Intel is bringing Windows or Linux in the form of a USB stick in a new move to minimize the size of a computer for consumers and businesses.

The Compute Stick has all of the hardware necessary to run the two platforms: a processor, RAM, GPU and storage. Intel added an Atom processor inside the Compute Stick along with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage.

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Any display or HDTV with a HDMI port can become a computer with the Compute Stick. At least, that's what Intel is advertising. Whether it's fully compatible with every display is for trial and error to find out.

The Windows version will be available for $149.99 while the Linux model will be cheaper at $109.99. Both are excellent purchases for those that don't need a lot of processing power for tasks and already own a display.

Intel is targeting this at schools, businesses and consumers that have rundown PCs and want to expand without spending a lot of money. The Compute Stick offers the bare minimum when it comes to performance power, but browsing the web and other low-end tasks should work fine.

Asus recently launched a similar USB stick capable of running Chrome OS, much more centered on the education market. Intel's own has Linux and Windows, making it as much of an education and business tool as it is a hacking device and capable of running all types of distributions of Linux.

Intel is working hard on smaller devices to be prepared for the surge of smart things and wearables in the next few years. It's already built two processors for the small devices capable of powering even the smallest door bell or alarm.

Pocket friendly PCs might be the new coming with USB sticks being used for so much more than just storage nowadays. Having a computer you can take with you that's not as hefty as a laptop and not as basic as a tablet or mobile phone is definitely something to consider.

TagsIntel, Compute Stick, linux