Just an idea that came to mind. In theory, one could buy only the essential components to make a stand-alone machine that is NOT a laptop, as in no screen, battery, or even lid for that matter. Basically it would function as a very compact, lightweight, and portable … (powered keyboard?) … if a person had a desire for such a thing lol
I think these parts could make a working unit, assuming the builder did not already have them:
Main board (i5) $449
Input cover kit $99
Bottom cover kit $99
250GB SSD $66
8 GB Ram $40
WiFi $18 (technically not needed?)
USB-C expansion card to power it $9
HDMI or DP expansion card for monitor $18
Total $798 (quite expensive for what little function you get)
Load OS of choice, plug in separate monitor with speakers, I think it would work. Pretty sure I saw a place in bios to disable the battery.
Not sure what the point would be, but it’s a thought.