ECS really has a unique computing device in the LIVA Q, small enough to fit in your pocket, and I know this because I tried it. This tiny system makes for a great computer for when it comes to accessing the Internet or doing typical daily chores. You could say it's a LIVA Z that has been further shrunk down, which is not too far from the truth. Power consumption is minimal with the system pulling around 12 watts at the wall, which is less than a typical light bulb, while cooling is handled by a tiny fan on the inside, which is entirely silent unless you place your ear on the system itself. This means temperatures are not an issue, and by extension, no throttling takes place under even intense workloads. The system is also highly affordable with a price of just $186 on Newegg as I write this, and that's with Windows 10 included. For those willing to run Ubuntu, you can save a few more dollars if you are the adventurous type.

As an HTPC, the unit handled 4K content on Youtube and storage media well enough. However, the HDMI port being limited to 1.4b means Hulu/Netflix 4K is likely out of reach, and 4K is limited to just 30 Hz as well. Otherwise, for anything other than 4K, it performs exceptionally well. In fact, streaming games via Steam from my main system to the LIVA Q hooked up to my 1080p television was quite nice; Total War, Fallout 4, and Witcher 3 streamed perfectly. However, due to the increased latency of Steam when streaming at home, I would not recommend playing PUB G or other competitive multi-player titles this way, but that's no fault of the system itself.

ECS has packed a few interesting features into the system as well, including HDMI-CEC, which allows for the system to be turned on or off via the television remote. Like other LIVA systems, the LIVA Q can be mounted to a monitor or TV via the included VESA mount, which is a nice touch. It can also be configured to have a set and scheduled on time, which is good for digital signage systems.

A few issues do stand out. First and foremost that it, just like the LIVA Z, only has 4 GB of included RAM. While configured in dual-channel mode, the modules are soldered to the system's motherboard. As such, memory upgrades and system upgrades are not possible. Connectivity options are severely limited as well. With just a single USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 port, each, users will want to pair the system with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse or wireless combo option for the best results.

Otherwise, storage options are limited. A micro SD card is not a proper replacement for HDD or SSD storage, and if network attached storage is not available, you will be limited to the two USB ports. Finally, the Intel Celeron N3350 is just enough for today's workloads; however, its performance and that of the integrated graphics processor leave something to be desired. Unless you are using Steam for home streaming, you won't be gaming with this system. Overall, the LIVA Q is not a bad system as long as you realize what it's intended for.

My only other thoughts come down to the design, which is fairly good and, though quirky, entirely functional. However, it also seems to focus on being small just for the sake of it. Regardless, looking at the system's performance, I can see it being good for grandparents who use Facebook and Skype to keep in touch with family, or for children to do their homework with. The eMMC storage proved leagues faster than a standard HDD and feels snappy enough to make the system feel responsive. While the eMMC storage is limited on space, the ability to add 128 GB of storage space internally via the micro SD slot at least gives users an option to expand it.

If you are looking for an affordable HTPC or just need an affordable computing device for daily tasks, the ECS LIVA Q is a good budget option.