Historically, all miniaturized technology appears as a weak link in the evolution of technologically advanced devices. Certainly, smaller sizes come at the expense of system performance and functionality. But are these criteria important to all consumers? Naturally, the Windows-PC the size of a Flash has attracted consumer attention. Compared to regular PCs and laptops, this gadget is much more compact and portable.
Windows-PC the size of a Flash: technical specifications
| Brand | XCY (China) |
| Device model | Mini PC Stick (likely version 1.0) |
| Physical dimensions | 135x45x15 mm |
| Weight | 83 grams |
| Processor | Intel Celeron N4100 (4 cores, 4 threads, 1.1-2.4GHz) |
| Cooling | Active: fan, heatsink |
| RAM | 4 GB (LPDDR4-2133) |
| Storage | eMMC 5.1 128 GB |
| Expandable storage | Yes, microSD up to 128 GB |
| Interfaces | HDMI 2.0, 2xUSB 3.0, 3.5 mm jack, DC |
| Wireless interfaces | Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 and 5 GHz) |
| Bluetooth | Yes, version 4.2 |
| OS support | Windows (versions 7, 8, and 10) Linux |
| Features | 4K@60FPS display output |
| Power via HDMI | No |
| Power supply included | Yes |
| Antennae present | No |
| Digital panel | No |
| Price | $159 (in China) |
Windows-PC the size of a Flash: overview
Considering that we promote the TV-box direction, this gadget is not much different from a TV set-top box. Except that it is tailored for IT needs rather than entertainment. Structurally, it is a full-fledged computer capable of performing office tasks.
The manufacturer’s idea is not new. Similar solutions have been on the market for a long time (since 2013). The only difference is in the hardware, which has been improving year by year. The configuration of the Windows-PC the size of a Flash is optimally selected. The mini-PC is enough for browsing the internet, learning, and working with office programs. Naturally, a monitor, keyboard, and mouse are needed.
The gadget has a good layout, but the assembly leaves much to be desired. The overall picture is spoiled by plastic. We are highly critical of such solutions when it comes to compactness and performance of miniature devices. The Chinese did a good job – they added active cooling and drilled many holes in the case. But they forgot about thermodynamics laws. Any polymer (plastic) is a heat insulator. Make the gadget out of metal – and everyone will be satisfied.
Advantages of a Windows-PC the size of a Flash
Undoubtedly, the main advantages of this microscopic PC are its compactness and mobility. For business, it is an ideal solution. Especially for companies that keep double bookkeeping. In any country, there are enterprises that do not want to operate at a loss. And the main enemies of such firms are police and tax authorities. Thanks to its compact size, the PC can be quickly disconnected from the monitor and slipped into a pocket. Legally, inspectors do not have the right to search employees’ belongings.
In everyday life, the Windows-PC the size of a Flash has a bright future. Notice that year after year, more consumers choose compact technology. Full-fledged PCs are mainly bought by gamers. Others are satisfied with laptops and tablets. Such a gadget is much more convenient than mobile devices because it can be connected to a large TV and enjoyed multimedia with a mouse and keyboard while lying on the sofa.
Disadvantages of a Windows-PC the size of a Flash
We mentioned the active cooling in a plastic case above. This is a serious flaw that needs fixing. According to consumer reviews, a drawback is the inability to upgrade the device. And we would agree if not for one “but”. During testing of TV set-top boxes, we wondered – can they be improved? And we found a solution.
Basically, any microscopic gadget can be upgraded. As long as spare parts are available. Almost all computer service center specialists can replace chips (processor, memory, connectors, and other modules). The cost of the service is about 20% of the price of the replaced chip.
In fact, a Windows-PC the size of a Flash with the above specifications can be improved. In our case, we found an Intel Core i3 processor, 8 GB LPDDR4-2133 memory, and a 512 GB eMMC drive on AliExpress. Everything worked perfectly. The only issue was increased heating. But we fixed this by winding copper wire around the device and inserting both ends inside. By the way, this improved Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz performance almost twofold – from 35 to 70 Mbps.
Should you buy a Windows-PC the size of a Flash
We have a very positive attitude towards Chinese technology. Yes, countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Taiwan, and all Asian nations produce excellent products at minimal prices. This is encouraging. But regarding the gadget Windows-PC the size of a Flash, we would not recommend buying this product. It is raw and needs refinement. First of all, a proper metal case to solve the cooling problem.
Probably, the engineers at XCY are unaware that most users hang their TVs close to the wall like pictures. The gadget, in standby mode, shows a temperature of about 40 degrees Celsius on the chip. Under load, it sharply rises to 70. Active cooling cannot handle this. We call it a wooden stake in the user’s heart. We are waiting for an upgraded device with a metal case on the market.
![[Exclusive] Noise Master Series: Review of flagship headphones](https://teranews.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/frame_19522-360x220.webp "[Exclusive] Noise Master Series: Review of flagship headphones")
