I finally got my hands on a Raspberry Pi 5 – With cost of Intel and AMD based mini PCs continuing to drop are the Pi’s still good for general computing purposes? We’ll explore that question in this review.

The Raspberry Pi line of computers, launched in 2012 by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, has become synonymous with affordable and versatile computing solutions. These small, single-board computers are designed to promote computer science education and facilitate DIY projects in various fields such as robotics, home automation, and digital media. The Raspberry Pi boards typically feature a low-power ARM-based CPU, along with GPU capabilities, RAM, USB ports, HDMI output, and GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins for interfacing with external devices. Despite their compact size and modest hardware specifications, Raspberry Pi computers offer impressive performance for a wide range of applications, from basic programming tasks to multimedia playback and even lightweight server hosting.

One of the key strengths of the Raspberry Pi line is its accessibility and community support. With a relatively low price point starting at around $35 for the basic model, Raspberry Pi computers have democratized access to computing resources, particularly in developing countries and educational institutions. The Raspberry Pi Foundation actively promotes learning and innovation through its extensive online resources, including tutorials, forums, and a vibrant community of enthusiasts and developers. This ecosystem has led to the creation of thousands of projects and applications, ranging from simple electronics experiments to complex IoT (Internet of Things) solutions. As a result, the Raspberry Pi has become a symbol of the maker movement and a versatile tool for empowering individuals to explore and create with technology.