It’s not a laptop, but what is this? Elecrow’s new offering, the CrowView Note, aims to bridge the gap between lightweight portability and versatile functionality. Priced at $169, this 14-inch, all-in-one portable monitor pairs seamlessly with smartphones, single-board computers (SBCs), and gaming consoles, effectively transforming them into workstation setups. While its affordability and multifunctional design cater to specific needs, potential buyers should consider some trade-offs. You could say it’s more like a docking station that already comes with a screen and keyboard, so you only need to add a device with CPU and OS, and you get a fully functional workstation like that whether you plug in your smartphone or mini PC.
What is the CrowView Note?
The CrowView Note is an accessory styled like a laptop, equipped with a Full HD IPS panel, keyboard, touchpad, speakers, and a 5000mAh battery, all integrated into a slim 2.53-pound body. It lacks an independent operating system, relying solely on connected devices such as smartphones, SBCs (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Jetson Nano), or gaming consoles (PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch).
The device is marketed as a “phone-to-laptop” solution, allowing users to activate desktop modes on their smartphone or run tasks via connected SBCs with minimal setup effort.
Key features and strengths
1. All-in-one design
The CrowView Note simplifies your tech ecosystem by integrating essential peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and touchpad into a single unit. This design particularly appeals to those who frequently use SBCs or smartphones for productivity. Its compact form factor makes it a great option for portability without juggling multiple devices or accessories.
2. Broad compatibility
Whether you are a smartphone user looking to unlock desktop mode or a tech hobbyist running a Raspberry Pi project, the CrowView Note offers wide compatibility. It supports Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, Raspberry Pi OS, and seamless gaming console integration. For SBC enthusiasts, adapter boards for the Raspberry Pi and Jetson Nano provide a plug-and-play experience without cable clutter.
3. Affordable and accessible
At $169, the CrowView Note is more affordable than most entry-level laptops or dedicated portable monitors. It is a cost-effective choice for students, gamers, and hobbyists who need basic computing or extended screen functionalities.
4. Built-in battery and power pass-through
The 5000mAh built-in battery powers the device for approximately 1-2 hours, while also supporting reverse charging for smartphones or SBCs. This eliminates the need for separate power cords in short-term use scenarios, further enhancing its portability.
What it gets right
The CrowView Note shines as a companion device for a clearly defined target audience.
- Tech hobbyists and SBC users will appreciate its streamlined approach to projects and collaboration. Users can get started immediately without needing to set up an external display, keyboard, or touch input.
- Smartphone power users gain a laptop-like experience that is compatible with desktop modes like Samsung DeX or Huawei’s Desktop Mode.
- Students and budget-conscious professionals benefit from its affordability as an alternative to a full laptop, covering basic productivity needs such as emailing, browsing, or note-taking.
The device balances practicality, portability, and cost for each of these groups, making it a unique offering in the portable computing space.
Drawbacks to consider
- Lack of a built-in camera and microphone
For remote workers or students who depend on frequent video conferencing, the absence of a built-in camera and microphone is a significant gap. Users would need to rely on their smartphone’s camera and microphone or external devices supported by the connected device, which could complicate setups. - Low battery capacity for extended use
While the 5000mAh battery is a nice addition, its 1-2 hour runtime might feel limiting, particularly during extended work sessions or gaming marathons. Users may find themselves frequently tethered to a power source. - Display resolution and performance
With a Full HD resolution of 1920×1080 and a refresh rate of 60Hz, the display is adequate for productivity and casual gaming. However, as smartphones and gaming consoles increasingly push 4K graphics, the CrowView Note might feel a step behind for users seeking sharper visuals. - No independent functionality
Without its own CPU, RAM, or storage, the CrowView Note is strictly a peripheral device. This dependency means its value is directly tied to the capabilities of the connected device. For example, iPhone users with USB 2.0 interfaces may face compatibility issues. - Build quality
While its lightweight design improves portability, the use of ABS+PC materials might be less durable compared to higher-end ultrabooks or monitors. If you really mean to carry this one around wherever you go, a soft case or protection sleeve might help it to live longer. - It’s all about your software
If you have a smartphone that does not provide a good desktop PC experience, then you’ll not get much out of the CrowView Note. The usefulness of these features relies strongly on your peripherals and their respective software (OS) capabilities. Don’t expect all phones to come with a desktop mode that can be compared to Windows.
Is the CrowView Note worth buying?
The CrowView Note is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it does not try to be. Instead, it caters to niche needs effectively. Tech enthusiasts, gadget minimalists, and anyone who already owns a compatible smartphone or SBC but lacks a setup-friendly workstation are likely to find immense value in it. The price point further sweetens the deal, making it an accessible tool for highly specific use cases.
However, users who need high-end performance, extended video conferencing tools, or longer battery life might find themselves needing more than what the CrowView Note offers. Alternatives like traditional laptops or hybrid tablets (albeit at higher price points) might be more suitable for those scenarios.
Closing remarks
The CrowView Note is a thoughtful and innovative accessory that extends the capabilities of many devices, from smartphones to SBCs and beyond. While it has its shortcomings, most notably the lack of a camera and independent functionality, it performs well within the scope of its intended use.
Before you go: The Elecrow CrowView Portable Display Gives Laptops Extra Screen Estate [Review]
At $169, it is a compelling option for hobbyists, students, and tech-savvy users who need portability on a budget. Still, as with any niche product, it is important to understand its limitations before purchasing. If it fits your specific requirements, the CrowView Note could be an excellent addition to your tech toolkit.
YouTube: CrowView Note Laptop Dock – Empowering Your Device as A Laptop (promotional clip by Elecrow)
Photo credit: All images shown are owned by Elecrow and have been made available for press usage.
Editorial notice: We have received a press test unit in order to prepare this article but were not paid for the coverage.
