10Best.Guide

Raspberry Pi

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
1
Raspberry Pi 4 Model B 2019 Quad Core 64 Bit WiFi Bluetooth (4GB)
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 4 Model B 2019 Quad Core 64 Bit WiFi Bluetooth (4GB)
Pros & Cons
9.7
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Versatile and customizable for various projects.
  • Easy to physically build.
  • Can be used as a media server.
  • Capable of running multiple monitors.
  • Good for music platforms and softsynths.
Cons
  • Boot failure problems.
  • Requires an SD card to function.
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi 4 is a versatile and customizable computer that is great for various projects, but it may come with some hardware and software issues. Proper cooling and additional accessories may be necessary for optimal performance.
2
CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 Extreme Kit - 128GB Edition (1GB RAM)
CanaKit
CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 Extreme Kit - 128GB Edition (1GB RAM)
Pros & Cons
9.6
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Comes with everything needed to get started.
  • Nice form factor.
  • Works great for many projects.
  • 8GB RAM is nice for modern operating systems.
  • Good for hobbyists.
Cons
  • Issues with booting the device after a few days of use.
  • 32-bit OS can only use 4GB of RAM.
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi 4 Extreme Kit is a good option for those looking to delve into the world of DIY electronics, but it has some issues with booting and performance. It is a nice form factor and comes with everything needed to get started, making it good for hobbyists. However, supply is low and some parts may arrive non-functional.
3
LoveRPi Raspberry Pi 3 B+ Computer with Heatsinks
LoveRPi
LoveRPi Raspberry Pi 3 B+ Computer with Heatsinks
Pros & Cons
9.5
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Easy to install and works flawlessly.
  • Provides multiple connections for dual monitors.
  • Affordable price for the features it offers.
  • Limitless resources available on the internet for setup.
  • Faster boot-up time than Raspberry Pi 2.
Cons
  • Heat sinks are not effective in keeping the temperature low.
  • USB C port is poorly soldered and can break easily.
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is an affordable and versatile piece of hardware that can be used for a variety of tasks. However, users should be aware of potential issues with heat sinks, USB C port, and software compatibility.
4
Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 microcontroller - in US Stock, Ready to Ship (2 Pack)
Generic
Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 microcontroller - in US Stock, Ready to Ship (2 Pack)
Pros & Cons
9.4
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Easy to program in Micropython
  • Polished and just works
  • Well documented and easy to use
  • Great for home-brew projects
Cons
  • Price markup on Amazon
  • Defective units
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi Pico is an inexpensive and easy-to-use microcontroller board that is great for home-brew projects. However, it has some limitations and potential quality issues, so buyers should be aware of these before purchasing.
5
Raspberry Pi 4 Computer Model B 8GB Single Board Computer Suitable for Building Mini PC/Smart Robot/Game Console/Workstation/Media Center/Etc.
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 4 Computer Model B 8GB Single Board Computer Suitable for Building Mini PC/Smart Robot/Game Console/Workstation/Media Center/Etc.
Pros & Cons
9.3
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Powerful enough to handle server load
  • Easy setup
  • Plenty of RAM for a computer
  • Dual HDMI outputs
  • Many IDEs available
Cons
  • Shipping from China with foreign tracking
  • Overpriced
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi 4 is a powerful and versatile single board computer that can handle a variety of tasks. It is easy to set up and has plenty of RAM for a computer. However, buyers should be aware of potential shipping and software issues.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Raspberry Pi: Types, Key Considerations, Features, Prices, Tips, and FAQs

Overview

Raspberry Pi is a single-board computer that has gained popularity for its versatility, affordability, and ease of use. It is a great tool for DIY projects, learning programming, and exploring electronics. This buying guide will help you choose the right Raspberry Pi for your needs by providing an overview of the different types, key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

There are several types of Raspberry Pi available, each with its own specifications and features. Here are the most popular ones:

1. Raspberry Pi 4: This is the latest and most powerful model, with a quad-core processor, up to 8GB of RAM, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB 3.0 ports. It is ideal for demanding projects that require high performance.

2. Raspberry Pi 3: This is the previous model, with a quad-core processor, up to 1GB of RAM, WiFi, Bluetooth 4.1, and USB 2.0 ports. It is still a good choice for most projects.

3. Raspberry Pi Zero: This is the smallest and cheapest model, with a single-core processor, 512MB of RAM, mini HDMI and USB ports, and no Ethernet or WiFi. It is ideal for small projects that require minimal resources.

Key Considerations

When choosing a Raspberry Pi, there are several key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Purpose: What do you want to use the Raspberry Pi for? Different models have different capabilities and features, so choose one that fits your needs.

2. Performance: If you need high performance, choose a model with a faster processor, more RAM, and faster connectivity options.

3. Compatibility: Make sure that the Raspberry Pi is compatible with the operating system and software that you want to use.

4. Accessories: Consider the accessories that you need, such as a power supply, SD card, case, and peripherals.

Features

Here are some of the features that you should look for in a Raspberry Pi:

1. GPIO pins: These are general-purpose input/output pins that allow you to connect sensors, actuators, and other devices to the Raspberry Pi.

2. HDMI output: This allows you to connect the Raspberry Pi to a monitor or TV.

3. USB ports: These allow you to connect peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, and storage devices.

4. Ethernet port: This allows you to connect the Raspberry Pi to a network.

5. WiFi and Bluetooth: These allow you to connect the Raspberry Pi to wireless networks and devices.

6. SD card slot: This is where you insert the SD card that contains the operating system and software.

Prices

The prices of Raspberry Pi vary depending on the model and the accessories that you need. Here are the approximate prices:

1. Raspberry Pi 4: $35 to $75

2. Raspberry Pi 3: $25 to $35

3. Raspberry Pi Zero: $5 to $15

Tips

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Raspberry Pi:

1. Choose the right operating system: There are several operating systems available for Raspberry Pi, such as Raspbian, Ubuntu, RetroPie, and Kodi. Choose one that fits your needs.

