I'm not sure if this warrants its own thread, but I'm not sure it fits under any of the other threads so here it is...
Whilst looking for screens for the my upcoming Hackboard
(x86
) based project machine, I happened upon this:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002917820325.html
It's a 7" device with a keyboard, Trackpoint-style pointer and touchscreen. It runs on a Celeron J3455 CPU and has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage in base spec.
I'll get out of the way first that it has a number of disadvantages vs. the GPD / One Netbook machines:
- Relatively power-hungry CPU
(10W TDP
)
- Low resolution screen
(1024 x 600
) vs. 1080p on most of the others
- Raised portion behind the screen hinge that stops it folding 'flat'
- Thicker and somewhat larger footprint
(186*140*20mm
)
- Proprietary charger
(not clear on voltage
) and no USB-C ports, though it does have USB3, USB2 and Mini-HDMI.
The one definite advantage it does have is price - Starting at around $230
(US
) it's far cheaper than any other device in this class. The storage is also an M.2 module so there's nothing to stop you from upgrading this after purchase. At this kind of price I might even be tempted to try and upgrade the LCD to a higher resolution one - I've no idea what interface it uses but looking at the specs for the J3455 there's a good chance it's MIPI of some sort. I doubt there's much space to spare inside but with some minor case mods it may be possible to get a slightly bigger battery in it too.
The keyboard looks suspiciously similar to the one on the first generation GPD Pocket - Barring the slightly awkward layout this is probably not a terrible thing.
I'm quite tempted - Although if it's any good at all it does make the aforementioned Hackboard-based DIY machine a little redundant. Even if it's an ergonomic disaster or the battery life is terrible there will be some useful parts in there!
It seems to be available under quite a few brands / names, but I've found a few reviews under the name 'Topton L4' so probably a good place to start if you want to do a little research.
I'm interested to know what others think and whether I'm the only one who finds this appealing!
(Topton L4.jpg) Attachments
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Topton L4.jpg (54KB - 1 downloads)