Table of Contents
January 8, 2024
|27m
8 Raspberry Pi 4 Alternatives: The Best Single Board Computers For Your Next Project
The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B has become the go-to single-board computer (SBC) for makers, developers, and DIY enthusiasts around the world. However, with increasing demand and shortage of supply, it’s time to explore some equally powerful alternatives.
In this blog post, we’ll be diving into 8 Raspberry Pi 4 alternatives that offer excellent performance, versatility, and features to help you choose the best option for your next project.
Prerequisites:
Basic understanding of single board computers (SBCs) and how they work
Familiarity with the Raspberry Pi and its capabilities
Knowledge of the key components and specifications to look for when selecting an SBC (e.g. processor, RAM, storage, connectivity options, etc.)
Understanding of the typical use cases and applications for SBCs in areas like home automation, servers, media centers, robotics, etc.
Awareness of operating systems commonly supported on SBCs (e.g. various Linux distros, Android, etc.)
Clarity on the specific features your project requires an SBC to have (processing power, connectivity, expandability etc.)
Budgetary considerations when investing in hardware for projects
Willingness to research SBC alternatives beyond just the leading Raspberry Pi devices
Ability to compare and contrast specifications and components across different SBC boards
Technical knowledge to set up and configure SBC hardware as well as installed operating systems
Skills for interfacing SBCs with other hardware components like sensors, motors, cameras etc.
Having these fundamentals will help readers better understand the SBC solutions covered in this post and determine which device aligns best with their needs and project goals. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional suggestions for prerequisites to cover!
What Is A Single Board Computer?
A single board computer (SBC) is a compact, integrated electronic device that combines all the essential elements of a full-fledged computer onto a single circuit board. Unlike traditional desktop computers with the separate motherboards, RAM, and storage components, SBCs are designed for size efficiency and lower power consumption while still offering impressive processing capabilities.
At the heart of any SBC lies its processor, typically an ARM Cortex or Intel Atom chipset. These processors offer solid performance without generating excessive heat or consuming large amounts of electricity, making them ideal for small-scale computing tasks.
In addition to the processor, an SBC includes RAM and storage options such as microSD card slots or onboard eMMC modules for data storage purposes. For connectivity purposes, best single-board computers come equipped with USB ports along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support for wireless communication.
One popular example of an SBC is the Raspberry Pi series – affordable yet powerful devices that have revolutionized DIY projects worldwide by providing advanced computing capabilities in a pocket-sized form factor.
How To Choose The Best Single Board Computer For Your Project?
When it comes to choosing the best single board computer for your project, you need to consider factors such as your project requirements, budget constraints, availability of accessories and support, compatibility with existing hardware and software.
Project Requirements
To choose the best single board computer for your project, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your project. For instance, if you need a board with excellent processing power and machine learning capabilities for AI projects, then NVIDIA Jetson Nano Developer Kit might be a perfect fit.
Similarly, some projects may require extensive connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity that are built into boards like Onion Omega2+.
In contrast, other projects may not require such high-end features but instead, focus on basic home automation or control actuators using GPIO pins. In this case, ASUS Tinker Board 2 could be an ideal solution due to its stable performance and form factor suitable for DIY projects.
Budget Considerations
Choosing the right single board computer for your project can be a daunting task, especially when considering budget constraints. It’s important to note that there are options available at various price points, ranging from $25 up to $279.
For example, the Raspberry Pi Zero is an excellent choice for those looking for a cheaper alternative to the more powerful Raspberry Pi 4 Model B.
When selecting your board based on budget considerations, it’s essential to consider other factors such as required processing power, connectivity options like Ethernet or Wi-Fi, availability of accessories, and support from communities.
Availability Of Accessories And Support
One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting a single board computer for your project is the availability of accessories and support. Having a wide range of compatible hardware, software, and community resources can save you time and money in troubleshooting issues or finding solutions.
For example, if you plan to use cameras or sensors with your board, it’s essential to ensure that they are readily available and supported by the manufacturer or community.
The best Raspberry Pi 4 Model B alternatives on this list offer extensive accessory support from both their manufacturers and open-source communities. The ASUS Tinker Board S features an integrated camera interface port as well as Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity options for easy remote monitoring.
