Introduction

Formed in 2004, Chuwi began to rapidly grow in 2010 after they partnered with Huawei, Google, and others. In 2013, they became strategic partners with Microsoft and Intel, furthering their continued growth. However, it wasn't until 2015 when they finally entered the international market. Having now stepped onto the world stage, Chuwi seeks to expand its brand recognition while branching into new product segments.


In today's review, I take a look at what the Chuwi LarkBox has to offer. This ultra-small form factor system is equipped with an Intel Gemini Lake J4115 CPU, which is a quad-core design. It has also been paired with 6 GB of DDR4 memory, which is an upgrade over its closest competitor, the ECS LIVA Q2, and sports a SATA M.2 2242 slot for increased storage and performance. Thus, the LarkBox has more up its sleeve than you might expect. That said, while its small size is interesting (61 mm x 61 mm x 43 mm), the novelty wears off over time, so its time to take a closer look at what truly matters, which would be performance and usability.

Packaging and Contents

When it comes to the box, Chuwi keeps it simple. The system comes neatly packed in a small cardboard box with the company logo on the front. Flipping it over, the same can be said of the back. When it comes to specifications, feature lists, etc., only the left side has any information, and it is quite sparse. You will find the LarkBox product name, which pre-loaded OS is included, and the processor used, along with its rated frequency. Otherwise, there is nothing else to see.


I was surprised to see the system encased in foam and sealed in a small bag. For something like this, I would expect a cardboard tray. As such, Chuwi gets a nod of respect from me in regard to the internal packaging. It is above and beyond the industry average, and while the box itself is plain, the added protection is never a wrong choice.


You don't get much in terms of extras. Chuwi bundles the system with a USB-C 24-watt power plug, VESA mount, and the necessary screws.

• LarkBox
• Power plug
• VESA mounting plate
• VESA screws

A Closer Look

The system has a very simple design that is also somewhat elegant. On the front, you will find the power button in silver, which adds a bit of contrast but also makes it easier to find. Turning to the left side, it's just a solid panel with nothing of note. It is the back of the system where you will find everything of importance. First off, a USB Type-C port is used for power, while 2x USB 3.0 Type-A ports are provided for input along with HDMI for video output.


The right side has a Micro SD card reader that supports up to 128 GB for quick and easy storage expansion. A headphone jack has also been put on this side, but no microphone jack. The top has a vent for airflow as the system does use active cooling. Meanwhile, the bottom has two threaded inserts to allow the system to be mounted to the VESA compatible plate for a display.


The power adapter is a 24-watt USB-C unit made by Shenzen Ruijing Industrial with the model number A241-1202000D.