Rock Pi 4 vs Rock Pi 4 Model B
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Rock Pi 4 is a compact single-board computer featuring a hexa‑core Rockchip RK3399 processor, up to 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM, and dual‑channel M.2 NVMe support. It offers a rich I/O set including dual HDMI 4K, USB‑C 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth for versatile connectivity. Designed for developers, makers, and edge‑AI projects, the board runs Linux, Android, and various open‑source OSes, providing a flexible platform for everything from media servers to AI inference workloads.
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‑performance RK3399 CPU
- M.2 NVMe slot for fast storage
- Dual 4K HDMI outputs
- Strong community and open‑source support
- High‑performance hexa‑core CPU
- Native 4K video output
- Expandable storage via M.2 NVMe
- Broad OS support and community
- Wi‑Fi limited to 802.11ac (no Wi‑Fi 6)
- Limited official Android builds
- Power consumption higher than low‑end SBCs
- 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 Rock Pi 4
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A high-performance single-board computer powered by the Rockchip RK3568 processor.
A powerful credit-card-sized computer designed for makers, educators, and hobbyists.
Alternatives to Rock Pi 4 Model B
View all →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 (A) offers a single 4K HDMI port, optional Wi‑Fi 6 and slightly higher price, while Rock Pi 4 (B) is lighter, cheaper, and adds dual 4K HDMI outputs but lacks Wi‑Fi 6.
Key differences
- •A has optional Wi‑Fi 6 module; B is limited to Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11ac)
- •B provides dual micro‑HDMI 4K@60 Hz outputs; A has only one full‑size HDMI 2.0
- •A includes an M.2‑E key slot for Wi‑Fi/BLE modules and a PCIe ×1 slot; B lists only a generic M.2 NGFF slot
- •A’s weight (~70 g) is higher than B’s (55 g)
- •A’s MSRP ranges $99–$149 for 4 GB; B’s MSRP is $99 for 4 GB
Performance
Both use the same RK3399 hexa‑core CPU, identical clock speeds and RAM limits.
Build quality
Dimensions identical (85 mm × 56 mm); weight differs but neither indicates superior materials.
Connectivity
A adds optional Wi‑Fi 6, M.2‑E slot for extra modules, and full‑size HDMI; B lacks Wi‑Fi 6 and extra slot.
Power & efficiency
B is lighter (55 g vs 70 g) and marketed as USB‑powered, suggesting lower power draw.
Compatibility
B’s dual micro‑HDMI offers more display flexibility; A only one HDMI port.
Price & value
B costs $99 for 4 GB, while A can cost up to $149 for the same RAM.
Warranty & support
Both provide a 1‑year warranty.
Choose Rock Pi 4 if…
Users prioritizing dual 4K displays, lower price and lighter board without Wi‑Fi 6.
Choose Rock Pi 4 Model B if…
Developers needing Wi‑Fi 6 or extra M.2 expansion and who can accept higher cost/weight.
Common questions
Which board supports Wi‑Fi 6?
Only Rock Pi 4 Model B (A) can add a Wi‑Fi 6 module; B is limited to Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Can I connect two 4K monitors?
Yes, Rock Pi 4 (B) has dual micro‑HDMI ports; A provides only one HDMI 2.0 port.
What is the price difference for a 4 GB model?
Rock Pi 4 Model B (A) ranges $99–$149; Rock Pi 4 (B) is $99 for the 4 GB version.