14 DAY TRIAL // When you take into account facts like size and power consumption there aren't many systems out there that can beat nettops, but going this route usually means that you have to give up on performance, although that isn't the case if you opt for the Epson Endeavor ST150E mini-PC that can pack a Intel core i7 inside its minute chassis.
Specially designed by Epson for the Japanese market, this 195×185×75mm compact computer can be equipped with Intel Celeron as well as more powerful Core i5 or Core i7 processors, according to the consumer's wishes, the Celeron P4600 CPU being the entry-level option while the Core i7-640M CPU is the fastest option available for purchase.
This can be accompanied by up to 8GB of DDR3 memory, a 640GB hard drive or 160GB Intel X25-M solid state disk, Epson also allowing its customers to add a optical drive to the Endeavor ST150E.
Connectivity wise things are pretty basic, this mini-PC coming standard only with Ethernet networking, WiFi being available as an option via a USB dongle.
Six USB ports are also included (two being placed upfront), this computer also coming with VGA and DVI-D ports, a HDMI output sadly missing from the specs list.
Dedicated graphics also aren't available, users having to make due with the integrated Intel HD video solution, although opting for a fast processor should eliminate this problem when it comes down to high definition content playback.
If Epson were to add a dedicated graphics card along with a HDMI output I am sure this would become one of the best HTPC solutions available out there since it can be configured with a ultra fast processor as well as an optical drive.
For now the Endeavor ST150E mini-PC is only available in Japan, its price ranging from 64,890 yen (just under $800) to 190,000 yen (about $2,300 US) depending on its configuration. (via akihabaranews)