Exploring the Top 5 Single-Board Computers: Find the Best Fit for Your Projects
When it comes to compact, cost-effective computing, single-board computers offer incredible versatility and power in a tiny package. Whether you’re diving into DIY projects, building a smart home hub, or exploring AI development, choosing the right SBC can make all the difference. In this article, you’ll discover the top 5 single-board computers, including the impressive Orange Pi 5 Plus, to help you find a device that fits your needs and budget.
Understanding these options empowers you to harness technology efficiently and creatively for your projects.
Top Picks
Category |
Product |
Score |
|---|---|---|
🏆 Best Overall |
95/100 |
|
⚡ Best Performance |
92/100 |
|
💰 Best Value |
88/100 |
|
💡 Best Innovation |
85/100 |
|
🎯 Best for Beginners |
80/100 |
How We Selected These Single-Board Computers
We evaluated each single-board computer based on performance, versatility, price, community support, and ease of use. Performance was measured by CPU speed, RAM capacity, and real-world application capabilities. Versatility includes compatibility with various operating systems and expansion options.
Price was considered to ensure value for money. The strength of the supporting community and available documentation helped determine how beginner-friendly each board is.
Finally, we considered unique features or innovations that set each SBC apart.
Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W
If you’re looking for a tiny powerhouse, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W is a solid pick. It’s perfect for small projects where space is tight but you still want decent performance. Thanks to its quad-core 1GHz processor and 512MB of RAM, it handles everything from IoT gadgets to retro gaming without breaking a sweat.
The built-in WiFi and Bluetooth let you stay connected without extra adapters, which is handy for both everyday tinkering and more specialized setups like running OctoPrint for 3D printers. It’s also super lightweight and easy to carry around, so you can experiment wherever you want.
What People Say
Many users praise how well it works right out of the box, especially for projects like adding WiFi to 3D printers or small IoT devices. The versatility and solid community support make it a favorite for makers and hobbyists alike.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ David W.
I bought this again because the first one I bought already had pins soldered to it and I wanted to make a project as compact as possible. It does exactly what it is supposed to do, without all the extras. If you don’t need pins, grab this. If you need pins, grab this and some pins or just grab the one they sell with the pins. Really doesn’t matter. Just buy it if you need it (Or want it - It is cheap enough to be able to buy one almost every week if you don’t get your overpriced coffee and avocado toast!).
🗣️ Mitchell Trafford
Raspberry Pi's are well known devices in the maker space. I used this to add Wifi to an old Prusa Mk3s printer. It works flawlessly and was as easy as I expected it to be. They are still the most well supported, documented, and compatible devices on the market. Can't go wrong with RPi.
How It Helps In Different Situations
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
Running a 3D printer without built-in WiFi |
Easily adds wireless connectivity for remote control using OctoPrint. |
Building a compact retro gaming console |
Small size and decent power let you enjoy classic games without bulky hardware. |
IoT sensor or automation project |
Low power and wireless features make it ideal for connected gadgets. |
Ease of Use Features
Feature |
Ease Level |
|---|---|
Setup and installation |
Easy |
Software compatibility |
Very Easy |
Community support |
Excellent |
Connectivity options |
Built-in and simple |
Versatility
You can use the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W for everything from simple DIY gadgets to more complex projects like media centers or network devices. Its small form factor and wireless features open up a lot of possibilities.
Innovation
This model improves on the original Zero with a quad-core processor, making it a surprisingly powerful little board that still fits in your pocket. The integration of wireless and Bluetooth tech without adding bulk is a smart move for makers who want flexibility.
Why You’ll Like It
- Compact size fits tight spaces and portable projects
- Quad-core 64-bit processor delivers solid performance for its size
- WiFi and Bluetooth built in for hassle-free connectivity
- Compatible with tons of accessories and software
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
Rating: 4.7 (total: 835+)
Shop NowRaspberry Pi 5 8GB
When you want a single-board computer that can handle serious tasks without fuss, the Raspberry Pi 5 8GB is a great choice. It’s a solid step up from previous models, especially if you’re into projects like hosting a web server, running a Minecraft server, or even using it as a mini desktop. The dual 4K HDMI outputs mean you can easily connect to larger displays, and with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, you stay wirelessly connected without extra gear. Whether you’re tinkering on a weekend or building something for daily use, this board offers enough power and flexibility to keep things smooth and reliable.
