MUSE Book laptop review – Testing an octa-core RISC-V Linux laptop in 2026

Abstract

The MUSE Book RISC-V laptop, featuring the SpacemiT K1/M1 octa-core SoC, demonstrates the maturation of the RISC-V hardware ecosystem into a consumer form factor. The 2026 review specifically prioritizes evaluating software progress, centering on the performance and usability of Bianbu OS 2.3 (Ubuntu 24.04-based). This analysis signals significant strides in developing a robust, daily-driver RISC-V Linux computing experience.

Report

Key Highlights

• Product Milestone: The MUSE Book is a production-ready RISC-V Linux laptop supplied by SpacemiT for review in 2026.
• Core Processor: The laptop is built around the SpacemiT K1/M1, an octa-core 64-bit RISC-V System-on-Chip (SoC).
• Review Focus: The primary goal of the review is software evaluation, specifically assessing the progress and usability of Bianbu OS 2.3.
• Software Base: Bianbu OS 2.3 is noted as being based on Ubuntu 24.04, indicating a push towards modern, established Linux distributions on RISC-V hardware.

Technical Details

• SoC Architecture: SpacemiT K1/M1 octa-core 64-bit RISC-V SoC.
• Memory and Storage: Configurations available up to 16 GB of RAM, utilizing eMMC flash and/or NVMe SSD storage options.
• Display: 14.1-inch IPS display offering 1920×1080 (Full HD) resolution.
• Connectivity: Features modern standards including WiFi 6.
• Operating System: Bianbu OS 2.3, built upon the foundation of Ubuntu 24.04.

Implications

• Ecosystem Maturity: The existence of a dedicated, high-core-count RISC-V laptop reviewed in 2026 signifies that the RISC-V architecture has successfully transitioned from early-stage development boards to competitive, end-user consumer devices.
• Software Usability: Shifting the review's focus from hardware specs (which were previously covered in 2024) to software optimization highlights that basic compatibility issues are largely resolved. The emphasis is now on daily usability and performance.
• Standardized Linux Support: Basing the dedicated OS (Bianbu) on a long-term support release like Ubuntu 24.04 is critical. It ensures access to a large repository of packages and developer tools, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for mainstream developers adopting the RISC-V platform.