HP redefines the desktop with mini PC models

A number of new devices and tech-savvy systems were released at the beginning of January, but few are as innovative as HP’s take on the desktop PC. HP announced the HP Pavilion Mini Desktop and the HP Stream Mini Desktop on January 5 and subsequently changed everything users thought they knew about desktop PCs.

Instead of the large, bulky construction that many PC owners have gotten used to over the years, both the Pavilion and Stream feature a small, compact and stylish design.

“The desktop tower PC continues to be a focal point in the home for sharing, creating and entertaining,” noted Mike Nash, HP vice president of product management for Consumer Personal Systems. “The HP Pavilion and HP Stream Mini Desktops deliver the benefits of a traditional desktop PC in a package that looks good sitting on a desk and is small enough to fit into an entertainment center.”

In addition to their miniature size, these devices also come with tiny price tags. Instead of spending $500 or more on traditional desktops, the Pavilion and Stream are both selling for less than $350. Let’s take a look at the specs of these innovative machines.

The HP Pavilion Mini Desktop features:

• A height of 2.06 inches and a weight of 1.6 lbs
• Windows 8.1 and support for processors including Intel Core i3
• 1 terabyte of storage space as well as 8 gigabytes of available add-on memory
• Energy Star certification, using only 45 watts of power – in comparison with the 250 watts consumed by a traditional tower PC
• Four USB ports
• Keyboard and mouse bundle

The HP Stream Mini Desktop features:

• 200 gigabytes of Microsoft OneDrive storage for the first two years
• 32 gigabyte solid-state drive
• Keyboard and mouse bundle
• Includes a $25 gift card to the Windows Store

Currently, both models are scheduled for online purchase through HP in the U.S. on Jan. 14, and will be available through select retailers beginning Feb. 8.