On the other hand, the Libre Computer Board AML-S805X-AC offers compatibility with various Linux distributions along with built-in Gigabit Ethernet ports useful for data-heavy projects such as machine learning or IoT applications requiring high-speed network communication channels.
Compatibility With Existing Hardware And Software
Compatibility with existing hardware and software is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a single board computer for your project. It’s essential to ensure that the SBC can work seamlessly with any devices or systems you may already have in place, reducing the potential for conflicts or downtime.
Moreover, if your project requires specific software tools or programming languages, make sure the SBC is compatible with those applications. For instance, some boards only work with certain operating systems and configurations.
Disclaimer: The list presented here is not based on any rank criteria. Listed as First could not be the best or listed as Last in the list is not the worst by any means. This is not a product review post. Please don’t go with the order of the tools. We clarify that the order doesn’t carry any rank. We are not here to judge the rank of the tools. We created this post to share the best options available in the market based on our professional work experience.
We do not endorse or guarantee the effectiveness or reliability of the products listed here as these products would keep undergo several updates over time and see several changes in its functionality or features. It is the user’s responsibility to thoroughly research and evaluate these products before using it. We shall not be held liable for any damages or losses resulting from the use of any of the tools listed in this blog post.
– Author
Top 8 Raspberry Pi 4 Alternatives
Check out our product list below to discover more about these products.
ODROID-H3+
(Images Credits: Hardkernel)
Highlights
The board has the same form factor and power efficiency as its predecessor, the ODROID-H2+, but is more powerful and offers higher performance.
It is equipped with an Intel Quad-Core Processor Jasper Lake N6005 with a base clock of 2GHz and a boost clock of 3.3GHz, offering excellent performance for a variety of tasks.
The board has a large memory capacity, with two SO-DIMM slots that support up to 64GB of Dual-channel Memory DDR4 PC4-23400 (2933MT/s).
It features PCIe 3.0 x 4 lanes for one M.2 NVMe storage and two SATA 3.0 ports for storage.
The board also features two 2.5Gbit Ethernet ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and two USB 2.0 ports for connectivity.
It has SSE4.2 accelerator (SMM, FPU, NX, MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AES) and Intel UHD Graphics 32 EUs Turbo 900MHz for improved performance.
The board features HDMI 2.0 and DP 1.2 multiple video outputs for display.
It also has a configurable Unlimited Performance mode that allows the CPU to run in sustained turbo boost mode.
The board includes an RTC / BIOS backup battery and has an active cooling fan connector.
Additionally, the ODROID-H3+ has various expansion headers and connectors, including audio out, audio in, and SPDIF out.
The board is compatible with various operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Android.
The ODROID-H3+ is a powerful single board computer with a range of impressive features. It has the same form factor and power efficiency as its predecessor, the ODROID-H2+, but offers higher performance with an Intel Quad-Core Processor Jasper Lake N6005 that has a base clock of 2GHz and a boost clock of 3.3GHz. The board has a large memory capacity, with two SO-DIMM slots that can accommodate up to 64GB of Dual-channel Memory DDR4 PC4-23400 (2933MT/s), and features PCIe 3.0 x 4 lanes for one M.2 NVMe storage and two SATA 3.0 ports for storage.
Additionally, it has two 2.5Gbit Ethernet ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and two USB 2.0 ports for connectivity, as well as HDMI 2.0 and DP 1.2 multiple video outputs for display. The board also features a configurable Unlimited Performance mode that allows the CPU to run in sustained turbo boost mode, and is compatible with various operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Android. Overall, the ODROID-H3+ is a versatile and powerful single board computer suitable for a wide range of applications.
Orange Pi 5
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Versatile and Powerful Open Source Single Board Computer
Highlights
Powerful Rockchip RK3588S Octa-Core Cortex-A55 Processor for seamless computing and multitasking
4GB/8GB/16GB/32GB LPDDR4/4x RAM memory installed for faster performance
Includes 5V4A Type C Power Supply, ready-to-use straight out of the box
Supports multiple Operating Systems: Debian 11, Android 12, Orange Pi OS
Multiple connectivity options available via USB 2.0/3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and HDMI 2.1 ports
Compact design with dimensions of 7.48 x 4.06 x2.72 inches, making it highly portable
The Orange Pi 5 is a highly versatile and reliable single-board computer designed for IoT professionals, ranking at No. 1 on our list. Its powerful Rockchip RK3588S 8-core 64-bit processor, with quad-core A76 and quad-core A55, ensures efficient computing capabilities up to 2.4 GHz frequency while handling complex tasks seamlessly. The embedded high-performance Mali-G610 GPU combined with the built-in NPU offers impressive graphics rendering and AI processing power.
