The Intel Compute Stick, once a novel concept in compact computing, is gaining attention after a recent review by the tech channel Action Retro. The review focuses on the last model released in 2016, the STK1AW32SC, which features a quad-core Intel Atom x5-Z8330 system on a chip (SoC), 2 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of eMMC storage. This device, designed to plug directly into an HDMI port, offered users a simple way to transform any display into a functional computer.
The Compute Stick was part of Intel’s exploration into various computer form factors. While the Next Unit of Computing (NUC) has become widely successful, the Compute Stick has faded from mainstream memory. Its stick-like design allowed for portability and ease of use, making it an appealing choice for those who needed a basic computing solution without the bulk of traditional PCs. Despite Intel ceasing production of these devices post-2016, the concept has been adopted by other manufacturers, such as MeLe, which continue to produce similar compact PCs.
In the Action Retro video, the 2016 Compute Stick is tested, beginning with a wipe of its previous Windows 10 installation. An attempt to install Haiku failed to recognize the eMMC storage. Additionally, the current version of Ubuntu encountered installation issues, freezing during setup. In contrast, MX Linux successfully provided a usable desktop experience, allowing for tasks such as watching YouTube content and network streaming of Steam games.
The video highlights the ongoing capabilities of the Intel Compute Stick, despite criticisms labeling it as “e-waste.” As of 2025, this small device has proven itself to still be a functional entry-level computer. The resurgence of interest in older technologies reflects a broader trend in the tech community, where vintage hardware is often re-evaluated for its performance and practicality in modern contexts.
While the Intel Compute Stick may not dominate the market like it once aspired to, it remains an intriguing piece of computing history. Its legacy continues to influence the design of portable computing solutions, reminding users that innovation often comes in unexpected forms.