We’ve been seeing a lot more Cyberdeck-style computing devices, and the Pi Slate is just the latest in the form factor. They’re not much different from the old netbook from days gone by, but they’re almost infinitely cooler. Visually, at least.
A piece of the Pi Slate
The Pi Slate actually has at least two icons that start with the word ‘cyber’ on its branding, reinforcing the notion that the late 1980s had the coolest technology aesthetic. Carbon Computers, the company selling these, has several models on offer. They all look the same, but feature very different performance.
This BlackBerry-looking computer uses a 5in touch display with a resolution of 1,920 x 720. Its BlackBerry resemblance comes from the QWERTY keyboard beneath the display. At 576 grams, it’s quite a bit heavier than the departed smartphone range. The RGB backlighting also sets it apart. There’s a 10,000mAh battery inside the unit, contributing to most of the Slate’s weight.
The rear end of the casing has spaces for modular components, like the radio antenna kit that can be purchased separately from Carbon Computers. GPS, LoRaWAN, and SDR radios can be attached to the Slate as needed. Or you could just… you know, use it like a teeny little computer.
Unlike many other computers similar to the Pi Slate, this one’s readily available at retail. Pricing starts at R7,500 ($450) for a 2GB RAM Raspberry Pi 5 model with 32GB of storage. Spec up to a Pi 5 with 16GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and you’ll pay R12,500. ($750). Plus shipping and handling.
