12500H, 12 cores
- Memory
- 2 DDR5 SO-DIMM slots
- Storage
- 2 M.2 slots
- 12-core processor suits everyday multitasking
- Compact barebone format
- Memory and storage can be configured to suit the build
- Memory and storage are not included in barebone configurations
Is the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H) is a sensible choice for everyday desktop tasks in a compact enclosure. The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H)'s 12-core processor offers a capable starting point, but the barebone format calls for separately selected memory and storage.
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#3
Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch)
The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch) is the best commuter backpack for workers carrying a standard-size laptop and daily essentials. The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch)'s dedicated 15.6-inch laptop compartment and structured design help keep work gear organized on the move.
Best for: Commuters carrying a 15.6-inch laptop
- Laptop fit
- Up to 15.6 inches
- Laptop storage
- 1 dedicated laptop compartment
- Carry style
- 2 shoulder straps
- Dedicated laptop storage
- Structured commuter-friendly design
- Separate space for everyday work items
- Not designed for laptops larger than 15.6 inches
Is the Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch) is worth considering for daily commuting with a standard-size laptop. The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch)'s dedicated 15.6-inch compartment separates a computer from other work items, making it a practical choice for organized everyday carry.
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#4
Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch)
The Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch) is the best Targus option for travelers and commuters carrying a large laptop. The Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch)'s 17-inch laptop compatibility gives owners of larger machines more room than the 15.6-inch bags in this guide.
Best for: Large laptops and travel
- Laptop fit
- Up to 17 inches
- Laptop storage
- 1 dedicated laptop compartment
- Carry style
- 2 shoulder straps
- Accommodates laptops up to 17 inches
- Useful for carrying larger daily loads
- Backpack format distributes weight across 2 shoulders
- Larger body takes up more space than a slim commuter bag
Is the Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch) is a strong option for owners of laptops that exceed the common 15.6-inch size. The Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch)'s 17-inch fit makes it the clearest choice in this selection when laptop compatibility is the main concern.
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#5
Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch)
The Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch) is the best everyday choice for shoppers who want a laptop backpack made with recycled materials. The Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch)'s 15.6-inch laptop fit combines daily computer carry with an EcoSmart-focused design.
Best for: Recycled-material everyday carry
- Laptop fit
- Up to 15.6 inches
- Laptop storage
- 1 dedicated laptop compartment
- Carry style
- 2 shoulder straps
- EcoSmart recycled-material design
- Fits many mainstream laptop sizes
- Suitable for work, school and commuting
- Not the right fit for laptops larger than 15.6 inches
Is the Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch) is worth considering for everyday laptop carry with a recycled-material design. The Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch)'s 15.6-inch laptop compartment suits many common work and school computers, while the backpack format leaves room for daily essentials.
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#6
Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch)
The Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) is the best streamlined pick for commuters who want a laptop backpack with a clean, practical profile. The Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch)'s 15.6-inch fit targets the most common laptop class without stepping up to a larger travel pack.
Best for: Streamlined daily commuting
- Laptop fit
- Up to 15.6 inches
- Laptop storage
- 1 dedicated laptop compartment
- Carry style
- 2 shoulder straps
- Designed for mainstream 15.6-inch laptops
- Simple profile suits daily commutes
- Backpack carry leaves hands free
- Less suited to shoppers who need a 17-inch laptop compartment
Is the Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) is a practical choice for commuting with a standard-size laptop. The Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch)'s dedicated laptop compartment and straightforward backpack design suit shoppers who want daily computer protection without choosing a larger 17-inch pack.
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#7
Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch)
The Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) is the best simple carry option for students and office users who want a familiar backpack format. The Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch)'s 15.6-inch laptop fit covers many everyday computers while keeping the product focused on basic transport.
Best for: Straightforward school and office carry
- Laptop fit
- Up to 15.6 inches
- Laptop storage
- 1 dedicated laptop compartment
- Carry style
- 2 shoulder straps
- Fits many everyday laptop sizes
- Simple backpack format
- Useful for school or office routines
- Less appropriate for large 17-inch laptops
Is the Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) is worth considering for basic school, office or commuting use. The Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch)'s dedicated laptop space suits many everyday computers, while the familiar backpack format keeps the focus on carrying a laptop and daily essentials.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Is the ASUS PN64 better than a Targus laptop bag?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 is a compact desktop PC, while Targus laptop bags are carrying accessories, so neither product replaces the other. The keyword “ASUS PN64 vs Targus laptop bag” combines two different shopping needs: choosing a computer and choosing a way to carry one.
Choose the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 for a stationary Windows desktop setup with configurable memory and storage. Choose a Targus backpack when the priority is carrying and organizing a laptop. If both needs apply, compare the PN64 against another desktop computer, then match a Targus bag to the laptop that will travel. Skip it if a product page presents the PN64 and a backpack as equivalent alternatives.
