Well I’m glad you asked. It happens to be my latest gadget and for all you ChromeOS/Chromebook fans, I think you’ll find this to be a pretty interesting gadget indeed.
A Chromebit is a ChromeOS-powered PC on a stick.
You plug into the back of a TV then pair it up with a wireless keyboard/mouse, and what you get is a decent PC-like experience. For those less familiar with ChromeOS, it’s a little different than Windows since it boots into a Chrome browser and relies heavily on the ‘cloud’ for it applications and data storage. Here’s more about ChromeOS if you’re interested:
https://youtu.be/iNPkvr7F82Q or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntLPcVAyNPET
and another just about the Chromebit:
The Chromebit performs exceptionally well for its price tag (you should be able to get a copy from Amazon for less than $80) and it looks great on a 1080p display. It boots up in seconds and is very responsive. Web streaming services like YouTube, Amazon, Netflix, Hulu… look and and perform on par with more powerful computers. For even better features and performance, you’ll might want to check out a Chomebox or Chromebook.
If you’re using the Chromebit with a TV (plugging it directly into an available HDMI port) then all you’ll need in addition to the Chromebit is a wireless keyboard. My favorite keyboard at the moment is the inexpensive Logitech K400 with integrated touchpad.
One feature I like about this keyboard is the power button that allows you to turn the Chromebit off and on without physically unplugging the device (there is no power button on a Chromebit itself).
For those who desire to use the Chromebit as their primary PC, this can be done with a couple additional components. First, you’ll probably want to expand the number of USB ports available. This provides access for a USB memory stick, and wired mouse and keyboard, etc. My favorite (inexpensive) USB hub is the D-Link 4-port hub.
You might also require an HDMI-equipped monitor. There are many to choose from. And although I don’t have experience with this particular model, the HP Pavilion 21.5-inch HDMI/VGA monitor seems to be getting good reviews and is priced right (<$100).
Since I just got my Chromebit yesterday, I don’t have a lot of experience with it yet, but from my initial time with the device, I’m not disappointed.
To be continue…