This compact mini-PC supports multiple operating systems such as Orange Pi OS, Android12, and Debian11 – making it ideal for varied applications in edge computing, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, AR/VR gaming environments, or smart home projects. With plenty of connectivity options like HDMI 2.1 output, GPIO interface, M.2 PCIe2.0 port Type-C compatibility, you can easily integrate the Orange Pi 5 into your projects without compromising performance flexibility.
In summary: With its state-of-the-art hardware design, strong software support provides an excellent choice for IoT enthusiasts looking to expand their portfolio to enhance current systems addition being cost effective alternative to other comparable products market, make sure to invest in this innovative powerhouse technology stay ahead of curve technological innovation world
Pros
Powerful 8-core processor with up to 2.4GHz frequency and ARM Mali-G610 GPU for high-performance computing and graphics processing
The versatile open-source design allows for a wide range of applications, including building computers, servers, games, music and video playback systems, Android devices, and more
Abundant interfaces for easy connectivity to various devices such as HDMI output, USB ports (2.0 and 3.0), Gigabit LAN port, M.2 PCIe2.0, Type-C interface
A high memory capacity of 16GB LPDDR4/4x ensures smooth multitasking capabilities and up to 8K display processing capability
Cons
Customs clearance fee not included
It may require technical knowledge to fully utilize all features
Slightly higher price point compared to other single board computers on the market
The Orange Pi 5 16GB is the best choice for tech-savvy makers and entrepreneurs who want to easily build their own computer, wireless server, or mini PC. This powerful open source single board computer offers an unbeatable combination of performance, interfaces, and scalability that is perfect for any project. Take advantage of the pre-sale price now and get started with your next creation!
Rock 5B
(Images Credits: Radxa)
Reliable High-Capacity Memory Solution for Tech-Savvy Users
Highlights
128GB eMMC storage capacity to store all your media files and documents.
Flash memory type for fast read/write speeds and reliable performance.
MiiElAOD brand guarantees high-quality and durability.
Sleek design with a modern touch for easy handling and portability.
Ideal for professionals, gamers or anyone in need of large storage space on the go.
Suitable for all kinds of devices, including laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, etc.
The Rock 5B, a top-tier choice for IoT professionals, ranks No. 2 in our lineup for its innovative features and excellent performance. This 128GB eMMc memory card by RADXA is specifically designed to be compatible with the Rock series of Single Board Computers (SBC), including models such as Rock 3A, 4A/4B/4C+/5B. The package includes an adapter that makes it easy to use across various SBCs and ensures seamless data transfer and storage.
What sets the Rock 5B apart from other eMMc cards on the market is its ability to provide fast read/write speeds while maintaining energy efficiency—an essential aspect for IoT professionals constantly working with large amounts of data. Furthermore, this memory card’s versatility allows users to fine-tune their projects without sacrificing storage space or compromising device integrity.
To sum up, the Rock 5B’s compatibility with RADXA devices, high-speed performance backed by eMMc 5.1 technology, and efficient design make it an ideal choice for IoT professionals aiming to optimize their projects. With balanced evaluations like these at hand, consumers can confidently embark on their next venture knowing they’ve chosen one of the best products in this category available today.
Pros
Fast and efficient memory storage with 128GB capacity
Compatible with Rock 3A, 4A/4B/4C+ and 5B for easy integration
Comes with an adapter for versatile use on different devices
The reliable RADXA brand ensures the quality and durability of the product
Cons
Limited compatibility with devices other than Rock 3A 4A/4B/4C+/5B
It may not offer significant speed improvements over traditional storage methods
Higher price point compared to other memory card options
This product is perfect for tech-savvy users who need extra storage capacity and reliability. Rock 5B offers 128GB eMMc memory, making it the ideal choice for people wanting to store large amounts of data in a reliable, easy-access format. Get your hands on Rock 5B today and experience faster speeds with adaptability!
