Paper Pi is a DIY Linux handheld built by Daniel Norris around a Raspberry Pi 4, a 4.2-inch E Ink display and a custom thumb keyboard. It is intended for console-based Linux tasks rather than gaming: the screen displays terminal output, while the compact controls let the user work without a conventional monitor and keyboard.
What is Paper Pi?
Paper Pi is a maker-built portable Linux terminal, not a commercial handheld or a gaming device. Its main job is to put a Raspberry Pi command-line session on an E Ink screen in a compact, battery-powered enclosure. The creator documented the build in a GitHub repository; Hackster.io also featured the project in 2021.
What hardware does it use?
| Component | Paper Pi specification |
|---|---|
| Computer | Raspberry Pi 4 with 2GB of RAM, according to the project README. |
| Display | Waveshare 4.2-inch E Ink display, identified by Hackster.io and the project README. |
| Keyboard | Custom split thumb keyboard: surface-mount push buttons on perfboard arranged as a 5x3_3-style matrix with 10 columns and four rows, as described by Hackster.io. QMK firmware reads the keys through the Pi GPIO header. |
| Battery and power | Four approximately 3Ah 18650 cells wired in parallel, with a BMS and RetroPSU for charging and 5V output, plus a USB-C breakout, according to the README. |
| Enclosure | 3D-printed PLA case with left and right grip/battery sections and a central Pi bay, assembled with machine screws. The README links an editable Onshape model. |
How does its E Ink terminal work?
PaperTTY sends terminal output from the Pi to the display over SPI. E Ink has no backlight and uses meaningful power mainly when the displayed content changes, which makes it a plausible choice for a text-focused device. It is not a conventional fast-refresh handheld screen: terminal workflows that constantly redraw or scroll can feel less natural than on an LCD.
The creator used Ubuntu Server because, according to the project documentation, it handled PaperTTY’s range of terminal sizes better than Raspberry Pi OS. The software stack also includes systemd services for PaperTTY and GPIO handling, plus QMK/Miryoku firmware for the keyboard. The GPIO service can toggle resolutions, manage shutdown behavior and check battery voltage every two minutes; the README says it broadcasts a warning below 3.2V.
#1 Best Overall
- The GamePi43 is a portable retro video game console based on Raspberry Pi, recalls you all the gaming pleasures in the memory. This accessory pack includes add-ons required to build your own GamePi43, excerpt for the Raspberry Pi and micro SD card.
- With 4.3inch IPS display, 800×480 pixels. 60 fps smooth gaming experience
- Compatible with Raspberry Pi B+/2B/3B/3B+.(Note PI is NOT included)
- Integrates battery charge circuitry, powered from 18650 lithium batteries (NOT included), plays anywhere anytime. Onboard Battery life indicator.
- Onboard speaker and earphone jack, listen to the familiar BGM from the old days. Volume and backlight adjustment keys, adjust the device status according to specific game, better experience.
Is the thumb keyboard practical?
It is compact, but the creator’s own assessment is that thumb typing is slow: “So, it turns out it’s kind of dumb typing with thumbs. It’s slow.” That is a report of one maker’s experience, not an independent typing test. Paper Pi is best understood as an experimental portable terminal for short commands and learning, rather than a replacement for a full-size keyboard when entering substantial amounts of text.
Can you buy Paper Pi or build one?
The sources describe a documented DIY project, not a supported retail product. The repository provides a parts list and build information, including a link to the editable case model, so a maker can use it as a reference for a replica or adaptation. The available documentation does not establish that a complete Paper Pi is for sale, nor does it provide a verified current parts package or battery-runtime figure.
Rank #2
- High-Resolution Display: The Game HAT features a 3.5-inch IPS screen with a 480x320 resolution, delivering vibrant colors and sharp visuals for an immersive gaming experience.
- Smooth Gameplay: With a 60Hz refresh rate, the display ensures smooth and fluid gameplay, minimizing frame drops and enhancing the overall user experience.
