Even though some experts thought desktop computers would soon be obsolete, laptops have taken the lead, surpassing towers and compact models in prevalence. These portable machines offer flexibility that meets the needs of most users, even gamers and content creators. One thing that still gives desktops an edge over laptops is component interchangeability, but who knows, that might change in the near future.
As laptops become the go-to device, there’s an increasing demand for more modular designs. With the rapid evolution of trends and requirements, the ability to repair and upgrade laptops will need to catch up—though it might not make immediate business sense. This open-source modular laptop could set the standard for future designs, offering users exactly what they want, including a mechanical keyboard.
Designers: Lukas Hartmann (Electronics, Software), Ana Dantas (Industrial Designer), MNT Reform
Nowadays, some laptops can have their memory and storage upgraded, showing how far we’ve come from those old, clunky designs. But still, compared to desktops, there are limitations based on what the manufacturer offers for other components. Not to mention that when it comes to repairs, dealing with any broken part can be a logistical nightmare, especially if it’s just a USB port gone haywire.
The MNT Reform Next modular laptop seeks to introduce some of the openness found in the desktop computer ecosystem to laptops, emphasizing sustainability while allowing for some level of personalization. The modular approach allows nearly all parts to be replaced easily compared to traditional laptops. For instance, the components on either side of the machine can be interchanged if their standard positions don’t fit your needs.
The base specs of this laptop include some neat features, like a mechanical keyboard that you just don’t see often in laptops. Plus, it comes with two battery packs, each consisting of four LiFePO batteries, totaling 16,000mAh, allowing you to replace individual cells when necessary. It’s available in Black, Purple, or Raw Silver anodized aluminum shell, but with the open hardware design, you could even create your own as long as it sticks to the provided grid-like internal configuration.
However, there are significant drawbacks preventing this exciting modular laptop from hitting the mainstream market. The most considerable downside is the Arm-based Rockchip 3588 processor, which pales in comparison to the typical Intel or AMD CPUs found in regular laptops. This also leads to mixed compatibility with Windows, so Linux comes pre-installed with the system. Furthermore, the laptop is bulkier and weightier than most other options due to its modular structure, but some users might find this a price worth paying for such a unique design.
