One of the top choices for compact mini desktop PCs is getting a serious boost in power, but the extra processing could cost you extra.
Just days after CES, Samsung is back with more news. The company announced it’s outfitting its Chromebox mini PC with a second-generation 1.9GHz Intel Core i5 processor. The computer was previously powered by an Intel Celeron processor, so even though Samsung isn’t upgrading to the top tier, the i5 takes a big step forward in specs. According to Electronista, the updated Chromebox hasn’t appeared on Samsung’s website yet, but Amazon has the i5 model priced at $413.99, down from its list price of $499. The entry-level Series 3 was just $329.
In terms of other specs, the new Chromebox hasn’t changed much. It still has 4GB of RAM and a 16GB solid-state drive configuration. Connectivity options remain a big part of the machine, with a DVI port, a DisplayPort, and six USB 2.0 ports, in addition to Wi-Fi options. The Chromebox focuses on cloud-based services, so those choices for getting connected are key. The need for a constant Internet connection may also be one of the reasons for the so-so success of Samsung’s Chrome-based computers. Sales of the Chromebox and its laptop counterpart, the Chromebook, have stayed far behind Samsung’s smartphone offerings in terms of sales. That said, having recently broken the 100 million sales mark for phones in its Galaxy S series, Samsung’s phone sales are hard to beat.
Despite the slower sales, the Chromebox is a solid choice for somebody looking to buy a mini PC, especially considering the upgraded processor. Check out our review of the Chromebox Series 3 for an idea of what Samsung’s product line offers.
Source : digitaltrends[dot]com
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