Imagine having a tiny computer, as small as a USB stick – that’s the Asus Chromebit CS10 Stick PC for you! It’s not your typical laptop or desktop computer, and you might be wondering why someone would pick it over a Chromebook, a Chromebox, or even a cheaper Chromecast for streaming. Well, the Chromebit is designed for those who don’t neatly fit into those categories. It’s like a blend of the best features from different gadgets, and it offers an affordable solution for various needs.
This little stick expands the power of a Chromebox into a USB-sized gadget. You plug it right into an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor, and it grants you access to the entire web, including streaming services, cloud apps, and many websites that don’t always have mobile apps. The smart device is simple to set up and operate. Thus, making it one of the simplest methods to access cloud and streaming services on a large-screen monitor.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: Price and Availability
In today’s world where Windows 10 laptops can be found for under $200, the Asus Chromebit turns things around differently in a less expensive way. It stands out at $85 in the United States, £90 in the United Kingdom, and AU$ 149 in Australia. And here’s the thing – that affordability makes it quite appealing for business needs. You can buy this computing stick from different online retailers. Currently, it is unavailable on Amazon Store. However, you can easily buy it from its official store.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: Ingenious Features
The Asus Stick PC brings the simplicity of Chrome OS to any HDMI-enabled monitor. Thus, making it an adaptable and cost-effective option for a range of computing demands, from work to entertainment. Its emphasis on cloud computing and automated upgrades simplifies the user experience. However, also ensures that you are always utilizing a safe and up-to-date system.
Compact Chrome OS Desktop
The Asus Chromebit is essentially a Chrome OS computer turned into a small stick. It runs Google’s Chrome OS, designed for cloud-based computing. This means you have access to a familiar Chrome web browser and a wide range of web-based applications.
HDMI Connectivity
The Asus Chromebit plugs directly into an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor. This means you can transform any display with an HDMI input into a fully functional computer. It increase its functionality.
Wireless Connectivity
The Chromebit offers dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 support. This allows you to connect wirelessly to the internet and pair Bluetooth peripherals like keyboards and mice.
Cloud Storage
Chrome OS works smoothly with Google Drive, giving you online storage for your papers, photographs, and files. You can expand this cloud storage as per your needs. Basically it means that you can access your data from any location that has an internet connection.
Web Browsing
The heart of Chrome OS is the Chrome web browser. You can browse the web just like you would on a traditional computer, making it easy to research, shop, or stay up to date with the latest news.
Automatic Updates
Chrome OS takes care of software updates and security patches automatically. No need for you to manually install anything; it happens quietly in the background. It keeps your system up-to-date.
Streaming Services
With this compute stick, you can stream content from popular services like Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video directly on your TV. It’s an amazing solution for enjoying your favorite shows and movies on a larger screen.
Guest Mode
If you want to share your Chromebit with friends or family without giving them access to your stuff, you’re in luck. Chrome OS has a guest mode feature, so others can use it without touching your data.
App Compatibility
While Chrome OS primarily relies on web-based apps and services, you can also access a growing library of Chrome apps and extensions from the Chrome Web Store. This allows you to customize your Chromebit’s functionality further.
Web-Based Entertainment
Aside from streaming services, you can enjoy web-based games and entertainment on your TV. Chrome OS is compatible with a wide selection of web-based games and interactive entertainment.
Access Anywhere
One of the significant advantages of Chrome OS is that your data is synced with your Google account. This means you can start a task on your computing gadget, continue it on your smartphone or another computer, and vice versa.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: Performance
The Asus Stick PC offers decent performance considering its compact size and affordable price. Here’s a closer look at its performance:
Hardware Specifications
The Asus Compute Stick is powered by a quad-core ARM-based Rockchip RK3288 processor. It offers 2GB of RAM and 16GB of eMMC storage. While these specifications may not match those of high-end computers. Still, they are perfect for Chrome OS’s lightweight nature.
