Best MicroPC Stick

Review & Comparison, Last Update October 3, 2024
How about turning your TV set into a full-on PC? It's now possible if you use a micro pc stick - a small HDMI dongle that, however, is performing enough to serve as a full-scale computer. We have shortlisted the best micro pc sticks so that you can pick the most suitable one! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
CPU
RAM
Storage
Ports
OS
Weight
WARRANTY
 
PROS
The high-speed USB 3.0 connection allows transferring a lot of data to and from external storage devices as fast as possible.
CONS
The device heats up under a significant load.
OUR VERDICT
It's a superb microPC stick that offers impressive connectivity and helps you turn any monitor or TV into a fully-functional computer.
detailed parameters
CPU
Intel Atom X5-Z8300 quad-core 1.44 GHz
RAM
2 GB
Storage
32 GB
Ports
1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, 1x MicroUSB (powered), 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x Micro SD card slot, WiFi 802.11ac dual band, Bluetooth 4.0
OS
Windows 10 (Home)
Weight
13.4 ounces
WARRANTY
3-year international warranty
PROS
This is the only model on our shortlist, which has a LAN port for establishing a lag-free Internet connection. No active cooling means this microPC stick makes no noise at all when it's running.
CONS
No HDMI cable in the supply package.
OUR VERDICT
Despite a small size, this micro computer allows you to watch streamed videos and to enjoy the services like YouTube, Netflix, and others on your TV set.
detailed parameters
CPU
Intel Atom quad-core 1.33 GHz
RAM
2 GB
Storage
32 GB
Ports
1xUSB 2.0, 1xHDMI 1.4, 1xMicro SD card slot, 1xLAN port
OS
Windows 10 Home
Weight
6.1 ounces
WARRANTY
1-year limited hardware warranty
PROS
This mini PC stick ensures a high data transfer speed. The unit can play Full HD videos from both online streaming services like YouTube and local storage.
CONS
If you want to connect several devices via a USB port, make sure to get a USB hub since this micro PC stick has only 1 available USB slot.
OUR VERDICT
It takes just 5 minutes to complete the setup and get a fully functional Windows-operated micro computer on your TV or monitor. Lenovo IdeaCenter is the quietest and most compact in our micro pc comparison.
detailed parameters
CPU
Intel Atom quad-core 1.33GHz
RAM
2 GB
Storage
32 GB
Ports
1xUSB 2.0, 1xMicroUSB, 1xMicro SD Card Slot
OS
Windows 10 (32 bit)
Weight
2.2 ounces
WARRANTY
1-year base warranty
PROS
Chromebit mini PC stick has an ultra-fast combination of software and hardware, so it boots within seconds. Chromebit is always up-to-date thanks to regular automatic updates. You can use 100GB of cloud storage on Google Drive.
CONS
Unfortunately, this fantastic Google Chromebit micro PC stick has no slot for memory cards.
OUR VERDICT
Turn your TV or HDMI monitor into a Chromebase computer and fully enjoy the Chrome OS working speed. Perfect for both work and entertainment.
detailed parameters
CPU
Rockchip quad-core 1.8GHz
RAM
2 GB
Storage
16 GB
Ports
1xUSB 2.0
OS
Chrome OS
Weight
2.7 ounces
WARRANTY
1-year base warranty
PROS
This small Android-based micro PC stick can easily play Full HD videos and even stream 3D content.
CONS
Some pre-installed apps can't be deleted.
OUR VERDICT
Lag-free Android-based PC stick with a good responsiveness and resolution. You can play all your favourite Android and simulator games on your 3D TV or a monitor.
detailed parameters
CPU
Rockchip K3188 quad-core 1.6GHz
RAM
1GB DDR3
Storage
4GB
Ports
1xUSB2.0 OTG, 1xUSB2.0 HOST, 1xMicro SD Card Slot
OS
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean
Weight
7.2 ounces
WARRANTY
Amazon's 30-day returns policy
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Intel CS125 (STK1AW32SC)

