The Khadas Edge2 stands out as one of the most powerful ARM single-board computers (SBCs) available in 2025. It’s a compelling choice for developers, engineers, and tech enthusiasts looking for a high-performance platform tailored for AI, edge computing, and multimedia workloads. While it carries a premium price tag starting at around $230, the Edge2 delivers performance and features that justify the investment—making it a solid 9/10 in our book.
What is Khadas Edge2?
Khadas Edge2 is an advanced ARM-based SBC built around the Rockchip RK3588S SoC, a chip known for its impressive octa-core CPU, Mali G610MC4 GPU, and a dedicated 6 TOPS neural processing unit (NPU). This combination enables the Edge2 to handle demanding tasks such as AI inference, 8K video processing, and complex edge computing scenarios with ease.
Available in several configurations—from a bare PCB Maker Kit to a fully enclosed Arm PC kit with active cooling—the Edge2 offers flexibility for a wide range of projects. It supports up to 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM, comes with onboard eMMC storage options (32GB or 64GB), and includes modern connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The board also integrates multiple camera interfaces and IO connectors, making it versatile for robotics, computer vision, and multimedia applications.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|——————|—————————————————–|
| CPU | Rockchip RK3588S octa-core (4x Cortex-A76 + 4x Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Quad-core ARM Mali G610MC4 |
| NPU | 6 TOPS Neural Processing Unit for AI acceleration |
| RAM | Up to 16GB LPDDR4X |
| Storage | 32GB or 64GB eMMC 5.1 flash |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Video Support | 8K video decoding/encoding, HDMI 2.1 output |
| Camera Support | 3x 4-lane MIPI CSI connectors |
| Expansion | 2x 30-pin IO connectors, 7x pogo pins, USB-C DisplayPort 1.4 |
| Other Features | Stereo microphone, real-time clock, optional docking station |
Detailed Review
Design & Build Quality
The Edge2’s design strikes a balance between compactness and practicality. Measuring just 8.9 x 6.2 x 1.6 cm, it fits comfortably into desktop setups or embedded systems without taking up much space. The plastic enclosure feels sturdy and thoughtfully designed, with ventilation slots that aid in passive cooling. For users opting for the Arm PC kit, the included fan and case provide additional thermal management, which is crucial for sustained workloads.
One highlight is the modularity: the bottom cover detaches easily, granting access to internal components like the eMMC module and RAM solder points. This accessibility is a boon for developers who want to customize or troubleshoot hardware without hassle.
Performance
In everyday use, the Khadas Edge2 impresses with snappy responsiveness and robust multitasking capabilities. The RK3588S SoC combines four high-performance Cortex-A76 cores clocked up to 2.25 GHz with four efficiency-focused Cortex-A55 cores, providing a balanced mix of power and energy efficiency.
The Mali G610MC4 GPU supports hardware-accelerated 8K video decoding and encoding, which is a rare feature in SBCs at this price point. This makes the Edge2 particularly attractive for multimedia projects, including 8K video streaming or advanced video analytics.
The standout is the 6 TOPS NPU, which accelerates AI workloads such as image recognition, object detection, and natural language processing. During real-world testing, the Edge2 handled TensorFlow Lite and PyTorch models with ease, completing inference tasks significantly faster than comparable SBCs like the Raspberry Pi 5 or VIM 4.
With up to 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM, the Edge2 can comfortably run complex software stacks or multiple containers simultaneously—ideal for edge computing scenarios where local processing is critical.
Features & Functionality
Khadas has packed the Edge2 with a rich feature set. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring fast and stable wireless connections. The HDMI 2.1 port supports 4K output at 60 Hz, with the capability to handle 8K video decoding internally, making it suitable for high-resolution displays or media centers.
The three MIPI CSI camera connectors are a standout for developers working on computer vision or robotics projects. Having three simultaneous camera inputs opens up possibilities for stereo vision, 360-degree capture, or multi-angle monitoring setups.
Expansion is well thought out, with two 30-pin IO connectors and seven pogo pins providing access to GPIOs, serial interfaces, and other peripherals. The USB-C port supports DisplayPort 1.4, allowing for high-bandwidth external displays or docking solutions.
