Ive been a fan even though I am from the philippines.
for me, release the x8 for you to gain capital until the release x16.
i am a fan of DIY like RasperryPi. But may if I might suggest, if possible,
1. Just have the board less to have you solder things. Btw, i am okay as well not to have a case.
2. Use regular keyboard. Have a programmable code to swap or change mapping of the keys or have like an adapter or something.
Thanks!