Build your own computer with the Kano PC. Switch between tablet and laptop modes. It’s the perfect first computer for kids. Kano sent us their Kano PC in exchange for a review. Read my thoughts below.
Kano PC Review
Until this year, Aiden had been using an old laptop to code
and play around on in addition to his iPad. When schools moved to virtual class
in the spring, it was apparent Aiden needed to upgrade.
I was thrilled when Kano offered to give us a Kano PC to
review. It is designed to be competitive with a Chromebook, but it has all of
the conveniences of a PC operating system.
Pros of the Kano PC
In my opinion, Chrome OS is fairly limited, but it’s often
enough for kids. Chromebooks rely on the cloud for data storage and apps. The
Kano PC doesn’t have the same limitations. It runs Windows 10 Home. You can
install any programs you would on a higher end laptop, and you have ample space
to save files locally.
The price point is affordable. At $299, it’s less than the
average Chromebook.
The Kano PC has an 11.6″ touchscreen and can be used as a
tablet without the keyboard.
The Kano PC is fast and has a long battery life of 10 hours.
Several apps come preloaded on the Kano PC. Kano Software Studio + Projects, Paint 3D, and Microsoft Edge are already installed. You can access thousands of other apps via the Microsoft Store.
Kano PC Technical Specs
Processor: Intel Celeron N4000 Dual Core 1.10 GHz
Memory: 4GB RAM DDR3L
Storage: 64GB (eMMC) – Upgradable via Micro SD slot
Connectivity: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB C, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Dual Band 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz, Bluetooth 5.0
Display: 11.6″ touchscreen. Resolution: 1366 x 768, 720p HD
Audio: 3.5mm Headphone Jack, 3.5mm Speaker Level Jack, 1x
Microphone
Video: 1x HDMI port
CPU score: 225
Disk Write Speed: 164 MB/s
Cons of the Kano PC
There are a few downsides that you’ll want to know about
before you choose this Kano computer.
It makes a better laptop than it does a tablet. Because the
computer is made for kids to build, the tablet is thick. I find it cumbersome
to hold. However, Aiden wasn’t deterred by this. He prefers laptop mode anyway.
Aiden’s current school setup with the Kano PC and an external webcam and mouse.
My second complaint is the lack of webcam. Most laptops and
tablets come with a built-in webcam. The Kano does not. I’m guessing this is
again due to the fact that kids put together the computer. The webcam may have
been troublesome for an easy build.
Kano does have an external webcam
available for purchase for $29.99. It has impressive specs that are
better than most internal webcams.
My last downside of note is the short power cord. Most laptops have longer cords. However, the Kano PC does have a long battery life. It touts a minimum of 10 hours.
If your child likes to use an external mouse, Kano has one that you can build. The Kano mouse has click in, click out parts that allow you to see how the mouse works. Aiden liked that it was slightly smaller than a regular mouse – perfect for kid-sized hands.