Intel "Compute Stick" (2016 model) review--Stick PC with Windows 10

　Just about any TV, spare computer monitor, or even projector with an HDMI input port can be turned into a Windows 10 desktop computer. It's a quick move. The trick is to pick up a new-generation microdesktop, say the $159 Intel Compute Stick (about the size of an oversized USB stick) and plug it into an available HDMI port.

　There is no doubt that such a micro-sized computer has brought new meaning to the concept of handheld computing. The original Compute Stick was a surprise hit at CES 2015, and this 2016 version is a modest update. At long last, a full-featured Windows desktop computer has been condensed into something small enough to fit in your pocket, making it easy to carry with one hand from room to room as needed. The new Compute Stick has a US suggested retail price of $159 (approximately), but the actual price is likely to be lower.

　One of the recent trends in unexpected device design, adopting a discreet stick shape. Boxes like the Roku and Amazon Fire TV have also shrunk to stick shapes, and desktop computers fit into the same slim shape. However, there are some compromises that must be made.

　Compute Stick and similar products should not be treated in the same way as high-end machines. Rather, it's likely to be able to compete with the cheapest clamshell laptops around $200. It has a low-power Intel "Atom" processor with just 2GB of RAM and a modest 32GB of flash storage (most of which is occupied by OS files).

　However, when it comes to quickly turning a TV or monitor into a desktop PC, you may not need more than simple web browsing, video streaming, and social media based online usage. If that's the case, even a simple stick PC like the Compute Stick should be enough.

　The 2016 model has some nice improvements from the first model. It has a slightly more sophisticated design with a matte finish and rounded corners. The body is slightly longer, and for good reason. The first model had one USB port, but the new model doubled to two (one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0). The Wi-Fi antenna has been strengthened to support 802.11ac (in the first generation, there were complaints that the reception sensitivity of Wi-Fi was low), and the Intel Atom processor is also the latest version one generation above (development code name "Cherry Trail" ). The older processor in the 2016 model did a good job streaming HD video, but again, the Atom processor won't make for an all-day computer, regardless of generation.

　This is a rather interesting attempt at minimalist computing, like the first-generation Compute Stick and the ASUS "Chromebit" (similar stick-type system with Google's "Chrome OS"). is. It's not for everyone, but it can be used as a PC to take with you on vacation or a PC you bring to meetings (with all PowerPoint files saved first). Turn your parlor TV into a mini home theater and stream videos.