Why the $35 Orange Pi RV2 Could Be the Raspberry Pi Killer
What if you could explore the innovative world of RISC-V computing without breaking the bank? Enter the Orange Pi RV2, a low-cost single-board computer (SBC) that's making waves among developers, hobbyists, and tech enthusiasts. With its octa-core RISC-V processor, versatile connectivity options, and compatibility with Ubuntu 24.04, the RV2 offers a unique blend of affordability and functionality. While it may not dethrone ARM-based heavyweights like the Raspberry Pi 4 in raw power, its focus on lightweight tasks and RISC-V experimentation positions it as a compelling alternative for those eager to dive into this emerging architecture. Could this be the gateway to a new era of open source computing?
In this coverage, Explaining Computers explore what makes the Orange Pi RV2 stand out in a crowded SBC market. From its budget-friendly pricing to its flexible storage and connectivity features, the RV2 is designed to cater to a wide range of users—whether you're setting up a compact server, experimenting with RISC-V software development, or simply curious about the possibilities of open source hardware. Along the way, we'll uncover its strengths, limitations, and the value it brings to the table. By the end, you might just find yourself rethinking what's possible with a $35 computer. Affordable RISC-V SBC Overview Core Specifications: What Powers the Orange Pi RV2?
At the heart of the Orange Pi RV2 lies the KX1 System-on-Chip (SoC), which integrates eight RISC-V cores clocked at up to 1.6 GHz. This processing power is complemented by three RAM configurations—2 GB, 4 GB, or 8 GB of LPDDR4X—allowing users to select a model that aligns with their performance needs and budget. The GPU, likely an IMG BXE232, supports hardware-accelerated video decoding, allowing smooth playback of 1080p video content. These specifications position the RV2 as a capable yet cost-effective choice for lightweight computing tasks and RISC-V development.
The board's performance is optimized for tasks such as running basic applications, media playback, and software testing. While it may not handle resource-intensive workloads like video editing or advanced multitasking, it provides a reliable platform for exploring the potential of RISC-V architecture. Connectivity and Expandability: Built for Versatility
The Orange Pi RV2 excels in connectivity and expandability, offering a range of ports and wireless options to suit diverse use cases. Its design prioritizes flexibility, making it adaptable for various projects. Key connectivity features include: Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless wireless communication
and for seamless wireless communication Dual 1 Gbps Ethernet ports for fast and reliable wired networking
for fast and reliable wired networking Three USB 3.0 ports, one USB 2.0 port, and a USB Type-C port for power delivery and peripheral connections
Storage options are equally versatile. The board supports microSD cards, eMMC modules, and two M.2 NVMe SSD slots, one of which is bootable. This flexibility allows users to tailor their storage setup to specific needs, whether creating a lightweight desktop environment, a compact server, or a network-attached storage (NAS) solution. The inclusion of multiple storage interfaces ensures that the RV2 can accommodate a variety of use cases without compromising on performance or convenience. Orange Pi RV2 Low-Cost RISC-V SBC
Watch this video on YouTube.
Master RISC-V single-board computer (SBC) with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Software and Operating System: Ready Out of the Box
The Orange Pi RV2 comes pre-installed with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, a widely recognized Linux distribution that provides access to a vast library of software tools and applications. This operating system ensures compatibility with a broad range of development environments and simplifies the process of getting started. Pre-installed programs such as LibreOffice and Chromium allow users to perform basic tasks immediately after setup.
The Orange Pi configuration utility further enhances usability by streamlining system setup and software installation. This tool is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it reduces the complexity of configuring the board. While the RV2 handles basic tasks and 1080p video playback efficiently, it may encounter limitations when running more demanding applications, such as video editing or heavy multitasking. Nevertheless, its software ecosystem is robust enough to support a wide range of lightweight computing needs.
Thermal Management and Performance: Staying Cool Under Pressure
Thermal management is a critical consideration for the Orange Pi RV2, as its compact design and octa-core processor generate significant heat during operation. To maintain optimal performance, a heatsink is essential. Without adequate cooling, the board may experience thermal throttling, which can impact its overall efficiency.
Boot times are competitive, with the system starting in approximately 58 seconds from a microSD card and 46 seconds from an SSD. These figures highlight the board's efficiency in handling basic tasks and media playback. While the RV2 is not designed for resource-intensive workloads, its performance is sufficient for lightweight desktop environments, RISC-V software development, and other entry-level applications. Use Cases and Target Audience: Who Should Consider the RV2?
