Raspberry Pi 5 vs Raspberry Pi 4 - A Complete Comparison Guide
The Raspberry Pi is the world's most popular single-board computer, loved by makers, educators, and engineers. With the launch of the Raspberry Pi 5, many are asking: how does it compare with the Raspberry Pi 4?
In this guide, we will compare both models side by side covering performance, specifications, and use cases so you can decide which one is right for your project.
Did You Know?
The Raspberry Pi was originally designed to promote teaching of basic computer science in schools. Since its launch in 2012, over 45 million units have been sold, making it one of the best-selling British computers.
Key Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Raspberry Pi 4 | Raspberry Pi 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Quad-core Cortex-A72 @ 1.5 GHz | Quad-core Cortex-A76 @ 2.4 GHz |
| GPU | VideoCore VI | VideoCore VII with improved 3D performance |
| RAM Options | 2GB, 4GB, 8GB LPDDR4 | 4GB, 8GB LPDDR4X (faster) |
| USB Ports | 2 × USB 2.0, 2 × USB 3.0 | 2 × USB 2.0, 2 × USB 3.0 (faster bandwidth) |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11ac | Gigabit Ethernet, faster Wi-Fi 802.11ac |
| Power | 5V/3A via USB-C | 5V/5A via USB-C (higher performance mode) |
Performance Upgrades in Raspberry Pi 5
The Raspberry Pi 5 is up to 23× faster +200% than the Pi 4, thanks to its upgraded Cortex-A76 CPU and enhanced GPU. This means smoother desktop performance, faster compilation times, and better support for modern workloads like AI, robotics, and IoT applications.
Which Raspberry Pi Should You Buy?
If you are a beginner or working on lightweight projects such as sensors, basic robotics, or home automation, the Raspberry Pi 4 is still a great choice.
However, if you want future-proof performance for advanced applications like machine learning, computer vision, or running multiple services simultaneously, the Raspberry Pi 5 is the clear winner.
Recommendation
For most new projects, we recommend the Raspberry Pi 5 for its significantly better performance and future-proofing. However, if budget is a constraint, the Raspberry Pi 4 still offers excellent value for basic projects.
Where to Buy Raspberry Pi
Ready to get your Raspberry Pi? You can purchase the latest Raspberry Pi boards from RobuKits here:
Buy Raspberry Pi from RobuKits