Here’s a list of computers the size of a pack of index cards or smaller, available for under $200, as of February 2025:
1. MeLE PCG02 Stick
– Size: Approximately 4.5 x 1.5 x 0.6 inches
– Processor: Intel Celeron N4000
– RAM: 4GB
– Storage: 64GB eMMC (expandable via microSD)
– Connectivity: HDMI output, USB ports, Wi-Fi b/g/n
– Price: Around $99.99
– Description: This compact mini PC stick is ideal for web browsing and streaming, making it a great choice for casual users.
2. UXX Mini PC
– Size: 4.4 x 4.4 x 1.35 inches
– Processor: Intel N5095 Celeron CPU
– RAM: 8GB DDR4
– Storage: 256GB SSD (expandable)
– Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi, HDMI output, multiple USB ports
– Price: Approximately $109.99
– Description: This mini PC is energy-efficient and perfect for basic tasks like browsing and office applications.
3. GMKtec Mini PC
– Size: 5 x 5 x 1.5 inches
– Processor: Intel 11th Gen N5105
– RAM: 8GB
– Storage: 128GB SSD (expandable)
– Connectivity: HDMI, USB ports, Ethernet, Wi-Fi b/g/n
– Price: $159.99
– Description: Designed for everyday tasks, this mini PC offers decent performance in a compact form factor.
4. GEEKOM MiniAir 12 Lite
– Size: Approximately 5.1 x 5.1 x 1.2 inches
– Processor: Intel Celeron N5100
– RAM: 8GB
– Storage: 256GB SSD (expandable)
– Connectivity: HDMI output, USB ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
– Price: Around $199.99
– Description: This mini PC is well-suited for basic computing needs and offers good performance for its size.
Summary:
These mini PCs provide an excellent balance of performance and portability while remaining budget-friendly options under $200. They are ideal for various applications, from casual web browsing to light productivity tasks, making them suitable for users looking to maximize their workspace without breaking the bank.
Previous Story
This was a big deal five years ago in 2013, but now we have smart phones that are cheap and powerful computers with a host of applications.
CompuLab, an Israeli manufacturer of embedded computing solutions, originally made waves with its innovative Utilite computer. While the Utilite is no longer in production, CompuLab continued to be a leading developer and manufacturer of System-on-Module (SoM), Computer on Module, IoT Gateways, and Industrial PC products[13].
Despite its small size, the IOT-GATE-iMX8 boasts a range of I/O capabilities, including[9]:
* 3x USB 2.0 ports
* 1x Serial console via UART-to-USB bridge
* 1x RS485/RS232 port
* Up to 2x CAN-FD/RS485/RS232 ports (isolated, terminal-block connector)
* Up to 2x analog 4-20mA input
* 4x digital outputs + 4x digital inputs (24V, compliant with EN 61131-2, isolated, terminal-block connector)
* Optional additional 100Mbps Ethernet port with PoE capability
The company and this particular USB Stick Computer seems to no longer exist in 2018.
CompuLab, an Israeli manufacturer of embedded computing solutions, continues to innovate in the realm of compact computing with its latest offerings. One standout device is the IOT-GATE-iMX8, a rugged gateway computer designed for industrial IoT applications. This device showcases CompuLab’s commitment to powerful yet space-efficient computing solutions.
The IOT-GATE-iMX8 features a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor and supports Debian Linux and Yocto Project, providing an open software architecture with robust support for various applications. Despite its small size, it boasts an impressive array of I/O capabilities, including multiple USB ports, serial connections, and optional CAN-FD interfaces.
In a related development in the world of compact computing, FXI Technologies has made headlines with its innovative prototype dongle, codenamed Cotton Candy. This device is designed to bring the power of Android OS to any screen, whether it’s a TV, laptop, or smartphone. Measuring approximately 8cm x 2.5cm and weighing just 21 grams, Cotton Candy is about the size of a standard USB stick but packs significant functionality.
Powered by a dual-core 1.2 GHz Samsung Exynos ARM CPU—the same processor found in the Galaxy S II—Cotton Candy includes USB 2.0 and HDMI-out plugs for versatile connectivity. It also features a microSD card slot for additional storage and supports 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
Currently running Android 2.3, Cotton Candy is also capable of supporting Ubuntu and various virtualization clients for Windows, Linux, and Mac systems. This makes it an incredibly flexible device that can transform any screen into a smart computing platform. Users can stream 1080p videos directly from the internet or run Android applications in a secure window when connected to a computer.
FXI Technologies envisions Cotton Candy as an affordable solution for those looking to enhance their existing devices without investing in new hardware. While the final price and release date have yet to be announced, estimates suggest it will retail for under $200.
In summary, both CompuLab’s IOT-GATE-iMX8 and FXI Technologies’ Cotton Candy represent significant advancements in compact computing technology. These devices not only highlight the trend towards smaller form factors but also emphasize the versatility and accessibility of modern computing solutions across various platforms and environments.
Read More
[1] https://minipctech.com/best-mini-pcs-under-200/
[2] https://www.geekompc.com/best-mini-pc-under-200/
[3] https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-windows-mini-pcs
[4] https://www.techradar.com/best/mini-pcs
[5] https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-budget-laptop/
[6] https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-mini-pc.html
[7] https://www.rtings.com/laptop/reviews/best/by-price/budget
[8] https://www.reviewed.com/laptops/best-right-now/best-laptops-under-200
[9] https://www.websentra.com/fxitech-cotton-candy/
[10] https://www.wired.com/2011/11/android-cotton-candy-fxi/
[11] https://newatlas.com/fxi-cotton-candy/20548/
[12] https://www.anandtech.com/show/5126/cotton-candy-funny-name-dualcore-android-on-a-usb-stick
[13] https://www.pressetext.com/news/na-20120111015.html
[14] https://www.cnx-software.com/2011/11/19/turn-your-tv-into-a-computer-with-fxi-technologies-cotton-candy-usb-stick/
[15] https://www.anandtech.com/show/5353/fxi-cotton-candy-demo-more-power-than-you-can-shake-a-thumb-stick-at
[16] https://blog.gsmarena.com/fxi-squeezes-a-dual-core-chipset-into-a-usb-stick-lets-you-turn-any-monitor-into-an-android-device/
[17] https://www.compulab.com/products/iot-gateways/iot-gate-imx8-industrial-arm-iot-gateway/
[18] https://www.compulab.com/2013/07/14/compulab-introduces-utilite-a-single-core-to-quad-core-arm-linux-desktop-starting-at-99/
[19] https://github.com/compulab/eeprom-util
[20] https://www.phoronix.com/review/compulab_utilite/2
[21] https://www.compulab.com
[22] https://www.compulab.com/about/press-room/
[23] https://www.ipfire.org/docs/hardware/arm/compulab/utilite
[24] https://www.compulab.com/de/products/system-on-modules/