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.
| Model | CPU | RAM Options | USB Ports | Network | Storage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 5 | Quad-core Cortex-A76 2.4GHz | 4GB, 8GB | 2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0 | Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 | microSD + PCIe (M.2 via adapter) | Advanced projects, AI, desktop replacement |
| Raspberry Pi 4 | Quad-core Cortex-A72 1.5GHz | 2GB, 4GB, 8GB | 2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0 | Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 | microSD | Media centers, retro gaming, lightweight servers |
| Raspberry Pi 3 B/B+ | Quad-core Cortex-A53 1.4GHz | 1GB | 4x USB 2.0 | Gigabit Ethernet (via USB 2.0), WiFi 4, Bluetooth 4.2 | microSD | Home automation, IoT, basic projects |
| Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W | Quad-core Cortex-A53 1GHz | 512MB | 1x micro-USB | WiFi 4, Bluetooth 4.2 | microSD | Ultra-compact projects, IoT, robotics |
| Raspberry Pi Pico | Dual-core Cortex-M0+ 133MHz | 264KB | None | None | None (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 4 Model B (4GB) | £51.99
