I bought this to replace an old Dell XPS laptop I was currently using as an HTPC.  The laptop was beginning to struggle so I figured a dedicated HTPC might be a good option.  I haven't had much of a positive experience with integrated graphics in the past but I heard good things about the new i5 with HD 5000 graphics so I decided to go with that option.  Along with the NUC I also purchased a crucial 120GB mSATA SSD (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BQ8RFAI/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_35), 4GB of RAM (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CQ35GYE/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_57), and a power cord (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000AOWXO/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_12).  I installed windows 7 ultimate, updated all the drivers and bios, and was good to go in about 30 minutes.  Here are some initial impressions:Pros:-Small!  I think the pictures don't emphasize just how small this thing actually is.  The fact that there is so much crammed into this little box is pretty impressive.  I would say it's similar in size to an Apple TV (probably a little bigger) and just as unassuming.-Fast and powerful.  The core i5 certainly makes this thing a beast.  I use XBMC as my main HTPC portal which it runs with zero lag.  Boot times are incredibly fast (more due to the SSD) and switching between programs/tasks produces no visible stutters.-Intel HD 5000 graphics.  Initially I wasn't expecting much from the integrated graphics but I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised.  I've watched several 3D videos at 1080p and have had no performance issues.  I can't vouch for 4K content, but anything at 1080p should be silky smooth.-Works well as a HTPC.  I plug my NUC into my receiver using a mini HDMI cord.  It works incredibly well and supports high fidelity surround sound (something I could never get to work on my old XPS).  While you might have to tinker with the display size a bit to get it to fit correctly on your TV (you can do so with the Intel HD graphics control), it looks great when it's set up correctly.-Desktop replacement?  Again, I'm surprised at just how powerful this thing is for its small form factor.  I would guess that people could use this as a desktop replacement if you don't have space for a full size or mid tower.  I haven't pushed the HD 5000 graphics but I doubt that it could be used to play current or future gen games.  Possibly if you set all the settings to low but if you are that interested in gaming might as well build a gaming rig.Cons:-Small.  This isn't really a con as much as it is a by-product.  Because of its size, there isn't much room inside the box so if you want more storage space you'll have to hook it up to an external HDD.  I use a NAS system which helps cut down on cable clutter.  Again, not really a con.-RAM compatibility issues.  This was my fault for not reading the compatibility directions carefully.  I had 4GB of SO-DIMM laptop memory that I thought would work perfectly.  Turns out it was 1.5V which is not compatible.  I had to purchase a different RAM stick which was annoying but not the end of the world.-Heating.  I've noticed that when performing more intensive tasks for longer periods of time this little box can get pretty warm.  It doesn't seem to be hot enough to be a cause for concern but I would definitely keep it out in the open.Summary:-Overall this is a great HTPC.  It's fast, powerful, and small enough that most people don't even notice it even though I keep it right under my TV.  It is definitely on the pricey side, but I don't foresee any need to upgrade this thing for a long time.  If you are interested in building a media center or even want a small desktop, I would definitely recommend this.Other thoughts:-This is weird but whenever I turn off my receiver and the NUC is on it goes BSOD on me.  I think it has something to do with my settings but I haven't been able to figure it out.  I will update this review if I solve the problem.