Overview

The KICKPI K2B Single Board Computer is a compact, versatile device designed for developers and tech enthusiasts. Powered by the Allwinner H618 Quad-Core CPU, this single board computer offers smooth processing with up to 2.0GHz performance. It supports both Android 12.0 and Ubuntu 22.04, making it suitable for a variety of applications. Whether you’re building industrial solutions, AI projects, or multimedia systems, this board provides the flexibility needed for a wide range of use cases. The K2B board stands out for its balance of performance, connectivity, and ease of integration.

Features & Benefits

The K2B board boasts several key features designed to enhance performance. It offers 4K HDMI output for seamless high-definition media playback, making it ideal for video streaming or digital signage. With dual-band WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2, it ensures fast, stable wireless connectivity for IoT projects and remote operations. The expandable GPIO pins provide customization options for advanced users, while the 2GB RAM and 8GB eMMC storage enable smooth multitasking. Additionally, the board is preloaded with a full SDK and developer support, easing the development process.

Best For

This development board is perfect for a range of users, from developers working on AI projects to tech enthusiasts exploring alternatives to Raspberry Pi. Its flexibility makes it a great choice for those needing a customizable platform for IoT devices, as well as individuals building smart home systems or media streaming setups. Whether you’re prototyping or creating a full-scale solution, the K2B board provides the essential tools to get started and build efficiently. Its developer-friendly design and software support further cement its place in the hands of builders and creators.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the K2B for its versatility and smooth operation in a variety of use cases. Its 4K video playback is highly appreciated, with many users noting its excellent quality for media-centric projects. However, some users have reported minor issues with software compatibility, especially with certain third-party applications. On the positive side, the board is considered developer-friendly, with clear documentation and strong support available. While there are occasional hiccups with software, the overall feedback remains positive due to its overall performance and value.

Pros

  • This development board is highly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from AI to multimedia.
  • The 4K HDMI output provides smooth and high-quality media playback, making it ideal for video streaming setups.
  • Dual-band WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2 offer fast and reliable connectivity for various IoT and industrial projects.
  • The 20-pin GPIO expansion allows for easy customization and integration with external devices.
  • Developers appreciate the preloaded SDK and detailed documentation, making setup and project development easier.
  • Its compact size and flexibility make it a solid choice for users looking for an alternative to more common development boards.

Cons

  • Some users report occasional software compatibility issues, particularly with certain third-party applications.
  • Beginners may find the initial setup process challenging without prior development experience.
  • The 2GB RAM and 8GB eMMC may not be sufficient for more memory-intensive projects or heavy multitasking.
  • There is a lack of an official case, making it harder to protect the board during usage or transportation.
  • The wireless performance can be inconsistent in environments with a lot of interference or distance from routers.
  • Some users experience overheating when pushing the board to its limits during intensive tasks.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, we’ve compiled an overall assessment of this device. Spam, bot/incentivized, duplicated, or exaggerated feedback was filtered out, ensuring only authentic, high-quality responses were considered. Both strengths and pain points have been reflected in the scores, offering a balanced view of user experiences from diverse sources.

