Four small computers for fun, programming, or streaming
Single board computers are those that are built on a single board. That means the memory, CPU, and everything is built into one compact board. While there is some room for expansion, it is not much. These computers are good for web browsing, music, and anything that is not needing lots of resources.
These are good for someone always on the go. The best ones are easy to find, if one wants to search through the reviews for them. They have become very popular, so companies are competing to make the best they can for customers. Here are some of the best ones.
Odroid XU4
This version of the Odroid is one several lists. It features a Samsung 8-core Exynos5422 CPU. The GPU is a Mali T628 MP6. It comes with 2 GB of RAM, with the ability to upgrade to 64 GB more. Instead of running Raspberry Pi, it can run Android or Linux operating systems. It has USB 3.0 support and a Gigabit Ethernet connection. The other brands by Odroid are known for quality. This version keeps up that tradition.
NanoPi NEO4
The NEO4 is another computer that has made several lists. It features a Rockchip RK3399 CPU that has a dual core Cortex A72 and quad core Cortex A53 configuration. It has a Mali T864 GPU. It comes standard with 1 GB of RAM. It is known to be powerful, with strong processing ability. It also has 4K video playback. It is known for slower WiFi, though. It also has fewer USB ports. This would make a good streaming or a smaller programming computer.
Banana Pi M64
The Banana Pi M64 has got several people bragging about it. It features an Allwinner A64 quad core Cortex 53 standard as the CPU. The GPU is a Mali 400 MP2. It has 2 GB RAM standard, with the ability to upgrade to 64 GB. It is another single board that can run Android or Linux. It can handle a microSD for storage purposes. This model will store more than several others, but to do that, it only has two USB ports.
LattePanda Alpha
This is the most expensive on this list, but the performance shows. This computer comes with an Intel Cherry Trail Z8350 quad core CPU. The GPU is an Intel HD Graphics 615. It also comes standard with 8 GB of RAM. It is strong enough to handle Windows 10, which is also standard. This is the computer that someone will buy if they need small, but powerful. That is because almost everything about this computer is laptop grade. A person can format and put whatever operating system they want.
Go shopping
While these four are the most bragged about models, a person should still research. Set a budget and consider what is available within those parameters. The lists that are out there will give all sorts of opinions of experts, but the biggest expert on personal needs is looking back in the mirror. Ask friends if they have a single board. Go to a store and try one out. These are for personal preference and that takes shopping.
There are hundreds of other choices that can be made. Do not think one is limited in selection. Always consider what is needed for enjoyment or programming. Most of these can be bought as just the board and a personalized case can then be found. Find out what operating system is most usable. All of this will bring a fun time in learning and shopping.