Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Raspberry Pi VS Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

Compare Raspberry Pi VS Raspberry Pi 3 Model B and see what are their differences

Raspberry Pi logo Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi is a tiny and affordable computer that you can use to learn programming through fun, practical projects. Join the global Raspberry Pi community.

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B logo Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is another powerful and next-generation computer board that is best for all the computer users who want to enjoy 3D games or create a software development.
  • Raspberry Pi Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-12-28
  • Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-31

Raspberry Pi features and specs

  • Affordability
    Raspberry Pi devices are very cost-effective, typically priced between $5 to $75, making them accessible for a wide range of users.
  • Size and Portability
    The compact size of a Raspberry Pi makes it easy to integrate into various projects and conducive to portable applications.
  • Versatility
    Raspberry Pi can be used for a multitude of applications ranging from educational purposes to complex IoT projects, media centers, and more.
  • Community Support
    With a large and active community, extensive documentation, and numerous tutorials available, support is readily accessible for troubleshooting and project ideas.
  • Educational Tool
    Raspberry Pi is widely used in education for teaching programming, electronics, and computer science concepts in a hands-on manner.
  • Energy Efficiency
    The Raspberry Pi consumes relatively low power, which makes it an excellent choice for always-on applications and energy-conscious users.

Possible disadvantages of Raspberry Pi

  • Limited Performance
    Despite improvements in newer models, Raspberry Pi devices still have limitations in processing power compared to full-fledged computers, which can be a bottleneck for intensive applications.
  • Storage Constraints
    The usage of micro SD cards for storage can be a limitation in terms of both speed and capacity, compared to traditional hard drives or SSDs.
  • Peripheral Dependency
    To fully utilize a Raspberry Pi, additional peripherals like keyboards, mice, monitors, and power supplies are needed, which can complicate setups and add to the overall cost.
  • Connectivity Limitations
    Though equipped with various connectivity options, the number of USB ports and network interfaces may be limited, imposing restrictions on connected devices.
  • No Built-in Real-Time Clock
    Raspberry Pi lacks a built-in real-time clock (RTC), requiring an additional RTC module for applications that need to keep track of time when powered off.
  • Software Compatibility
    Certain software and applications are not optimized for the ARM architecture of the Raspberry Pi, potentially limiting the available software and compatibility with x86 applications.

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B features and specs

  • Affordability
    The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is cost-effective, making it accessible for hobbyists, educators, and developers who are looking for a budget-friendly computing solution.
  • Versatility
    It can be used in a wide range of applications, from learning programming and building DIY projects to functioning as a media center and running home automation systems.
  • Built-in Connectivity
    Features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for wireless networking and communication without the need for additional dongles or peripherals.
  • Supportive Community
    A strong and active community provides extensive resources, tutorials, and troubleshooting assistance, making it easier to learn and maximize the device's potential.
  • GPIO Pins
    Equipped with 40 GPIO pins, allowing users to connect and control various hardware components and sensors for custom electronics projects.

Possible disadvantages of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

  • Performance Limitations
    While capable for a variety of tasks, its processing power and memory may struggle with more demanding applications and multitasking.
  • Not Suitable for Heavy Applications
    The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B may not perform well with resource-intensive applications like high-end gaming, video editing, or large-scale server tasks.
  • Limited RAM
    Only comes with 1GB of RAM, which can be a bottleneck for certain applications and limits the number of tasks that can be run simultaneously.
  • Thermal Management
    Under heavy load, the device may experience overheating issues, requiring additional cooling solutions such as heat sinks or fans.
  • Storage Dependence
    Relies on a microSD card for storage, which can be less reliable and slower compared to traditional SSD or HDD storage solutions.

Raspberry Pi videos

Can a Raspberry Pi 4 be used as a Desktop PC - Full test and review

More videos:

  • Review - Raspberry Pi 4 8GB Review: Should you buy it?
  • Review - The Raspberry Pi 4 Is A Gaming Beast

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B videos

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Overview & Setup | RS Components

More videos:

  • Review - Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ 2018 Review and NEW GAMES!!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Raspberry Pi and Raspberry Pi 3 Model B)
Electronics
61 61%
39% 39
Operating Systems
59 59%
41% 41
Single Board Computer
0 0%
100% 100
Tech
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

Share your experience with using Raspberry Pi and Raspberry Pi 3 Model B. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Raspberry Pi seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 23 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Raspberry Pi mentions (23)

  • INFJ wanting to gift an INTP for his birthday
    INTPs are often very good at tinkering and programming so anything from http://raspberrypi.org will be a winner! They’ve got every budget covered from tiny computers for $5 all the way up to the accessories which can be bought on the websites linked on there that’ll turn your pi into a robot or sensor kit or anything really. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Help getting my image working?
    The only thing I can get to boot on any of the 3 boards is the newest pi4 OS image on raspberrypi.org. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Help with 12 year old girl who would like to learn coding.
    Https://raspberrypi.org lots of FOSS tools and fun projects for beginners. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Please report scalpers and price-gougers
    Sure. Do what Adafruit, Sparkfun, Pihut, and the others linked from raspberrypi.org do. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Raspberry Pi CEO Eben Upton says that he expects the inventory situation to improve over time and to be completely resolved within 12 months.
    It seems disgusting when you open raspberrypi.org and be presented with slogans like "teach, learn, make" and pictures of kids learning and playing around with the boards when it was obvious what the priority was for the company (spoiler: not those kids in the pictures). Source: over 2 years ago
View more

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B yet. Tracking of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Raspberry Pi and Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, you can also consider the following products

Orange Pi - It’s an open-source single-board computer. It can run Android 4.

Intel NUC - Intel NUCs are available as Kits(Barebones), Boards(Mainbaord only) and as perconfigured Mini-PCs.

Odroid - The Odroid is a series of single-board computers and tablet computers created by Hardkernel Co.

Udoo x86 Ultra - Udoo x86 Ultra is a modern PC, known as the most powerful X86 maker board and an Arduino 101 compatible platform.

Banana Pi - Banana Pi is a single-board computer made in China. It can run Android, Ubuntu and Debian.

MikroTik RouterOS - The main product of MikroTik is a Linux-based operating system known as MikroTik RouterOS.