Performance
89%
Users generally praise the solid processing power of this device, especially when handling AI tasks or multimedia applications. The Allwinner H618 Quad-Core CPU and Mali-G31 GPU make it a strong performer, even when running complex software or streaming 4K media.
Some users report occasional lag or sluggishness when multitasking, particularly with more demanding applications. While performance is generally strong, there are occasional complaints about overheating during prolonged usage.
Connectivity & Compatibility
86%
The inclusion of dual-band WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2 makes for reliable and fast wireless connectivity. Users find it seamless for IoT projects and enjoy how well it connects with various peripherals and networks, improving the overall user experience.
A few reviewers note occasional connection drops or issues with specific devices, especially when using Bluetooth with multiple peripherals at once. Some also mention that the dual-band WiFi performance is not always as stable as expected in certain environments.
Ease of Setup & Installation
82%
18%
The K2B board is relatively easy to set up, even for beginners. With pre-installed support for Android 12.0 and Ubuntu 22.04, most users can quickly get up and running, and the availability of full SDK support is a big bonus for developers.
While many users find the setup straightforward, a few mention challenges with software installation and configuring additional hardware. The lack of a more detailed user manual may leave beginners feeling a bit lost during the initial setup process.
Software & Firmware
75%
25%
The inclusion of a full SDK and developer-friendly support makes this device a great option for those looking to develop custom applications. It also runs Android 12.0 and Ubuntu 22.04 smoothly for those familiar with these operating systems.
Some users report software compatibility issues, especially with less common applications. The preloaded OS might not support all niche software, and updates are occasionally slower than expected, which can be a frustrating experience for some developers.
Customization & Expansion
91%
The 20-pin GPIO expansion offers tremendous flexibility, allowing users to customize their setup for a variety of applications. Whether for robotics, IoT, or custom hardware projects, this board is a fantastic platform for hands-on creators.
Though the expansion options are praised, a few users feel that the GPIO pins could be more easily accessible or better documented. Some report a learning curve in effectively using the GPIO for more complex projects.
Build Quality & Durability
83%
The build quality is robust, and the compact size makes it easy to integrate into custom projects without taking up much space. It holds up well under typical usage, making it a good option for long-term use in development and testing environments.
Some users feel the casing could be more rugged for industrial environments, as there are occasional complaints about the board's sensitivity to accidental impacts. Additionally, the lack of any official casing or cooling options makes it less ideal for harsh conditions.
4K Video Playback
90%
Many users are impressed by the smooth 4K video output at 60Hz, making this board an excellent choice for media streaming applications. The HDMI output delivers crisp, clear visuals without lag, even when playing high-definition content.
A few users mention occasional flickering or screen blackouts when using 4K video output, especially when connecting to certain monitors or TVs. The device may also struggle to handle 4K video on more complex tasks like video editing or gaming.
Customer Support & Documentation
78%
22%
The product is backed by comprehensive developer support, with a full SDK and active forums where users can share tips and solve common issues. For developers, this support is highly appreciated and adds a lot of value to the product.
Some users feel the official documentation could be more thorough, especially for beginners. There are occasional reports of slow responses from customer support, which can be frustrating when trying to resolve issues quickly.
Value for Money
92%
For the price, this device offers excellent value, especially for developers and tech enthusiasts looking for a customizable single board computer. The performance, expansion options, and solid 4K support make it a great choice in its category.
While generally considered a good deal, some users feel that the price could be more competitive, especially given the occasional software and connectivity issues. Others believe that more premium models with better performance may offer a better value for those needing high-end specs.
WiFi & Bluetooth Connectivity
88%
Users appreciate the dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.2, which ensure fast and reliable wireless connections. Whether for remote work, IoT projects, or connecting to a variety of devices, this feature enhances the overall usability of the board.
While generally praised, there are occasional reports of dropped WiFi connections and Bluetooth interference when multiple devices are connected. Some users in congested areas also mention slower speeds compared to higher-end devices.
Power & Efficiency
80%
20%
The power supply via USB Type-C is a practical feature, and the board remains energy-efficient even under load. Users note that it doesn't draw excessive power, which is a plus for energy-conscious projects or long-term deployments.
Some users report that the board can get hot during prolonged use, especially when handling more demanding tasks. The lack of active cooling may also cause the board to throttle performance at times, particularly with high-power applications.
Software Compatibility
70%
30%
The ability to run Android 12.0 and Ubuntu 22.04 gives users a lot of flexibility in terms of software compatibility. This is especially beneficial for those already familiar with these operating systems and who need a reliable base for development.
Some software and apps are incompatible with the preloaded OS, and users have reported difficulties running specific third-party programs. While the SDK support is helpful, users looking for broader software compatibility may be disappointed with the device's limitations.

Suitable for:

The KICKPI K2B Single Board Computer is ideal for developers working on AI and industrial projects who need a flexible, customizable platform. Its strong processing power, including the Allwinner H618 Quad-Core CPU, makes it a solid choice for anyone looking to run Android 12.0 or Ubuntu 22.04, particularly in AI, IoT, or multimedia applications. Tech enthusiasts seeking a reliable alternative to Raspberry Pi will appreciate its versatility, especially with features like 4K HDMI output and extensive GPIO expansion. Additionally, this development board suits those building media streaming setups or smart home systems where connectivity and smooth 4K performance are crucial.

