I have a Pipo mini-pc used exclusively for streaming. From the beginning it has caused headaches. After constant tinkering it is now working relatively well, but occasionally it freezes solid and the stream has to be reloaded.

I am fed up with all of its issues and have resigned myself to getting something better. Unfortunately, budget is a major limitation so I will be looking for something second-hand. First, though, I need to know what to look for so am seeking advice on suitable machines from a few years ago. What was state of the art then?

Requirements: I don’t want an Android tablet. It has to run a recent version of Windows. The CPU has to be up to the task. The Pipo has one of these quad-core Baytrail Intel Atom processors and I think it is getting maxed out a lot. I suppose an i7 would be ideal but I don’t know what the minimum would have to be. Adequate RAM is important. The pipo has 2 gb and it is not enough.

It has to be quiet. It will be located in the lounge. I have already had to add a fan to the Pipo and I don’t really trust fanless machines any more. Small form factor is desirable, must have HDMI out. Other graphics capabilities not important. It won’t be used for gaming or anything other than streaming. Wi-fi or LAN are both acceptable. Would greatly prefer something that boots up automatically after a power cut. Not concerned about HTPC or media player capabilities. Will be used only for streaming from the Internet, nothing local. Hard drive unimportant as will use external drive for data.

That is everything I can think of. Suggestions welcome.