ComputeStick
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Raspberry Pi gives its PC-on-a-stick a big speed boost
Raspberry Pi has taken its latest computing board and squished it onto the stick-sized Compute Module 3, giving it about ten times the power of the original Compute Module. Unlike the Raspberry Pi 3 upon which it's based, however, the device is built for industrial applications, prototypers and advanced hobbyists, not students or casual users. It can now play that part a lot better, thanks to a 1.2GHz Broadcom processor, 1GB of RAM (double that of the original) and upgradeable storage.
12 tech gifts for the geekiest people in your life
There's one in every family: The uber geek who pretty much has it all when it comes to tech basics. They don't need a laptop or a fancy TV. But don't worry, there's always some gap in their collection of gadgets that you can easily fill. And remember, the more niche the product, the better gift it is for these folks. You could get them started on building out their smart home with a lock like August or Kevo. Or maybe they need a central hub to control their sprawling network of connected goods from, like an Amazon Echo Dot. If the nerd in your life is too young for a smart home, you can always pick them up a high-tech take on the paper airplane or a box of tinker toys like LittleBits, to get them start on their journey to become the next great inventor. For our full list of recommendations in all categories, don't forget to stop by our main Holiday Gift Guide hub.
Intel Compute Stick review (2016): Second time's the charm
I had high hopes for Intel's original Compute Stick, but it ended up being a massive disappointment. Sure, it was cool to have a fully functional computer the size of a few thumb drives. But it was awfully slow and limited in some truly baffling ways (only one USB port?!). Now with Intel's second-gen Compute Stick ($159), it's another story entirely. It may look similar, but it packs in enough upgrades -- a faster processor, better networking and more USB ports -- to actually make it a usable computer.
Intel's latest Compute Stick squeezes in Core M3, M5 chips
As a concept, Intel's Compute Stick has always been intriguing. Who wouldn't want an HDMI stick that turns any monitor into a fully functioning computer? But the original Compute Stick had problems: It was slow, it had only one USB port (how are we going to plug in a keyboard and mouse?!) and its networking capabilities were weak. It was, in many ways, a beta product — not something meant for consumers to buy. But with the next generation of Compute Stick, it looks like Intel has addressed all of our concerns.
ASUS unveils the Intel-powered, Windows 10 VivoStick
Intel generated a storm of interest when it launched the HDMI-based Compute Stick, but is anybody willing to buy a tiny, underpowered PC? Who knows, but ASUS has just launched its own model that trumps Intel's in nearly every way. It's a lot less clunky-looking and one-ups Intel's Atom CPU with a Cherry Trail model, while adding an extra USB 3.0 port and headphone jack for good measure. Otherwise, it has the same 2GB of RAM and 32GB storage, and works in the same way: You plug it into any HDMI TV, add a keyboard and mouse and then compute away on Windows 10.
Intel Compute Stick review: nothing more than a prototype for now
Intel's new Compute Stick isn't that hard to grasp: It's a computer... on a stick! Using one of its Atom processors, Intel managed to cram everything a fully functional PC needs in something the size of a few packs of gum for just $150. All you need to get going is to plug it into a display with an HDMI port, connect it to power and attach your accessories. It heralds a new era of computing, one where you can turn any display into a pseudo-desktop in a few minutes. It could change the way IT workers manage computer labs, kiosks and digital signage forever. And it's something you should avoid buying at all costs. While the Compute Stick gives us a glimpse at a tantalizing future, it's basically a beta product. It's only meant for the brave and geeky -- not most consumers.
Intel's PC on a stick is now available for pre-order
Like the idea of Intel's Compute Stick turning your TV into a full-fledged Linux or Windows PC? You can finally plunk down some cash to get one. Online stores (including Amazon and Newegg) have started taking pre-orders for the HDMI dongle, which is now expected to ship by late April rather than the originally planned March release. Be careful about jumping in with both feet, though. While Newegg is selling the Windows 8.1 version of the Compute Stick for the expected $150, some retailers are charging over $100 for the Linux model instead of the official $89 -- you'll want to do some comparison shopping first.