Compact Power

This device boasts an impressive performance yet it has a really miniature and elegant black plastic casing. There are special ventilation holes in the casing through which the air moves and, therefore, the hardware is cooled. Despite being the size of a chewing gum stick, this microPC stick is rather powerful in terms of its hardware. It has a cutting-edge Intel Atom X5-Z8300 quad-core CPU, each core clocked at 1.44GHz. Intel's Turbo Boost technology can increase the power of the CPU by raising the operation frequency up to 1.84GHz. The RAM capacity is 2GB (DDR3 type). Of course, like other microPC sticks, this one has an integrated Intel HD Graphics GPU, which is enough to play videos, browse the Internet, and perform other basic tasks. Moreover, we've found out that the combo of the CPU and GPU even allows you to play simple arcade games by just plugging the stick to a TV or monitor. No need to say, browsing web pages is a real pleasure since you have the whole huge screen for it! Actually, this tiny device turns any HDMI TV into a functional computer. The total memory capacity of 32GB gives you enough space to store most important files and access them at any moment.

Review of Intel CS125 (STK1AW32SC) Computer with Intel Atom x5 Processor and Windows 10

Interfaces for All Types of Connections

This microPC stick has lots of ports and interfaces that ensure the ultimate connectivity. If you wish to expand the memory capacity, use a micro SD card slot (the device can read any micro SD card with the maximum capacity of 128GB). You can set a wireless connection via Bluetooth; it allows you to connect different peripherals without any wires or cables. Going online is simple thanks to the WiFi adapter. Moreover, there are 2 USB slots: 1 USB 2.0 and 1 USB 3.0. Thus, you can connect an extrernal hard drive or a flash drive. No need to mention, USB peripherals (mouse and keyboard) can be connected, too. Don't forget that USB 3.0 ensures a lightning-fast data transfer. Copying a movie will take seconds!

In all, this is a really helpful microPC stick that you can use in many ways: turn your TV into a Smart TV, use it as a computer, or carry it with you for making awesome presentations and have a real computer at hand.

Intel CS125 (STK1AW32SC) Computer with Intel Atom x5 Processor and Windows 10 in the use

More Products to Consider

If you need to type a lot and don't want to mess with cables, use one of the Bluetooth keyboards from our review.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $288.97
Stock In stock
ASIN B01AZC4NHS

VIDEO
Intel Compute Stick Review (Cherry Trail model)

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

For the price and considering the features and speed, and the fact that WIndows 10 is included, it can't be beat for value.

Features

This Intel also has 2 USB ports that work well and seem to be powered sufficiently to support an additional Wi-Fi device and wireless keyboard/mouse combo.
 

Azulle Quantum Quantum Access LAN Fanless

Performance

As most other stick computers of this kind, Quantum is equipped with Intel Atom Z3735F CPU clocked at 1.33 GHz. It is self-evident that this processor has 4 cores and it's very often used both in mini PCs and tablets. The memory capacity is also quite typical: 2 GB RAM and 32 GB storage. It's more than enough for this pretty powerful compact stick PC that is capable of streaming HD videos, surfing any websites, working with offline and online (i.e. cloud) documents, and so on.

Review of Azulle Quantum Quantum Access LAN Fanless Mini PC Stick

Interfaces and OS

Quantum Access stick computer comes with a pre-installed Windows 10 Home OS that makes this portable device almost as functional as your desktop PC. That's the only stick computer having a LAN port, so if you want to use a lag-free Internet - use this kind of connection. Of course, Wi-Fi adapter is also included, so you can go online wirelessly as well. Note that there's a Bluetooth support for pairing your wireless headphones or headset with this micro PC stick. It goes without saying that connection of a wireless keyboard/mouse is no problem too. Unlike some other similar devices, Quantum has a single USB port, so you might need a USB hub to connect all the peripherals you want.

