Bit-Brick K1: Raspberry Pi 5 alternative with different CPU architecture, M.2 and PCIe support launches

We recently reported on the Bit-Brick K1 Pro. The K1 is another new single-board computer that follows a similar concept as the Pro version, but there are a few differences. Instead of an ARM-based SoC, the SBC is powered by a RISC-V chipset called the SpacemiT K1. This processor features eight X60 CPU cores and an IMG BXE-2-32 GPU with a combined AI performance of 2 TOPS. According to the manufacturer, various operating systems are supported, but compatibility is more limited than on x86 and ARM-based devices. Bianbu OS and Open Harmony are supported, for instance.

The board measures 3.5 x 3.1 inches and sports a Gigabit Ethernet port, but unlike the Raspberry Pi 5, it does not offer built-in WiFi . Displays can be connected via HDMI 1.4 or DSI, the former is limited to 1920 x 1080 pixels at 60Hz. Cameras can be connected via MIPI CSI, but the USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports can also be used to hook up accessories. A 3.5 mm headphone jack is included as well, and two microphones are on board. Furthermore, the SBC has three M.2 slots in total, one Key E and two Key M. A 40-pin header for connecting various sensors and motors is also available.

Via direct import from Aliexpress, the Bit-Brick K1 is currently available for around €80. It comes with 4GB LPDDR4X RAM. Higher-priced bundles include a memory card, heatsink and a WiFi module.