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InFocus launched Kangaroo,
@ $99 Windows 10 portable PC that “ can go anywhere which can easily work on any
screen.” Yes, nobody even dreamt about mobile Desktop :we had only came across
a phablet buts a complete pc with latest Windows 10; same as a desktop, connectivity of peripherals are needed like a keyboard,
mouse and a simple screen. Kangaroo is available on Newegg
now, sale part will be at the Microsoft Store by late November.
As
convenient as a PC-on-a-stick
may be, it's typically saddled with some major limits: you rarely have more
than one port, and you always have to plug into a power source. InFocus (yes,
the projector
company) thinks it has a better idea, though. Its new Kangaroo PC gives you
a battery-powered Windows 10 desktop that's about as small as a smartphone --
you can pull it out of your pocket, connect peripherals and start working for
up to four hours. You can even connect to an iPad if you're bent on a
completely portable setup. Also, InFocus takes a clever approach to expansion:
there's an included dock with HDMI and two USB ports, and there are promises of
more add-ons in the future.
The
system isn't any more powerful than an entry-level laptop between the Atom x5
processor, 2GB of RAM and 32GB of expandable storage. However, you can also
order one today from Newegg for $99. That's cheaper than some of its
stick-based rivals, and it's arguably a better value overall if you're looking
for a full-fledged computer.
The device is powered by an Intel Cherrytrail SOC, has 2GB of RAM, and 32 GB
of storage once expandable using a microSD card. Users can also opt for fingerprint login instead of a password.
Kangaroo is currently available on www.newegg.com in North America only and will be launched on Microsoft Store mid-November.
The
pitch is simple: Kangaroo offers the power of a cheap full-sized computer with
the convenience and mobility of a cell phone. The black satin aluminum device
is powered by an Intel Cherrytrail (Z8500) SOC, 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage
(only about 18GB is free when you first start it, but storage is expandable via
a microSD card), and an on-board battery (up to four hours of “casual use”).
The standalone Kangaroo Dock, which you can swap out for other future docks,
includes an HDMI port and two USB ports.
The built-in Wi-Fi works, though I wish it was a tad faster. This was the
only real letdown — the Kangaroo feels incredibly quick despite its low
specifications. Chances are you will only notice Wi-Fi problems if you are very
far away from the source (quick tests showed that the Wi-Fi chip in the
Kangaroo is simply not as powerful as the one found in an expensive laptop, but
that’s no surprise).That said, I would love if one of the future swappable docks came with an Ethernet port. After all, if I’m plugging in a monitor or a TV, I’m not going anywhere.
The built-in battery and ports are the real differentiators here, especially when compared to your typical stick PC. If you’re considering a stick PC, I can definitely recommend paying the extra money to get the Kangaroo.
Aside from slow Wi-Fi in some cases and some cropping issues depending on the type of screen you’re plugging the Kangaroo into, this is definitely worth the $99. InFocus plans to unveil more products and accessories at CES 2016 in an attempt to build a Kangaroo ecosystem: A Kangaroo monitor, dedicated storage expansion, and various port expansion docks are all in the works.
Given its price point, we suspect the Kangaroo’s success will depend entirely on whether consumers are interested not just in the mobile desktop, but all its various expandable options and accessories.
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