Raspberry Pi Comparison: Which Model is Right for You?

Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi boards have revolutionized DIY computing, offering a range of affordable and versatile devices for everything from home automation to AI projects. With multiple models available, choosing the right one can be tricky. Whether you’re building a retro gaming console, setting up a home server, or experimenting with robotics, this guide will help you find the perfect Raspberry Pi for your needs. Below is a comparison table of all major Raspberry Pi models, followed by a breakdown of what each one is best suited for.

ModelCPURAM OptionsUSB PortsNetworkStorageBest For
Raspberry Pi 5Quad-core Cortex-A76 2.4GHz4GB, 8GB2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0microSD + PCIe (M.2 via adapter)Advanced projects, AI, desktop replacement
Raspberry Pi 4Quad-core Cortex-A72 1.5GHz2GB, 4GB, 8GB2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0microSDMedia centers, retro gaming, lightweight servers
Raspberry Pi 3 B/B+Quad-core Cortex-A53 1.4GHz1GB4x USB 2.0Gigabit Ethernet (via USB 2.0), WiFi 4, Bluetooth 4.2microSDHome automation, IoT, basic projects
Raspberry Pi Zero 2 WQuad-core Cortex-A53 1GHz512MB1x micro-USBWiFi 4, Bluetooth 4.2microSDUltra-compact projects, IoT, robotics
Raspberry Pi PicoDual-core Cortex-M0+ 133MHz264KBNoneNoneNone (flash storage)Microcontroller applications, real-time projects

Which Raspberry Pi Should You Get?

  • Raspberry Pi 5 & 4: Ideal for high-performance tasks like running a full desktop OS, AI projects, or acting as a server. The Pi 5 is significantly faster and supports PCIe expansion for SSDs.
  • Raspberry Pi 3 B+: A budget-friendly choice for IoT, smart home projects, and simple computing tasks.
  • Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W: Great for compact builds like robotics, security cameras, and embedded systems.
  • Raspberry Pi Pico: A microcontroller (not a full computer), perfect for hardware projects that require real-time control.

For a list of Projects with your new Raspberry Pi click here!

If your looking to purchase a Raspberry Pi, below are options of a the standalone device, or a kit that comes alongside the Raspberry Pi.

Raspberry Pi 5

Raspberry Pi 4

Raspberry Pi 3B

Raspberry Pi Zero 2W

Raspberry Pi Pico

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