ASUS Chromebit finally launches for just $85

It was many months ago that Google and Asus announced the Chromebit, and now it's finally available for a price of only $85. Like a big brother to the Chromecast, the Chromebit is similar to other PC-on-a-stick models, except instead of Windows it's sporting Chrome OS. Just plug it into any HDMI-equiped TV or monitor, and it becomes a full-fledged Chromebook computer. The candy bar-sized stick is made by Asus, and features a full-sized USB port on the end.

Google touts the Chromebit as an affordable way to turn a TV or monitor into an "easy to maintain, secure, and manage" PC. As a Chromebook device, it may not be the most powerful computer, but it can handle activities like browsing the web, using web-based apps, or playing games from the Chrome Web Store without breaking a sweat.

As for specs, the Chromebit is powered by a Rockchip 3288 quadcore processor with 2GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, along with WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0 support. While a keyboard and mouse could be connected via the USB 2.0 port, it goes without saying that using Bluetooth accessories would be a much better idea.

At a price of only $85, the Chromebit is easily one of the most affordable PC options available, and as long as users have their expectations of Chrome OS in check, it can meet a wide range of computing needs.

VIA TechCrunch