Why Buy a Laptop When You Can Build a Cyberdeck?

Modern laptops provide us with a level of computing power that would have been almost inconceivable in the early personal computing era. Yet for all of their advantages in raw processing speed, memory capacity, and display technologies, these machines have taken us backwards in other ways. It used to be common for computer manufacturers to publish circuit diagrams for their systems, and if you had a soldering iron and some time on your hands, you could fix or upgrade anything you wanted.

Today, instead of circuit diagrams, you will find warnings about voiding your warranty if you open the case. That fact didn’t sit well with YouTuber Jankbu as he shopped for a new laptop. He wanted to be able to extend and repair his machine as he saw fit, so he decided to build his own modular cyberdeck. It may not have all the polish of a MacBook, but it is perfectly tailored to suit Jankbu’s needs.

The machine is built around a Raspberry Pi 5 running Linux, which Jankbu planned to use mainly for web browsing and CAD applications. Instead of permanently soldering components into place, Jankbu used standard USB connectors and modular wiring wherever possible. This approach consumed more internal space, but it ensured the computer could be repaired or upgraded quickly without replacing the entire unit.

The cyberdeck relies on a NATO rail system for modularity. One of the removable modules is a power unit that accepts common hot-swappable NPF camera batteries and includes onboard voltage indicators. The second is a custom trackball attachment created by repurposing the electronics from a Logitech Trackman Marble mouse. Large industrial-style buttons were also wired into the salvaged controller board for workshop use.

The project forgoes the traditional laptop hinge in favor of a vertically sliding display assembly. Early experiments with entirely 3D-printed guide rails proved unreliable, leading Jankbu to redesign the mechanism around steel rods and linear bearings. To prevent display cables from snagging or breaking during movement, he incorporated a miniature cable chain similar to those used on CNC milling machines.

Construction followed an iterative prototyping process beginning with cardboard mockups before progressing to rough plastic prints and eventually the final parts made from carbon-fiber-infused polycarbonate. Critical load-bearing components, including the carrying handle and trackball mounts, were machined from solid aluminum for additional strength.

While the cyberdeck still contains unfinished modules and experimental elements, Jankbu’s project provides plenty of inspiration for others who would like to build their own custom computer. Building something you actually want to use every day is a lot of work, but that time is well spent if you have your perfect machine in the end.