DIY Laptop Kits and Projects to Build Your Own Notebook
Ever wanted to build your own laptop but didn’t know where to start? Thankfully, there are now kit-based options for those inclined to roll up their sleeves and breathe life into a laptop of their making. With the right tools and knowledge, building your own laptop can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some of the best DIY laptop kits and projects for building your own notebook.
1. Pi-Top
The Pi-Top is an affordable DIY laptop kit designed specifically for programming and electronics enthusiasts. The device comes with a Raspberry Pi computer. You can build the laptop from scratch, and you’ve got the flexibility to add various modules to it. The laptop is powerful enough to run different programming applications.
The Pi-Top also comes with its own operating system called “Pi-Top OS,” which is built on the base of Raspbian, a Linux-based operating system.
2. Kano Computer Kit
The Kano Computer Kit is aimed at kids and beginners but is perfect for adults, too. It’s also based on Raspberry Pi, but the kit is a lot more aesthetically pleasing, making it perfect even for office settings. A bright orange wireless keyboard, a clear plastic case, and easy-to-follow instructions make it an enjoyable build that breaks down complex concepts for kids and novice users.
3. Olimex Teres I
The Olimex Teres I kit might be one of the best-looking DIY laptops to date. The notebook comes with a base of open-source software that provides all the tools needed to build the laptops. Once you’ve put it together, you’ll have a fresh Linux operating system running on it. The Teres I also features an 11.6-inch IPS display and a 5100mAh battery that can last up to eight hours.
4. Pinebook Pro
The Pinebook Pro is a slim and light notebook that runs Linux-based operating systems. The laptop comes with a 14-inch IPS screen, 1080p resolution, and 64-bit architecture. When you purchase the Pinebook Pro, you’ll receive a bare Windows laptop. However, you can install Linux to get access to various applications and programming utilities.
5. Aviato
The Aviato is a Do-It-Yourself laptop that comes with a 14-inch display, a keyboard, and Intel Celeron N2807 Dual-Core CPUs. The Aviato is unique in that it’s open hardware, so you can customize the device based on your preferences.
6. Modular laptop 1.0
The Modular laptop 1.0 is a build-your-own-laptop project that’s made possible by an Italian company. The laptop comes with a fantastic mix of hardware and software components, including a 15.6-inch IPS screen, a 3 Lithium-Ion battery, and an Intel Pentium N4200 Processor.
7. System76 Galago Pro
The System76 Galago Pro is a 13.3-inch ultrathin laptop that’s perfect for someone looking to build something sleek yet functional. The laptop comes with a 1080p IPS screen running on an 8th-generation Intel Core CPU. The device also features 40GB of DDR4 memory and up to 1TB of solid-state storage. Perfect for anyone looking to switch to a Linux-based operating system.
Building your own laptop from the ground up is an exciting way to learn more about how notebooks work beyond the surface. With some patience and dedication, you can create something truly unique and personal that caters to your individual preferences.