The Orange Pi RV2 is tailored for a specific audience, including developers, hobbyists, and tech enthusiasts who are eager to explore the RISC-V ecosystem. Its affordability and feature set make it an attractive option for a variety of applications, such as: RISC-V software development and experimentation
and experimentation Setting up lightweight desktop environments for basic computing tasks
for basic computing tasks Building compact servers or network-attached storage (NAS) solutions
For those interested in open source hardware or seeking a cost-effective platform for testing and development, the RV2 provides the necessary tools and flexibility. Its design encourages experimentation, making it a valuable resource for individuals and organizations exploring the potential of RISC-V technology. Pricing and Value: Affordable RISC-V Computing
The Orange Pi RV2 is available in three configurations, each designed to accommodate different budgets and performance requirements: 2 GB model: £27.99 (~$35)
£27.99 (~$35) 4 GB model: £37.19 (~$47)
£37.19 (~$47) 8 GB model: £47.39 (~$60)
These prices position the RV2 as one of the most affordable RISC-V SBCs on the market. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an ideal choice for those who want to explore RISC-V computing without a significant financial commitment. Whether you're a developer testing new software, a hobbyist building a custom project, or an educator introducing students to RISC-V, the RV2 offers excellent value for its price. A Balanced Entry Point for RISC-V Exploration
The Orange Pi RV2 is a well-rounded and budget-friendly single-board computer that serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the RISC-V ecosystem. While it may not match the performance of ARM-based alternatives, its affordability, robust connectivity options, and compatibility with Ubuntu 24.04 make it a practical choice for entry-level projects. Whether you're experimenting with open source hardware, setting up a lightweight server, or developing RISC-V software, the Orange Pi RV2 provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for your needs.
Media Credit: ExplainingComputers Filed Under: AI, Hardware
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Guardian
3 hours ago
- The Guardian
US attacks on science and research a ‘great gift' to China on artificial intelligence, former OpenAI board member says
The US administration's targeting of academic research and international students is a 'great gift' to China in the race to compete on artificial intelligence, former OpenAI board member Helen Toner has said. The director of strategy at Georgetown's Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) joined the board of OpenAI in 2021 after a career studying AI and the relationship between the United States and China. Toner, a 33-year-old University of Melbourne graduate, was on the board for two years until a falling out with founder Sam Altman in 2023. Altman was fired by the board over claims that he was not 'consistently candid' in his communications and the board did not have confidence in Altman's ability to lead. The chaotic months that followed saw Altman fired and then re-hired with three members of the board, including Toner, ousted instead. They will soon also be the subject of a planned film, with the director of Challengers and Call Me By Your Name, Luca Guadagnino, reportedly in talks to direct. The saga, according to Time magazine – which named her one of the Top 100 most influential people on AI in 2024 – resulted in the Australian having 'the ear of policymakers around the world trying to regulate AI'. At CSET, Toner has a team of 60 people working on AI research for white papers or briefing policymakers focused on the use of AI in the military, workforce, biosecurity and cybersecurity sectors. 'A lot of my work focuses on some combination of AI, safety and security issues, the Chinese AI ecosystem and also what gets called frontier AI,' Toner said. Toner said the United States is concerned about losing the AI race to China and while US chip export controls make it harder for China to get compute power to compete with the US, the country was still making a 'serious push' on AI, as highlighted by the surprise success of Chinese generative AI model DeepSeek earlier this year. The Trump administration's attacks on research and bans on international students are a 'gift' to China in the AI race with the US, Toner said. 'Certainly it's a great gift to [China] the way that the US is currently attacking scientific research, and foreign talent – which is a huge proportion of the USA workforce – is immigrants, many of them coming from China,' she said. Sign up for Guardian Australia's breaking news email 'That is a big … boon to China in terms of competing with the US.' The AI boom has led to claims and concerns about a job wipeout caused by companies using AI to replace work that had otherwise been done by humans. Dario Amodei, the CEO of Anthropic, the company behind the generative AI model Claude, told Axios last week that AI could reduce entry-level white-collar jobs by 50% and result in 20% unemployment in the next five years. Toner said Amodei 'often says things that seem directionally right to me, but in terms of … timeline and numbers often seem quite aggressive' but added that disruption in the jobs market had already started to show. 'The kind of things that [language model-based AI] can do best at the moment … if you can give them a bite-size task – not a really long term project, but something that you might not need ages and ages to do and something where you still need human review,' she said. 