I just purchased this a few weeks ago and it is everything that I had hoped for - fast, quiet, and Chrome OS!
Just to clarify some differences I've noticed from some other reviews here:
- The model that I received has an Intel Celeron CPU 3215U running at 1.70GHz. This is a bit faster than the 1.5GHz that is advertised.
- If you have an older printer that is not cloud ready, most printer manufacturers now have very convenient Android and iOS apps for your phone or tablet that work directly with your printer. I have a Canon printer that is wireless but not cloud ready and it works great with the Canon app that allows for printing and scanning. It's a few more steps to get a document or photo printed, but it works great. Of course, if you want a printer that is cloud ready, you can find any number for around $80.
- The fan in the Chromebox is normally very quiet, but it does speed up for short periods when the CPU is under stress. The fan noise is not really anything to worry about.
- I have a very old set of speakers connected to the headphone jack and they worked perfectly. No humming before login - in fact I leave them on all the time and they work just like they did when connected to my old Windows PC.
- I was surprised to find that my old web camera and microphone also work right out of the box. You may need to select the camera name for both the default camera and microphone settings, but it works fine. The web cam I'm using is an older model Microsoft LifeCam VX-2000.
- The mouse that came with the unit is wired, but has a very nice feel and the scroll wheel is very quiet.
- Instead of the included Chrome-style keyboard that is OK, I am using a wireless Logitech keyboard that has the USB dongle. It works great too.
- I installed the Chromebox to the back of my monitor - an older Samsung SyncMaster E2420. The screw holes line up perfectly with the bracket that is included with the Chromebox. This makes for a very uncluttered desktop.
I have a long history with Chrome OS, having had 4 Chromebooks over the years, and this Chromebox works just like the OS on a Chromebook - fast, safe, and very cloud friendly. I find that the Google Drive works great as storage that can be accessed from any device, is always backed up and secure, and has plenty of useful apps like Docs, Sheets, Photos, etc.
I highly recommend this device for anyone looking for a reliable, affordable, and simple, PC replacement.
| Processor | 1.5 GHz celeron |
|---|---|
| RAM | 4 GB DDR3 |
| Hard Drive | 16 GB SSD |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel HD |
| Chipset Brand | Intel |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Wireless Type | 802.11a |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 4 |
