Popcorn Computer has unveiled a tiny PopStick computer designed to resemble a USB flash drive. The device is available for purchase through the brand’s official website, where enthusiasts can explore the full product line and place orders directly.
Inside its compact shell, the PopStick houses the Allwinner F1C200s processor, backed by 64MB of RAM and 128MB of internal storage. The system ships with a Linux-based operating system pre-installed, ensuring immediate usability for hobbyists and developers who want a plug-and-play experience or a springboard for custom projects. The combination of modest hardware and Linux support makes it easy to experiment with embedded computing without the need for a larger, more expensive single-board computer.
Connectivity is a key feature for the PopStick. It can link to a desktop PC, but its flexibility extends to mobile devices as well, using adapters that support USB Micro-B, USB-C, or Lightning connections. This makes it practical for developers who want to prototype a cross-device workflow or rely on a portable, always-on computer for lightweight tasks. The unit also includes a microSD card slot, enabling users to expand storage or run additional Linux images and tools on demand. The ability to swap memory cards adds another layer of convenience for testing different configurations, operating systems, and software stacks without opening the device’s enclosure.
Pricing for the PopStick reflects its compact form factor and hobbyist appeal. A basic version is priced around 29 USD, while a variant bundled with a 32 GB microSD card commands about 38 USD. For users in Canada and the United States, these price points position the device as an affordable entry into hands-on hardware tinkering, education, and quick prototyping. The comparatively low cost lowers barriers to experimentation and can accelerate learning for students, makers, and aspiring hardware engineers alike. The official storefront provides transparent pricing and straightforward checkout, aiding in clear budgeting for projects and labs.
In a movement that values openness and collaboration, the creators of PopStick published comprehensive diagrams and descriptions of each component online. This aligns with open-source principles, inviting users to study, modify, and share improvements. The openness supports community-driven development, enabling hobbyists to learn from the design and potentially contribute enhancements that extend the device’s capabilities. Open hardware documentation like this is a practical resource for those who want to understand how embedded systems are put together, test ideas quickly, and verify hardware compatibility before committing to a broader deployment. The project’s transparent approach underscores a broader trend toward accessible, auditable hardware in the maker ecosystem. A note from Popcorn Computer signals their encouragement of community engagement and collaborative progress, which resonates with the ethos of hands-on learning and shared knowledge. The result is a platform that not only serves as a practical tool but also as an educational catalyst for a new generation of hardware enthusiasts.
Historically, the tech press has highlighted PopStick alongside other compact computing ventures. For example, independent reviewers have explored how tiny, affordable boards can complement larger systems, providing a testbed for software projects, experimental operating systems, and rapid prototyping. While some comparisons highlight the limitations inherent in low-power devices, the concise footprint and Linux compatibility offer meaningful advantages for developers seeking portable, low-cost experimentation options. The ongoing conversation around these devices emphasizes the importance of practical performance, community-driven documentation, and the accessibility of hardware projects to a broad audience. This context helps potential buyers calibrate expectations about speed, storage, and expandability, while appreciating the educational value embedded in such projects.