Linutop 2 Mini PC - Linutop 2 Mini PC

So what's this tiny PC actually like to use? Boot time is a disappointment, as despite its Linux OS the Linutop 2 takes a minute and 20 seconds to boot. Once booted though it offers a streamlined and responsive environment and shuts down in 12 seconds. There's also an 'amusing' custom screen-saver that shows the Linutop 2 being carried in a back jeans pocket and used as a coffee-cup coaster.

From a handy little tabbed menu that pops up when starting the machine, you can configure applications to autostart and interface with your network at boot, set several backup configurations, and lock the OS into a limited user mode that allows no user changes. All of which is especially useful for some of the public-access and viewing markets this unit is designed for.

Overall then, the Linutop 2 does what you'd expect without fail, and without making the least bit of noise. It also stays very cool, becoming warm but never hot to the touch. It's when we get to price that things become a little complicated. The Linutop 2 is currently not available from third-party resellers, and its price direct is 280euro excluding VAT. The Wall Bracket (36euro) and three-year warranty (55euro) plus 28euro shipping put the full amount at 399euro excluding VAT (though prices go down when buying in quantities of six, 30 or 100).

Even for just the basic package, you're looking at 368.37euro (inc VAT), which at the current unfavourable rate of exchange is a whopping £334.48. Considering the 'underpowered' specifications and high price due to the currently low pound, you might be starting to think that you'd be better off with one of the many Atom nettop configurations, like the Eee Box which is currently around £230.

However, while this might be true for most consumers, the Linutop 2 offers three factors the combination of which no currently available nettop can match: zero moving parts (in turn meaning zero noise), sturdy aluminium build quality and most of all, only 8.5W maximum power usage compared to 20W for a typical nettop. This makes it ideal for harsh environments, public locations and situations where power use and/or noise are prime considerations.

Verdict

The Linutop 2 offers a unique proposition for those looking for a totally silent tiny PC that's built like a brick and uses less than an energy-saving light bulb. However, due to its high purchasing cost and lack of features some will want to look elsewhere.