New modular laptop from MNT Research: what kind of device is it and what are its capabilities

Hello, tekkix residents. This is Viktor Sergeev from MTS Digital. At the beginning of 2024, the modular laptop MNT Pocket Reform from MNT Research, which we have already written about, went on sale. This is a device with good repairability, which is also quite well protected in terms of information security. Now a new model has been released - MNT Reform Next, this is already the second generation of the device. What it can do, read below.

What kind of device

The second model is based on the same principles as the first - modularity, ease of upgrade, security, and openness. This is fully Open Source Hardware.

The open source code extends to the entire hardware and software parts of the laptop. All schematics and firmware are available to users, which allows them to make changes to the device and even create their own versions of the laptop. Moreover, you can study the code and schematics of the device, make sure there is no malware or vulnerabilities, and make changes to enhance security. This is especially relevant for those who are concerned about possible "bookmarks" or vulnerabilities in proprietary devices where the code is not available for audit.

Another advantage of the MNT Reform Next, like its predecessor, is that the devices do not depend on cloud services or external servers for operation. User data is not sent to third-party servers, as is often the case with proprietary operating systems and programs. This ensures a higher level of privacy and control over data.

The modular design of the MNT Reform Next allows for hassle-free replacement of components such as the display, battery, keyboard, and even the processor. This makes the laptop repairable and a long-term solution, unlike most modern laptops that are difficult or impossible to repair. Why? The fact is that the vast majority of new models have the processor, graphics chip, RAM, and other components soldered onto the board. Often, only the SSD can be upgraded.

Specifications of MNT Reform Next:

  • Processor: 8-core Rockchip RK3588 (4 Cortex-A76 cores up to 2.4 GHz and 4 Cortex-A55 cores up to 1.8 GHz);

  • Graphics: ARM Mali-G610 MP4;

  • RAM: 16 or 32 GB LPDDR4;

  • Storage: 128 or 256 GB eMMC Flash;

  • Display: Full HD resolution;

  • Ports:

    • Left side: USB 3.0 Type-C with Power Delivery support, Ethernet (with ix-RJ45 adapter), MicroSD slot, headset jack;

    • Right side: HDMI, 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A;

  • Wireless: Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2;

  • Keyboard: mechanical with Kailh Choc switches and RGB backlighting;

  • Input devices: multitouch trackpad or trackball;

  • Battery: 8 cells 18650, divided into two blocks;

  • Case material: CNC-machined aluminum;

  • Other features: fully modular design, self-repair and upgrade capability, quiet operation (fanless), open-source hardware and software.

The second generation is more powerful than the first. The design is also more impressive — compare the appearance of both devices:

Even the processor can be changed



Modular laptop from MNT Research with connected peripheral devices, demonstrating connection flexibility

The laptop from MNT Research is good because even the processor can be changed. The chips are installed on specialized modules. The first model had five options at once — from NXP i.MX 8M Plus with four Arm Cortex-A53 cores @ 1.8 GHz to the AMD/Xilinx Kintex-7 FGPA module (for industrial use, can run a RISC-V software core).

As for the second model, the manufacturer confirms the possibility of replacing the processor modules. You can choose the following options:

  • i.MX8MPlus;

  • RCM4 with A311D;

  • RCM4 with Rasperry PiLS1028A;

  • RKX7 (FPGA);

  • RCORE RK3588.



Laptop from MNT Research with various modules laid out next to it, showing customization capabilities

It is worth mentioning the batteries separately. In the Reform Next laptop, the battery packs contain four replaceable 18650 cells connected in series. Each pack has its own monitoring and balancing circuits. The coordination of the batteries, charger, and power system via USB-C on the first port board is carried out using the RP2040 microcontroller, which runs on free software.



Screen of the modular laptop from MNT Research with the operating system running, demonstrating performance

Also, the device boasts a mechanical keyboard with Kailh Choc switches and RGB backlighting. Developers claim that the keyboard provides pleasant tactile sensations and can serve the owner for a very long time. In addition to the keyboard, the laptop offers a choice between a trackball and a glass multi-touch trackpad.

The operating system is Linux. The laptop supports various distributions, so you can customize the system to your own needs.

Supply and cost

It's too early to talk about this. The developers plan to raise funds for mass production of the device through crowdfunding, but the campaign has not yet been launched. The cost is unknown, but this device is unlikely to be cheap. The previous model is sold for $1,200.

The developers do not disclose the sales volume of the previous model. But the fact that the second generation is now planned for release speaks to the success of the concept itself. If the production of these devices were unprofitable from a financial point of view, the company would not develop.

That's all. If new information about the laptop appears, I will update the post. If you have the first model, tell us how you like it. Do you like everything or are there any problems?

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