Innovative Form Factor: The Foldable Keyboard PC from Ling long
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC represents a novel approach to portable computing, integrating a full-fledged computer into a collapsible keyboard form factor. When folded, the device is approximately one-quarter the size of a MacBook, making it compact enough to fit in a back pocket. The innovative design houses the motherboard and cooling fan in one half of the product, while the other half contains a 16,000 mAh (60 Wh) battery, with a central hinge allowing the keyboard to fold.
This unique form factor maintains full-sized keys and includes a mini touchpad in the lower-right corner, offering a balance between portability and functionality. While lacking a built-in display, the device compensates with multiple connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C ports for external monitors and accessories, as well as wireless connectivity support.
Performance Specs: AMD Ryzen 7 8840U APU
The AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor powering the Linglong foldable keyboard PC is a high-performance mobile chip based on the Zen 4 architecture. It features 8 cores and 16 threads, with a base clock of 3.3 GHz and a boost clock up to 5.1 GHz. The CPU is paired with an integrated Radeon 780M graphics unit, capable of running at up to 2700 MHz. This processor offers substantial computing power in a compact form factor, with a default TDP of 28W that can be configured between 15W and 30W to balance performance and power consumption. The Ryzen 7 8840U also supports fast DDR5 memory and includes 16 MB of L3 cache, contributing to its strong performance in various tasks, including AI-accelerated applications and hours of gaming.
Battery Life and Power Consumption
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC boasts impressive battery life for its compact size. According to the manufacturer, the device can deliver up to 10 hours of runtime for light office work, 6 hours for media playback, and around 4 hours for gaming. This performance is attributed to the AMD Ryzen APU housed within the small chassis. However, these figures may vary depending on usage and connected peripherals. The 16,000 mAh (60 Wh) battery is strategically placed on the left side of the unit to manage heat distribution; one side houses the battery for optimized thermal control. It’s worth noting that battery life can significantly decrease when powering external displays or accessories through the device’s USB ports. The chassis design attempts to balance portability with performance demands from the AMD Ryzen APU. This balance of portability and power consumption makes the Linglong keyboard PC suitable for various use cases, from office work to entertainment, while still fitting comfortably in a pocket. The chassis is designed to house a full AMD Ryzen PC.
Laptop vs Keyboard with AMD Ryzen APU
While the Linglong foldable keyboard PC offers an innovative approach to portable computing, it raises some concerns when compared to traditional laptops. The lack of a built-in display means users must rely on external screens or AR/VR glasses, which could limit its practicality in certain situations Additionally, the compact form factor may lead to potential overheating issues during extended use or resource-intensive tasks, as the device relies on a single fan for cooling
Some critics argue that the concept, while intriguing, may not offer significant advantages over carrying a mini PC and a rollable keyboard separately, especially considering the need to find both a power outlet and a suitable surface to use the device Furthermore, with prices ranging from $645 to $780, the Linglong keyboard PC may be considered overpriced by some users, particularly when compared to similarly spec’d laptops that include displays Despite these concerns, the device’s unique form factor and portability could appeal to specific users who prioritize minimalism and adaptability in their computing needs.
Practical Applications and Benefits
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC offers unique benefits for users who prioritize portability and flexibility in their computing needs. Its compact form factor makes it ideal for frequent travelers, digital nomads, and professionals who need to set up workstations in various locations. The full AMD Ryzen PC inside ensures reliable performance. The device could be particularly useful in scenarios where space is limited, such as on airplanes or in small hotel rooms, allowing users to transform any surface with a display into a full-fledged workstation.
For presenters and educators, the device offers a convenient solution for giving presentations or conducting classes without the need to carry a bulky laptop. The pocket-sized foldable keyboard design makes it extremely portable. Its compatibility with various displays, including TVs and tablets, enhances its versatility. The Linglong foldable keyboard PC could also serve as a portable gaming station, enabling users to enjoy PC gaming experiences in diverse settings by simply connecting to a larger screen, effectively turning it into a gaming keyboard for portable gaming. Its AMD Ryzen 9000 APU ensures high performance in gaming.
