At Microsoft Ignite 2024, the company introduced a bold new product, the Windows 365 Link—a compact desktop computer designed to leverage the power of the cloud. With its diminutive size and minimalist design, the device invites comparisons to Apple’s Mac mini.
But unlike Apple’s full-fledged computer, the Windows 365 Link is exclusively a cloud-based machine, requiring an internet connection to function.
A Minimalist Approach to Computing
From the outside, the Windows 365 Link could be mistaken for a competitor to the M4 Mac mini. The small black box features a range of ports on the back, including:
- 1x USB-C
- 2x USB-A
- DisplayPort
- HDMI
- Ethernet
It also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring modern connectivity for both wired and wireless setups. However, the similarities to Apple’s Mac mini end there. While the Mac mini boasts M4 and M4 Pro processors and functions as a standalone machine, the Windows 365 Link is effectively a cloud streaming device, relying entirely on Microsoft’s Windows 365 platform to deliver its computing power.
Microsoft says the Windows 365 Link is just the first of its “Cloud PC” offerings.
“We’ll build more endpoints and form factors, scaling with our original equipment manufacturer (OEM) ecosystem partners, to unlock more value and options,” wrote Microsoft’s Anthony Smith in a short FAQ at the end of the company’s blog post. “We will have more to share in the future on this topic.”
Hardware Designed for the Cloud
The Windows 365 Link’s internal hardware is purpose-built for its role as a cloud client. It includes:
- 8GB of RAM
- 64GB of storage
- An Intel processor (specific model undisclosed)
These specifications are minimal since the device offloads all major computing tasks to virtual machines running on Microsoft’s servers. This design ensures affordability and keeps the device compact, but it also means that its functionality is entirely dependent on a stable internet connection.
Aimed at Corporate Customers
Microsoft is positioning the Windows 365 Link as a cost-effective, secure solution for businesses and IT professionals. The concept is simple: instead of equipping employees with expensive high-performance PCs, companies can provide these compact devices, which stream the power of a remote machine through the cloud. The advantages include:
- Centralized data storage: All data is stored and encrypted in the cloud, reducing the risk of physical theft or local hacking.
- Simplified maintenance: IT teams can manage and update systems remotely without needing to handle individual devices.
However, this reliance on the cloud also means the device is effectively a paperweight if the internet goes down.
Pricing and Availability
The Windows 365 Link is priced at $349, with availability slated for next year. However, there’s a catch: it requires a Windows 365 subscription, starting at $28 per month. Over three years, the cost of the device and subscription adds up to over $1,350—approaching the price of a powerful standalone PC.
How It Stacks Up
While the concept of the Windows 365 Link is intriguing, its limitations invite comparisons to Apple’s M4 Mac mini, which starts at $599. For just $250 more than the Link, the Mac mini offers:
- Standalone functionality: No internet required to use its full power.
- Significantly better hardware: Including M4 or M4 Pro chips and up to 256GB of storage in the base model.
- More versatility: Suitable for creative professionals, developers, and everyday users alike.
The Mac mini provides more value for users who need a reliable, all-purpose desktop computer, whereas the Windows 365 Link is firmly targeted at niche corporate use cases.
Final Thoughts
The Windows 365 Link represents a unique approach to desktop computing, prioritizing affordability, portability, and cloud security for enterprise users. However, its reliance on a stable internet connection and subscription fees may limit its appeal.
While it could become a staple in IT environments, everyday users are more likely to gravitate toward standalone options like the Mac mini, which offers more power and flexibility for a relatively small price difference. Whether Microsoft’s gamble on cloud-only computing pays off remains to be seen.
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