Azulle Quantum Quantum Access LAN Fanless Mini PC Stick in the use

Design and Package

The casing of this micro PC stick is made of black plastic, so the device looks like most of its counterparts. The stick computer is rather small, so if you need to make presentations at business meetings or during trips, this small device will be truly helpful. And its abilities are not limited just to presentations; you can insert this stick to your TV and turn it into a really functional media center. The unit is powered through the micro USB port. As far as the shipping package is concerned, this micro desktop comes with a power adapter and an HDMI cable (male-female).

Detailed review of Azulle Quantum Quantum Access LAN Fanless Mini PC Stick
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B018GWVOGC

VIDEO
Mini PC Stick WITH Ethernet? Azulle Quantum Access LAN

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Performed as advertised, if not better. Very fast for something with only 2G Ram.

Features

WiFi sets up easily and the Bluetooth sync easily with the keyboard.
 

Lenovo Ideacentre Stick 300 (90F20000US)

Performance

Lenovo is one of the leading manufacturers of high-tech devices and computers in particular. Their micro PC stick has been released quite recently. The device is one of the leading devices of this kind in terms of performance and hardware. The gadget has a quad-core Intel Atom Z3735F CPU that runs at a frequency of 1.33GHz. RAM capacity is sufficient - 2GB. Built-in Intel HD Graphics GPU with Bay Trail technology that boosts the video performance for better image quality and for launching some games. Also, the storage is rather big - 32GB, so you can keep all your most important files right there.

Review of Lenovo Ideacentre Stick 300 (90F20000US)

Interfaces and OS

Lenovo IdeaCentre(TM) Stick 300 is almost a fully functional PC. This tiny portable computer has a pre-installed Windows 10 (32-bit version), which gives you a full scope of capabilities. You can install programs you need, use MS Office, watch videos, browse the Internet, and so on. This is a small PC that is always at hand no matter where you are. Lenovo micro PC stick has a WiFi adapter (802.11 b/g/n) that allows you to go online. You can connect peripherals (like a keyboard, mouse, headphones, etc.) via Bluetooth. You can connect different gadgets through a USB slot. For example, you can connect a printer - the necessary driver can be easily installed on Windows 10 OS.

Lenovo Ideacentre Stick 300 (90F20000US) in the use

Design and Package

Lenovo mini PC stick looks great - the casing is made of matte black plastic and the dimensions of the whole unit are as follows: 4.7x0.6x1.5 inches. Fingerprints are less visible on a matte casing; moreover, it's rather scratch-resistant. In fact, this small dongle is smaller than some cutting-edge mobile phones. Most interfaces are placed on the right side of the stick and only a card reader is on the left one. The package is rather full: apart from the device itself, you will also get an AC adapter, a micro USB cable, an HDMI cable, and a user manual that we recommend you to read before you start using the micro PC stick. Of course, you need some peripherals for a fully functional use of the device - you can pick a wireless keyboard and a mouse for the utmost convenience.

Detailed review of Lenovo Ideacentre Stick 300 (90F20000US)
Last updated price $299.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B014644NPI

VIDEO
Lenovo Ideacentre Stick 300 review

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Pretty fast and seams to be good build quality

Features

It comes with a fully licensed copy of Windows 10 (home)
 

ASUS Chromebit (CS10)

Performance

ASUS engineers have chosen a quad-core ROCKCHIP RK3288 CPU for their Chromebit CS10 micro PC stick. The CPU outperforms other devices in terms of the maximum frequency it works on - 1.8GHz. RAM capacity is 2GB (DDR3 version) which is a sufficient result for Chrome OS this gadget has. Chromebit CS10 uses Mali-T764 GPU that can handle nearly all your requirements - you can surf the web, watch online videos, create and edit documents, etc. The storage space is rather small - 16GB, but Chromebit comes with 100GB of free Google Drive cloud storage (free for 2 years). Therefore, Google ensures the top safety of your most precious files.

