An analogue of Raspberry Pi with non-volatile memory, but with an OS on board?

Question

Arduino

Good time of the year!
I ask for advice (and links to aliexpress, if possible) on the issue of choosing a board for such a case.
There is a project of a certain CNC mini-machine, which should be controlled by Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (if you look at the maximum dimensions, then any analogue of raspberries will do). The brains themselves are simple Python 3 scripts managed/configured via SSH.
The question is: since it is planned to give this machine for use to third parties, I would like to sew up the brains (OS and these very Python scripts) into non-volatile memory. Firstly, to prevent the SD card from being pulled out of the device and copying the software, and secondly, to prevent the failure of the SD card itself. Well, thirdly, so as not to lose the metrics that will be logged (during operation) and sent to my server in a given period to process statistics.

Hardware requirements: WiFi module, a full-fledged GPIO comb (40 pins, like a raspberry, for example). Otherwise, the main thing is that the Raspbian Lite OS and Python 3 should start and work acceptable there.

I will be glad to sensible comments!
Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Look towards the Orange Pi. This is the Chinese analogue of the Raspberry Pi, cheaper. There are many different models like the Raspberry. Works stably. Personally, I had a version of Orange Pi PC, although it does not have built-in memory, but nevertheless it worked, with the third version of python, everything is fine too.
Regarding your Wishlist, the Orange Pi Zero Plus 2 H5 model suits you. You can read it here
You can also see the information on the official website
Regarding the OS: I personally installed ARMBian, it is actually based on Debian, like Raspbian, everything worked, wiring True, I had to compile from source, due to the fact that the board is different, but everything is fine .

Answer 2

In your case, it is best to install the OS on a write-locked SD card. Better hardware. Because, if you write to her, she will not live long.

Answer 3

All the boards offered below are united by the presence of the elements you need:

1. WiFi / WiFi + Bluetooth
   I think that in your case you should pay attention to Orange Pi PC Plus , the main difference of which is 8 GB EMMC Flash on board. Supported OS: Android, Ubuntu, Debian, Raspberry Pi Image .
   If this solution is expensive, heavy and there is a desire to fool around a bit, then you can take a look at the Orange Pi i96 with 500MB FLASH on board. Supported OS: Android, Ubuntu Image.
   If, on the contrary, you need a more powerful board, then you will certainly be interested in Orange Pi Win Plus . Supported OS: Android, Ubuntu, Debian, Raspberry Pi Image , Windows 10 IOT