The market already offers a wide variety of affordable computers, but it has been a while since the concept of a "computer for 100 dollars or less" visited us. This time we find Pinebook, a portable version of the mini Pine A64 system based on the ARM architecture, available in two models: one with an 11-inch screen, and an identical one with a 14-inch screen.
In more than one occasion we have seen projects that turn the Raspberry Pi into a laptop. Some require direct user intervention, while others are bought as kits, with all necessary components ready to assemble. Depending on the case, the final result can be quite polished or a bit improvised, but the most important thing for DIY enthusiasts is that it works correctly. Fortunately, the Raspberry Pi is not the only computer exploring that path. I am sure our readers have come across Pine A64, an alternative perhaps not as popular, but with similar performance. Its developers decided that the netbook format suits it very well, and thus Pinebook was born.
Technical specifications
The laptop is distributed in two versions that only modify the screen size. Those who prefer the netbook format can get the Pinebook with an 11-inch screen, while the other option adds three more inches. Even so, the base resolution remains unchanged, at 1,280 by 720 pixels. The rest of the specifications show the same parameters:
- Quad-core ARM Cortex A53 64-bit SoC
- 2 GB LPDDR3 RAM
- 16 GB of internal storage
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- MicroSD slot
- Two USB 2.0 ports
- Traditional audio output
- Mini HDMI port
- 1.2-megapixel webcam
- 10,000 mAh internal battery
The supported operating systems are the same as those supported by the Pine A64, starting with some flavors of Debian, Ubuntu and Android.
Price and availability
The prices for the Pinebook computer are divided into $89 (11 inches) and $99 (14 inches). In the official store they explain that Pinebook will be offered as BTO (build to order), so interested parties should get in touch and request additional details.