The Edge2’s NPU supports popular AI frameworks like TensorFlow Lite and PyTorch, enabling developers to deploy machine learning models directly on the device without relying on cloud services—a critical feature for privacy-conscious or latency-sensitive applications.
User Experience
Getting started with the Edge2 is straightforward, especially for those familiar with ARM SBCs. Khadas provides comprehensive documentation, including detailed hardware specs, software guides, and example projects that ease the learning curve.
The bootloader and firmware are stable and well-maintained, with frequent updates from Khadas that improve performance and compatibility. The active community forums and GitHub repositories are valuable resources, offering support and shared projects that accelerate development.
One practical note: the lack of a microSD card slot means users must rely on onboard eMMC storage or external USB drives. While eMMC is faster and more reliable than microSD, it limits flexibility for quick OS swaps or storage expansion.
Khadas Edge2 vs Competitors
| Feature | Khadas Edge2 | Raspberry Pi 5 | VIM 4 |
|———————|—————————|———————————|——————————-|
| CPU | Rockchip RK3588S (8-core) | Quad-core ARM Cortex-A76 | Rockchip RK3588S (8-core) |
| GPU | Mali G610MC4 | Mali G52 | Mali G610MC4 |
| RAM | Up to 16GB LPDDR4X | 4GB LPDDR4 | Up to 16GB LPDDR4X |
| Storage | 32GB/64GB eMMC 5.1 | 32GB eMMC 5.0 | 32GB/64GB eMMC 5.1 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Video Support | 8K decode/encode, HDMI 2.1| 4K output, HDMI 2.1 | 8K decode/encode, HDMI 2.1 |
| Camera Interfaces | 3x 4-lane MIPI CSI | 1x 4-lane MIPI CSI | 3x 4-lane MIPI CSI |
| Price (base model) | From $229.90 | Around $60 | Around $180 |
Compared to the Raspberry Pi 5, the Edge2 offers significantly higher RAM capacity, a more powerful GPU, and advanced AI acceleration, though at nearly four times the price. The VIM 4 shares the same RK3588S SoC but typically comes with fewer bundled accessories and a less refined software ecosystem.
Pros & Cons
Pros
– Industry-leading performance with RK3588S SoC and 6 TOPS NPU
– Supports advanced AI workloads and 8K multimedia processing
– Up to 16GB LPDDR4X RAM for demanding applications
– Multiple camera inputs ideal for computer vision projects
– Robust connectivity including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
– Comprehensive documentation and active developer community
– Modular design with optional cooling solutions
Cons
– Premium price may deter casual users or hobbyists
– No onboard Ethernet port limits wired networking options
– Edge 2 Pro model lacks GPIO pins, reducing hardware interfacing flexibility
– No microSD card slot restricts easy storage expansion or OS swapping
– Plastic enclosure may feel less premium compared to metal cases
Who Should Buy Khadas Edge2?
The Khadas Edge2 is best suited for developers, engineers, and technology enthusiasts who require a powerful, versatile ARM SBC capable of handling AI inference, edge computing, and high-resolution multimedia tasks. It’s an excellent platform for robotics, IoT gateways, VR/AR development, and smart city applications where local processing power and multiple camera inputs are essential.
If you’re building a project that demands more horsepower than traditional SBCs like the Raspberry Pi and you’re comfortable investing in a higher-end device, the Edge2 is a compelling choice. However, casual makers or those on a tight budget might find more value in less expensive alternatives.
Final Verdict
The Khadas Edge2 sets a new benchmark for ARM single-board computers in 2025. Its combination of a powerful RK3588S SoC, generous RAM options, advanced AI acceleration, and rich connectivity makes it a versatile powerhouse for cutting-edge projects. While the price and some hardware limitations (like missing Ethernet and microSD slot) might be a drawback for some, the overall package—including excellent documentation and community support—makes the Edge2 a top pick for serious developers and professionals.
If you need a robust, future-proof SBC to tackle AI, multimedia, and edge computing tasks, the Khadas Edge2 is well worth the investment.