LattePanda 3 Delta
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Compact & Powerful Single Board Computer for Tech Pros.
Highlights
Powerful Intel CPU running at 2.9 GHz for fast processing.
Plenty of RAM and storage with 8 GB DDR4 and 64 GB memory capacity.
Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity without needing extra adapters.
Includes a cooling fan to prevent overheating during heavy use.
Runs on the Linux operating system, providing high customizability and flexibility for developers and hobbyists.
Compact in size at just over a pound, making it easy to take anywhere you need computing power.
The LattePanda 3 Delta is a game-changer for IoT professionals seeking a powerful, pocket-sized single board computer (SBC) that can handle Windows 10 and 11, as well as Linux OS. With its Intel Celeron N5105 processor at the helm, this SBC delivers robust performance in demanding tasks. The upgraded 8GB RAM and 64GB eMMC provide ample storage space and smooth multitasking capabilities, making it perfect for developers working on complex projects.
LattePanda has equipped the Delta with dual M.2 expansion slots, Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, USB 3.2 gen2 x1 ports – offering lightning-fast data transfer rates of up to10Gb/s – and support for dual 4K HDR video output at an impressive frame rate of up to 60Hz. These features enable IoT enthusiasts to create cutting-edge solutions without worrying about bottlenecks or delays in processing power. Additionally, the integrated Arduino Coprocessor ATmega32U4 allows developers easy access to physical computing components such as sensors and actuators while retaining compatibility with legacy Arduino software libraries.
In conclusion, the LattePanda 3 Delta offers unparalleled performance in a tiny package tailored for IoT professionals who demand versatility from their devices without sacrificing power or connectivity options. Its comprehensive feature set ensures that users have all necessary tools at their disposal to develop innovative solutions across various platforms – be it Windows or Linux-based environments – making it an ideal choice when selecting your next single board computer endeavor!
Pros
Supports both Windows 10 and 11, as well as Linux OS
Provides ultra-fast connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and USB 3.2 gen2 x1 port
Enables dual 4K HDR and 3-way video output for stunning visual experience
Features an integrated Arduino Coprocessor ATmega32U4 for enhanced performance
Cons
May be a bit pricey for those on a budget
Not as powerful as other high-end single board computers
Limited support for more niche operating systems and software.
This LattePanda 3 Delta 864 is perfect for tech-savvy professionals, makers, and developers looking for a compact but powerful single board computer that offers the latest in speed and performance with its Intel Celeron N5105 processor, 8GB RAM+64GB eMMC storage, Wi-Fi 6(2.4G/5G) connectivity and Dual 4K@60Hz video output. Make your workflows faster and easier – get this power-packed single board computer today!
VIM4
Hilights
The VIM4 SBC features a powerful Amlogic A311D2 SoC.
It is equipped with a 2.2GHz Quad-core ARM Cortex-A73 CPU and a 2.0GHz Quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU.
The VIM4 SBC supports 4K and HDMI Input.
The board has various resources available, such as a user manual, getting started guide, OS images, configuration note, application note, development guide, and hardware documentation.
There are also several add-ons available for the VIM4 SBC.
The Khadas VIM4 is an SBC (Single Board Computer) that features an octa-core Arm CPU package with a quad-core Arm Cortex A73 running at up to 2.2 GHz, and a 2-GHz Arm Cortex A53 [1]. Additionally, it has 8GB of LPDDR4X running at 2016 MHz, providing the necessary power to run complex applications and multitasking efficiently.
Apart from the hardware, the VIM4 SBC has an array of resources available for users, including a user manual, getting started guide, OS images, configuration note, application note, development guide, and hardware documentation [1]. The board also has several add-ons available, making it versatile and expandable for various projects.
The VIM4 SBC supports 4K and HDMI input, making it ideal for multimedia applications such as video playback and gaming [1]. Additionally, its GPIO and other I/O capabilities allow users to interface with a wide range of peripherals and sensors, making it suitable for applications such as robotics and automation.
Overall, the Khadas VIM4 SBC is a powerful and versatile board that provides users with the necessary hardware and resources to complete various projects.Overall, the Khadas VIM4 SBC is a powerful and versatile board that provides users with the necessary hardware and resources to complete various projects.
Pros
The Khadas VIM4 is faster than the fastest Raspberry Pi and offers more connectivity options.
