Picking the best Raspberry Pi feels like selecting the correct tool from a busy toolbox. Some are powerful. Some are basic. Most are for one task. If you’re wondering “What Raspberry Pi Should I Buy?”, then you’ve come to the correct location.
Through this simple guide, you’ll receive answers depending on your budget, project, and level of skill. We’ll review features, costs, and actual uses. Whether you’re a complete newbie or an experienced constructor, this guide will teach you the ideal Raspberry Pi for you.
Overview of Raspberry Pi Models
The Raspberry Pi has many versions. Each one fits a different kind of user. Some are full computers. Others are tiny boards for sensors or robots. In 2025, the most popular models are the Raspberry Pi 5, Pi 4 Model B, Pi 400, Pi Zero 2 W, and Pico W. These models differ in speed, memory, size, and price.
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The table below shows how they stack up side by side. Use this to quickly see which one fits your needs.
| Model | CPU | RAM | Wireless | Ports | Use Case |
| Pi 5 | Quad-core Cortex-A76 | 4GB or 8GB | Wi-Fi 6 | USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet | Desktop, heavy projects |
| Pi 4 Model B | Quad-core Cortex-A72 | 2–8GB | Wi-Fi 5 | Dual HDMI, USB 3.0 | General, coding, media |
| Pi 400 | Quad-core Cortex-A72 | 4GB | Wi-Fi 5 | Built-in Keyboard | Learning, office work |
| Pi Zero 2 W | Quad-core Cortex-A53 | 512MB | Wi-Fi 4 | Mini HDMI, micro USB | Portable, small gadgets |
| Pico / Pico W | Dual-core Cortex-M0+ | 264KB SRAM | Optional | GPIO only | Microcontroller, sensors |
What to Think About Before You Buy
Before you ask “What Raspberry Pi Should I Buy?”, think about what you’ll use it for. Do you want to build a robot, learn to code, or create a home server? Each project needs a different type of board. If you’re working with video or gaming, you’ll want more power. If you’re building something small or cheap, smaller boards like the Zero or Pico are better.
You should also think about what parts you already have. Some Pi boards need extra things to work—like a screen, power cable, or SD card. Others come almost ready out of the box. Finally, check the price in your country. Some models are hard to find or cost more in some places.
Best Raspberry Pi for Beginners
If you’re just starting out, the Raspberry Pi 400 is the best choice. It’s a full computer built into a keyboard. Just plug in a mouse, monitor, and power. That’s it. You’ll be ready to learn coding, browse the web, or write documents right away. No need to learn about boards, cables, or GPIO pins first.
Some people also start with the Pi 4 Model B, especially when it’s sold in a complete kit. These kits include everything: power supply, SD card, cables, and even a case. It’s a little harder than using the Pi 400, but gives you more ways to grow. You can still plug in sensors and learn hardware skills later on.
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Best Raspberry Pi for Learning to Code
If your goal is to learn Python, Scratch, or Linux, go for the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B. It runs full desktop software, has enough power to run tools like VS Code, and works well with sensors or cameras. It’s like a small PC but made for building cool things.
Teachers and students love the Pi 4 because it supports many learning kits. It has four USB ports, supports two monitors, and runs the full Raspberry Pi OS smoothly. You can build websites, play with AI, or even make games on it. For most coding learners, it’s the perfect middle ground.
Best Raspberry Pi for Advanced Projects
The Raspberry Pi 5 is the fastest and most powerful model yet. It’s great for people who want to build media centers, AI machines, or even smart home servers. It comes with a better processor, more RAM, and faster ports. You can boot from an SSD and use NVMe storage with an adapter.
If you love pushing the limits, this board is for you. Makers are now using Pi 5 for machine learning, robotics, and even 4K video streaming. With USB-C power and active cooling options, it runs faster and cooler than Pi 4. But it costs more, and may need extra parts like a fan or heatsink.
