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Intel has been doing its bit to promote affordable computing around the world, especially in markets like India where PC penetration is still very low. One of the ways to push PC adoption is making them very affordable and easy to use. And it could not get more affordable that a stick PC, literally a full computer on a USB stick. We have earlier tested the iBall PC-on-stick and we try the Panache AirPC, which is almost the same thing.
Panache Air PC
Panache Air PC claims to be the world’s smallest and lightest PC. We would have to agree, except for the fact that all other stick PC seem to have the same dimensions. It is larger than a regular USB, but you would not really mind the size if you are hiding it behind a monitor.
Price: Rs 10,999
I have used the iBall PC-on-stick before and it is almost impossible to differentiate the two compute sticks that I have used so far. But there is a clear differentiator. When I got the review unit, the iBall one was running Windows 8.1, while the Panache has Windows 10 out of the box. The other difference is the fact that iBall PC stick came with a wireless keyboard and mouse, while that is an extra cost for the Panache model.
I have reviewed how it is to run the stick PCs on something unconventional like a TV. If you don’t have a TV you will need to spend at least Rs 4,000 to get a monitor with HDMI and Rs 1,000 for a wireless keyboard and mouse. So the overall cost of this PC rig will come to around Rs 16,000. Cheap, still not that cheap. Also, this is useless without Wi-Fi.
While the set up is easy, you have to be careful that the power source stays stable during the initial install process. Otherwise, it will go into an infinite loop of reboots from which there is no way a regular customer will be able to revive the dongle. Also, being a Windows 10 device, there is no set up option without Internet. This is certainly not meant as a solution for everyone, everywhere.
Overall, you will not have any issue with the performance of the computer still, as long as you don’t expect really high end stuff from it. I mean you can easily browse or run Windows apps, but don’t think of installing something like a Photoshop.This is ideal for those who will limit their productivity functions to what is available on the net.
Should you buy?
Yes, if you are looking for an easy to use computer for your shop, or even the home. This solution is ideal for those who have issues with sparing space for a full PC rig and don’t have issues with performance. To make this the most affordable PC, the entire rig will have to become cheaper and offline.
