- Maybe you missed it? Orange Pi RV.
- Orange Pi R2S Review: Overview, Specifications, and Features.
The R2S is a compact in size mini router board, positioning it as an excellent choice for those seeking a super budget-friendly wired type router. Now, let’s dive into its advantages and drawbacks.
- Super low price point (starting at $30.00).
- Ky X1 8-Core RISC-V CPU.
- 2x USB ports.
- 2x 1GbE + 2x 2.5GbE.
- No mainline OpenWrt support.
- No onboard fan socket.
- No PCB mounting holes.
- No integrated Wi-Fi support.
Part I: Introducing the Orange Pi R2S Router Gateway Board
The Orange Pi R2S Router board is finally here, and it’s a great deal for what you get! With four Ethernet ports, it’s perfect for home or office use, giving you all the connectivity you need. One of the coolest things about it is the strong Ky X1 8-core RISC-V CPU, which really boosts its performance.
Hardware
In comparison to other RISC-V CPUs, such as the StarFive JH7110, the Ky X1 distinguishes itself with remarkable single-core performance, delivering speeds 1.3 times greater than that of an ARM Cortex-A55. This boost in performance enhancement not only elevates computational capabilities but also achieves outstanding energy efficiency, outpacing conventional ARM architectures.
Interfaces
This compact in size router board boasts a flexible 2+2 LAN configuration, featuring two 2.5GbE ports paired with two 1GbE ports. Additionally, it includes both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 Host A ports, allowing you to connect external storage devices, such as an SSD or HDD rack, for enhanced storage options.
The rapid embrace of RISC-V architecture
The future of RISC-V architecture looks incredibly promising, particularly with significant advancements from Chinese SoC companies focused on developing low-power, cost-effective chips. These are not constrained by specialized IP licensing or legal limitations, paving the way for a new era of semiconductor technology.
RISC-V is an open-standard instruction set architecture that is rapidly gaining traction due to its remarkable flexibility and scalability. This innovative technology offers significant benefits in customization and optimization for network tasks. Users can anticipate enhanced processing speeds along with reduced power consumption, positioning the Orange Pi R2S as not just a powerful router but also an environmentally friendly choice.
First-hand exclusive images (prototype samples)
Specifications
| Processor | Ky X1 8 Core RISC-V AI 2.0TOPS |
| Memory | LPDDR4X: 2GB/4GB/8GB |
| Storage | eMMC: 8GB |
| Ethernet Ports | 2x 1000M Ethernet indicator 2x 2.5G Ethernet indicator |
| USB | 1x USB3.0 1x USB2.0 (can be used for software upgrade and burning software) |
| Buttons | 1x MASKROM key |
| Status lights | 1x Power indicator |
| TF card | TF card transfer interface |
| DEBUG | 3PIN debug serial port, 3.3V level |
| Power supply | Type-C 5V 3A DCIN |
| PCB | 79.2*46*1.6 mm |
| Supported OS | OpenWrt, Ubuntu, Bianbu |
A peak the board layout and interfaces.
Particle applications
Deploying OpenWrt to strengthen cybersecurity defenses
Designed to accommodate multiple devices at once, this router is an ideal choice for home internet users, gamers, and streaming aficionados. Featuring four Ethernet ports, it provides effortless wired connections that guarantee stable, high-speed internet for your most critical devices.
Its compact design ensures it seamlessly integrates into a variety of spaces without compromising performance. Although this model does not offer a Wi-Fi option, the impressive specifications and favorable price point make it an excellent choice, particularly for those seeking a cheap, compact, portable router capable of running Ubuntu/Debian and OpenWrt OS.
Can serve as a Smart Home Security Gateway.
As smart homes continue to gain popularity, having a reliable router has become essential. The Orange Pi R2S Router is specifically engineered to effectively handle the bandwidth demands of numerous connected devices. It can act as a small, powerful firewall and gateway for smart home devices, laptops, and desktop PCs, protecting them from potential hacking threats.
Unbeatable Prices
The 2GB version is priced competitively at just $30, positioning it as an appealing choice in the RISC-V single-board computer market. RAM size options vary from 2GB up to 8GB according to user requirements. A metal enclosure will be soon offered at an additional cost, which may be considered a valuable and necessary accessory. With a combination of a solid metal enclosure, this mini router is adaptable for use in home, office, or industrial environments where low power consumption is a priority.
Where did you get the case? I’ve looked everywhere on AliExpress (well, not *everywhere*) but have not been able to find any suitable case or even a drawing for a 3d printer.
It’s not a perfect fit. You will find it on AliExpress. just search for “acrylic case orange pi 4a”.
Thanks for the tip but I can’t find the case under that name, also the pi4a has a whole other ports layout. Would you have a direct link?
The Orange Pi R2S Case is currently in production. If you were referring to the case for the RV Board, I’ve updated the article to include a direct purchase link from AliExpress.
I’m still looking for that case and can’t find it in your article? Can you just give me a link? Thanks
I’ll check with the company and get back to you with an answer in a few days, as it’s currently Chinese National Day.