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HackberryPi_CM5: New Raspberry Pi project transforms popular SBC into Cyberdeck and retro handheld

The HackberryPi_CM5 builds on last year's model with more powerful internals. (Image source: ZitaoTech)
The HackberryPi_CM5 builds on last year's model with more powerful internals. (Image source: ZitaoTech)
The HackberryPi_CM5 is a new project builds on the older HackberryPi that debuted last year. Replacing the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W with the more powerful Compute Module 5, the HackberryPi_CM5 creates a portable Linux computer thanks to components like a 4-inch display and BlackBerry keyboards.

Developer ZitaoTech has returned with a new Raspberry Pi-inspired portable Linux computer, having presented the original HackberryPi last year. To recap, the ZitaoTech built the HackberryPi around the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W (curr. $21.99 on Amazon). Now, they have introduced the HackberryPiCM5, whose name should provide a clue about its internals.

Specifically, ZitaoTech has swapped the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W for the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 (CM5), which Raspberry Pi refreshed with a 16 GB RAM variant late last year. The switch to the CM5 brings more than just improved performance to the table too. As Liliputing notes, the HackberryPi_CM5 is 36% thinner than its predecessor at 17.6 mm while being 143.5 mm tall and 91.8 mm wide.

(Image source: ZitaoTech)
(Image source: ZitaoTech)

Nonetheless, ZitaoTech has managed to included an M.2 2242 slot, a MicroSD card reader, an RTC battery and stereo speakers, as well as ports like HDMI and USB Type-A. Moreover, the HackberryPi_CM5 features a 5,000 mAh battery that can be topped up via a dedicated USB Type-C connection. Meanwhile, the project supports modified BlackBerry Q10, Q20, and 9900 keyboards.

For the time being, the HackberryPi_CM5 is not available to purchase. However, Elecrow indicates that the device will be sold eventually. Thus, one can reasonably assume that the HackberryPi_CM5 will be available via ZitaoTech's Tindie page too. For the time being, please see the developer's GitHub page for more details about their latest project.

(Image source: ZitaoTech)
(Image source: ZitaoTech)

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2025 05 > HackberryPi_CM5: New Raspberry Pi project transforms popular SBC into Cyberdeck and retro handheld
Alex Alderson, 2025-05-23 (Update: 2025-05-23)