Verdict
Post-2026.4 OpenClaw on a NUC 13 32 GB works fine, but Hermes Agent on the same hardware is the easier on-ramp for new deployments. Stay on OpenClaw if you have an existing install with custom plugins. Migrate if you're starting fresh.
Setup notes
If migrating from pre-2026.3, expect breaking config changes. Read the foundation's migration guide before upgrading. Our /guides/migrate-openclaw-to-hermes is the alternative path.
Performance
Comparable to Hermes Agent on the same hardware. Plugin marketplace gives OpenClaw a richer extension surface, at some operational complexity cost.
What breaks
- Pre-2026.3 deployments without migration
- Custom plugins not yet ported to 2026.4+
Want to know more
See the OpenClaw page and the Intel NUC 13 and Geekom IT13 spec sheet.