KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC or KICKPI Android Single Board Computer? Which KICKPI Model to Buy
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This guide compares the kickpi allwinner h618 2gb sbc vs android single board computer to help you choose the right KICKPI model. Both boards share 2GB RAM, 16GB eMMC storage, and Gigabit Ethernet. The main difference lies in their processors and target use cases. The K2B uses the Allwinner H618 for multimedia tasks, while the K5C features the Allwinner A133 for industrial and mobile connectivity. You need to decide which hardware fits your specific project requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC | KICKPI Android Single Board Computer with 2GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Allwinner H618 | Allwinner A133 |
| GPU | Mali-G31 MP2 | PowerVR GE8300 |
| OS Support | Android 12, Ubuntu 22.04 | Android 10, Ubuntu 16.04 |
| Video Output | HDMI 4K@60Hz | MIPI/LVDS 1920x1200 |
| Power Options | Type-C 5V | 12V DC, Battery, PoE |
| Networking | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G LTE |
Which one should you choose?
Choose KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC if
- You need modern Android 12 support and Ubuntu 22.04 for development.
- You require HDMI output for 4K displays and multimedia playback.
- You want a compact board powered by standard Type-C USB.
Choose KICKPI Android Single Board Computer with 2GB RAM if
- You need 4G LTE connectivity for mobile or remote IoT applications.
- You require PoE or battery power options for industrial deployment.
- You are building custom displays using MIPI or LVDS interfaces.
Verdict: Choose the KICKPI K2B if you prioritize modern software support and high-definition video output for consumer or development projects. Select the KICKPI K5C if your project demands industrial features like 4G connectivity, PoE power, and custom display interfaces. Both boards offer solid quad-core performance for embedded tasks.
KICKPI K2B vs K5C Comparison
processor performance
The KICKPI K2B uses the Allwinner H618 quad-core processor with ARM Cortex-A53 cores running up to 1.5GHz. It pairs this with a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU. The KICKPI K5C features the Allwinner A133 quad-core processor, also using Cortex-A53 cores at 1.5GHz. It includes a PowerVR GE8300 GPU instead. Both chips offer similar CPU speeds for everyday tasks. The difference lies in the graphics hardware. The Mali-G31 in the K2B is generally more modern than the PowerVR GE8300 in the K5C. This makes the K2B slightly better for graphics-intensive workloads. The K5C processor is solid for basic computing and embedded control.
operating system
Software flexibility is a key factor for developers. The KICKPI K2B supports Android 12 and Ubuntu 22.04. Android 12 provides access to a modern mobile app ecosystem. Ubuntu 22.04 offers a current Linux environment for development. The KICKPI K5C runs Android 10 and Ubuntu 16.04. These are older versions of both operating systems. Android 10 lacks some newer app compatibility. Ubuntu 16.04 is significantly older and may lack support for recent libraries. If you need the latest software features and security updates, the K2B is the superior choice. The older OS on the K5C may limit your project scope.
video output
Display capabilities differ between the two boards. The KICKPI K2B supports HDMI output up to 4K at 60Hz. It also includes hardware video decoding for H.264 and H.265 at 4K resolution. This allows for smooth high-definition media playback. The KICKPI K5C supports MIPI-DSI displays up to 1920x1200 at 60Hz and LVDS up to 1920x1080 at 60Hz. It does not list HDMI or 4K support in its key specs. If you plan to connect a standard TV or monitor via HDMI, the K2B is essential. The K5C is designed for embedded industrial displays using MIPI or LVDS interfaces.
power options
Power delivery methods vary significantly. The KICKPI K2B uses a standard Type-C 5V power input. This is simple but requires a nearby power outlet. The KICKPI K5C offers three flexible power options: 12V DC input, battery power, and Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE allows the board to receive power and data through a single Ethernet cable. This is highly useful for remote IoT gateways or hard-to-reach installations. Battery power adds portability. The K5C provides much greater deployment flexibility for industrial or remote projects. The K2B is limited to standard wall power.
connectivity
Networking and expansion ports define each board's utility. The KICKPI K2B includes dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It has a 20-pin expansion interface for UART, SPI, PWM, I2C, and USB. The KICKPI K5C includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth as well. It supports 4G LTE modules for mobile network connectivity. This is a unique advantage for mobile or remote applications. The K5C also has a 30-pin expansion interface, offering more GPIO and ADC pins than the K2B. While both have Gigabit Ethernet, the K5C’s 4G support and larger expansion header make it more versatile for complex hardware integrations.
Which KICKPI Model Suits Your Needs
Developers needing Linux and video hardware
The K2B supports Ubuntu 22.04 and Android 12, giving you a modern Linux environment for coding. Its Mali-G31 MP2 GPU handles H.265 4K@60Hz hardware decoding efficiently. This reduces CPU load during multimedia tasks. You get dual-band Wi-Fi and a 20-pin expansion header for UART and SPI connections. This setup is ideal for embedded development and smooth video playback projects.
Users requiring flexible power and mobile data
The K5C offers three power options: 12V DC, battery, and PoE. This flexibility suits remote or mobile deployments. It supports 4G LTE modules for connectivity without Wi-Fi. The board includes Gigabit Ethernet and standard wireless features. You also get a 30-pin expansion interface with ADC and GPIO pins. This makes it suitable for IoT gateways and industrial control systems needing reliable power and data links.
Projects needing external display interfaces
The K5C supports MIPI-DSI up to 1920x1200@60Hz and LVDS up to 1920x1080@60Hz. These interfaces are essential for connecting HMI panels or industrial displays. The K2B only lists HDMI output. If your project requires direct panel integration or custom display solutions, the K5C provides the necessary video ports. It also includes open driver support and BSP packages for easier hardware integration.