Streaming Video
Streaming video from popular services like Netflix and YouTube works seamlessly on the Chromebit. It can reliably handle streaming content. Major streaming sites optimized for streaming run smoothly.
Web Browsing
It handles web browsing smoothly, which is one of its primary use cases. It quickly and efficiently loads web pages. Thus, making it perfect for tasks such as online research, email, and casual web browsing. The Chrome browser’s performance is optimized for Chrome OS.
Cool and Silent Operation
One notable aspect of the it’s performance is its relatively cool and silent operation. Unlike some small form factor computers that can become warm and noisy under load, the Chromebit maintains a low profile in terms of temperature and noise.
Web-Based Productivity
When it comes to handling web-based productivity tasks, you can count on Chromebit to get the job done. Whether you’re working on documents with Google Docs, crunching numbers in Sheets, or putting together a killer presentation with Slides, this little stick is up to the challenge. It’s like having your trusty office suite right at your fingertips.
Performance Expectations
The Asus compute stick isn’t built for heavy-duty stuff like video editing or gaming. However, it is a dependable option for people who primarily use web-based programs and services such as email, online document editing, and streaming. It won’t break a sweat when you’re tackling your everyday tasks, and that’s what matters most.
Potential Limitations
It’s worth noting that the Chromebit may struggle with some non-optimized streaming video sources. Thus, resulting in frame drops and delays on occasion. While major streaming services run smoothly, niche sites or platforms with less optimized content may exhibit some performance issues.
You may also read: Turewell T9 Android TV Box: An Unbiased Review
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: Design Layout
The Asus computing device is designed for people who live in their web browsers. You know, the place where you read the news, binge-watch videos, and get stuff done online. Now, imagine all that power packed into a tiny device that looks like a slightly chubby USB flash drive, but instead of a regular USB end, it’s got an HDMI plug.
The one we tested comes in a sleek Cacao Black color, which should blend nicely with your HDTV. But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can grab one in Tangerine Orange. Both of them work and function the same. So, you don’t have to worry about, whether they also differ in functionality like the looks.
This thing measures just 0.67 x 1.2 x 4.8 inches, and it weighs as much as a feather (well, almost). That means it can effortlessly hide behind almost any HDTV. Moreover, due to its smaller size, it is quite easy to carry around, especially when you travel a lot. Whether it’s to an office meeting, a friend’s house, or even a warm hotel room.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: Specifications
Here are the key specifications of the Asus Stick PC which make it stand out in the crowd of streaming and computing devices:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | ASUS |
| Computer Type | Computer Stick |
| Operating System | Chrome OS |
| Memory Storage | 16 GB |
| Screen Size | 23 Inches |
| RAM Installed Size | 2 GB |
| Model Name | CHROMEBIT |
| CPU Model | Rockchip RK3288 |
| Wi-Fi | Dual-band 802.11ac |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.0 |
| USB Ports | USB 2.0 Slot |
| Included Components | HDMI Extender Cable, 4 Hook and Loop Stickers |
| Power Supply | 18W Power Adapter |
| Additional Features | Includes 100 GB Google Drive Space |
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: What’s in the box?
The ASUS Chromebit Stick PC typically includes the following items in the box.
ASUS Chromebit Computer Stick
The main device is a compact stick-shaped computer running Chrome OS, capable of turning any HDMI display into a computer.
USB Power Cable
It is likely used for connecting the smart device to the power adapter for charging and power supply.
Hook and Loop Stickers (4 stickers)
These stickers provide options for attaching the Chromebit to various surfaces, making it easier to secure or hide the device.
HDMI Extender Cable
An accessory that allows you to position the Chromebit more flexibly by extending its reach from the HDMI port on your display.
18W Power Adapter
The power adapter provides the necessary electrical power for the basic operation of the device.
Quick Start Guide
A guide that offers basic instructions for setting up and using the ASUS Chromebit, ensuring a smooth installation process.
Warranty Card
The package also includes a warranty card. It contains all of the info about the product’s warranty coverage and customer support.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: How to Set Up?
