Mecha Comet - Open Modular Linux Handheld Computer
- BackerBuzz
- Jan 22
- 3 min read
Truly yours to own, build and mod. Built and powered by tinkerers just like you.
The Linux Computer That Fits in Your Pocket: Mecha Comet
We live in a world of "walled gardens" where our phones and tablets are locked down, unrepairable, and limited by what app stores allow. Mecha Systems is smashing those walls with the Comet, a modular, open-source handheld that puts a full Linux computer in the palm of your hand. By combining the form factor of a Game Boy with the power of a desktop OS, they promise a device that can change from a gaming console to a coding terminal in seconds.
Project Overview
Name and Creator: Mecha Comet: Open Modular Linux Handheld Computer by Mecha Systems Inc.
What It Is: The Mecha Comet is a palm-sized, highly modular computer running a full desktop Linux operating system (Mechanix OS). Unlike standard handhelds that are just for gaming, this is a general-purpose tool. It features a magnetic expansion port that allows you to snap on different interface modules, instantly transforming the device from a retro gaming handheld to a portable server, a hardware debugging tool, or a pocket-sized writer.
Status: The project is currently active and funded on Kickstarter.
Key Features
Magnetic Snap Modules: The core innovation is the 40-pin magnetic interface at the bottom. You can hot-swap modules instantly without tools. Official modules include a "Gopad" for gaming, a "Keypad" (BlackBerry-style QWERTY) for typing, and a "Breakout" board for connecting sensors and robotics hardware.
Desktop-Class OS: It runs Mechanix OS, a Fedora-based Linux distribution optimized for the touch screen. This means you aren't limited to mobile apps; you can run full desktop software, terminal commands, and development tools right on the device.
Powerful Internals: It is powered by NXP i.MX processors (Choice of Quad-core i.MX 8M Plus or Hexa-core i.MX 95). It supports up to 8GB of RAM and includes an M.2 slot, allowing you to install fast NVMe SSDs or even cellular modems for 4G connectivity.
3.92" AMOLED Display: The screen is a sharp, vibrant AMOLED panel with a unique resolution (1080 x 1240), offering deep blacks and high contrast perfect for both dark-mode coding sessions and retro gaming.
True Repairability: The device is built to be opened. It uses standard screws, has a user-replaceable 4100mAh battery, and Mecha Systems provides full CAD files and schematics so you can print your own parts or repair the device yourself.
Rewards
Kickstarter Pricing: Backers can secure the base model starting around $159 for the Early Bird tiers, a competitive price for a fully open specialized computer.
Options: Rewards range from the standalone unit to the "Master Bundle" which includes all three primary modules (Gamepad, Keyboard, GPIO Breakout) and a carrying case.
Delivery: The team is targeting a fast turnaround with shipping estimated to begin in May 2026.
Concept
The core concept is "Sovereign Computing." Mecha Systems believes that you should truly own your hardware. They designed the Comet to be the antithesis of the modern smartphone. It is a device that invites you to tinker, break, fix, and modify it, rather than just consume content on it.
Inspiration
The Mecha Comet was inspired by the golden age of PDAs and the maker movement. The creators wanted to build a "spiritual successor" to devices like the Nokia N900 or the Psion, but updated with modern power and the infinite flexibility of the Raspberry Pi ecosystem. They aimed to solve the frustration of needing to carry a heavy laptop just to do simple system administration or hardware hacking tasks.