It has a powerful octa-core Arm CPU package with a quad-core Arm Cortex A73 running at up to 2.2 GHz, and a 2-GHz Arm Cortex A53, and 8GB of LPDDR4X running at 2016 MHz.
The VIM4 SBC supports 4K and HDMI input, making it ideal for multimedia applications such as video playback and gaming.
The board has various resources available, such as a user manual, getting started guide, OS images, configuration note, application note, development guide, and hardware documentation.
There are also several add-ons available for the VIM4 SBC, making it versatile and expandable for various projects.
Cons
The Khadas VIM4 is not currently compatible with the huge array of HATs and other Pi add-on boards, which are designed for Raspberry Pi, limiting its expansion options.
Asus Tinker Board 2
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Unbeatable Performance and Connectivity for IoT Devices
Highlights
Powered by 6-core Rockchip RK3399 system
High connectivity options with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPIO
Dual-CH LPDDR4 2GB / 4GB storage and RAM capacity
Compact size measuring 3.35 x 2.2 x 0.39 inches
Made by renowned brand SmartFly Tech
Discontinuation is not a concern for this model
Lightweight at only 5.3 ounces
In summary, the Asus Tinker Board 2 offers remarkable performance within a compact form factor that suits IoT professionals’ requirements perfectly. With features such as Android 10 support, efficient data management tools like ASUS IoT Cloud Console compatibility and FOTA updates combined with cutting-edge hardware specifications including Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity options – this product stands out as an excellent investment for those seeking high-quality technology solutions tailored specifically towards their industry’s demands.
The is a powerful single board computer designed with IoT professionals in mind. Equipped with a 6-core Rockchip RK3399 system on a chip (SoC) and 2GB RAM, it delivers outstanding performance for IoT devices. The new 64-bit Armv8 architecture and multi-core Mali-T860 ensure smooth handling of graphic-intensive projects while providing the flexibility to work on multiple applications simultaneously. Furthermore, its GPIO connectivity support allows seamless integration into your existing setup, making it an ideal choice for developers looking to upgrade their projects.
One significant advantage of the Tinker Board 2 is its Android 10 support which enhances its capabilities by offering better 3D computing performance along with support for the Android Neural Networks API 1.2 and Adiantum encryption – ensuring top-notch security measures are in place for your data management needs. Additionally, this product allows pro-grade administration through compatibility with ASUS IoT Cloud Console while enabling firmware over-the-air (FOTA) roll-out updates. The intuitive software makes setting up the device effortless with simple three-step initial configuration options that enable you to easily get started on your project without any unnecessary hassle.
Pros
Faster processing speed with 6-core Rockchip RK3399 system on a chip (SoC) and new 64-bit Armv8 architecture
Android 10 support for better 3D computing performance and Adiantum encryption with 5X-better efficiency
Pro-grade admin capabilities including compatibility with ASUS IoT Cloud Console and firmware over-the-air roll-out (FOTA)
Intuitive software for easy setup and performance tweaking, plus support for GPIO connectivity and dual-display output
Cons
No built-in storage
Limited support for alternative operating systems
Relatively high price point compared to other single board computers on the mark
In summary, the Asus Tinker Board 2 offers remarkable performance within a compact form factor that suits IoT professionals’ requirements perfectly. With features such as Android 10 support, efficient data management tools like ASUS IoT Cloud Console compatibility and FOTA updates combined with cutting-edge hardware specifications including Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity options – this product stands out as an excellent investment for those seeking high-quality technology solutions tailored specifically towards their industry’s demands.
Jetson Xavier NX Series
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Fast and Efficient AI Development for Edge Devices.
Highlights
Powerful NVIDIA® Jetson™ Xavier™ NX Developer Kit
High-performance DDR4 RAM memory technology with 16 GB of installed size
Wi-Fi wireless network technology included for easy connectivity
Compact and convenient mini PC design type suitable for personal, business and multimedia use
State-of-the-art NVIDIA Volta architecture with 384 CUDA cores and 48 Tensor cores
Superior graphics processing capabilities enabled by the NVIDIA Volta coprocessor with 384 CUDA and 48 Tensor Cores.
