Meet Interrupt—a newly launched, Linux-powered hacking gadget that's now live on Kickstarter, aiming to become a powerful alternative to devices like the Flipper Zero. Designed for cybersecurity professionals, hardware hackers, and curious tinkerers, Interrupt isn’t just another pocket gadget—it’s a full Linux system in the palm of your hand.
At the core of Interrupt is the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, offering far more muscle than typical microcontroller-based tools. That means no need to tether to a computer—just boot it up and start hacking. It's preloaded with Raspberry Pi OS, with a custom UI in the works to better integrate all its unique features.
The Interrupt isn’t just about software freedom—it’s backed by thoughtfully designed hardware that makes it a reliable companion in the field.
Key Features Include:
- Processor: Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W - Equipped with a 1GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU and 512MB RAM, this board brings serious power to a tiny footprint.
- Display: 3.5" Full Color Touchscreen - The built-in display is vibrant and responsive, giving users a full GUI experience. It allows for multitasking, terminal access, and visual tools—all without connecting to an external monitor.
- Input Controls: A QWERTY keyboard combined with gamepad-style directional buttons makes navigation easy and fun. This unique input setup is a thoughtful inclusion for command-line and GUI usage on the go.
- Connectivity:
- Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Sub-GHz Transceiver
- Infrared (IR)
- RFID & NFC
- USB OTG
- GPIO Access for External Hardware
- Expandable Storage: Thanks to the accessible microSD slot, you can add gigabytes of storage, store payloads, logs, and Linux packages, or boot into alternate environments.
This set of features turns Interrupt into not just a hacking gadget—but a mobile cybersecurity workstation.
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One of the defining differences between the Interrupt and its competitors is its Linux-based operating system. Unlike many pocket hacking tools which run limited firmware, the Interrupt delivers a full Raspberry Pi OS experience out of the box.
This means:
- You can use standard Linux packages like Wireshark, Nmap, Aircrack-ng, or Metasploit.
- You get full access to a graphical desktop interface.
- You can code in Python, C++, or Bash right on the device.
- You can update, install, or even dual-boot alternative distros (like Kali Linux) if desired.
Interrupt’s creators also mention that a custom GUI overlay is in development, which will streamline common hacking and hardware-interfacing tasks, making the device even more user-friendly for beginners and experts alike.
This combination makes it ideal for penetration testing, signal analysis, IoT experimentation, or just exploring the world of embedded hardware.
Interrupt vs. Flipper Zero
It’s natural to compare Interrupt to the Flipper Zero, given the overlap in wireless capabilities and portable form factor. But they serve slightly different purposes.
| Feature | Interrupt | Flipper Zero |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Full Linux (Raspberry Pi OS) | Custom firmware |
| CPU | Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 | STM32 microcontroller |
| Display | 3.5" Color Touchscreen | 1.4" Monochrome LCD |
| Input | QWERTY + Gamepad Buttons | 5-Way Navigation Button |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, IR, RF | Sub-GHz, IR, NFC, Bluetooth |
| Expandability | Full GPIO & microSD | GPIO via expansion modules |
| Use Case | Pro-level hacking & prototyping | Fun-focused hardware tool |
The Interrupt’s Linux foundation and QWERTY input make it more suited to professional use, while the Flipper remains a fun, hacker-friendly multitool with lower learning curve.
Unlike some toys in the space, Interrupt is built with professionals in mind, yet keeps a playful form factor that’s fun to use. It brings the depth of a Linux system to a platform that fits in your pocket—perfect for on-the-go work, rapid prototyping, or field testing.
If you’re excited by the potential of a pocket Linux device tailored for hacking, the Interrupt is currently available on Kickstarter with early bird pricing starting at $179. It’s expected to ship in August 2025, and the campaign is live now for backers looking to be among the first to own this versatile device.
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