Try one of these convenient PCs on a stick.
A PC stick is a small, single-board device that looks like a USB stick and can be used for streaming media. This device makes our life easier as it combines all the necessary functions. In size, USB sticks are similar to a small bar of chocolate, which makes them only slightly larger than a flash drive.
Stick computers can compete with their desktop counterparts, as s can plug them into any HDMI port. To make it easier for you to choose the best PC on a stick, I have tested the top options that come at affordable prices.
U: Intel Celeron N4000 | GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 600 | RAM: 4 GB | Storage: 64 GB | Weight: 0.94 pound
The MINISFORUM S40 is one of the most portable computer sticks that has a compact form factor. The device boasts an Intel Celeron N4000 dual-core processor with 4 GB of DDR4 RAM and 64 GB of eMMC flash.
The MINISFORUM has a USB port and TF slot. It s dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. Another advantage is its fans. They are great at heat dissipation and prevent the computer from overheating.
U: Intel Atom X5 Z8350 | GPU: Intel HD Graphics | RAM: 4 GB | Storage: 64 GB | Weight: 0.13 pound
The AWOW is a mini PC stick that comes with an integrated Intel Atom x5-Z8350 processor and dual-band Wi-Fi. The model delivers excellent performance. Since the device s up to 256 GB via the Micro SD slot, its memory can be expanded.
The AWOW s Intel HD Graphics technology, which allows it to deliver high quality 4K 30Hz video when you connect it to a monitor.
U: Intel Atom X5-Z8350 | GPU: Intel HD Graphics | RAM: 4 GB | Storage: 64 GB | Weight: 0.6 pound
The Terryza is a USB stick computer fitted with an Intel Atom X5-Z8350 Quad-Core processor and has a base frequency of 1.44 GHz that can be boosted up to 1.92 GHz. The device comes with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of eMMC when paired with a Micro SD of up to 128 GB.
This model features Windows 10, s USB 3.0, which allows for faster data transfer than USB 2.0 and Bluetooth 4.2. Thanks to a fast connection, you will not face any lags. The model is great for home use. You can watch your favorite videos and movies or solve work-related tasks.
U: RockChip 3288-C | GPU: Integrated Rockchip Mali T764 | RAM: 2 GB | Storage: 16 GB | Weight: 0.17 pound
The ASUS Chromebit CS10 is a Windows PC stick that stands out among its competitors thanks to its affordable price. The model has a quad-core Rockchip RK3288-C chipset and 2 GB of RAM. With an integrated Mali-T760 GPU and 16 GB of internal storage, you get a powerful device.
You can connect the $70 device to any HDMI screen or TV to enjoy video content on a large display. Unfortunately, the Chromebit only has one HDMI output with a single USB 2.0 port. However, you can also use a wireless connection via 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0.
U: Intel Atom Z8350 | GPU: Intel HD Graphics | RAM: 4GB | Storage: 64 GB | Weight: 0.56 pound
The Terryza Fanless is a $140 PC stick with an Intel Atom Z8350 processor, 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB eMMC. By using an up to 128 GB Micro SD card, you can expand the storage of your device.
The model comes with built-in 2.4G/5G Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 modules, which allows for smoother data transfer. USB 3.0 interface facilitates file sharing. The device is compatible with Windows 10.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
MINISFORUM S40
Our Choice |
CHECK PRICE → | |
 |
AWOW
Mini |
CHECK PRICE → | |
 |
Terryza
for Home Media |
CHECK PRICE → |
Before buying the best PC on a stick, you need to decide how much you are willing to spend on a device. If your budget reaches $150, then you can pick some decent options from this list. For those looking for a cheaper option, I recommend considering the ASUS Chromebit.
I have listed stick computers that offer at least 4 GB of RAM and 16 GB of eMMC. If you need a cheap compute stick, mind that it will have up to 2 GB of RAM. Expensive devices have 64 GB of eMMC. When choosing a model, check if it has a memory card slot.
Most of the models I have described come with an Intel processor. A good U allows for a more powerful performance and higher processing speed, which makes a computer suitable for multitasking and running demanding software.
Choose a model with more ports because it is much more convenient. Typically, computers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. You need to pay attention to the Bluetooth version because versions up to 4.0 are slower. PCs on a stick should come with at least one USB 3.0 port.
In my opinion, the MINISFORUM S40 is the best PC on a stick from the list.
It’s a portable device that is cheaper than its desktop analog. Still, it offers lower performance compared to standard laptops/computers.
It is a small-sized device that can be connected to any HDMI display. As the result, you will get a PC that can run standard software, delivers worthy graphics and s wireless connectivity.
It can be called a computer stick, PC stick, PC on a stick, computer on a stick, screenless PC, etc.