Setting up the ASUS Chromebit is a straightforward process. Just follow the given below steps and you are all set to browse and stream:
- 1. Insert the Chromebit into an available HDMI port on your HDTV or monitor.
- 2. If space is limited, you can use the included HDMI extension cable to give you more flexibility in positioning the stick PC.
- 3. Use the provided AC adapter to connect the Chromebit to a power source. This is done via a proprietary AC adapter, not the TV’s USB port.
- 4. Turn on your TV and switch to the HDMI input where the Chromebit is connected.
- 5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process like connecting to Wi-Fi, signing in to your Google account etc.
- 6. Once setup is complete, your Chromebit is ready to use. You can access Chrome OS and all its features, including web browsing and app usage.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the PC stick that you must consider before buying it. Weighing the advantages and downsides according to your personal needs, helps you to make a wise decision.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and portable design. | Limited performance for demanding applications. |
| Affordable alternative to traditional computers. | Requires additional accessories like a keyboard and mouse. |
| Easy and quick setup process. | No 4K support, limited to 1080p resolution. |
| Runs Chrome OS for web-based tasks. | Limited onboard storage, may require external storage solutions. |
| Supports dual-band Wi-Fi for fast wireless connections. | |
| Offers an extensive range of streaming services. |
Asus Chromebit Stick PC Vs. Intel Compute Stick
The Intel Compute Stick and the Asus Chromebit Stick PC are two lightweight computing devices with different operating systems and use cases. While both have a small form factor and are portable, they excel in different ways.
Intel Compute Stick Dominates in Diversity
The Intel Compute Stick excels in terms of adaptability, as it runs the entire Windows 10 operating system. Thus, allowing its users to install and utilize all aspects of desktop programs and software. It is a great fit for people who want the comfort and diversity of Windows. It provides additional ways for attaching devices and extending storage capacity by providing expandable storage.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC Excels in Simplicity
On the other hand, the Asus Chromebit Stick PC is known for its simplicity and affordability. It runs on Chrome OS, making it a great pick for web-based tasks like browsing, online applications, and video streaming. It’s small and simple to operate, appealing to those who want a relatively simple computer experience. It is reliable way to upgrade your basic monitor.
Here is the comparison of their main specifications and technical details of both computing sticks that make them apart from each other:
| Specifications | Intel Compute Stick | Asus Compute Stick |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 | Chrome OS |
| Processor | Quad-core Intel Atom | Quad-core Rockchip |
| RAM | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB eMMC | 16 GB eMMC |
| Expandable Storage | microSD card slot | USB 2.0 slot |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| USB Ports | 1 x USB 2.0 | 1 x USB 2.0 |
| HDMI | 1 x HDMI | 1 x HDMI |
| Dimensions (inches) | 4.0 x 1.5 x 0.5 | 4.8 x 1.2 x 0.6 |
| Weight (ounces) | 2.0 | 2.7 |
The choice between the Intel Compute Stick and the Asus Stick PC depends on your specific needs. If you require a versatile Windows environment and expandability options, the Intel Compute Stick is the way to go. However, if you value simplicity and affordability for web-centric tasks, the Asus Stick PC is a suitable choice.
Conclusion
What distinguishes this PC stick is its exclusive niche; it’s neither a standard streaming device nor a Windows PC, but rather a flexible addition to your existing online inventory. If you need an uncomplicated, budget-friendly device for everyday web tasks or occasional travel, the Chromebit fits the bill admirably, especially given its significantly lower price compared to the Intel Compute Stick.
However, keep in mind that it’s performance with certain non-optimized streaming videos may leave room for improvement, making it potentially less future-proof compared to more powerful Chrome OS devices. So, if you’re looking to convert a spare monitor or HDTV into a functional PC without breaking the bank, the Asus Chromebit is a smart and cost-effective choice.
Asus Chromebit Stick PC: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this PC Stick to understand it better.
