We tend to file oddball portable computers under the cyberdeck category. The CG Deck, from a company called Mogozen, is just the latest addition. That’s our placement, though, as the small team behind the project isn’t explicit that this little Linux machine should join their ranks. Still, the hardware looks the part.
Hit the CG Deck
The hardware isn’t as faceted as we’d like, but few portable computers will function as a gaming console or a Linux server. The CG Deck features a swappable interface, so you can yank out the small QWERTY keyboard and drop in a set of gaming console buttons.
The minds behind the hardware call it “an open-source, modular, and handheld x86 mini-computer designed for power, portability, and customization.” An Intel N150 processor makes it Windows and Linux-compatible, with varying spec tiers planned. Buyers can select either 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage (we’re guessing via microSD), plus Wi-Fi 6E. Otherwise, there will also be a 16GB/128GB variant with Wi-Fi 7.
A 5in 1,024 x 800 touchscreen display will show whatever you need it to, while Mogozen reckons its 10,500mAh battery will provide up to eight hours of uptime. It’s not just confined to keyboard or gamepad, either. There’s a trackball setup, or a ten-key pad, also available for the main interface. Additionally, a USB-A 4K webcam can be connected to one of the CG Deck’s ports.
Right now, there’s no pricing or availability info. There’s just a waitlist for folks keen to add another quirky machine to their tech collection. It looks like there will be a Kickstarter campaign at some point in this one’s future. It might actually be possible to own one in South Africa. What you’ll do with it… that’s up to you.
