Multi-Purpose Computer Model, Known as Bento, Offers Versatile Functionality for Users
Title: Stepping into the Future of Portable Computing: The Bento Cyberdeck
The era of all-in-one computers, where the motherboard hid beneath a keyboard, once reigned supreme in home computing. But times have changed and these machines have been pushed to the sidelines, only appearing in niche devices like the Raspberry Pi 400 and 500. Our focus shifts now to the Bento, a fresh take on the idea designed for a different purpose.
The Bento isn't out to replace your desktop computer; instead, it targets the growing market of users who prefer to pair their wearable display glasses with a sleek, portable computing device. In a world where screens are attached to your head, why lug around an extra screen with your laptop?
Let's dive under the surface. The Bento, while sporting a keyboard façade, hides a compartmentalized space akin to traditional Japanese lunchboxes, which bestows it the monicker "Bento." The brains of the operation are provided by a Steam Deck, allowing for a USB-C-everything approach to plugging into a desktop setup. Future versions are planned to support additional boards like the Raspberry Pi, offering even more options. Eager to store peripherals? An empty compartment awaits your treasures.
We've got a soft spot for this cyberdeck, not only because it represents the cyberpunk dream, but also because it sheds the standard bulky screen found in most cyberdecks. It's polished enough to almost pass as a commercial product, without a doubt. Yet, it's certainly not the first Steam Deck-inspired cyberdeck we've laid our eyes on.
The Cyberdeck Landscape
The Bento is just one piece in the grand puzzle of Steam Deck-based cyberdecks and keyboard-integrated portable computers. These devices have gained traction, owing to their integration of the Steam Deck mainboard into a keyboard casing, mirroring the classic all-in-one design but catering to modern USB-C and wearable displays. The common thread across these projects: a preference for portability and a minimalist approach, with screenless designs that connect to external monitors or wearable displays like XREAL glasses.
In terms of compatibility, these devices standardize on USB-C for power, display, and peripheral connections, ensuring compatibility and modularity. The support extends to other boards, like the Raspberry Pi, enhancing versatility and accessibility. While the Bento leads the charge, there's a growing trend of custom builds, DIY projects, and one-off creations in maker platforms such as Hackaday that follow in its footsteps.
A Glimpse into Similar Projects
From the DIY cyberdeck builds showcased in maker communities to projects inspired by retro computers like the Commodore 64 and modern SBC-based cyberdecks like those built around Raspberry Pi or Zero boards, innovation in this space is alive and well. However, most of these creations remain unique builds rather than commercially available products.
A Comparative Example
| Project/Build | Base Hardware | Built-in Display | Main Use Case | Notable Features ||--------------------|-------------------|------------------|-----------------------|-------------------------|| Bento | Steam Deck OLED | No | Wearable displays | Compartmental, modular || DIY Cyberdecks | Steam Deck/SBCs | Varies | Versatile/hacking | Custom enclosures || Raspberry Pi 400 | Raspberry Pi | No | Desktop replacement | Keyboard-integrated |
In Conclusion
The Bento stands tall among the Steam Deck-based cyberdecks, offering a sleek, wearable display-friendly design with a modular touch. While DIY builds and custom solutions abound, many remain individual creations rather than marketed consumer products. The Bento fascinates us here, not just as a glimpse into the future of cyberdecks, but as a shining example of portability, innovation, and style.
- The Bento, among other Steam Deck-based cyberdecks and keyboard-integrated portable computers, offers a unique blend of technology, portability, and style, catering to users who prefer wearable display glasses and a screenless design that connects to external monitors or devices like the XREAL glasses.
- Future versions of the Bento plan to support additional boards, such as the Raspberry Pi, which would provide even more options for users and enhance the versatility and accessibility of these smart-home-devices, gadgets, and technology.
