Computers, Laptops & Tablets

Chances are you’ve heard of a Chromebook —the hot new category in affordable, mobile computing— but what the heck is a Chromebox? The cardboard box a Samsung Chromebook ships in? Does it have anything to do with Battlestar Galactica and Cylons? No to both. Chromebox is the natural extension of the Chromebook, taking Google’s Chrome operating system and using it to run a compact, portable and affordable alternative to a traditional desktop Windows PC. The Chromebox isn’t for everyone, but when it comes to a desktop PC that features near instant boot-up, built-in security, the ability to work on documents and spreadsheets using free (and offline-capable) apps plus a complete web experience, a Chromebox is an appealing option.

 When you hear the name Hewlett-Packard, you might think business. As in business PCs. Durable, competent but maybe a bit on the boring side. However, HP has a wild side and there’s nowhere it’s shown off more than with the new HP ENVY Phoenix gaming PC. I had the time to test one out and the ENVY Phoenix blew away my perceptions of what HP is capable of.