When Samsung released the mini PC called Chromebox, the PC world was abuzz. Then, something happened. It was discovered that the Chromebox just didn’t pack enough punch. While pretty to look at and interesting in its own right, Samsung’s mini PC just wasn’t fast enough. Now, Samsung has responded to the criticism by dropping a 2.5GHz dual core Intel i5 processor into the mix. Now, the PC world is sitting up and paying more attention to Samsung’s tiny bundle.

Inside the New Chromebox

Samsung’s latest Chromebox not only comes with a 2.5GHZ Intel i5 processor, but it has everything that was so great about the old Chromebox. You’ll find a 16GB SSD, 4Gb of memory, and a style that’s identical to the older model. Really, the difference here is in the speed and power of the new Chromebox, which desperately needed an update. Unfortunately, updates don’t usually come in at the same price point, and Samsung has raised the price of the new Chromebox ever so slightly (but still enough to notice).

Most retailers are selling the new Chromebox for around $400. You may be able to find a cheaper Chromebox if you happen to hit a sale or two. The older Chromebox retailed for $329, so the price has gone up almost $70. If you happen to live in a state or province that tacks tax onto that price, you’ll be paying slightly over $400 for a new Chromebox. Since Samsung’s Chromebox takes direct aim at Apple’s Mac Mini, it’s worth comparing the two.

How Samsung’s New Chromebox Stacks Up To the Mac Mini

Price is the main factor here, so we’ll start with that comparison. You can purchase an entry-level Mac Mini for $599, which is $200 more than the Chromebox. The Mac Mini comes with a 2.3GHz processor (entry level) and can go up to a 2.7GHz (for a higher price). The Mac Mini also comes with Thunderbolt. FireWire 800, HDMI, SDXC card slot and 4 USB 3.0 ports compared to the Chromebox’s 6 USB ports.

The Samsung Chromebox has gained some attention, but many are still wary of this PC simply because Apple’s Mac Mini gives you more for your dollar. It’s also important to remember that the Chromebox runs Google’s Chrome, and it is the first PC to do so. The Chromebox is also limited feature-wise, so take that into consideration as well. Does the Chromebox have a place in the PC world?

Where the Chromebox Does Fit

Samsung’s Chromebox is somewhat experimental still. Even though the company has released a new version of the PC, it still doesn’t work with all kinds of hardware. With this in mind, the Chromebox does have a place in the experimental PC world and it’s nice to see other companies coming out with compact PCs.

The original Chromebox had a low price going for it, but that’s no longer the case. So, if you’re looking for a workhorse of a PC and want something compact – this isn’t it. If you want something compact, don’t mind using Chrome, can deal with a few glitches, and can get used to conducting most functions online, the Chromebox is a fun way to see what Samsung has been up to. It’s also likely that Samsung will be creating newer versions of the Chromebox within the near future (if this one sells at all), so you may want to hold out for the next Chromebox if you aren’t such an Apple fan.