Review of ASUS Chromebit (CS10) Stick-Desktop PC

Interfaces and OS

The very name Chromebit hints at Chrome OS that this micro PC stick has. Chrome OS has been developed by Google in order to provide the maximum performance for web browsing and for all kinds of online activities. As a result, Chrome OS is very fast and boots within just 5 seconds. Chrome OS is for people who work with Google cloud services such as Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Drive, and thousands of apps. No need to mention, you can browse the web, watch movies and series, listen to music, and even play games (available in Chrome Web Store). The device has such necessary ports as USB and HDMI, though it has no card reader (which some customers find rather disappointing). In general, most owners use either Bluetooth connectivity (CS10 supports Bluetooth 4.0) or a USB connection, so the absence of a card reader isn't a problem.

ASUS Chromebit (CS10) Stick-Desktop PC in the use

Design and Package

ASUS micro PC stick is a very compact device that has a streamlined casing made of smooth matte black plastic. As a result, no fingerprints will be seen on the casing. The dimensions are 4.8x1.2x0.7 inches, so you can always carry the PC stick in your bag or pocket. The package includes only the most important items such as a USB-microUSB cable, an HDMI cable, a power adapter, etc. And we've already mentioned a 2-year license for Google Drive storage; the term starts once you've redeemed the Drive offer.

Detailed review of ASUS Chromebit (CS10) Stick-Desktop PC

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $189.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B0181JTPCU

VIDEO
Asus Chromebit Review - $85 ChromeOS PC on a HDMI Stick - YouTube, Web, Benchmarks

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

It runs 95% of my work/play needs. My Microsoft-based PC is now relegated to just playing games.

Features

If you're not familiar with Chrome OS, it's a device that lets you run basically just the Chrome browser and do almost everything you can on a regular PC using the browser.
 

ANDROSET Android TV Dongle

Performance

Androset has equipped its micro PC stick with the fairly new quad-core CPU ROCKCHIP that operates at a frequency of 1.6GHz. The unit has RAM capacity of 1GB, which some users might find insufficient but it isn't so - Android OS requires a lot less power than Windows. The GPU is Mali-400. In general, this mini PC stick can cope with a lot of tasks: web surfing, document editing, watching videos, listening to music, and even playing Android games. You can watch even Full HD movies - the hardware is performing enough for that.

Review of ANDROSET Android TV Dongle Dual Antenna Cloud Stick

Interfaces and OS

This micro PC stick from Androset runs on Google Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean operating system, which is quite functional and, moreover, requires less powerful hardware than Windows. Also, Jelly Bean is very configurable - you can install nearly all apps available on Play Market. Of course, you can install video streaming apps like YouTube or Hulu and enjoy watching your favorite videos, movies, and series online. The device can even stream 3D movies online. No need to mention, going online is simple thanks to WiFi 802.11 b/g/n. Finally, you can connect any Bluetooth peripherals because this micro PC stick also has a Bluetooth adapter.

ANDROSET Android TV Dongle Dual Antenna Cloud Stick in the use

Design and Package

The casing of the device is made of matte plastic, which means all fingerprints will be nearly invisible. This micro PC is quite big (compared with its competitors in our micro PC stick review): 4.05x2.4x1.5 inches. This device has 2 small WiFi antennas on both sides. A full-sized USB port is placed on the back side of the mini PC sticks, so connecting all kinds of devices is very comfortable. A microUSB port is also there. The package of this micro PC stick includes an HDMI cable, an OTG cable, a USB cable, and a power adapter. Finally, we should tell you this device is offered in various specifications; for example, you can get the one without external WiFi antennas and the one with a handy remote.

Detailed review of ANDROSET Android TV Dongle Dual Antenna Cloud Stick
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00L4G66J8

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

The processor speed is good for video streaming and 1 GB ram looks okay.

