The Lunar is a new type of portable computer that combines a full-size keyboard with a powerful mini PC. It is lightweight, making it suitable for various tasks, from work to gaming. The Lunar, created by the Chinese tech company Ling-Long, is a compact personal computer that merges a full AMD Ryzen 7 8840U system with a detachable keyboard, offering a highly portable solution for computing on the go.
Although it may have some challenges in terms of usability and practicality for specific tasks, its promise of performance and long battery life will likely appeal to a specific audience. The Lunar is launching exclusively in China, but global tech enthusiasts are closely watching its performance and potential impact on the highly competitive mini-PC market. With its competitive pricing, innovative design, and solid specifications, the Lunar could be the future of ultra-portable computing.
By integrating a full-fledged computer into a foldable keyboard, Lunar offers a unique solution for those who require both power and convenience. Its impressive specifications, including a powerful AMD Ryzen processor, ample RAM, and fast storage, make it capable of handling demanding tasks. The inclusion of modern connectivity options and features like a portable Wi-Fi hotspot further enhances its versatility. Lunar represents a compelling option for users seeking a compact and capable computer that can be easily transported and used in various settings.
Check Out Their Kickstarter Here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1482776406/lunar-2-in-1-foldable-keyboard-and-mini-pc-for-all-your-needs/
Lunar: The Foldable Keyboard Mini PC
Design and Portability
Lunar is a unique mini PC that integrates all its components into a foldable keyboard. This innovative design makes it incredibly portable, allowing you to easily carry your computer in a bag or backpack. When folded, Lunar is about the size of a large wallet. This makes it ideal for travelers, students, or anyone who needs a powerful computer on the go.
Impressive Specs
Despite its small size, Lunar boasts impressive specifications. It features a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor, up to 32GB of RAM, and up to a 1TB SSD. This hardware configuration enables Lunar to handle demanding tasks such as video editing, software development, and even gaming.
Connectivity and Features
Lunar offers a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. It also has multiple USB ports, including two USB-C ports with USB4 support. This allows you to connect external displays, peripherals, and other devices. Additionally, Lunar can function as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, providing internet access to other devices.
Lunar Mini PC Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 7840U |
| RAM | Up to 32GB |
| Storage | Up to 1TB SSD |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-A, 2x USB-C (USB4) |
| Other | Foldable keyboard, portable Wi-Fi hotspot, multi-display support |
Short Summary:
- Innovative design features a full AMD Ryzen 7 8840U PC within a foldable keyboard.
- Offers impressive battery life of up to 10 hours, catering to various user needs.
- Available in two configurations, priced competitively for its unique design.
Ling-Long, a rising player in the PC manufacturing landscape, has unveiled an innovative product that combines portability with powerful performance. Their latest launch, known as the Lunar, ingeniously integrates a fully functional AMD Ryzen 7 8840U PC into a foldable keyboard design. This device aims to redefine what users expect from the mini-PC market, presenting a fresh take in a sector that has seen significant advancements in recent years.
As the market for mini and portable PCs has evolved, traditional designs have often fallen short in terms of aesthetics and functionality, leaving room for creative alternatives. Ling-Long seeks to bridge this gap by offering a product that not only performs well but is also highly portable.
The Concept Behind the Design
The Lunar is housed within a compact, foldable keyboard measuring just 15×10 cm and weighing about 800 grams. This allows users to easily pack the device into a bag or even a large pocket. According to the company’s representatives, Ling-Long aims to take “compactness and functionality” to a whole new level, drawing inspiration from the streamlined designs of both Apple’s MacBook and Mac Mini.
“We wanted to create a product that reflects substantial innovation while remaining functional and user-friendly,” said a spokesperson for Ling-Long.
The distinctive characteristic of this mini-PC lies in its “unibody” design. Instead of being separate components, both the PC’s vital parts and the keyboard are integrated into a single molded unit. One half of the device accommodates the motherboard and cooling components, while the other half contains the battery pack. Additionally, the system features a dedicated mini touchpad designed for exceptional user experience.
Specifications That Matter
The heart of the Lunar is the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U APU, which provides a robust performance with its 8 Zen 4 cores. These cores can clock up to 5.1 GHz and handle up to 16 threads, making it suitable not just for basic tasks, but also for more intensive applications. Complementing the CPU is the Radeon 780M integrated GPU, which includes a total of 12 compute units. This combination is notable for achieving excellent results in various applications, including gaming and media processing.
The configurations available are quite reasonable, with options for 16GB or 32GB of RAM and 512GB or 1TB of storage. This flexibility allows users to select a model that best fits their requirements and usage habits.
Power and Efficiency
What truly sets the Lunar apart is its power management capabilities, thanks to the built-in 60Wh (16000 mAh) battery. As per Ling-Long’s claims, users can expect:
- Up to 10 hours for light workloads.
- About 6 hours for media playback.
- Approximately 4 hours during gaming sessions.
Moreover, the device is equipped with a fast charging 100W power adapter, and it can even be charged using a power bank, much like a smartphone.
Pricing and Market Introduction
The pricing structure for the Lunar is competitive, with the 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD variant available for 4699 RMB or roughly $646 USD. The more enhanced version featuring 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage is set at 5,699 RMB or around $784 USD. As Ling-Long rolls out the product, they are initially focusing on a domestic beta launch.
“Our objective is to cater to users looking for a compact yet powerful computing solution without compromising on battery life or performance,” stated the Ling-Long representative.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its ambitious designs and specifications, the Lunar does raise some practical concerns. Critics have pointed out that without a built-in display, users will need to rely on external monitors or AR/VR glasses, which could be less convenient for on-the-go work. Furthermore, reviews have highlighted potential thermal management issues, as the compact design might struggle with heat dissipation during extended high-performance activities.
Additionally, while the innovative concept of integrating a mini PC into a keyboard is visually appealing, some industry analysts argue that traditional laptops might still provide better overall performance and usability due to their built-in features.
User Experience and Practical Applications
For those needing to set up workstations in diverse locations, the Lunar can be a game-changer, especially for digital nomads and frequent travelers. The compact nature of the device allows users to adapt to any workspace by simply bringing along a display. Additionally, this could prove useful for educators and presenters who require a portable solution for their presentations without lugging around bulky laptops.
Moreover, the gaming potential of this compact design speaks volumes about its versatility. Users could enjoy gaming experiences in different settings, effortlessly switching from work to play just by connecting to larger screens and utilizing the keyboard.
Comparison to Traditional Mini PCs
The Lunar stands out when compared to traditional mini PCs. Its fully integrated design, while sacrificing a built-in display, offers an ultra-portable solution that carries the full capabilities of a desktop system. However, conventional mini PCs generally provide better port options and expandability, giving them an edge in versatility.
Moreover, many traditional mini PCs allow for easier upgrading, which can be a significant consideration for technology-savvy users looking to future-proof their systems.
