In this article, we will review some of the best options for the cheapest x86 SBC that you can buy in 2023.

We will compare their features, performance, price, and availability. We will also give you some tips on how to choose the right x86 SBC for your project.

How to Choose an x86 SBC: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are looking to buy an x86 single board computer (SBC), there are several factors you should consider to make the best decision:

Processor

- Performance: This refers to how fast and efficient the processor can execute tasks and run applications

Intel Celeron J4105 has the highest performance, followed by Intel Atom x5-Z8350, Intel Atom Z3735G.

Intel Celeron J4105＞Intel Atom x5-Z8350＞Intel Atom Z3735G

- Power consumption:

Power consumption is important in x86 single board computers (SBCs) because it affects their performance, heat dissipation, and battery life. Choosing low power consumption can help reduce the need for cooling fans, heatsinks, and external power supplies.

Intel Celeron J4105 has the highest power consumption, followed by Intel Atom x5-Z8350, and Intel Atom Z3735G has the lowest.

Intel Celeron J4105＞Intel Atom x5-Z8350＞Intel Atom Z3735G

- Functionality: This refers to how versatile and customizable the processor is for different applications and scenarios. Generally, higher functionality means more features, options, and flexibility.

Intel Celeron J4105 > Intel Atom x5-Z8350> Intel Atom Z3735G

Co-processor: Collaborate with the main processor to execute specific calculations or tasks, thus enhancing the performance and efficiency of the SBC, while expanding its functionality and compatibility. For example, using a co-processor such as ATmega32u4 to support development environments like Arduino IDE.

Ports: Allow you to connect your x86 SBC with peripheral devices and expansion modules. For example, USB, HDMI, Ethernet, GPIO, etc.

Size: The size of an x86 SBC affects its portability and flexibility. Smaller is better.

RAM: Random Access Memory. The more RAM a computer has, the more programs it can run at the same time without slowing down.

Figure: Comparison table of the cheapest x86 single board computers

Note: We only listed x86 SBCs that can be purchased from official channels and in-stock currently (March 13, 2023).

x86 SBCs You Can Buy in 2023:

1.  LattePanda V1 - The Smallest Windows 10 Single Board Computer (Unactivated, 2GB/32GB)

Price: Start at $105.00

Dimensions: 88 x 70 mm

CPU: Intel Z8350 - up to 1.92GHz

Co-processor: ATmega32u4

RAM: 2GB

Storage: 32 GB

Wireless: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0

Ports: SD card slot, USB 3.0 x 1, USB 2.0 x 2, HDMI and MIPI-DSI

Figure: LattePanda V1 Single Board Computer (Source: www.dfrobot.com)

2. Jaguar One Plus

Price: Start at $99.00

Dimensions: 101.9mm x 73.8mm

CPU: Intel Atom Z3735G

RAM: 2GB

Storage: 16GB

Expansion interfaces: SD card slot, USB 2.0 x 3, HDMI

Figure: Jaguar One Plus Single Board Computer (Source: www.jaguarboard.org)

3. UP Board Series

Price: Start at $99.00

Dimensions: 85.6mm x 56.5mm

CPU: Intel® ATOM™ x5-Z8350

RAM: 1GB

Storage: 16GB

Expansion interfaces: USB 2.0 Type-A x4, USB 2.0 pin header x1, USB 3.0 OTG Micro B x1, HDMI

Figure: UP Board Series Single Board Computer (Source: www.up-shop.org)

If your budget is around $100, we recommend choosing the LattePanda V1, which is in stock and available for purchase at the lowest price on the online store.

It offers the best performance in its price range and includes built-in WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0, eliminating the need for additional modules.