But how does its Pinebook Pro laptop stack up against more established opposition, such as the much-loved Chromebook?

The Pinebook Pro is an interesting proposition.

It’s in the name, after all.

New Roku streaming sticks.

But, for my money, it’s so much more than that.

Unsure whether the Pinebook Pro is for you?

Find out if this is the 14" Linux laptop of your dreams in our hands-on Pinebook Pro review.

Chrome Web Store under a magnifying glass

Pinebook Pro Specifications

One of the things that drew me to the Pinebook Pro was its specs.

No, this is my own Pinebook Pro that I bought with actual money.

So, with that context, specs become important.

pinebook pro review feature

Connectivity comes from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, both of which work well.

It’s not a mind-blowing spec sheet for playing high-end games.

It’s certainly lighter than my regular 17-inch behemoth!

pinebook pro side closed top

Pinebook Pro Features and Build Quality

Something that surprised me was the Pinebook Pro build quality.

You’ll be pleased to note that the Pinebook Pro is built well, from solid, well-crafted materials.

Speaking of the keyboard, it’s one of the Pinebook Pro’s great points.

pinebook pro review usb ports

I found it really clean to throw in on, and the overall size of the keyboard is comfortable.

It’s not quiet, by any stretch.

There is no noise-reducing membrane deafening your keyboard inputs, yet nor is it an outrageously loud mechanical keyboard.

pinebook pro review usb micro sd port

The touchpad is similarly easy to use, and the buttons are quick to respond.

It also has some sort of coating that helps to reduce glare and increase screen visibility in bright environments.

I also found the camera temperamental, depending on the program you want to use.

pinebook pro keyboard and screen

Nonetheless, the privacy switches are handy enough.

Can You Change the Distro on a Pinebook Pro?

After booting the Pinebook Pro up for the first time, you’re launched into Manjaro.

pinebook pro with power plugged in

Should You Buy a Pinebook Pro?

ThePinebook Prousually retails for around $300, though I picked this unit up for $220.

First up, the Pinebook Pro isn’t necessarily the ideal portable for the everyday user.

pinebook pro closed lid

Pine64 doesn’t turn a profit on these machines.

So, is the Pinebook Pro worth the money?

It’s a great Chromebook alternative with a fantastic screen.

pinebook pro side keyboard screen

pinebook pro keyboard and system tray close

pinebook pro closed lid

manjaro desktop on pinebook pro settings system information

pinebook pro with power plugged in

pinebook pro review usb ports

pinebook pro keyboard and system tray close

pinebook pro side keyboard screen

pinebook pro review usb micro sd port

pinebook pro side closed top