- Wide Raspberry Pi Compatibility: Compatible with Raspberry Pi models A+/B+/2B/3B/3B+/4B. Note that Raspberry Pi Zero/Zero W/Zero WH requires an additional HDMI cable.
- Portable Power Source: Equipped with integrated battery charging circuitry, the Game HAT is powered by a 18650 lithium battery (not included), allowing for portable gaming on the go.
- Integrated Audio Features: The module includes an onboard speaker and an earphone jack, enabling users to enjoy classic game soundtracks and audio effects directly from the device.
Anyone reproducing the power system should use properly specified, matched 18650 cells and a suitable battery-management and charging setup. Lithium-ion cells can be hazardous if mismatched, damaged, shorted or charged incorrectly; the project’s parts list is not a substitute for safe battery design.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is Paper Pi useful for?
Norris says the build worked for learning and for checking network ports while running cables at home. Its value is therefore less about speed or polished ergonomics and more about having a self-contained Linux console available for focused, occasional tasks. It is a distinctive maker project, but its documented compromises—especially slow thumb typing and the absence of runtime measurements—matter if you are considering a build for regular use.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- BUILD YOUR OWN PORTABLE CYBERDECK – Turn your Raspberry Pi CM4 into a powerful handheld Linux computer. The uConsole combines a 5-inch IPS display, backlit QWERTY keyboard, and modular design, making it ideal for programming, networking, cybersecurity, remote administration, and DIY electronics projects.
- LATEST REV.5 MAINBOARD – Features the newest ClockworkPi v3.14 Rev.5 mainboard with improved stability and compatibility. Supports Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) and includes WiFi + 4G LTE expansion capability for portable computing anywhere.
- PREMIUM HANDHELD LINUX COMPUTER – Equipped with a crisp 5-inch HD IPS display, ultra-portable backlit QWERTY keyboard, dual speakers, modular aluminum enclosure, and rechargeable battery module for an excellent mobile Linux experience.
- PERFECT FOR DEVELOPERS & MAKERS – Great for Linux enthusiasts, programmers, penetration testers, network engineers, embedded development, IoT projects, retro computing, SDR applications, and portable terminal use.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED – Includes Rev.5 mainboard, CM4 adapter, WiFi antenna, WiFi + 4G LTE module, 5-inch IPS display, backlit keyboard, battery module, dual speakers, enclosure, brackets, and assembly tools. 18650 batteries are not included. The Non-Core Kit does not include the Raspberry Pi CM4 or the 32GB microSD card.
Rank #4
- Not including the Raspberry Pi 5 (8GB), the Crowpi advanced version comes with the Raspberry Pi 5
- ELECROW Black Case for the Raspberry Pi 5, CrowPi is equipped with a 9-inch HD touchscreen along with a camera; All the regular components used in DIY electronics are packed into the CrowPi development board, such as LCD, LED matrix, buzzer, light sensor, PIR sensor, ultrasonic sensor, IR sensor, etc
- Raspberry Pi Sensors: The Crowpi raspberry pi 5 programming kit is jam-packed with lots of buttons such as 19 different sensors in a tidy easy to use package; You don't have to wait and wire things
- Build Quality: Solid ABS shell and well made components in one place make it strong and convenient to travel
- Programming Lessons: This raspberry pi 5 learning kit ships with step by step instructions and provides 21 lessons to take you through identifying components reading code and running it in the terminal
Rank #3
- RASPBERRY PI CM5 COMPATIBLE: Designed to work seamlessly with the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5, offering a powerful handheld computing experience. CM5 not included.
- 4-INCH TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY: Features a responsive 4" touchscreen for intuitive navigation and interaction, making it ideal for portable projects and on-the-go use.
- NVME SSD SLOT: Equipped with an NVMe SSD slot for fast, expandable storage, allowing you to run demanding applications and store large files with ease.
- DUAL USB 3.0 PORTS: Includes two USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer and connectivity with a wide range of peripherals and accessories.
- ALUMINUM CASE WITH FULL QWERTY KEYBOARD: Built with a durable aluminum enclosure and a physical QWERTY keyboard, combining sturdy construction with convenient text input.
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