The products compared
KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC
Best for: Linux development and IoT projects
- Processor
- Allwinner H618
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB
- RAM Type
- DDR
- Storage
- 16GB eMMC
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wireless Connectivity
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
View on Amazon: KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC Affiliate link
The KICKPI K2B is a compact single board computer powered by the Allwinner H618 quad-core processor. It includes 2GB of DDR RAM and 16GB of eMMC storage. You get dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Gigabit Ethernet for connectivity. The device supports 4K@60Hz video decoding and runs Android 12 or Ubuntu 22.04. This makes it suitable for IoT gateways or media centers that need Linux flexibility.
Pros
- Allwinner H618 quad-core CPU with Mali-G31 MP2 GPU
- Supports Android 12 and Ubuntu 22.04 operating systems
- Hardware decoding for H.264/H.265 4K@60Hz video
- Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity
- 20-pin expansion interface for UART, SPI, and I2C
Cons
- 2GB RAM limits multitasking compared to higher-capacity models
- 16GB eMMC storage is modest for large projects
- No mention of included power supply or case
Good fit if
- You need a Linux environment for development work
- You want hardware video decoding for media playback
- You are building an IoT gateway or custom embedded system
Skip if
- You require more than 2GB of RAM for heavy multitasking
- You need more than 16GB of internal storage
- You want a pre-assembled desktop computer with a case
Verdict: KICKPI K2B Allwinner H618 2GB SBC fits developers who need Ubuntu 22.04 support and hardware video decoding in a small form factor.
KICKPI Android Single Board Computer with 2GB RAM
Best for: Industrial IoT and embedded display projects
- Processor
- Allwinner A133
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB
- Storage
- 16GB eMMC
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wireless Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G LTE
- Video Resolution
- 1920x1200 at 60Hz
View on Amazon: KICKPI Android Single Board Computer with 2GB RAM Affiliate link
The KICKPI K5C is a single board computer with an Allwinner A133 quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM. It includes 16GB of eMMC storage and Gigabit Ethernet. The board supports Android 10 and Ubuntu 16.04. You can power it via DC, battery, or PoE. It features MIPI-DSI and LVDS display outputs. This model suits embedded projects and industrial control systems.
Pros
- Allwinner A133 quad-core processor up to 1.5GHz
- Supports 12V DC, battery, and PoE power options
- Built-in Gigabit Ethernet and 4G LTE module support
- MIPI-DSI and LVDS display interfaces for HMI panels
Cons
- Only 2GB of RAM limits multitasking
- 16GB eMMC storage is small for large datasets
- Requires external display for operation
Good fit if
- You need flexible power options like PoE
- You are building an industrial IoT gateway
- You require MIPI-DSI or LVDS display support
Skip if
- You need more than 2GB of RAM
- You require high-capacity internal storage
- You want a pre-assembled desktop computer
Verdict: The KICKPI K5C Allwinner A133 SBC fits industrial developers needing PoE and flexible display interfaces. It is not suitable for users requiring high memory or storage capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC | KICKPI Android Single Board Computer with 2GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Allwinner H618 | Allwinner A133 |
| RAM Capacity | 2GB | 2GB |
| RAM Type | DDR | not stated |
| Storage | 16GB eMMC | 16GB eMMC |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Wireless Connectivity | Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G LTE |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 60Hz | 1920x1200 at 60Hz |
| Operating System Support | Android 12, Ubuntu 22.04 | Android 10, Ubuntu 16.04 |
| Memory | not stated | 2GB RAM |
| Operating System | Android | Android |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Dimensions | 3.16 × 2.2 × 0.75 inches | 4.33 × 2.95 × 0.79 inches |
| Weight | 2.12 ounces | not stated |
| Size | 2G and 16G | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | KICKPI K2B | KICKPI K5C |
Frequently asked questions
Does the KICKPI K2B support Ubuntu?
Yes, the KICKPI K2B supports Ubuntu 22.04. This makes it suitable for Linux development and IoT projects. You can use it as a small form factor computer for coding tasks. The board also runs Android 12 if you prefer that operating system.
What processor does the KICKPI K5C use?
The KICKPI K5C uses the Allwinner A133 quad-core processor. It features Cortex-A53 cores for processing tasks. This model is designed for industrial IoT and embedded display projects. It does not offer high memory or storage capacity compared to other options.
How big is the KICKPI K2B?
The KICKPI K2B measures 3.16 inches in length, 2.2 inches in width, and 0.75 inches in height. It weighs 2.12 ounces. This compact size makes it easy to fit into tight spaces. The board is black in color and uses the KICKPI K2B model designation.
Does the KICKPI K5C have Gigabit Ethernet?
Yes, the KICKPI K5C includes Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. This allows for fast wired network connections. The board also comes with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of eMMC storage. These specs support its role in industrial and embedded display applications.
Which KICKPI model is better for video decoding?
The KICKPI K2B is better for video decoding. It features a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU that handles H.265 4K@60Hz hardware decoding. This reduces CPU load during multimedia tasks. The K5C focuses more on industrial interfaces rather than advanced video processing capabilities.
Can I use PoE with the KICKPI K5C?
Yes, the KICKPI K5C supports Power over Ethernet. This feature is useful for industrial developers needing flexible installation options. The board is designed for embedded display projects. It provides reliable connectivity without requiring separate power cables for the network connection.
What is the difference between K2B and K5C sizes?
The K2B is smaller than the K5C. The K2B measures 3.16 by 2.2 inches, while the K5C measures 4.33 by 2.95 inches. Both have similar heights around 0.75 to 0.79 inches. Choose the K2B for compact builds and the K5C for larger industrial enclosures.