Radxa Rock 3A vs Rock Pi 4 Model B
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Radxa Rock 3A is a versatile single-board computer designed for developers, IoT enthusiasts, and makers seeking robust computing power in a compact form factor. Equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor and up to 8GB of LPDDR4 RAM, it delivers reliable performance for edge computing, media streaming, and home automation projects. Featuring comprehensive connectivity options including M.2 NVMe SSD support, Gigabit Ethernet, and multiple USB ports, the board bridges the gap between desktop-class utility and embedded hardware flexibility. It supports various Linux distributions and Android, making it an adaptable platform for prototyping and custom industrial deployments.
The Rock Pi 4 Model B is a single‑board computer built around the Hexa‑core Rockchip RK3399 processor, offering up to 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM, dual‑channel eMMC, and a full‑size HDMI 2.0 port for 4K@60Hz output. Its compact 85 mm × 56 mm board includes USB‑C Power Delivery, USB‑3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi‑Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5.0, making it suitable for both headless servers and media‑center projects. Designed for hobbyists, developers, and edge‑AI applications, the Rock Pi 4 supports Linux, Android, and various open‑source OS images. The board’s GPIO header, PCIe‑x1 lane (via M.2 slot), and optional carrier boards enable expansion into robotics, AI inference, and networking appliances.
- High-speed NVMe SSD support via M.2 slot
- Reliable quad-core ARM performance
- Dual display capabilities up to 4K
- Extensive operating system support
- High‑performance hexa‑core CPU
- Native 4K video output
- Expandable storage via M.2 NVMe
- Broad OS support and community
- Requires separate purchase of power supply and storage
- Limited community documentation compared to older Raspberry Pi models
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth require an optional module
- Wi‑Fi module optional for Wi‑Fi 6
- Limited official accessories compared to Raspberry Pi
- Power delivery requires compatible USB‑C charger
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Alternatives to Radxa Rock 3A
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Alternatives to Rock Pi 4 Model B
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A powerful credit-card-sized computer designed for makers, educators, and hobbyists.
A high-performance single-board computer powered by the Rockchip RK3568 processor.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataRock Pi 4 Model B offers higher CPU performance, native 4K@60 Hz HDMI and more RAM but costs roughly double the Radxa Rock 3A, which is a budget‑friendly board with adequate quad‑core performance and optional Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth.
Key differences
- •CPU: Rock Pi 4 uses a hexa‑core RK3399 (2×A72 + 4×A53) vs Rock 3A’s quad‑core RK3568 (A55).
- •RAM options: Rock Pi 4 up to 4 GB LPDDR4; Rock 3A’s RAM range not specified beyond price tiers.
- •Storage: Both have M.2 slots, but Rock Pi 4 adds an M.2‑B key with PCIe ×1/SATA and optional NVMe; Rock 3A only mentions M.2 M‑key NVMe.
- •Connectivity: Rock Pi 4 includes built‑in Wi‑Fi 802.11ac (Wi‑Fi 6 optional) and Bluetooth 5.0; Rock 3A requires an optional Wi‑Fi/BLE module via M.2 E‑key.
- •Open‑source stance: Rock Pi 4 is listed as open source; Rock 3A is not.
Performance
Rock Pi 4’s hexa‑core RK3399 (A72+A53) outperforms Rock 3A’s quad‑core RK3568 (A55) for CPU‑intensive tasks.
Build quality
Both share identical dimensions (85 × 56 mm) and similar weight; no data on material differences.
Connectivity
Rock Pi 4 offers built‑in Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth and more USB ports; Rock 3A needs separate modules for wireless.
Power & efficiency
Rock 3A is USB‑powered with lower‑cost components, likely drawing less power than Rock Pi 4’s higher‑end CPU.
Compatibility
Rock Pi 4’s 40‑pin GPIO is Raspberry Pi‑compatible, giving access to a larger accessory ecosystem.
Price & value
Rock 3A costs $35‑$75 versus Rock Pi 4’s $99‑$149, delivering a lower entry cost for basic projects.
Warranty & support
Both provide a 1‑year warranty; no further support details are given.
Choose Radxa Rock 3A if…
Budget‑conscious hobbyists or IoT projects that can add optional Wi‑Fi/BLE and storage later.
Choose Rock Pi 4 Model B if…
Developers needing top CPU power, native 4K video and open‑source hardware, and willing to pay premium.
Common questions
How much more does the Rock Pi 4 cost compared to the Rock 3A?
Rock Pi 4 starts at $99 for 2 GB and $149 for 4 GB, while Rock 3A ranges from $35 to $75.
Do both boards include built‑in Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth?
Rock Pi 4 includes Wi‑Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5.0; Rock 3A requires an optional M.2 E‑key module for wireless.
Which board supports native 4K video output?
Rock Pi 4 provides a full‑size HDMI 2.0 port capable of 4K @ 60 Hz; Rock 3A offers dual HDMI 2.0/MIPI DSI up to 4K but not specified as native 60 Hz.