MagicStick, the fastest HDMI stick PC available, runs Windows 10 and Android
Bigger is usually regarded as better, but with PCs there has been a recent trend towards miniaturization. We've seen all manner of stick PCs in the last year or so, and MagicStick is the latest contender to throw its hat into the ring. Rather than just being a run-of-the-mill clone of the competition, the MagicStick proudly proclaims itself to be the "fastest pocket computer based on Intel's latest 14nm Cherry Trail processor".
The HDMI stick can be plugged directly into a television, monitor, or projector, and managed to smash its Indiegogo target in just four days. The specs are certainly impressive, rivalling many laptop and desktop systems and -- unlike other similar portables -- there are numerous configurations available. Oh, and it's IoT-ready.
MagicStick goes a very long way to proving that shrinking dimensions certainly does not mean having to make compromises. Despite drawing just 5 watts of power, the system packs a quad-core Cherry Trail Z8500 or Z8700 processor running at 2.24GHz or 2.4GHz. The integrated GPUs boast 12 and 16 cores respectively, and there is the choice of 2, 4, or 8GB of LPDDR2 RAM.
Booting in as little as four seconds, the MagicStick comes with 32, 64, or 128GB of storage, and connectivity is provided by a 1Gbps Wi-Fi adaptor. The stick does not scrimp on expandability either. In addition to the USB 3.1 port, there are two USB 3.0 ports. Despite the diminutive proportions, you'll also find a Micro USB port and a MicroSD card slot, opening up further possibilities. Pre-installed is not only Windows 10 (although just a trial version), but also Android Lollipop -- so whatever your preference, you can choose the operating system that suits you.
Check out the introductory video to find out more about this powerful little stick:
Of course, we're excited to take a look at the MagicStick and check that it is as impressive as it sounds. Rest assured that a full review will follow as soon as units are made available. In the meantime, take a look at the website for more details. Early bird prices start at just $99 for the base model, up to $249 for the most powerful model. There's also the Indiegogo page if you fancy supporting the project.