Rickles:

 

So essentially, an Intel NUC/micro is the desired standard?

 

ASUS has taken over the Intel NUC product line. The build quality of the NUC case is better than any of the other units I've used, with the exception of PC Engines which have dead simple all-aluminium cases. I've not had any issues with reliability of cheaper Chinese systems, but these have mostly been low power systems (e.g. the N100 is 6W TDP). When you have a lot of heat to get rid of, the design and build materials will be more important.

In addition to the minis, I also have four compute stick style computers. These have also been reliable in 24/7 operations as Kodi front-ends and running digital signage, but they've all been retired now. Given the difference in price, I consider the Chinese clones to be worth the risk.