The READY! Computer Model 100 is a retro-styled enclosure and expansion system for a single-board computer (SBC), not necessarily a complete computer out of the box. Its long touchscreen, mechanical keyboard, speakers and configurable panel mounts give a Raspberry Pi-class board the shape of a compact, 1980s-inspired portable workstation. The trade-off is that modularity can mean extra parts to source and assemble.
What the READY! Model 100 is—and what it is not
READY! describes the Model 100 as a self-build computer that can use a smartphone, an SBC such as a Raspberry Pi, or x86 hardware. In practical terms, it is closer to a cyberdeck or modular laptop shell than to an all-in-one computer: the enclosure brings together input, display, audio, power options and mounting points, while the computing hardware depends on the configuration.
The launch-era Pro/barebones configuration could require buyers to provide an SBC and keyboard switches and keycaps. A package called Neo was described as a complete functioning system, but bundle contents differed across reports. Check the actual listing and included-parts list before assuming any particular board or component is in the box.
What hardware makes it distinctive
READY! Computer Corporation’s January 20, 2021 press material listed a 1920 × 480 ultra-wide multi-touch IPS LCD, a 64-key RGB LED mechanical keyboard, four SMA antenna ports and 12 universal panel mounts. The mounts were intended for configurable connections such as USB, HDMI, RCA and MIDI, rather than a fixed set of ports in every build.
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Hackster also described an aluminum chassis offered in Retropunk Silver or Cyberpunk Black, two 5W speakers and space for an optional battery. Tom’s Hardware reported HDMI, USB and Ethernet breakouts, 5V power for Raspberry Pi boards, and an emphasis on open standards. The exact port selection depends on how the universal mounts are populated.
The 1920 × 480 display is exceptionally wide and short compared with a conventional laptop screen. That shape suits dashboards, terminal panes and other horizontally arranged interfaces, but it is not a standard widescreen format; software layout and viewing habits matter. The available launch-period reporting establishes the resolution and touchscreen feature, not a measured assessment of brightness, color accuracy or general performance.
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- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
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Which Raspberry Pi works with it?
Raspberry Pi is explicitly named by READY! as an SBC option, and Tom’s Hardware specifically reported compatibility with Raspberry Pi 4. That makes the Pi 4 the clearest documented Raspberry Pi choice in the available launch coverage. READY! also referred broadly to other SBCs and x86 boards, but compatibility with any particular board should not be inferred without checking its dimensions, connector access, power needs and mounting arrangement.
Tom’s Hardware reported 5V power for Raspberry Pi boards, but that does not establish a universal included power supply or guarantee that every build’s power arrangement is identical. Confirm how the chosen configuration powers the board and display before buying parts.
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Pro and Neo: what was reported in launch-era packages?
Names and bundle details varied among reports from the 2020–2021 launch and crowdfunding period. The table summarizes what those sources described; it is not a current product availability or price list.
| Configuration or report | What was described | Historical reported price |
|---|---|---|
| Model 100 Pro barebones | READY! described a starting configuration that may leave the buyer to supply the SBC and keyboard switches/keycaps. | $239 USD starting price, READY! Computer Corporation, 2021. |
| Model 100 Neo | READY! described a complete functioning system starting at this tier. Hackster’s Neo bundle included power management, 18650 battery holders, cabling, Gateron switches, keycaps, microSD and a Raspberry Pi-compatible SBC. | $390 USD starting price for Neo, READY! Computer Corporation, 2021. Hackster separately reported CA$449 for Neo without an SBC and CA$499 with an SBC, circa 2020. |
| Other launch-period reports | Tom’s Hardware described an approximately $400 Raspberry Pi-compatible kit and an x86 Founders Edition; Engadget covered Pro, Neo and Deluxe/Ryzen configurations. | About $400 for a kit and $899 for the x86 Founders Edition, Tom’s Hardware, 2020. Engadget reported high-end x86/Ryzen versions in the $899–$1,100 range. |
These are historical figures from different reports, dates, currencies and bundle descriptions—not verified 2026 retail prices. The figures should not be compared as if they describe identical contents or a single current lineup. Engadget reported that the campaign had raised $97,377 CAD toward a $199,999 goal six days before its 2021 Kickstarter deadline; that is a dated crowdfunding snapshot, not evidence of present stock or fulfillment.
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How it compares with simpler portable-computer options
The Model 100 makes most sense for someone who values configurable hardware and a repairable, build-it-yourself format. A keyboard computer such as a Raspberry Pi 400 or 500 places the computer board inside the keyboard and generally asks less of the buyer in component selection. A conventional laptop is typically a more integrated choice. DevTerm-like modular systems are another comparison point for buyers focused on maker-oriented portable computing, but the available sources do not establish a detailed head-to-head specification or price comparison.
- Compute board: The Model 100’s core is selected separately in some configurations; an integrated keyboard computer includes its compute platform.
- Keyboard completeness: A barebones Model 100 may need switches and keycaps, whereas a finished keyboard computer is ready to type on.
- Display: The Model 100’s defining 1920 × 480 ultra-wide touchscreen is unlike a conventional laptop screen and is suited to different layouts.
- Expansion and repair: Modular panel mounts and standard-oriented construction provide more scope to customize or replace parts, at the cost of planning, sourcing and assembly.
- Portability and power: The Model 100 has speaker and optional battery provisions, but exact battery inclusion and power setup depend on the package. Do not assume laptop-like integration from the enclosure alone.
- Total cost and setup: A barebones price is not the cost of a complete working computer. Add the board and any omitted keyboard or power components, and verify the parts list before comparing it with a ready-to-use device.
Repairability, software and practical limits
Repairability and upgrades are central to the design pitch. Creator Jesse Lafleur told Engadget, “I wanted something I could easily repair or upgrade, and I was inspired by vintage machines of the 1980s.” READY! president Jesse Lafleur similarly framed the product as a build-it-yourself machine intended to be assembled and repaired without formal training. Modular mounts and the use of established interfaces can make changes more accessible than a sealed computer, though they do not by themselves prove that every component is replaceable or that parts remain available.
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- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Hackster reported READY!OS for x86-64 and ARM64. That establishes the operating system architectures described at launch, not current software maintenance, compatibility with every board, or ongoing product support. Tom’s Hardware cautioned that early images were renders and some details could change by release, another reason to verify the exact revision and package rather than rely on launch imagery.
Should you buy one?
Consider the READY! Model 100 if you want a configurable SBC-based build, are comfortable checking part compatibility, and value its unusual display, mechanical keyboard and repair-oriented design. It is a less straightforward fit if you want a finished laptop with a clearly specified current configuration, simple setup and confirmed present-day support.
The available product coverage is from 2020–2021; it does not establish 2026 inventory, production status, warranty, fulfillment, current pricing or an active retail listing. Treat launch prices and bundle descriptions as historical, and confirm availability and exactly what is included with the seller before committing.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
