[harshdoc]

fair enough.

FWIW, I have both the i3 and celeron Chromeboxes, and the only difference I've found so far is slightly lower CPU usage on the i3 for Hi-10 playback, but neither drops frames or stutters, so pretty much equivalent IMO. I have not extensively tested resource-heavy skins to see if there's a difference there however.

Agreed. I have i3 NCU (windows 8.1) and Chromebox (running Openelec thanks to Matt) and haven't noticed any difference in playback.
Also, there have been questions about 3D playback on Chromebox. It plays SBS flawlessly. No lag or stuttering. I haven't had a chance to check full frame packed 3D yet and when I do, will definitely keep you guys posted.