In this exploration, Explaining Computers put five RISC-V SBCs—Orange Pi RV2, Banana Pi BPI F3, Cyped Lite Pi 3A, Milk 5 Jupiter, and Vision 52—to the test. From performance benchmarks and software compatibility to storage speeds and power efficiency, each board offers a unique glimpse into the strengths and growing pains of the RISC-V ecosystem. Whether you’re a developer seeking an open source alternative or a tinkerer curious about their potential, this comparison will reveal surprising insights and critical trade-offs. As we navigate the highs and lows of these boards, one question lingers: could RISC-V truly redefine the future of computing?