A Complete Desktop Inside a Keyboard: HP's Innovative Eliteboard G1a

At the CES 2026 exhibition, HP has unveiled a groundbreaking mini desktop computer ingeniously integrated into a seemingly ordinary keyboard. This compact device, known as the Eliteboard G1a, houses an impressive arsenal of technology.

Design and Functionality

Though it appears like a standard keyboard—with options for either a fixed or removable USB-C connection—inside it lurk the components of a full-fledged computer. The Eliteboard is equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI 300-series processor, onboard speakers, memory, storage, a cooling fan, and several ports. Simply connect it to a monitor, which supports up to two 4K displays through a daisy-chain link, and power up the accompanying pre-synced Bluetooth mouse.

Performance and Features

While the concept of a computer in a keyboard isn't entirely new, thanks to devices like the Raspberry Pi 500, HP's approach is distinct. Unlike the single-board Raspberry Pi running its proprietary OS, the Eliteboard leverages the power of AMD's Krackan Point series, from the Ryzen AI 5 350 to the AI 7 370 Pro, making it suited for various productivity tasks.

The Eliteboard comes with flexible customization, including the choice of an embedded fingerprint scanner and a replaceable 35Wh battery that can keep it running for approximately three and a half hours. There are also options for substantial storage—a maximum of 2TB—and 64GB of DDR5 RAM, utilizing its dual SODIMM slots. All this is embodied in a keyboard that has a 2mm key travel distance and weighs 726 grams (1.69 pounds).

Connection Choices

For those who prefer flexibility, the detachable cable version may be more appealing. However, the model with the fixed cable does offer an additional USB4 port, providing users with further connectivity options.

Potential Usage and Personal Impressions

While the Eliteboard G1a is likely destined for use in conventional office settings and IT environments, it has captured interest with its novelty. Even amidst some reservations about typing comfort on a membrane keyboard, it has earned the playful nickname ‘The Keyputer.’ There's a hope for a future version with mechanical keys, allowing greater customization, much like HP's other innovative products that incorporate modular features with interchangeable switches.

On the horizon, the Eliteboard G1a expects its market debut in March, although the pricing remains under wraps pending final adjustments closer to the release date.