'That's a lot of the sort of work that you give to interns or new grads in white-collar industries.' Experts have suggested companies that invested heavily in AI are now being pressed to show the results of that investment. Toner said while the real-world use of AI can generate a lot of value, it is less clear what business models and which players will benefit from that value. Dominant uses might be a mix of different AI services plugged into existing applications – like phone keyboards that can now transcribe voices – as well as stand-alone chatbots, but it's 'up in the air' which type of AI would actually dominate, she said. Sign up to Breaking News Australia Get the most important news as it breaks after newsletter promotion Turner said the push for profitability was less risky than the overall race to be first in AI advancements. 'It means that these companies are all making it up as they go along and figuring out as they go how to make trade-offs between getting products out the door, doing extra testing, putting in extra guardrails, putting in measures that are supposed to make the model more safe but also make it more annoying to use,' she said. 'They're figuring that all out on the fly, and … they're making those decisions while under pressure to go as fast as they can.' Turrner said she was worried about the idea of 'gradual disempowerment to AI' – 'meaning a world where we just gradually hand over more control over different parts of society and the economy and government to AI systems, and then realise a bit too late that it's not going the way that we wanted, but we can't really turn back'. She is most optimistic about AI's use in improving science and drug discovery and for self-driving services like Waymo in reducing fatalities on the roads. 'With AI, you never want to be looking for making the AI perfect, you want it to be better than the alternative. And when it comes to cars, the alternative is thousands of people dying per year. 'If you can improve on that, that's amazing. You're saving many, many people.' Toner joked that her friends had been sending her options on who might play her in the film. 'Any of the names that friends of mine have thrown my way are all these incredibly beautiful actresses,' she said. 'So I'll take any of those, whoever they choose.'
Geeky Gadgets
5 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Nintendo Switch 2 Unboxing, Setup & What You Need to Know
The Nintendo Switch 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, introducing a range of upgrades that enhance its design, performance, and overall functionality. This guide explores the unboxing experience, setup process, design changes, hardware advancements, and new features, while also comparing it to the original Nintendo Switch. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Nintendo ecosystem, this article will help you understand how the Switch 2 stands out and whether it aligns with your gaming preferences. The video below from Zollotech gives us a detailed look at the new Switch console. Watch this video on YouTube. Unboxing: What's Inside the Box? The unboxing experience of the Nintendo Switch 2 reflects a focus on simplicity and sustainability. The packaging is compact and eco-friendly, underscoring Nintendo's commitment to reducing environmental impact. Inside the box, you'll find: The Nintendo Switch 2 console Two redesigned Joy-Con controllers A revamped dock featuring an Ethernet port An HDMI cable A power adapter A quick-start guide Each component is neatly arranged, making it easy to access and set up. The inclusion of a quick-start guide ensures that even first-time users can get started without difficulty. The thoughtful packaging design not only protects the contents but also aligns with modern sustainability practices. Setting Up: From Box to Gameplay Setting up the Nintendo Switch 2 is a straightforward process designed to get you gaming quickly. The steps are intuitive, making sure accessibility for users of all experience levels: Connect the dock to your TV using the HDMI cable and plug in the power adapter. Insert the console into the dock for TV mode or use it as a handheld device for portable play. Attach the Joy-Con controllers to the console or use them wirelessly, depending on your preference. Power on the console and follow the on-screen setup wizard to connect to Wi-Fi, link or create a Nintendo account, and calibrate the controllers. The entire process takes only a few minutes, allowing you to dive into the enhanced features and capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2 without delay. The user-friendly setup ensures that both newcomers and experienced gamers can transition seamlessly. Design and Hardware: What's New? The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces several design and hardware improvements that enhance both its visual appeal and functionality. These updates make the console more versatile and enjoyable for a wide range of gaming scenarios: Display: The console features a larger OLED screen with improved resolution, delivering vibrant colors and sharper visuals. This upgrade significantly enhances the gaming experience, especially in handheld mode. The console features a larger OLED screen with improved resolution, delivering vibrant colors and sharper visuals. This upgrade significantly enhances the gaming experience, especially in handheld mode. Joy-Con Controllers: The redesigned controllers offer better ergonomics and increased durability, addressing common issues from the original model. They provide a more comfortable grip for extended gaming sessions. The redesigned controllers offer better ergonomics and increased durability, addressing common issues from the original model. They provide a more comfortable grip for extended gaming sessions. Dock: The updated dock now includes an Ethernet port, making sure a stable connection for online gaming. This addition is particularly beneficial