Andrew Cunningham
The new $159 Compute Stick.
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| Specs at a glance: Intel Compute Stick STK1AW32SC | |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 Home 32-bit |
| CPU | 1.44GHz quad-core Intel Atom x5-Z8300 (Turbo Boost up to 1.84GHz) |
| RAM | 2GB 1600MHz DDR3L (non upgradeable) |
| GPU | Intel HD Graphics (integrated) |
| HDD | 32GB eMMC SSD |
| Networking | 867Mbps 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Ports | 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, microSD, micro USB (for power) |
| Size | 4.45” x 1.50” x 0.47” (113 x 38 x 12mm) |
| Other perks | Lock slot |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price | $159 with Windows, less with no OS installed |
Conceptually, Intel’s Compute Stick is an interesting alternative to a Roku or Fire or Apple TV box. It’s as small and unassuming as a Roku Stick, but it’s a full Windows (or Linux) PC capable of a much larger and more versatile list of skills.
In practice, though, the first-generation Compute Stick was mostly notable for its rough edges. You don’t expect much from an Atom-powered computer with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, but its flaky Bluetooth and weak Wi-Fi helped dilute whatever potential it had.
Enter the next-gen model, which updates the processor and the design but is most notable for big wireless upgrades. Second-generation models, when done well, can be even more exciting than brand new ideas. Time gives companies new technology to work with, and feedback from the public gives them ideas they may not have had themselves and a list of things to prioritize. Is the new Compute Stick a dongle that fulfills the promises of the original, or should you… stick with a larger computer?
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