Review Windows 10 Computer Stick

In 2015, Intel introduced the Compute Stick, or Computer Stick – a product that has been around ever since. The idea is simple and elegant: Intel wanted to create an HDMI dongle computer that could run Windows 10.

There is no confirmation, but our suspicion is that Intel aimed to provide an ultra-cheap and portable solution to run Windows for embedded applications like set-top boxes (DVRs) and other IoT (Internet of Things) products. If our assumption is correct, it’s a wonderful product and a great solution for its intended purpose.

PCWorld did a fantastic review of the Compute Stick back in 2016, and a link to that article is at the footer of this post. The PCWorld review outlined the specifications and performance levels of the Intel-based product. We’ll let that article do the heavy lifting for the tech people out there, but today we want to talk about the applications one might have for a computer stick.

For only around $120 on Amazon, this is an excellent solution to run Windows 10 for a host of specific applications.

Several quick talking points before we move to examples of usage out in the field:

• Intel Atom processor @ 1.4GHz – not bad for many types of applications.
• 2GB or 4GB of DDR3 RAM, depending on the model you get.
• microSD socket for additional storage; comes with a 32GB card.
• Easily expandable storage capacity up to 256GB for $45.
• Wireless support: 802.11a/b/g/n.
• One USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0 port.
• HDMI extension cable included.
• Powered by a microUSB connection.

Attention Mac Users

If you are a Mac user (and most likely then a Mac lover), this Windows computer stick solution is perfectly suited for you! For just over $100, all your problems are solved. You get a full Windows 10 system, installed and ready to use, requiring only a monitor with an HDMI port and a keyboard and mouse. There couldn’t be a more economical and easy-to-install solution.

Printers come to mind. Maybe you purchased a 3D printer or flatbed printer but the design software only works in Windows and you own a Mac. Or you want a dedicated computer to run your 3D printer as it builds the product – the computer stick is a great solution. The ZMorph is an excellent 3D printer. If you are a Mac user, you can use the Intel Compute Stick for design software. The Logo-EZ USB flash drive printer is a flatbed device that requires a Windows PC to run its labeling software. For Mac users or businesses that need a compact, inexpensive Windows OS to run the printer, the Compute Stick is an ideal alternative.

Restaurants also come to mind. Maybe putting some digital signage in the front window is needed to gain foot traffic. By mounting a TV and connecting the computer stick, you instantly have a wireless solution to run a digital marketing campaign from PowerPoint. Sure, there are alternatives, but if you are a restaurant owner, you may not have the time to figure out customized digital sign solutions. Simply connecting the computer stick via HDMI and running your PowerPoint presentation on an endless loop wouldn’t take much time at all.

School computers for the kids. As remote learning becomes more common, getting an affordable education solution is important. The Intel Compute Stick is an excellent option for families on a budget. The device is portable and easy for a child to store in their backpack or move from room to room depending on the availability of monitors or TVs.

The applications for a computer stick could be endless, but the point has been made about its benefits and uses. The clear winner here is the Mac user looking for a way to run a Windows program or equipment without having to invest hundreds of dollars.

Below are a collection of shots showing Windows 10 running on a 32″ TV along with a full-screen video.

Resource: In-depth technical review from PCWorld is available here.