A Computer for your Pocket, the Compute Stick

Forget about lugging along your laptop on your next trip — just turn your TV into a computer instead. That’s essentially what Intel’s Compute Stick aims to do.

The Compute Stick is a micro USB drive with all the functionality of a computer once it’s plugged into an HDMI port. Basically, it turns a TV into a PC. The device comes in two options, one with 32 GB of storage space and the other smaller version with 8 GB.

Clearly, neither of the two is capable of providing the full functionality of an actual computer, but they’ll allow you to at least browse the Internet and run simple programs like Microsoft Word on your hotel television set, as long as you lucked out and scored a room that’s been updated since the 80s.

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Each stick comes preprogrammed with Windows 8.1 and the Bing search engine for your convenience. If you want to type away on your TV computer, you’ll need to purchase a compatible keyboard and/or mouse, as the remote control function is all but useless.

Reviews indicate the Compute Stick will have your TV running somewhat closer to a Windows tablet PC as far as speed and overall performance are concerned. It’s a great option for someone who wants the convenience of a larger screen wherever they go, but can’t be bothered to carry the extra weigh of a laptop.

The Intel Compute Stick currently retails for $149.99 online. Learn more at intel.com.