Intel Debuts New, Revamped Compute Stick

It runs on an Intel® Atom™ x5-Z8300 quad-core processor, has 32GB of storage and 2GB of RAM. It’s not the first power adapter that has also served as a USB hub, but given the small size of the Compute Sticks it seems especially smart to include one here. To expand that ability, Intel reached at the CES on Wednesday and unveiled the upgraded Compute Stick that you may consider as the Compute Stick second-generation.

Intel’s Compute Stick page is here.

The new, slightly longer, Compute Stick is in the foreground. The first-generation stick used a bulky, glossy plastic housing that made it look and feel more like a reference design than an actual shipping product, but all three new models switch to a softer, curvier case that looks more refined. All of the Intel Compute Stick models feature a tiny fan to dissipate heat (you can see the fan in our review of last years model).

Intel at CES 2016 took the wraps off the next generation Compute Stick.

In additon, the new version can have optional Intel vPro technology to protect data security.

A USB 3.0 port remains on the Stick for extra connectivity options, such as external storage or a dedicated mouse and keyboard (rather than Bluetooth). Intel has a solid foothold in this market already and these new models appear to be welcome additions.

With a compatible TV or monitor, the Core M models can deliver 4K videos at 30Hz, according to Intel.

On one side of the Intel Compute Stick Core M5 there is the power button and one USB 3.0 header. The entire computer measures just 114mm x 38mm x 12mm, making it flawless for people who frequently travel around to places where a display is available to work at but no computer provided. All of the Intel Compute Sticks support Bluetooth, so if you need multiple USB ports for peripherals that would be the best bet to keep the freed up.

One year after introducing the original Compute Stick, a version of which was featured in our guide to building a $150 iTunes media server, Intel today announced the 2nd-gen Compute Stick ($159-$499) with many noteworthy improvements.

But even if the two higher-end models lack dual USB support, Intel said that it included two additional ports in its power charger.