Features

Works plug and play. Simple to add apps and has an micro SD slot. Perfect for streaming
 

What is a Micro Pc Stick

Today, there are lots of different mini computers that are really compact so that people can carry them around anywhere they go. However, engineers have made it possible to turn any modern TV or computer monitor into a fully functional personal computer using a small HDMI dongle that easily fits in a pocket of your jacket. These gadgets are called mini PC sticks and they are portable, easy-to-use, and yet performing enough. Once the micro PC stick is installed, your display turns into a huge and convenient computer screen. This tiny device allows you to work with documents, watch your pictures, contact your friends and business partners, watch movies online or offline, and so on. In general, a small HDMI dongle can quite efficiently substitute for a PC. Of course, micro PC sticks allow you to go online wirelessly (via WiFi) and connect peripherals (via Bluetooth). This small gadget is the best way to save up and get both a computer and a media streaming device.

However, any micro PC sticks usually have a single USB port and that's why you should also get one of the best USB hubs from our review.

If you need a small media player, we recommend considering our shortlist of streaming media players.

What Features to Compare

The first and, probably, the most important feature for any kind of computer is its Performance. It's a key issue for mini PC sticks as well because the scope of tasks you will be able to fulfil on such a device depends on it. What determines the performance? The following hardware: CPU, RAM memory and, to a certain extent, a GPU. Of course, a central processing unit (CPU) is the most important one - it's a true heart of a micro PC stick. Most such devices are equipped with small yet performing CPUs that have several cores, so the unit can process loads of data at the highest speed possible. Next, RAM capacity is crucial, because it determines the multi-tasking of a micro PC stick. The higher RAM capacity a mini PC stick has, the more simultaneous tasks you will be able to perform. If you want to use a micro PC stick for entertainment - watching movies online or offline and so on - you should know what type of graphics processing unit (GPU). All mini PC sticks that come with Intel CPU have an embedded GPU (Intel HD Graphics), which is good enough for all kinds of entertainment except, probably, for the newest PC games. Micro PC sticks with others CPUs have different GPUs like Mali, PowerVR, etc.

Next, you should be aware of all Interfaces a mini PC stick has. For example, most devices have at least one USB slot via which you can connect a USB hub, a flash drive, an external HDD, etc. Some micro PC sticks also have HDMI slots and even slots for memory cards (mostly microSD). Of course, a mini PC stick should provide sufficient Networking opportunities and that's why they have WiFi and Bluetooth support. Keep in mind that the type of supported WiFi signal is rather important - 802.11 a/c ensures the highest speed. Next, be reasonable in the choice of the operating system (OS) a micro PC stick runs on. It usually depends on the CPU: if a mini PC stick has Intel CPU - it has Windows OS, if a CPU is MediaTek or ROCKCHIP - a micro PC stick has one of Android versions or a ChromeOS. Each OS has its pros and cons, so think twice before making a choice.

All micro PC sticks are small and portable but they are different in Design. Thus, choose the device you will be able to carry in your pocket without any inconvenience. In the end, check the Package of every device - the fuller it is, the fewer items you might need to buy separately.

Sources:

1. Brad Chacos Mini PC Invention, PC World. January 21, 2016.

2. Jon Mundy A Guide to PC Sticks, Trusted Reviews.

3. Brian P Rubin Your Quick Guide To Stick Computers, Readwrite. April 6, 2015.

4. Top 10 Best Stick Pcs - bring the PC to the living room, Colour My Learning.

5. Nate Ralph Four Ways To Make The Most of Intel's Compute Stick, CNET. April 25, 2015.

6. Andrew Williams Best mini PC sticks 2015, Stuff. August 28, 2015.

7. Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols The best HDMI operating system sticks, ZDNet. April 5, 2015.

8. Jim Martin Hannspree PC on a Stick review: turn a TV or HDMI monitor into a Windows PC, TechAdvisor. February 13, 2015.

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