PINE64: Open-Source Hardware That Empowers Developers and Makers

As someone who thrives in the open-source world, PINE64 (https://pine64.org/) holds a unique place in the hardware ecosystem. They’ve taken the bold route of crafting devices for tinkerers, developers, and enthusiasts—products that are unpolished in the best way, raw with potential, and ripe for experimentation. From single-board computers (SBCs) to Linux laptops, phones, and even smartwatches, PINE64 has built a reputation for hardware that puts control back into your hands.

It’s not about consumer-ready perfection here—it’s about freedom, creativity, and community-driven growth. If you’re someone who likes to roll up your sleeves, solve problems, and take ownership of your tech, PINE64 will feel like a breath of fresh air. If you’re looking for polished plug-and-play experiences, though, you might find yourself frustrated. I’ve personally explored a handful of their products—from the RockPro64 SBC to the Pinebook Pro laptop—and each has taught me something new about the power of open-source hardware, its challenges, and why it’s worth the effort.

RockPro64: More Than Just Another Single-Board Computer

If you’ve ever worked with single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi, the RockPro64 feels familiar, but far more capable. It features the Rockchip RK3399, a hexa-core processor with two Cortex-A72 cores and four Cortex-A53 cores, combined with a Mali-T860 GPU. Translation: It’s one of the most powerful ARM-based SBCs on the market.

When I first picked up a RockPro64, I used it to build a lightweight Linux development machine for ARM software testing. I loaded Armbian onto it, hooked up a 128GB eMMC module, and was genuinely impressed by the performance—it handled compiling code, running Docker containers, and even lightweight media playback without flinching. It feels less like a hobbyist toy and more like a serious platform for developers.

What sets the RockPro64 apart isn’t just its performance—it’s the expandability. The board supports PCIe, USB 3.0, and Gigabit Ethernet, opening up endless possibilities. I’ve seen others use it for NAS servers, edge computing projects, and even as an ARM-based desktop alternative. It’s refreshing to work with hardware that doesn’t artificially limit you.

The only catch? The RockPro64 demands a bit of technical patience. While the community has provided plenty of Linux and BSD support, you’ll occasionally run into driver quirks or kernel hiccups that require manual troubleshooting. But if you’re someone who likes to understand why something isn’t working and how to fix it, the RockPro64 delivers a satisfying experience.

Pinebook Pro: A Linux Laptop with Surprising Capability

I’ll admit: the first time I unboxed the Pinebook Pro, I wasn’t expecting much. A $200 Linux laptop sounds like a recipe for disappointment. But as someone who loves the open-source ethos, I had to give it a shot—and I’m glad I did.

The Pinebook Pro’s ARM-based architecture runs on the same Rockchip RK3399 processor as the RockPro64, and the overall hardware is a huge step up from what you’d expect at this price. The magnesium alloy body feels solid, the 1080p display is sharp, and the battery life comfortably lasts for a full day of lightweight work. It’s no powerhouse, but it’s perfect for running Linux distributions like Manjaro ARM, Debian, or even OpenBSD.

I use the Pinebook Pro as my “distraction-free” development machine. It’s lightweight enough to toss in a backpack, and its simplicity keeps me focused. For coding, writing, and testing lightweight scripts, it’s been surprisingly reliable. That said, it’s not for everyone. Media-heavy workflows like video editing or virtual machines push it beyond its limits, and I’ve had to tinker with drivers for things like Wi-Fi and touchpads when switching between distros.

Where the Pinebook Pro shines is in its transparency. Unlike commercial laptops, where firmware and software are black boxes, you get full control here. You can flash custom firmware, replace the OS entirely, and modify nearly every aspect of the system. It’s a tinkerer's dream and a testament to what open-source hardware can achieve when driven by passion rather than profit.

PinePhone and PinePhone Pro: Open-Source Mobile Freedom

The PinePhone represents something bold—a Linux smartphone that breaks free from the chains of iOS and Android. As someone who values privacy and control, the concept alone is worth celebrating. PINE64 has created a phone where you can install mainline Linux distros, turn off hardware components with physical kill switches, and experiment with custom operating systems.

I had the opportunity to work with the original PinePhone a while back. Let me be clear: this isn’t a daily driver for the average user. The hardware is modest (think entry-level smartphones from 2015), and the software ecosystem is still maturing. Applications are limited, and performance is rough around the edges. However, as a development platform for mobile Linux, it’s fascinating. It allows developers to explore privacy-respecting mobile OS options like postmarketOS, Mobian, and Manjaro ARM.

The PinePhone Pro improves on the original with a faster processor and better hardware overall. It’s still not at the level of mainstream smartphones, but it’s a step forward for open-source mobile technology. If you’re a developer or enthusiast looking to contribute to mobile Linux, this is your playground. If you’re expecting the smooth app experience of iOS or Android, though, you’ll be disappointed.

PineTime: A Smartwatch for Makers and Hackers

The PineTime smartwatch is another example of PINE64’s open-source philosophy at work. It’s an affordable, hackable smartwatch built for developers who want full control over their devices. Unlike mainstream smartwatches that lock you into proprietary ecosystems, PineTime runs custom operating systems like InfiniTime, an open-source firmware developed by the community.

I picked up a PineTime out of curiosity and spent a weekend flashing new firmware and tinkering with its capabilities. It’s not flashy—there’s no LTE connectivity or advanced health tracking—but it’s functional, customizable, and empowering. For makers and hobbyists, it’s a refreshing reminder of what technology can be when it’s truly open.

Room for Improvement: The Double-Edged Sword of Open-Source Hardware

PINE64’s hardware is brilliant, but it comes with caveats. None of their products are “out of the box” ready for mainstream users. You’ll need patience, technical knowledge, and a willingness to rely on community forums and documentation when things don’t work perfectly.

For instance, when I first set up the RockPro64, I spent hours troubleshooting a display issue with certain Linux distributions. Similarly, getting the Pinebook Pro’s touchpad working properly on a non-default distro required diving into forum threads. These challenges are par for the course with open-source hardware, but they can frustrate those who expect a plug-and-play experience.

Additionally, PINE64’s limited production runs mean availability can be hit or miss. If you’re eyeing a product, don’t hesitate too long—stock often sells out quickly.

Final Thoughts: Why PINE64 Matters

PINE64 isn’t just a hardware company—it’s a movement. They’ve created a space where open-source hardware can thrive, giving developers and makers tools to build, customize, and innovate freely. From the RockPro64 to the PinePhone and Pinebook Pro, their products are affordable, flexible, and empowering in ways that closed ecosystems can never be.

For those who value freedom over convenience, PINE64 delivers something truly special: devices that work for you, not against you. Yes, they require effort, tinkering, and troubleshooting—but that’s where the magic happens. If you’re ready to embrace the challenges, the rewards are worth it. Whether you’re building a custom NAS, experimenting with Linux on mobile, or just diving into open-source development, PINE64 is the perfect sandbox for creators who care about control, privacy, and transparency.

It’s not polished. It’s not perfect. But it’s exactly what open-source hardware should be.