InFocus has just released the Kangaroo, a Windows 10 laptop that costs $99. The Kangaroo is available now from Newegg, and will start selling at Microsoft stores by mid-November.
But let's see what it can do:
The Kangaroo microcomputer offers the power of an inexpensive full-size computer with the convenience and portability of a mobile phone.
The black device with a matte aluminum frame is powered by an Intel Cherrytrail (Z8500) SOC, has 2GB of RAM, and a 32GB disk (only 18GB is available, but the storage space is expandable via microSD card).
It has on-board batteries (they have a lifespan of up to four hours with “occasional use”).
The standalone Kangaroo Dock, which you'll be able to swap with other upcoming ones, includes an HDMI port and two USB ports.
So you can connect the HDMI cable to your TV. The Kangaroo takes less than 30 seconds to start up, although this time will probably slow down over time.
You can connect your mouse and a keyboard and you're ready to go. InFocus describes the device as "a no-compromise PC at a price that will make Windows 10 accessible to everyone."
The device actually runs Windows 10 Home and has Windows Hello enabled.
This means it has a fingerprint reader that will allow you to log in without a password or PIN (touchscreen required).
Because the main connection is via HDMI, audio works immediately if you're using a display like your TV.
The built-in Wi-Fi works flawlessly, although VB's reviewer found it a bit slow. Quick tests showed that the Wi-Fi chip in the Kangaroo isn't as powerful as those found in laptops, but that's not surprising.