2. Join the community: There is a large and active community of Raspberry Pi enthusiasts who share projects, tutorials, and tips. Join forums and social media groups to learn from others.

3. Explore projects: There are countless projects that you can do with Raspberry Pi, such as home automation, robotics, media center, gaming, and education. Explore tutorials and guides to find inspiration.

FAQs

Q: What is Raspberry Pi?

A: Raspberry Pi is a single-board computer that is designed for DIY projects, learning programming, and exploring electronics.

Q: What can I do with Raspberry Pi?

A: You can do a wide range of projects with Raspberry Pi, such as home automation, robotics, media center, gaming, and education.

Q: How do I choose the right Raspberry Pi?

A: Consider the purpose, performance, compatibility, and accessories that you need.

Q: What operating systems are available for Raspberry Pi?

A: There are several operating systems available for Raspberry Pi, such as Raspbian, Ubuntu, RetroPie, and Kodi.

Q: Where can I buy Raspberry Pi?

A: Raspberry Pi is available from several online and offline retailers, such as Amazon, Adafruit, and Micro Center.

Q: Do I need programming skills to use Raspberry Pi?

A: Basic programming skills are helpful, but not required. There are many resources available to help you learn programming.

Runner-Ups

6
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Board
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Board
Pros & Cons
9.2
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Has many features and capabilities
  • Can be used for various purposes such as blocking ads and building a print server
  • Durable and can run for a long time
  • Comes with a free copy of Minecraft and can run Intelligent Systems
Cons
  • Some boards may be faulty
  • Some products may arrive damaged or used
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi is a versatile and powerful mini computer that can be used for various purposes. However, buyers should be aware of the possibility of faulty or damaged boards and unclear instructions.
7
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ Board (3B+)
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ Board (3B+)
Pros & Cons
9.1
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Affordable price.
  • Can run Linux and connect to various gadgets and extenders.
  • Easy to set up and use.
  • Good for running Octoprint, UniFi controller, and small NVR applications.
  • Good video and sound quality.
Cons
  • Overheating issues in hot countries or with heavy usage.
  • Some units may not come with an anti-static bag.
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi 3 B+ is an affordable and versatile computer that can run Linux and connect to various gadgets and extenders. It is easy to set up and use, and is good for running Octoprint, UniFi controller, and small NVR applications. However, it may have overheating issues in hot countries or with heavy usage, and some units may have quality control issues and may not work properly.
8
SunFounder Raspberry Pi Ultimate Starter Kit for Raspberry Pi 4 B 3 B+ 400, Python C Java Scratch Node.js, Detailed Online Tutorials, 161 Projects, 337 Items (Camera Module, Speaker, I2C LCD, etc)
SunFounder
SunFounder Raspberry Pi Ultimate Starter Kit for Raspberry Pi 4 B 3 B+ 400, Python C Java Scratch Node.js, Detailed Online Tutorials, 161 Projects, 337 Items (Camera Module, Speaker, I2C LCD, etc)
Pros & Cons
9.0
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Over 130 lessons and things to try in 4 different programming languages.
  • A great way to dive headfirst into both coding and electronics.
  • Comes with an incredible collection of parts, including a camera.
  • Reasonably complete kit and the parts are of decent quality.
  • Customer support was very helpful.
Cons
  • The system is difficult to install if the required software is not already installed.
  • The kit does not include the Raspberry Pi itself.
Bottom Line
The SunFounder Ultimate Starter Kit is a promising kit for those who want to learn coding and electronics. It comes with a great collection of parts and over 130 lessons to try. However, buyers should be aware that the kit does not include the Raspberry Pi itself, and some components may be damaged or broken. Additionally, the lack of real instructions and difficulty in installing the required software may be challenging for some users.
9
GeeekPi Raspberry Pi 4 8GB Starter Kit - 64GB Edition, Raspberry Pi 4 Case with PWM Fan, Raspberry Pi 18W 5V 3.6A Power Supply with ON/Off Switch, HDMI Cables for Raspberry Pi 4B (8GB RAM)
GeeekPi
GeeekPi Raspberry Pi 4 8GB Starter Kit - 64GB Edition, Raspberry Pi 4 Case with PWM Fan, Raspberry Pi 18W 5V 3.6A Power Supply with ON/Off Switch, HDMI Cables for Raspberry Pi 4B (8GB RAM)
Pros & Cons
8.9
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Great Raspberry Pi for the money
  • Kit has everything needed to get started
  • Fast shipping and good quality
  • Power supply with switch is great
  • Interesting and a lot of fun
Cons
  • Poor quality control
  • Sparse instructions
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi kit is a great value for the money and includes everything needed to get started. However, there are some quality control issues and the instructions are sparse. The case is too compact and the SD port can overheat and burn. Overall, it is an interesting and fun device for a variety of projects.
10
Raspberry Pi 2 Model B Desktop (Quad Core CPU 900 MHz, 1 GB RAM, Linux)
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 2 Model B Desktop (Quad Core CPU 900 MHz, 1 GB RAM, Linux)
Pros & Cons
8.8
MORE INFO Buy it on Amazon
Pros
  • Great improvement over previous models
  • Can be used for various purposes
  • Cheap price
  • Can use most programming languages
  • Easy to set up and use
Cons
  • Some packaging issues
  • Some units may have booting problems
Bottom Line
The Raspberry Pi 2 is a great improvement over previous models and can be used for various purposes. It is cheap and easy to set up and use, but some units may have packaging or booting issues and puts off more heat than previous models.

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