The Asus Tinker Board 2 is the perfect single-board computer for tech enthusiasts and professionals looking to maximize performance and simplify setup. With powerful 6-core processing, a wide range of connectivity options, intuitive software tools, and an updated Android 10 OS, this board offers an unbeatable combination of features that are sure to exceed expectations. Get your hands on one today!The Asus Tinker Board 2 is the perfect single-board computer for tech enthusiasts and professionals looking to maximize performance and simplify setup. With powerful 6-core processing, a wide range of connectivity options, intuitive software tools, and an updated Android 10 OS, this board offers an unbeatable combination of features that are sure to exceed expectations. Get your hands on one today.
The Jetson Xavier NX Series is a game-changer for IoT professionals looking to develop and deploy AI-based applications at the edge. With its compact, power-efficient design and unmatched performance capabilities, this developer kit delivers more than 10X the performance of its predecessor, Jetson TX2—all within a mere 10W envelope. This highly-scalable platform allows developers to create innovative solutions across various industries such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, healthcare and life sciences.
This developer kit has comprehensive support from NVIDIA’s software stack which includes accelerated SDKs and cutting-edge tools for application development and optimization. Cloud-native support enhances user experience by allowing seamless integration with pre-trained AI models from NVIDIA NGC as well as containerized deployment on Jetson devices. The NVIDIA Transfer Learning Toolkit further accelerates the path to inference with optimized AI networks providing faster results.
In summary, the Jetson Xavier NX Series is an exceptional tool for IoT professionals who are seeking fast development cycles while maintaining top-notch accuracy in their multi-modal AI inference projects. Its unique combination of form-factor advantages joined with impressive performance metrics make it an unparalleled choice that will keep pace with evolving market demands over time. Choose Jetson Xavier NX Series if you are ready to elevate your work to new heights in efficiency and innovation!
The is a game-changer for IoT professionals looking to develop and deploy AI-based applications at the edge. With its compact, power-efficient design and unmatched performance capabilities, this developer kit delivers more than 10X the performance of its predecessor, Jetson TX2—all within a mere 10W envelope. This highly-scalable platform allows developers to create innovative solutions across various industries such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, healthcare and life sciences.
Pros
Flexible and scalable platform for fast market deployment
Supported by entire NVIDIA software stack with accelerated SDKs and latest tools
Cloud-native support for easy development and seamless updates
Power-efficient, compact module with 10x performance compared to predecessor
Cons
High price point compared to other developer kits
Limited support for certain operating systems
Requires some technical knowledge and experience with AI development
The NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX Series is ideal for developers looking to create AI-powered edge devices with quick development and deployment times. Make your dreams of big AI projects come true today with the NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX Series!
Banana Pi BPI-M5
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Powerful AIOT Single Board Computer with Multifunction Interfaces
Highlights
Amlogic S905X3 quad-core Cortex-A55 processor (2.0GHz) for efficient and powerful processing
Large 4GB LPDDR4 RAM to handle multiple tasks with ease
MicroSD slot with support for up to 256GB storage capacity for storing files and data
WayPonDEV brand ensures high-quality and reliable performance
Perfect for a range of applications from home entertainment to industrial use
Easy setup and user-friendly interface
The Banana Pi BPI-M6 is a game-changer for AIOT professionals, offering an Amlogic S905X3 Single Board Computer with LPDDR4 4GB RAM and 16GB eMMC Storage (expandable up to 256 GB) that supports Android, Debian, Raspbian, and Armbian operating systems. Its impressive performance is due to its quad-core Cortex-A55 processor (2.0GHz) paired with Mali-G31 GPU, ensuring smooth operations even in the most demanding IoT projects.
The BPI-M5 stands out for its multiple multifunction interfaces including four USB 3.0 ports, gigabit Ethernet port, HDMI output, and a 40-pin GPIO header. Additionally, the board offers WiFi & Bluetooth support via an expansion board which can be purchased separately. This feature-rich single-board computer also boasts of superior audiovisual capabilities with a 4K smart home audio and video chip integrated into its design – perfect for professionals working on high-definition multimedia IoT applications.
Pros
High performance processor with Amlogic S905X3 quad-core Cortex-A55; Mali G31 GPU.
Multiple OS supported, including Android 9, Raspbian and Linux system, as well as third party image Odroid Android image.
4k video decoding and output support powered by a smart home audio and video chip.
