As PC prices continue to become extremely more affordable, we begin to see why that is possible. With varying power, speed, configuration (tower, AIO, tablet) and memory options, you can literally grab a low-end laptop these days for under $100. For those who want something considerably smaller, Hannspree has announced a Chromecast-esq PC stick, dubbed the world’s smallest PC, and called the Hannspree Micro PC Stick.
The Hanspree Micro PC is essentially an HDMI dongle, since it can plug directly into a computer monitor or TV using an available HDMI port. It can even take power from a TV’s USB port as long as it can provide 2A, which most can’t. If your TV doesn’t have that configuration, a power adapter is included with the Hannspree. You also get a short HDMI extension cable in case the display’s HDMI port is in a precarious position.
Hannspree Micro PC Defined
The Hannspree Micro PC allows you to turn any monitor or TV into an all-in-one PC, with full-blown Windows and the ability to install your favorite apps. Even a standar TV can turn “smart” since you’ll be able to use a web browser and watch video from any number of video platforms…Vimeo, YouTube, etc.
Specs
The Hannspree comes with several connectivity options. Around the sides of the glossy black casing, you’ll find a power button, a microSD slot, some vents, a microUSB port for power and a full-size USB port for peripherals. Absent is an Ethernet port, so you’ll have to rely on the built-in Wi-Fi for a LAN or internet connection. There’s also Bluetooth onboard for such things as keyboards, headphones, mice, etc.
Processor-wise, the Hannspree Micro PC stick uses an Intel Atom Z3735F running at up to 1.83GHz, which is pretty powerful given the size of the Hannspree. It’s a 64-bit quad-core chip, which boasts a base frequency of 1.33GHz. There’s also 2GB of RAM and 32GB of flash-based storage.
Windows 8.1 “Lite” with Bing is pre-installed, but with only one USB port, you’ll have some limitations as to what peripherals you can attach. You could use a USB hub to attach a keyboard and a mouse, or you can use a bluetooth wireless keyboard and mouse.
Performance
The Hannspree Micro PC has decent performance, especially for its size, but it’s not going to be sufficient for power users, and you can’t run any apps that are ultra demanding. Still though, it’s a terrific product, and it makes it easy to turn any TV or monitor into a full-on Windows PC. It also has great and fast web browsing, and it fits the bill for emailing, photo editing and other simple tasks. Video-editing and 3D games might be questionable with the Hannspree, though.
If the PC on a Stick is appealing to you, Hannspree may be a great product for you. And at under $200, you can be running Windows at home, or anywhere for that matter, and not break the bank.