Raspberry Pi 4 Model B vs Raspberry Pi 5
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B represents a major leap forward in the popular single-board computer range, offering desktop-class performance that rivals entry-level x86 PC systems. Equipped with a high-performance quad-core processor and flexible memory options, it empowers users to build everything from smart home automation hubs to media centers and edge AI devices. Featuring true dual-monitor support at resolutions up to 4K, upgraded USB 3.0 ports, and genuine Gigabit Ethernet, this iteration provides the robust I/O capabilities required for demanding projects. Its active developer community and vast ecosystem of compatible HATs and accessories make it the definitive platform for learning to code and prototyping hardware inventions.
The Raspberry Pi 5 is the latest generation of the popular single-board computer, offering a significant performance jump over previous models thanks to its new quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor. It remains credit-card sized while supporting dual 4K display output, faster networking, and PCIe expansion. It is widely used for home automation, retro gaming emulation, media centers, robotics, and as an affordable Linux desktop, backed by a large community and the official Raspberry Pi OS. With GPIO pins for hardware projects and a mature software ecosystem, it remains the default choice for hobbyist electronics and educational computing.
Starting at $60 for the 4GB model.
- Significant performance boost over previous generations with up to 8GB RAM options
- Dual 4K display output via two micro-HDMI ports
- True Gigabit Ethernet and USB 3.0 implementation
- Massive community support, documentation, and accessory ecosystem
- Significant performance improvement over Pi 4
- Huge community and documentation
- Affordable for the capability offered
- Extensive GPIO for hardware projects
- Requires active cooling or heatsinks under sustained heavy CPU loads
- Uses a non-standard USB-C power delivery implementation that can be picky with certain chargers
- Micro-HDMI cables require adapters for standard monitor connections
- Requires separate purchase of case, power supply, storage
- Availability can be limited at launch
- Needs active cooling under sustained load
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A pocket-sized x86 single-board computer running Windows and Linux with an integrated Arduino co-processor.
A powerful credit-card-sized computer designed for makers, educators, and hobbyists.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataPi 4 offers lower price and broader out‑of‑the‑box accessories, while Pi 5 delivers noticeably higher CPU performance and newer interfaces at a higher cost.
Key differences
- •CPU: Pi 5 uses a newer Cortex‑A76, giving better performance than Pi 4’s Cortex‑A72.
- •Price: Pi 4 starts at $35; Pi 5 starts at $60 for the 4 GB model.
- •Expansion: Pi 5 adds a PCIe 2.0 lane, which Pi 4 lacks.
- •Bluetooth: Pi 4 includes Bluetooth 5.0; Pi 5’s Bluetooth support isn’t listed.
- •Cooling & power: Pi 4’s USB‑C power implementation is picky and needs active cooling; Pi 5 has no such caveats in the data.
Performance
Pi 5’s Cortex‑A76 quad‑core is a newer, faster architecture than Pi 4’s Cortex‑A72.
Pricing & value
Pi 4 MSRP is $35 versus Pi 5’s starting $60 for the 4 GB model.
Connectivity
Pi 4 lists dual‑band Wi‑Fi ac and Bluetooth 5.0; Pi 5 only mentions Wi‑Fi 5 and no Bluetooth.
Power & efficiency
Pi 4’s non‑standard USB‑C power can be picky; Pi 5 has no reported power‑delivery issues.
Warranty & support
Pi 4 includes a 1‑year warranty; Pi 5 warranty not specified.
Choose Raspberry Pi 4 Model B if…
Budget‑focused hobbyists or educators needing low cost, 8 GB RAM option, and extensive community accessories.
Choose Raspberry Pi 5 if…
Developers needing top CPU performance, PCIe expansion, or dual 4K60 video and can spend more.
Common questions
Is the Pi 5 worth the extra cost?
If you need the faster Cortex‑A76 CPU, PCIe expansion, or dual 4K60 video, the performance gain justifies the higher price.
Do I need extra accessories for either board?
Both require a case, power supply, and storage; Pi 4’s documentation notes active cooling is recommended for heavy loads.
Which board has better wireless connectivity?
Pi 4 lists dual‑band Wi‑Fi ac and Bluetooth 5.0; Pi 5 only mentions Wi‑Fi 5, so Pi 4 offers more complete wireless features.