for competitive players who require reliable network performance. Internally, the console features a more powerful processor, increased RAM, and expanded internal storage. These hardware upgrades result in faster load times, smoother gameplay, and the ability to handle more demanding titles. The enhancements ensure the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a relevant and capable gaming platform for years to come. Performance: A Leap Forward Performance is a standout area for the Nintendo Switch 2, with several key improvements that elevate the gaming experience: Improved Frame Rates: Games run more smoothly, even those that previously experienced performance issues on the original Switch. This ensures a more consistent and enjoyable gameplay experience. Games run more smoothly, even those that previously experienced performance issues on the original Switch. This ensures a more consistent and enjoyable gameplay experience. 4K Output: When docked, the console supports 4K resolution, providing a richer and more detailed visual experience for players with compatible TVs. When docked, the console supports 4K resolution, providing a richer and more detailed visual experience for players with compatible TVs. Extended Battery Life: The enhanced battery allows for longer gaming sessions in handheld mode, making it ideal for travel or on-the-go play. These performance upgrades cater to both casual and dedicated gamers, making sure that the console can handle a wide variety of gaming styles and preferences. Whether you're exploring expansive open-world games or engaging in fast-paced multiplayer matches, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers a seamless experience. Compatibility: Games and Accessories One of the most appealing aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its backward compatibility, which ensures a smooth transition for existing Switch users. Key compatibility features include: Most games from the original Nintendo Switch library are fully playable on the Switch 2, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite titles without interruption. Accessories such as Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controllers, and other peripherals are compatible with the new console, eliminating the need to purchase additional hardware. Additionally, new games optimized for the enhanced hardware take full advantage of the console's improved performance and visuals. This balance of backward compatibility and forward-looking features makes the Nintendo Switch 2 a versatile choice for gamers. New Features: Enhancing the Experience The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces several new features that enhance the overall user experience and cater to modern gaming needs: Online Functionality: Faster download speeds and a more stable connection improve multiplayer gaming and digital content access. Faster download speeds and a more stable connection improve multiplayer gaming and digital content access. Enhanced Audio: The console delivers richer sound quality, whether you're playing in handheld mode or docked. This improvement adds to the immersion of your gaming sessions. The console delivers richer sound quality, whether you're playing in handheld mode or docked. This improvement adds to the immersion of your gaming sessions. Customization Options: Players can now personalize their home screen with themes and organize their game library into folders, making navigation more intuitive. These features, while not innovative, contribute to a more polished and enjoyable gaming experience. They demonstrate Nintendo's commitment to refining the user experience and addressing feedback from the original Switch. A Worthy Successor The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a thoughtful evolution of the original console, combining meaningful hardware upgrades, improved performance, and user-friendly features. Its backward compatibility ensures a seamless transition for existing Switch owners, while the enhanced design and functionality cater to both casual and dedicated gamers. Whether you're unboxing it for the first time, setting it up, or diving into your favorite games, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers a compelling blend of innovation and familiarity. For those seeking a versatile gaming console that bridges handheld and home gaming, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a strong contender that meets the demands of modern gaming. Advance your skills in Nintendo Switch 2 by reading more of our detailed content. Source & Image Credit: zollotech Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Technology News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Independent
6 hours ago
- The Independent
Chinese hackers and user lapses turn smartphones into a 'mobile security crisis'
Cybersecurity investigators noticed a highly unusual software crash — it was affecting a small number of smartphones belonging to people who worked in government, politics, tech and journalism. The crashes, which began late last year and carried into 2025, were the tipoff to a sophisticated cyberattack that may have allowed hackers to infiltrate a phone without a single click from the user. The attackers left no clues about their identities, but investigators at the cybersecurity firm iVerify noticed that the victims all had something in common: They worked in fields of interest to China's government and had been targeted by Chinese hackers in the past. Foreign hackers have increasingly identified smartphones, other mobile devices and the apps they use as a weak link in U.S. cyberdefenses. Groups linked to China's military and intelligence service have targeted the smartphones of prominent Americans and burrowed deep into telecommunication networks, according to national security and tech experts. It shows how vulnerable mobile devices and apps are and the risk that security failures could expose sensitive information or leave American interests open to cyberattack, those experts say. 