020 UP Board: The Raspberry Pi killer? // Review
In this detailed review, we delve into the
Up Board, a new entry in the single-board computer (SBC) market that aims to challenge the dominance of the Raspberry Pi. This video was part of a Kickstarter project that garnered less attention than some similar ventures, raising only €150,000 from 671 backers. The Up Board promises higher performance with its Intel Atom CPU, compared to the ARM architecture typically found in Raspberry Pis.
Key Features and Unboxing
The review starts with an unboxing, showing the Up Board and its basic components, which include HDMI cables and the board itself. The model being reviewed comes with 2GB DDR3 RAM and 16GB MMC storage. The packaging and presentation are noted as professional, setting a good tone for the rest of the experience. The Up Board’s form factor is designed to be a drop-in replacement for the Raspberry Pi, maintaining a similar layout, but it introduces some limitations regarding compatibility with existing cases due to the placement of ports and the heatsink height. The reviewer emphasizes that while it fits many cases, some adjustments might be necessary.
Performance Analysis
Moving into performance, the Up Board shines compared to its Raspberry Pi counterparts. With Intel x86 architecture, it supports more software out of the box, making it a versatile option for makers and hobbyists alike. The initial tests show solid results, with the reviewer indicating that standard computing tasks, such as a Debian installation, are fast and trouble-free—rebooting in just 25 seconds. The Up Board also supports multiple operating systems, including
Debian, Windows, and
Android, although Android is still in beta. This versatility is a significant advantage, especially for developers who need a stable and compatible environment for various software.
GPIO and Maker Features
For makers, the Up Board provides ample GPIO pins and additional serial ports, making it a compelling choice for projects that require extensive hardware interaction. The review demonstrates successful tests with GPIO pins, including basic LED tests, indicating the board is very accessible for hardware projects.
Conclusion and Ratings
Ultimately, the reviewer rates the Up Board highly at
4.85 out of 5, praising its strong performance, professional design, and compatibility with Raspberry Pi accessories. While it does have some downsides, such as limited audio output and potential issues with certain Raspberry Pi cases, the overall experience and capabilities position it as an excellent alternative for users seeking more power from their SBCs.
Discussion Prompt: What are your thoughts on the Up Board compared to the Raspberry Pi? Have you tried any projects using the Up Board that you'd like to share? Let's hear your experiences in the comments!