Additionally, its potential compatibility with AR and VR glasses opens up possibilities for immersive computing experiences in compact spaces. While the Linglong keyboard PC may not replace traditional laptops for all users, it provides a compelling option for those seeking an ultra-portable, adaptable computing solution that can fit in a pocket while offering the performance of a full-sized PC.
Pricing and Availability Overview
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC is set to launch initially with a limited beta release of 200 units in China, with no confirmed date for a global release. Pricing is expected to be 4,699 yuan ($645) for the 16GB/512GB model and 5,699 yuan ($780) for the 32GB/1TB variant.Compared to traditional mini PCs, the Linglong offers unique advantages in portability and integration, fitting a full PC and keyboard into a pocket-sized form factor. Its chassis is designed to optimize space and efficiency. Its built-in battery and trackpad eliminate the need for separate peripherals, potentially justifying its higher price point. However, the lack of a built-in display may be a significant drawback for some users, requiring additional equipment for full functionality.
While the Linglong’s innovative design offers unparalleled portability, it may face challenges in heat management and ergonomics compared to conventional mini PCs. The device’s compact chassis may exacerbate these issues, especially since one side houses the battery which can impact thermal management. The higher price point and potential limitations in upgradability could also be considerations for users weighing it against more traditional options. Ultimately, the Linglong’s appeal will likely depend on individual needs for extreme portability versus the flexibility and potentially lower cost of separate mini PC and keyboard combinations.
Comparison with Mini PCs
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC, featuring the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor, offers a unique form factor compared to traditional mini PCs with similar specifications. While exact comparisons are limited due to the novelty of the 8840U chip, we can draw some parallels with existing mini PCs using similar AMD processors. The Linglong’s integration of the Ryzen 9000 APU offers a new benchmark for mini-PC performance.
The Linglong device comes in two configurations: 16GB RAM/512GB storage priced at $645, and 32GB RAM/1TB storage at $780, with both models incorporating a full AMD Ryzen PC inside the foldable keyboard chassis. These specifications are competitive with high-end mini PCs, but the Linglong stands out with its integrated keyboard, touchpad, and battery, which are typically separate components in traditional mini PCs
The inclusion of these features in a foldable design that fits in a pocket gives the Linglong an edge in portability. However, traditional mini PCs often offer more ports and easier upgradability. The Ling long’s unique selling point is its all-in-one design, which may justify its price for users prioritizing extreme portability, despite the lack of a built-in display
Pros and Cons Analysis
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC represents an innovative approach to portable computing, packing a full-fledged AMD Ryzen 7 8840U-powered system into a compact, foldable keyboard form factor that can be an ultimate portable PC. This unique design offers several advantages, including extreme portability, with the device measuring just 150x100mm and weighing 800g when folded.
The integrated 60Wh battery provides up to 10 hours of office use, making it suitable for on-the-go productivity. However, the device also raises some concerns. The lack of a built-in display necessitates reliance on external screens or AR/VR glasses, which could limit its practicality in certain situations Potential overheating issues during extended use or resource-intensive tasks are also a concern, as the device relies on a single fan for cooling. This is particularly critical given the powerful Ryzen 9000 APU inside the compact chassis. Additionally, with prices ranging from $645 to $780, some users may find it overpriced compared to similarly spec’d laptops that include displays.
Despite these drawbacks, the Linglong keyboard PC’s innovative form factor and portability could appeal to specific users who prioritize minimalism and adaptability in their computing needs, such as frequent travelers or professionals who need to set up workstations in various locations
Final Verdict: A foldable keyboard with AMD Ryzen APU that fits into a pocket
The Linglong foldable keyboard PC represents a bold innovation in portable computing, offering a full-fledged AMD Ryzen 7 8840U-powered system inside a foldable keyboard chassis. This unique device combines the functionality of a mini PC with the convenience of a portable keyboard, weighing just 800 grams and fitting easily into a pocket With configurations offering up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, it delivers impressive performance for its size.
The integrated 60Wh battery provides up to 10 hours of light office work, making it suitable for on-the-go productivity, with a design that houses the battery on one side for better heat management. However, the lack of a built-in display and potential thermal management challenges may limit its appeal for some users Currently available only to beta testers in China, with prices ranging from $645 to $780, the Ling long foldable keyboard mini PC success will ultimately depend on how well it balances its innovative design with practical usability in real-world scenarios
