In this blog post, I’ll share my impressions of the CrowView Note. This device combines a slim, foldable monitor with an integrated keyboard, creating a single unit that’s easy to carry around. I tested it with a Raspberry Pi 5, a Khadas Edge2, and an iPhone 15 to see how it performs in different scenarios.
When folded, the CrowView Note has a compact shape that makes it convenient to slip into a bag or backpack. The keyboard is attached beneath the display, so there’s no need for extra peripherals. The monitor offers bright, clear visuals, and the hinge lets you adjust the viewing angle to your preference. There’s also a small trackpad next to the keyboard for on-screen navigation. Around the sides, you’ll find an HDMI input, a USB-C port for power and data, and a USB-A port for connecting other peripherals.
A typical use case for this device is as a portable coding station, especially if you work with single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi or Khadas Edge2. It’s also handy if you need a quick diagnostic setup without lugging around a full laptop. Another potential application is to pair it with a phone for email, document editing, and video playback on a larger screen. Because everything is housed in a single foldable package, you can set it up almost anywhere.
To test its performance, I hooked up a Raspberry Pi 5 using an HDMI cable. The CrowView Note immediately detected the signal and served as both display and keyboard input for the Pi’s operating system. I ran updates and typed a few Python commands, and the overall experience was smooth. Next, I tried the Khadas Edge2, also through HDMI. The connection took only a moment to establish, and I was able to browse websites and write short snippets of code comfortably. Finally, I connected an iPhone 15 using a USB-C or Lightning-to-HDMI adapter (depending on the phone version). The CrowView Note mirrored the phone’s display, which made it easier to view content and type messages on the physical keyboard.
Overall, the CrowView Note is a practical choice for anyone looking for an ultra-portable monitor and keyboard solution. It’s light, folds neatly, and offers enough functionality to handle coding, debugging, and basic productivity tasks. Whether you work on projects with single-board computers or just want a bigger screen for your phone, it can be a valuable addition to your toolkit.
If you want to learn more about the CrowView Note or purchase one, you can visit the Elecrow product page or check out the Kickstarter campaign. Some of these links are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.
Other devices I mentioned in this video: