MNT Reform Next’s open-source modular laptop crowdfunding campaign is now live. MNT boasts that their new device will be “faster, lighter, and more modular than ever.” This adaptable machine is intended to run Debian GNU/Linux.
MNT’s 12.5-inch portable’s main selling points are its customizability, mod-ability, and reparability, as well as the fact that it includes a mechanical keyboard as standard. However, it is an Arm (Rockchip RK3588) device, and crowdfunding participants are expected to pay at least $1,099 for a machine that won’t ship until September 2025.
So, you have the technical specifications to digest, but thanks to the system’s customizability, you won’t be stuck with the Rockchip power plant indefinitely. The processor and memory are housed on a system-on-module (SM), which can be swapped out later.
Aside from perhaps updating the SoM, users can choose from a variety of more common enhancements. RAM can be expanded using a SODIMM slot, and there are M.2 NVMe, microSD card, and microSD Express slots (internal) to supplement the 256GB of eMMC memory on board.
MNT appears to have thoroughly researched the input devices. In addition to a multitouch glass trackpad with gesture capability and a trio of mechanical trackpad buttons, users will enjoy a wonderful-sounding keyboard.
The mechanical keyboard comes with 80 keys, Kailh Chock Brown switches, N-key rollover functionality, RGB backlighting, an RP2040 controller, an OLED screen, and open-source firmware. This aspect of the design alone provides so much versatility.
Physical aspects are equally essential for laptop buyers. As you might expect from a 12.5-inch device, the MNT Reform Next isn’t the slimmest option. It measures 290 x 205 x 26mm (11.42 x 8.07 x 1.02 inches) and weighs approximately 1.6kg (3.53 pounds), which is fairly large but a significant improvement over its predecessor.
Another important feature of a portable device is the ability to support custom-engineered battery packs. As standard, you will receive a device that supports USB-C charging (no charger included) and 8x LiFePO4 cells. Expect about five hours away from mains power with this, but MNT teases there is a Li-ion battery pack in development for 8+ hours.
We reported on this second-gen open source hardware design back in September. Now, we’re glad to say that it’s off to a wonderful start, within a whisker of its $100,000 financing goal less than 48 hours since launch (with 40 days left).
We would also like to underline that crowdfunding any device does not guarantee that you will receive a finished product, even if the maker has a track record of delivering on its promises. Consider crowdfunding to be a type of investment that carries some risk.
Source: MNT Reform Next open-source modular laptop crowdfunder goes live for $1,099
