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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →OURphone is a documented do-it-yourself Linux phone design, not a finished handset you can simply order. The OURS Project’s V1 combines a Raspberry Pi, a cellular HAT, a touchscreen, battery and audio hardware, and a custom enclosure. Its files and build instructions are openly shared, but the available documentation does not establish that every modem, firmware, driver, or hardware layer is open source.
What OURphone is—and what “open source” means here
The OURS Project describes OURphone as a DIY open-source Linux smartphone. The name OURS stands for “Open-source, Upgradable, Repairable Smartphone.” Its goal is to give builders a modular phone design they can reproduce and modify using off-the-shelf components and project files.
That makes OURphone an open-source project, but not proof that every part of the complete device is free software. The project documentation does not provide a component-by-component audit of modem firmware, drivers, or other firmware layers. Its creator, Evan Robinson, frames the broader ambition this way: “I wanted to give people more options and control over their most personal device, so I created an Open-source, Upgradable, Repairable Smartphone, that is also completely free of Big Tech. It’s not theirs, it’s O.U.R.S.” That is the project’s stated aspiration, not a guarantee that using the phone eliminates all third-party services.
The repository is the OURS Project GitHub repository. It is distinct from OurPhone.tf, a separate proposal involving GrapheneOS and ThreeFold.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
How the V1 design works
A Raspberry Pi handles general computing, while a Waveshare 4G HAT and SIM provide cellular connectivity. The Pi communicates with the HAT through AT commands; a startup script configures mobile internet. A Python application supplies a basic interface for dialing and calls, SMS, and an address book.
The project’s V1 specification lists the following features. These are project-published specifications, not independent test results:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Area | V1 project-published specification |
|---|---|
| Processor and memory | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Broadcom BCM2837 64-bit CPU; 1 GB RAM |
| Operating system | Raspbian, described by the project as Debian Linux |
| Display and camera | 4-inch 480 × 800 color touchscreen; 5 MP camera |
| Cellular and navigation | 4G LTE internet, calls, SMS and contacts using a SIM7600-based setup; GPS |
| Other connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth audio, three USB ports and HDMI output |
| Audio and controls | Onboard 1-watt speaker; screen-lock switch |
| Size and battery | 9 × 16 × 3 cm; claimed five-hour battery life |
The repository describes the V1 design and project status at github.com/evan Robinson/OURS. The five-hour runtime is a project claim; no independent battery measurement is established by the available sources.
What you need to build one
The project’s quick-start list calls for these components. Check the repository’s broader parts list and schematic for the build details; exact compatibility and current availability should be verified before buying.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- A Raspberry Pi board and its power supply.
- A 4G HAT with GSM and GPS antennas, plus an operational SIM with airtime and data.
- A Waveshare touchscreen.
- Headphones with a built-in microphone.
- USB cables and, optionally, a Pi camera.
- Materials for an enclosure: the project provides a design for 3 mm MDF laser cutting and links a 3D-printable case.
The repository’s quick-start guide, parts list, schematic, and enclosure files are the relevant references for the build. The documentation does not establish a current total parts cost or a universally compatible shopping list.
How demanding is the assembly?
This is more involved than plugging modules into a case. The documented construction includes making short cables, soldering charging and power wires, adding audio circuitry, setting a DC/DC converter, fitting a relay and screen-lock switch, and adapting the cellular HAT and antennas to the enclosure. The project warns that grinding or cutting the HAT can damage its circuit board.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Plan on troubleshooting wiring, Linux configuration, modem setup, physical fit, and power draw. The instructions are most appropriate for a technically capable hobbyist comfortable with soldering and hardware modifications; the project does not publish a validated build time or novice-success rate.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What it does well—and where it falls short
OURphone’s main strength is its value as an inspectable, modifiable hardware project. Its use of standard components, schematics, source files, and enclosure designs gives builders practical ways to study and alter the system. USB and HDMI also make it easier to attach peripherals than with a sealed handset.
Best Value
- 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.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The trade-off is that this is an experimental build, not a polished everyday phone. At 9 × 16 × 3 cm, its specified dimensions make it bulky by modern phone standards. The creator’s own future-improvement list identifies faster hardware, a capacitive screen, a larger display, better audio, a more finger-friendly interface, battery-state display, and longer battery life as areas to address. The project materials do not establish long-term software support, current carrier compatibility, or independent verification of the stated runtime.
Project status and V2
The repository says V1 was completed in 2024 and V2 is in progress. A Purism community post dated September 27, 2024 reported fundraising to support V2 carrier-board design, with a larger screen and thinner design as intended improvements. That historical post does not confirm current funding status, a finished V2 specification, or a release date. The available evidence does not establish that V2 is shipping or available to order. See the dated Purism community discussion for that historical report.
How to evaluate OURphone against another Linux phone
OURphone is a build-it-yourself design. For comparison, PINE64 describes its PinePhone as an open-source smartphone supported by Linux phone projects; the available source material does not support a detailed feature-by-feature comparison. Before choosing any DIY or commercial Linux phone, check:
Quick Recap
- Build or buy: Is the alternative a documented design or an assembled device that is sold?
- Repair and modification: Are schematics, source files, replaceable modules, and assembly instructions available?
- Software openness: What operating system, drivers, firmware, and modem dependencies are involved? These are separate layers.
- Connectivity: Do the modem bands and SIM setup work with carriers and network requirements in your country? Verify calling and SMS support, not just data.
- Daily use: Compare touch behavior, app support, audio, battery runtime, and camera functionality.
- Total effort and cost: A DIY bill of materials is only part of the cost; account for tools, fabrication, and troubleshooting as well. No current complete OURphone cost estimate is established.
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.
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