Intel Compute Stick Cherry Trail Review: Pocket-Sized Windows 10 PC

The Compute Stick is also a perfect candidate for thin-client applications, or for remote controlling other systems, or even streaming games from another PC using Steam In-Home Streaming.


We didn't expect any issues here, but the Compute Stick worked perfectly using Windows' built-in Remote Desktop tool or remote support tools like TeamViewer. Accessing a higher-end system remotely from the Compute Stick shouldn't be a problem at all. In fact, we could see some IT departments loving the Compute Stick for cheap, pre-configured corporate systems for telecommuting purposes. Intel also foresees the systems being used for digital signage or embedded into interactive kiosks, etc. Considering how cheap the Compute Stick is, we can see it being used for any number of scenarios where a basic PC could be useful. In our setup here, the compute stick is connected to a 4K display and remotely connected to another PC, also using a 4K display.

We also tested the Compute Stick with Steam’s in-home streaming. With last years’ model, Intel recommended using a hard-wired USB Ethernet network adapter or an 802.11ac dongle, because the build in 802.11n wasn’t ideal. This new Compute Stick, however, is packing 802.11ac wireless capabilities, so Steam’s In-Home Streaming worked just fine at resolutions up to 1080P.


Finally, we have some power consumption numbers to share. We monitored power consumption in a variety of scenarios and saw the Compute Stick use between just 2 and 9 watts of power. Though power consumption is relatively low, the device's small chassis necessitates active cooling. There is a fan in the Compute Stick that spins up fairly often. The fan is audible, but not very loud at all. We mention it though, because the Compute Stick is not completely silent.