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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →An “any-screen computer” is a small computer that connects to a separate display—usually through HDMI—so you can use it with a TV, monitor, or projector. It is also called a computer on a stick, PC stick, or screenless PC. The stick provides the computer; the display shows its output, and a keyboard, mouse, remote, phone, or tablet supplies input.
What does “any-screen computer” mean?
The phrase refers to a computer-on-a-stick: a compact computer that plugs into a display, commonly an HDMI-equipped TV. ComputerLanguage.com describes it as a computer about the size of a USB drive that connects to a TV’s HDMI port for display. The device is the computer, not the screen. ComputerLanguage.com’s definition redirects the phrase to “computer on a stick” and also lists “screenless PC” and “PC on a stick” as names for this category.
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This is different from a computer screen, which means the working area shown on a computer monitor. Collins English Dictionary’s definition of “computer screen” refers to the display area, not to a computer that connects to one.
How does it work?
The stick contains computing hardware and connects to a display so that the display can show its operating system and apps. Depending on the device, it may connect to a TV, monitor, or projector. You then control it with a compatible input method, such as a wireless keyboard and mouse, an infrared remote, or a phone or tablet. A Bluetooth keyboard-and-mouse setup is another possibility described in the category glossary. ComputerLanguage.com’s stick-computer glossary covers these display and input options.
#1 Best Overall
- Lenovo V100 all-in-one desktop with Intel N100 processor, featuring 4 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz turbo, and 6MB cache. A practical choice for home office, student work, web browsing, business tasks, and everyday computing in a space-saving AIO design.
- 23.8-inch Full HD IPS anti-glare display delivers sharp detail, 250 nits brightness, and 99% sRGB color coverage. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics supports daily visuals and multimedia. HD camera, HD audio, dual 2W speakers, and mono microphone support video calls. Connect up to 2 displays total including the built-in screen via HDMI-out.
- 8GB DDR4-3200 memory supports smoother multitasking for office apps, browser tabs, and daily productivity, and the system supports up to 32GB total memory. 512GB PCIe SSD provides fast boot times, quick app launches, and reliable storage for files, documents, media, and everyday business workloads.
- Built for modern connectivity with Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX203, Bluetooth 5.2, and Gigabit Ethernet. Ports include 1 USB-C 10Gbps, 2 USB-A 2.0, 2 USB-A 10Gbps, HDMI-out 1.4b, RJ-45, and a 3.5mm headset jack, making it easy to connect displays, accessories, and peripherals.
- Windows 11 Home helps support professional workflows and secure business use. Includes a USB Calliope keyboard in black, English. Eclipse Black finish, firmware TPM 2.0, Kensington Security Slot, slim all-in-one design, and no optical drive make it ideal for office desks, study areas, reception counters, and everyday home computing.
What is it used for?
Stick computers are generally aimed at lighter tasks such as web browsing, email, and video playback. Their compact form does not guarantee desktop-class performance: demanding work or heavy multitasking can exceed the limits of modest hardware. Whether a particular device can handle a task depends on its operating system, processor, memory, storage, ports, and supported input devices; category definitions alone do not establish specifications for any current model.
How is it different from a streaming stick?
A streaming stick is primarily an entertainment device, while a PC stick is intended to function as a computer. The names and HDMI connection can make them look similar, but they are not interchangeable categories. Check the device’s operating system and capabilities before treating it as a general-purpose computer: a media streamer does not become a PC simply because it plugs into a TV.
Rank #2
- 【Processor】 Latest 13th Gen Intel N100 Processor (4 cores, up to 3.4GHz, 6MB cache, 4 threads) with integrated Intel UHD Graphics, delivering efficient performance for everyday computing.
- 【Premium RAM and Storage】 Equipped with up to 32GB DDR5 RAM, ensuring lightning-fast performance, seamless multitasking, and superior responsiveness for heavy workloads. Up to 640GB total storage (128GB UFS + 512GB HP External Flash Drive) offers the perfect combination of high-speed internal storage for quick boot-ups and app launches, plus massive external storage for large files, media, and backups.
- 【Ports】 1x USB Type-C (5Gbps, data transfer only), 2x USB Type-A (Hi-Speed), 1x USB Type-A (5Gbps), 1x headphone/microphone combo (3.5mm), 1x RJ-45 Ethernet, 1x HDMI-out, and built-in WiFi 6 & Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity.
- 【Display and Built-in Features】 21.5" Full HD (1920 x 1080) display, offering sharp visuals with an anti-glare coating for comfortable viewing. Dual stereo speakers provide clear and immersive audio, while a built-in HD webcam with a privacy shutter ensures secure video conferencing and online meetings.
- 【Operating System】 Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro (64-bit), providing enhanced security, business-grade features, and remote desktop support, making it an excellent choice for professionals and power users.
What to check before choosing one
- Operating system: Confirm whether it runs a full desktop operating system or an entertainment-focused platform.
- Display connection and ports: Check how it connects to your screen and whether it has the ports your setup requires.
- Hardware: Match the processor, memory, and storage to the work you intend to do.
- Input: Confirm support for the keyboard, mouse, remote, or mobile device you plan to use.
- Power: Check how the stick is powered and whether that arrangement suits the display and installation.
These checks matter because “PC stick” describes a form factor, not a guaranteed level of performance or a standard set of ports. Current model specifications, prices, and availability are not established by the category definitions cited here.
Are PC sticks still current products?
The category has historical examples, including the Rikomagic MK802, introduced in 2012, and Intel Compute Stick models launched in 2015. Those dates identify past examples; they do not confirm that those devices remain available or that a particular successor exists. Check current product details rather than relying on older examples as buying recommendations.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- The Lenovo 24 All-In-One Desktop PC features an Intel Intel Processor N100 (Total Cores 4, Total Threads 4, 6M Cache, Max Turbo Frequency 3.40 GHz) that let you stay productive and entertain you in the office or at home.
- 23.8" FHD (1920x1080) IPS Anti-glare 250nits, 99% sRGB, Non-touch Display. This Lenovo All-in-One desktop computer can fit into many different environments with ease, and ideal for school, university, business, studio, and workplace settings.
- Optimized Memory & Storage: 16GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB PCIe SSD for seamless multitasking and ample storage, provides fast bootup and reliable storage for your files, documents, and multimedia.
- Wireless & Ports: Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX203, 802.11ax 2x2 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure reliable connectivity, plus an array of ports, including 2x USB-A (Hi-Speed USB / USB 2.0), 2x USB-A (USB 10Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 2), 1x HDMI -out 1.4b, 1x Ethernet (RJ-45), 1x headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm) for ultimate flexibility.
- Designed for school, work, and entertainment, this Lenovo All-in-One desktop computer for home office ensures smooth multitasking and efficient operation, tackle your busiest days and save everything you love. Wireless Keyboard, grey, (UK) and Wireless Mouse, grey
Rank #3
- Integrated display: 27" (68.6 cm) diagonal, FHD (1920 x 1080), touch, IPS, three-sided micro-edge, anti-glare, 250nits, 99% sRGB
- Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5-5500 MHz RAM (onboard)
- Internal Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive
- Mouse and keyboard: HP white wireless keyboard and mouse combo
- Camera: HP True Vision 1080p FHD IR tilt privacy camera with temporal noise reduction and integrated dual array digital microphones
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