Convenient multifunction interfaces with USB 3.0 ports, GbE Gigabit Ethernet port, HDMI output and GPIO header.
Cons
No built-in WiFi or Bluetooth (requires additional expansion board)
Limited community support compared to more popular SBCs
May require some technical expertise to fully utilize all features and capabilities
The Banana Pi BPI-M5 is perfect for tech-savvy professionals looking for a powerful, yet easy to use single board computer. With its multitude of features and support for multiple operating systems, this board offers the latest in AIOT technology. Get your hands on it now and start exploring its limitless possibilities!
Features And Specifications Comparison
In this section, we’ll compare the key features and specifications of the top 8 Raspberry Pi 4 alternatives to help you choose the best single-board computer for your next project.
Processor
A crucial factor to consider when selecting the best single board computer (SBC) for your project is the processor. The choice of a processor can greatly impact both performance and energy efficiency, which are essential elements in IoT applications.
Among other Raspberry Pi 4 alternatives, Banana Pi M5 is equipped with a quad-core Cortex-A55 ARMv8 processor that offers smooth performance and supports various Linux distributions.
In contrast, Nvidia’s Jetson Nano Developer Kit showcases a powerful quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 CPU paired with Nvidia’s Maxwell GPU architecture providing machine learning capabilities for advanced AI-based projects.
RAM And Storage Capacity
One of the key factors to consider when looking for the best Raspberry Pi 4 alternative is RAM and storage capacity. Adequate memory is crucial for ensuring smooth performance, especially in applications that require multitasking or involve large data sets.
Some top alternatives include Odroid-N2+ with up to 4GB LPDDR4 RAM, Banana Pi M5 featuring up to 8GB DDR3 SDRAM, and the powerful Odroid XU4 boasting an octa-core Heterogeneous Multi-Processing ARM CPU along with 2GB high-speed RAM.
It’s also worth exploring options like the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and other single board computers with x86 architecture if your project demands more extensive resources.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options are important considerations when choosing a single board computer for your project. The 8 alternatives to the Raspberry Pi 4 listed in this article offer various connectivity options such as Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HDMI.
For instance, the ASUS Tinker Board has a built-in Gigabit Ethernet port for faster internet connection while the Banana Pi M4 features four USB ports and SATA connectivity.
It is also worth noting that different sbc’s come with varying form factors and port layouts that may impact their compatibility with existing hardware or accessories. It is vital to consider connectivity requirements before settling on an SBC since it could be crucial for any project’s success or failure.
GPIO Pins And Expansion Options
The GPIO pins and expansion options of a single board computer are crucial for many IoT projects. These pins allow you to interface with other hardware, sensors, and actuators to build your custom applications or prototypes.
For example, some top Raspberry Pi 4 alternatives like Asus Tinker Board offer 28 GPIO pins in addition to multiple I2C buses and SPI ports. The Odroid N2+ provides 40-pin header compatible with Raspberry Pi boards along with more advanced features like PCIe interfaces for high-speed data transfer.
Many SBCs also come with additional expansion slots or add-ons such as HATs that can extend their functionality even further.
Operating Systems Supported
When it comes to deciding on the best single-board computer for your project, considering operating systems supported is crucial. The article compares 8 Raspberry Pi 4 alternatives and highlights their compatibility with various operating systems.
Some SBCs like the Onion Omega2+ support Linux-based distributions such as OpenWrt and LEDE, while others like the NVIDIA Jetson Nano Developer Kit can run Ubuntu, one of the most popular open-source Operating Systems available.
Arduino Mega 2560 is designed to work with its own Integrated Development Environment (IDE), allowing developers to write code in C++ and compile it for their specific project.
We hope, this post has helped you choose the Raspberry Pi 4 Alternatives for your next project. Thanks for reading this tutorial post. Visit our social media page on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Telegram, Tumblr, Medium & Instagram, and subscribe to receive updates like this.
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Arun KL
Arun KL is a cybersecurity professional with 15+ years of experience in IT infrastructure, cloud security, vulnerability management, Penetration Testing, security operations, and incident response. He is adept at designing and implementing robust security solutions to safeguard systems and data. Arun holds multiple industry certifications including CCNA, CCNA Security, RHCE, CEH, and AWS Security.
- April 18, 2024
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