Not suitable for:

This development board may not be the best option for users who require out-of-the-box, plug-and-play functionality. While it is developer-friendly, beginners might struggle with the software setup and configuration, especially when dealing with compatibility issues or the need for more niche software. Users who prioritize a fully integrated, premium solution might be disappointed, as the board’s lack of an official case and potential overheating during heavy use could present practical challenges. Additionally, those who need extremely stable wireless performance or robust software support might find some limitations with its current software ecosystem and connectivity reliability.

Specifications

  • Processor: Equipped with an Allwinner H618 Quad-Core Cortex-A53 processor, running up to 2.0GHz for efficient performance.
  • GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, providing smooth graphics rendering for multimedia and light gaming tasks.
  • RAM: 2GB LPDDR4 RAM for multitasking and basic computational tasks.
  • Storage: 8GB eMMC storage, offering fast data access and operating system storage.
  • Operating System: Supports Android 12.0 and Ubuntu 22.04 for a range of development and multimedia applications.
  • WiFi: Dual-band WiFi 5 (2.4GHz/5GHz) for fast and stable wireless connectivity.
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2 support for connecting to a wide range of wireless devices.
  • HDMI Output: Supports 4K HDMI output at 60Hz for high-definition media playback.
  • Expansion: Features a 20-pin GPIO header for customizable connections to sensors, motors, and other hardware.
  • Ethernet: Gigabit Ethernet (1000Mbps) for reliable wired network connections.
  • USB Power: Powered via Type-C 5V USB input for convenient and stable power supply.
  • Developer Support: Comes with preloaded SDK and full developer documentation for easy integration and customization.
  • Form Factor: Compact, single board form factor that allows for easy installation and integration in various projects.
  • Video Output: Supports high-definition 4K video output, making it ideal for media center or display-based projects.
  • Customization: Customizable through GPIO expansion, offering flexibility for IoT projects or robotics.
  • USB Ports: Includes multiple USB ports for connecting peripherals like keyboard, mouse, or storage devices.
  • Audio: Supports audio output via HDMI and GPIO, suitable for multimedia applications.
  • Software Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of software tools and platforms, including open-source Linux-based software.
  • Security: Supports secure boot and encryption for enhanced protection in development and industrial applications.

FAQ

The KICKPI K2B Single Board Computer is a versatile platform ideal for developers, hobbyists, and tech enthusiasts. It’s suitable for AI projects, multimedia applications, and industrial use, offering a solid foundation for building IoT devices or media streaming systems.

To set up the K2B board, simply connect it to a monitor via the 4K HDMI output, a keyboard, and mouse. Power it through the USB Type-C port and choose your desired OS, either Android 12.0 or Ubuntu 22.04, which can be easily flashed onto a microSD card or used with the preloaded eMMC storage.

Powered by the Allwinner H618 Quad-Core CPU and paired with 2GB of RAM, this device handles tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and light AI processing smoothly. While it’s efficient for most industrial and multimedia applications, it may not be the best for heavy multitasking or intensive computational tasks.

While the K2B offers similar capabilities to the Raspberry Pi, it is not directly compatible with all Raspberry Pi accessories. However, it features a 20-pin GPIO header that allows for a wide range of customizable expansions, making it suitable for users who need flexibility in IoT projects.

To connect to WiFi, use the dual-band WiFi 5 support (2.4GHz/5GHz) from the board's settings or system configuration. For Bluetooth 5.2, you can pair devices easily through the OS interface, whether you are using Android or Ubuntu, making it perfect for IoT and smart home applications.

Yes, the K2B supports 4K video output at 60Hz via HDMI, providing smooth high-definition playback for multimedia projects. It’s ideal for streaming high-quality video or using the device as a media center in home theater setups.

The K2B board supports both Android 12.0 and Ubuntu 22.04, offering flexibility for developers and users. You can choose the OS that best suits your needs, whether it’s for Android-based apps or Linux-based development.

Some users have reported occasional software compatibility issues, especially with third-party applications. There are also mentions of the board not being the best for very memory-intensive tasks, due to its 2GB RAM and 8GB storage capacity.

The K2B is highly customizable, with a 20-pin GPIO header that allows for connecting external sensors, motors, and other hardware. Whether you're building a smart device, a robot, or a custom industrial system, the GPIO pins provide ample flexibility.

The K2B board is developer-friendly, but it might be a bit challenging for complete beginners without prior experience in Linux or Android development. However, its detailed documentation and the preloaded SDK offer a great starting point for those willing to learn.