Affordable Ultra-Mobile PCs: A Personal Review

When it comes to finding a balance between affordability and performance, choosing the right ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) can be a minefield. Recently, I've had the opportunity to explore two different UMPCs and share my experiences with readers. This article delves into the details of these devices and offers insights based on my personal usage.

System76 Lemur Pro

Recently, I received a System76 Lemur Pro, a highly regarded machine that comes pre-installed with Linux Pop! OS. At a base price of $1,200, the Lemur Pro is a moderate investment for a machine that provides exceptional performance, portability, and all-day battery life. The keyboard is particularly impressive, being the best I’ve used on a laptop. It's an outstanding choice for software development and general computing tasks.

Why I Recommend it:

Performance: The system runs smoothly, making it ideal for multitasking and handling demanding applications. Portability: Despite its robust features, the Lemur Pro is highly portable, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Battery Life: With all-day battery life, you can work without worrying about recharges. Keyboards: The keyboard is exceptional, providing a great typing experience.

Mediatek-based UMPC

Another UMPC I recently acquired is a device based on the Mediatek processor. Initially, I was skeptical about the performance of such processors, which I often associate with low-end smartphones. However, it turned out to be surprisingly fast for everyday use. Initially, I planned to use it for writing on Quora, but the cramped keyboard and the lack of support for landscape mode in the Quora Android app made my experience less than ideal. Despite my initial hesitations, the device runs ChromeOS—a Linux distribution—which is a testament to the flexibility of such systems.

Why I Recommend Keeping it in its End-User State:

End-User Focus: I prefer to keep my dedicated Linux machines for full Linux environments and use this device in its designed end-user state. Heritage: While not a traditional PC, it shares some heritage with the ThinkPad, which itself is a descendant of the original IBM PC.

Traditional Versus Modern

One of my predecessors once ranted about the lack of “ultra” mobility in a device and suggested that a phone could fit in a pocket, which is true. However, the concept of a “PC” extends beyond the physical limitations, encompassing any computer used for personal tasks. Any decent phone can run Linux, as do many PC systems. Therefore, it's important to understand what one is looking for in an ultra-mobile PC and whether the device aligns with one's expectations.

For those looking for an affordable yet powerful and portable option, the System76 Lemur Pro and similar UMPCs offer a great balance of performance and portability. Whether you're a software developer, a content creator, or simply someone who needs a reliable, portable machine, these devices are worth considering.

Keywords: affordable ultra-mobile pc, portable Linux machine, system76 Lemur Pro