'The world is in a mobile security crisis right now,' said Rocky Cole, a former cybersecurity expert at the National Security Agency and Google and now chief operations officer at iVerify. 'No one is watching the phones.' US zeroes in on China as a threat, and Beijing levels its own accusations U.S. authorities warned in December of a sprawling Chinese hacking campaign designed to gain access to the texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. 'They were able to listen in on phone calls in real time and able to read text messages,' said Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois. He is a member of the House Intelligence Committee and the senior Democrat on the Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, created to study the geopolitical threat from China. Chinese hackers also sought access to phones used by Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance during the 2024 campaign. The Chinese government has denied allegations of cyberespionage, and accused the U.S. of mounting its own cyberoperations. It says America cites national security as an excuse to issue sanctions against Chinese organizations and keep Chinese technology companies from the global market. 'The U.S. has long been using all kinds of despicable methods to steal other countries' secrets,' Lin Jian, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry, said at a recent press conference in response to questions about a CIA push to recruit Chinese informants. U.S. intelligence officials have said China poses a significant, persistent threat to U.S. economic and political interests, and it has harnessed the tools of digital conflict: online propaganda and disinformation, artificial intelligence and cyber surveillance and espionage designed to deliver a significant advantage in any military conflict. Mobile networks are a top concern. The U.S. and many of its closest allies have banned Chinese telecom companies from their networks. Other countries, including Germany, are phasing out Chinese involvement because of security concerns. But Chinese tech firms remain a big part of the systems in many nations, giving state-controlled companies a global footprint they could exploit for cyberattacks, experts say. Chinese telecom firms still maintain some routing and cloud storage systems in the U.S. — a growing concern to lawmakers. 'The American people deserve to know if Beijing is quietly using state-owned firms to infiltrate our critical infrastructure,' U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Mich. and chairman of the China committee, which in April issued subpoenas to Chinese telecom companies seeking information about their U.S. operations. Mobile devices have become an intel treasure trove Mobile devices can buy stocks, launch drones and run power plants. Their proliferation has often outpaced their security. The phones of top government officials are especially valuable, containing sensitive government information, passwords and an insider's glimpse into policy discussions and decision-making. The White House said last week that someone impersonating Susie Wiles, Trump's chief of staff, reached out to governors, senators and business leaders with texts and phone calls. It's unclear how the person obtained Wiles' connections, but they apparently gained access to the contacts in her personal cellphone, The Wall Street Journal reported. The messages and calls were not coming from Wiles' number, the newspaper reported. While most smartphones and tablets come with robust security, apps and connected devices often lack these protections or the regular software updates needed to stay ahead of new threats. That makes every fitness tracker, baby monitor or smart appliance another potential foothold for hackers looking to penetrate networks, retrieve information or infect systems with malware. Federal officials launched a program this year creating a 'cyber trust mark' for connected devices that meet federal security standards. But consumers and officials shouldn't lower their guard, said Snehal Antani, former chief technology officer for the Pentagon's Joint Special Operations Command. 'They're finding backdoors in Barbie dolls,' said Antani, now CEO of a cybersecurity firm, referring to concerns from researchers who successfully hacked the microphone of a digitally connected version of the toy. Risks emerge when smartphone users don't take precautions It doesn't matter how secure a mobile device is if the user doesn't follow basic security precautions, especially if their device contains classified or sensitive information, experts say. Mike Waltz, who departed as Trump's national security adviser, inadvertently added The Atlantic's editor-in-chief to a Signal chat used to discuss military plans with other top officials. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had an internet connection that bypassed the Pentagon's security protocols set up in his office so he could use the Signal messaging app on a personal computer, the AP has reported. Hegseth has rejected assertions that he shared classified information on Signal, a popular encrypted messaging app not approved for the use of communicating classified information. China and other nations will try to take advantage of such lapses, and national security officials must take steps to prevent them from recurring, said Michael Williams, a national security expert at Syracuse University. 'They all have access to a variety of secure communications platforms,' Williams said. "We just can't share things willy-nilly.'
