• Product details: The MNT Pocket Reform laptop comes in an unassuming box with recyclable paper packaging. It has a solid metal case with visible screws, feels very solid, and the screen hinges are sturdy. It comes with a two-sided quickstart sheet and a manual that covers various aspects from Linux basics to hardware schematics.
• Boot and setup: After booting Linux, the setup wizard automatically displays, offering a choice between Wayfire and Sway windowing environments. To boot the computer, hold down the Hyper and Enter keys together for two seconds. The author chose Sway as a tiling window manager.
• Keyboard: It has a split ortholinear key arrangement with small "Red Pro" switches. Some chording is required (e.g., Hyper + 1 for F1). The keys are thoughtful for programmer-friendly characters. It's not as quiet as some other laptops but not too noisy.
• Trackball: A big selling point, it's very small but has four keyboard keys on either side for various functions (middle, left, scroll mode, right), and you can press Middle + Scroll for sticky scroll mode. All these settings are customizable in the open firmware.
• Performance: Mainly used as a glorified terminal with SSH connection, it can play 3D games like Minetest without trouble. The only complaint is that the wifi seems temperamental and disconnected in a room with weak signal.
• Unique design: The computer lives in the upper half behind the screen, and the bottom half is controlled by an RP2040 microcontroller. You can interact with the RP2040 through the keyboard and tiny OLED display even when the rest of the computer is off. It uses a USB-C PD power supply, and some chargers may not work; the supply that came with the Steam Deck did.
• Comparison with other laptops: Placed next to an ASUS eeePC netbook and a 17-inch Lenovo ThinkPad, the Pocket Reform's small size allows for easy hand reach to the whole keyboard without awkward palm positions. Its backlit key legends are great for nighttime programming.

Overall, the MNT Pocket Reform has many unique features and potential, but some aspects like wifi performance need improvement. It has a good chance of being a lasting laptop for the author.