What should shoppers know about the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 is a compact desktop computer platform built around 12th-generation Intel H-series processors, with configurations such as the 14-core Intel Core i7-12700H. The small chassis is intended for a desk, media area or compact workstation rather than laptop-style travel.
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H) stands out for buyers who want more processor headroom, while the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i5-12500H) suits everyday desktop tasks. Both listed options are barebone configurations, so confirm included memory, storage and operating system before choosing. Two M.2 slots and two DDR5 memory slots give buyers room to configure a build.
Which Targus laptop bag fits a larger laptop?
The Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch) is the clearest fit for a laptop up to 17 inches, while the other featured Targus bags target laptops up to 15.6 inches. The laptop’s screen size is a starting point, not a guarantee of fit: check the computer’s exterior width and thickness against the bag’s compartment dimensions.
For a typical work or school computer, the Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch), Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch), Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) and Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) cover the standard-size category. Choose the Targus Drifter II Backpack for a larger machine or extra travel capacity, and favor the slimmer options for regular commuting.
How do you choose between these Targus backpacks?
The Targus Drifter II Backpack fits up to 17 inches, while four other featured Targus backpacks fit up to 15.6 inches. Start with laptop compatibility, then consider daily load, commute length and whether a structured or streamlined shape suits the routine.
The Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch) is the pick for shoppers who prioritize recycled-material design. The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch) is a practical commuter choice; the Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) offers a cleaner, streamlined profile; and the Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) covers basic school or office carry. Check padding, pocket layout and shoulder comfort details before ordering.
What should you look for on Black Friday 2026?
The right Black Friday 2026 choice starts with product type: buy the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 for desktop computing or a Targus backpack for laptop transport. A category keyword alone does not establish that two products compete directly, so decide which problem needs solving before comparing options.
For the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64, confirm the processor, included memory and storage, operating-system status, port selection and upgrade path. For a Targus backpack, check exact laptop fit, compartment dimensions, padding and return terms. Product listings can differ by configuration, so verify the full model name and included contents at checkout. Focus on useful specifications and a suitable return policy rather than an advertised headline alone.
Buying Guide
Choose a computer or a carry bag first
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 handles desktop computing, while the 5 featured Targus backpacks carry portable computers. Decide whether the need is a new desktop or a bag before comparing product features.
Match the PN64 processor to the workload
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC has a 14-core Intel Core i7-12700H, while the PN64-E1 uses a 12-core Intel Core i5-12500H. Choose for the intended work, then check included components.
Confirm every laptop measurement
The Targus Drifter II Backpack fits laptops up to 17 inches, and the other listed Targus bags fit up to 15.6 inches. Check exterior dimensions as well as the screen-size label.
Check what the product box includes
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 barebone configurations require a close check of included memory and storage. Targus backpack shoppers should check the exact model, laptop sleeve and organizational features before ordering.
Compare useful features for Black Friday 2026
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 offers configurable desktop hardware, while Targus bags offer laptop protection and carry convenience. Compare specifications, fit and return terms to choose a product that solves the actual need.
FAQ
What is the difference between the ASUS PN64 and a Targus laptop bag?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 is a compact desktop computer, while a Targus laptop bag is an accessory for carrying a laptop. The products do different jobs, so choose the PN64 for desktop computing and a Targus bag for portable computer transport.
Which Targus backpack fits a 17-inch laptop?
The Targus Drifter II Backpack (17-inch) is the featured choice for laptops up to 17 inches. Check the laptop’s exterior measurements against the bag’s compartment dimensions before buying, since screen size alone does not confirm a precise fit.
Is the ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 good for multitasking?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 Barebone Mini PC (Intel Core i7-12700H) is a capable compact desktop option for multitasking, with a 14-core processor and support for up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory. Confirm the selected configuration includes the memory and storage needed.
Which Targus backpack is best for a 15.6-inch laptop?
The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch), Targus Cypress Hero Backpack with EcoSmart (15.6-inch), Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) and Targus Classic+ Backpack (15.6-inch) all target laptops up to 15.6 inches. Choose based on organization, design and daily carry needs.
Is a barebone ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 ready to use?
The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64 barebone models require shoppers to check which components are included. The ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-S1 and ASUS ExpertCenter PN64-E1 configurations need memory and storage selected or supplied separately, so verify the listing contents before purchase.
Which Targus bag is a good commuter choice?
The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack (15.6-inch) is a practical commuter pick for a standard-size laptop and daily work essentials. The Targus GeoLite Advanced Laptop Backpack (15.6-inch) is another option for shoppers who prefer a streamlined backpack profile.