Best Raspberry Pi for Portable Projects
If your project needs a small and light board, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W is your friend. It’s tiny but still has a quad-core CPU. It’s perfect for wearables, portable game consoles, or small robots. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can use it without any wires.
You can power it with a power bank and use it in tight spaces. People have used the Zero 2 W in drones, clocks, and smart doorbells. It’s not good for desktop use, but for hidden or low-power builds, it’s perfect.
Best Raspberry Pi for Budget or Embedded Use
Sometimes, you don’t need a full computer. You just need something to blink a light or read a sensor. That’s where the Raspberry Pi Pico or Pico W comes in. These are not full Linux computers. They are microcontrollers. That means they run one task over and over, very well.
They’re super cheap, use very little power, and are perfect for automation or small circuits. You can program them in C++ or MicroPython. Many people use them in smart home setups, toys, and even musical instruments. If you’re working with circuits, not screens, the Pico is a smart pick.
Useful Accessories for Raspberry Pi
To get the most out of your Pi, you’ll need the right accessories. The most important one is a good power supply. If you don’t have the right voltage, the board may crash. You’ll also want a fast SD card. Go for at least 64GB and make sure it’s A1 or A2 rated for speed.
A good case helps keep your Pi safe and cool. The Argon One is popular because it adds a fan and looks great. If you plan to use GPIO pins, a breadboard kit is helpful. And if you’re using a Pi for media, a wireless keyboard and remote make life easier.
| Accessory | Needed For | Why It’s Important |
| 5V 3A USB-C Power | Pi 4, Pi 5 | Keeps the Pi stable and fast |
| A2 64GB SD Card | All Linux-based Pi boards | Fast load times, no freezing |
| Cooling Case | Pi 4, Pi 5 | Stops overheating during long use |
| GPIO Kit | Projects with sensors | Makes wiring easy and safe |
Where to Buy Raspberry Pi in 2025
Buying a Raspberry Pi in 2025 is easier than before, but not every place is safe. Always buy from trusted shops like The Pi Hut, Adafruit, Canakit, or Micro Center. These stores sell real boards with support. Some shady sellers on eBay or Amazon charge double or send fake products.
Also check the region. Prices may change based on where you live. In the US, Micro Center is a great deal. In the UK, try Pimoroni. You can also buy from raspberrypi.com. Always check stock and avoid waiting lists if you need a Pi fast.
Prices and Stock in 2025
The Raspberry Pi 5 is still hard to find in some places. Prices have gone up for some models. Still, most Pi boards are affordable for what they offer. Here’s what you can expect to pay this year.
| Raspberry Pi Model | MSRP (USD) | Real Price 2025 | Stock Level |
| Raspberry Pi 5 | $80 | $95–110 | Medium |
| Raspberry Pi 4B | $55 | $60–75 | High |
| Pi Zero 2 W | $15 | $20–30 | Low |
| Raspberry Pi 400 | $70 | $75–85 | High |
| Pico W | $6 | $6–10 | High |
FAQ”s
What’s the most powerful Raspberry Pi?
The Raspberry Pi 5 is the fastest and strongest model in 2025. It has the best CPU, RAM options, and speed.
Can I use a Raspberry Pi as a PC?
Yes, especially the Pi 400 and Pi 4B. They can run browsers, email, coding tools, and more.
Do all Raspberry Pi boards use the same OS?
No. Most use Raspberry Pi OS, but Pico uses MicroPython or C++ instead.
Is it better to buy a kit or just the board?]
If you’re new, a kit is easier. It includes power, cables, and a case. Saves time and effort.
What’s the difference between a Pi and a microcontroller?
A Pi runs a full OS like a PC. A microcontroller like Pico does small tasks and can’t run full programs or apps.
Conclusion
So, what Raspberry Pi should you buy in 2025? It depends on what you want to build. Beginners should go for the Pi 400 or a Pi 4 Kit. Advanced users will love the Pi 5. For small builds, try the Zero 2 W or Pico. Match your choice to your needs, and you won’t go wrong. The right Pi makes your project easier and more fun.