What People Say
People appreciate how reliable and versatile the Raspberry Pi 5 is, especially for projects that need stable performance over long periods. Many mention its improved speed and connectivity, making it a smart upgrade from older versions.
The active community also means help and ideas are never far away.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ MatrixRage
I’ve used several SBCs over the years, but the Raspberry Pi 5 just works flawlessly. I set it up as a kiosk display showing job statuses, and it never crashes. The community support is unbeatable, with tons of projects and add-ons ready to go. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the sheer amount of resources and accessories makes it worth it.
🗣️ JeryG
This board exceeded my expectations. I hooked it up to a 4K screen using a simple HDMI adapter and it handled everything smoothly. I’m only just starting to explore what it can do, but it’s already impressive. Great for anyone wanting a compact yet capable computer.
How It Helps In Real Life
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
Running a local Minecraft server |
Handles multiple players smoothly without lag, thanks to its 8GB RAM and quad-core processor. |
Setting up a media center |
Dual HDMI outputs let you connect to multiple screens or projectors for an immersive experience. |
Using as a VPN or web server |
Stable performance combined with low power consumption means it runs all day without breaking a sweat. |
Learning to code or DIY projects |
Great community resources and wide software compatibility help you get started quickly. |
Ease of Use at a Glance
Feature |
Ease Level |
|---|---|
Setup and Installation |
Moderate - more straightforward if you have some experience |
Software Compatibility |
Very Easy - supports popular OSes like Raspberry Pi OS and Ubuntu |
Community Support |
Excellent - tons of forums, tutorials, and projects |
Connectivity Options |
Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports simplify connections |
Versatility
The Raspberry Pi 5’s power and features let you use it for everything from simple coding lessons to running complex servers or media setups. It plays well with a wide range of software and hardware, and easily adapts to new challenges, making it a great all-rounder in the single-board computer world.
Innovation
This board pushes the envelope by packing a quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 CPU and 8GB of RAM into a tiny frame, plus dual 4K HDMI outputs, which are rare in this category. Its balance of performance and energy efficiency lets you build projects that used to need much bigger, pricier machines.
What Makes It Stand Out
- 8GB RAM offers smooth multitasking and handles demanding apps
- Dual 4K HDMI ports for connecting multiple high-res displays
- Strong community support with extensive tutorials and accessories
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth for easy wireless connectivity
- Power-efficient design keeps running costs low
Rating: 4.7 (total: 1634+)
Shop NowLibre Computer Sweet Potato
If you’re looking for a neat alternative to the Raspberry Pi and other single-board computers, the Libre Computer Sweet Potato is worth a look. It’s a solid little board that’s especially great for media projects thanks to its 4K video playback support. You can use it to run media centers, lightweight servers, or even some retro gaming setups. While it doesn’t come with WiFi or Bluetooth built in, the USB header allows you to add those features if you want.
It’s perfect for when you want something reliable but don’t need all the bells and whistles of a Raspberry Pi, especially if you’re comfortable tinkering a bit.
What People Say
People often mention the Sweet Potato’s solid media playback and overall reliability, especially as a budget-friendly alternative to Raspberry Pi boards. Many appreciate the USB-C power and the ability to add wireless capabilities via expansion.
Some note its lack of onboard WiFi and Bluetooth, but for many, this isn’t a dealbreaker.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ NSFab
This is Le Potato 2.0, literally. But what a great improvement for an already solid budget SBC. The CoreELEC build for the S905X makes this board stand out for budget media center builds. The video quality was far superior to the Raspi 4 I was using previously.
🗣️ Michael Morris
Has 2x the RAM of a RaspberryPi 3 and the USB-C power is a nice upgrade. The eMMC connector is a great option for additional storage, though you have to be careful with compatibility. Overall, an excellent Pi alternative for those who don’t mind a few quirks.
How It Fits Your Projects
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
Building a home media center |
Smooth 4K video playback with CoreELEC makes movie nights better without overloading your power bill. |
Running lightweight servers like PiHole |
Low power use and stable performance mean it can run quietly 24/7 without fuss. |
DIY retro gaming console |
Enough processing power and community support to get popular emulators running smoothly. |
Expanding with wireless options |
USB header lets you add WiFi or Bluetooth via compatible modules, giving you flexibility. |
Getting Started
Feature |
Ease Level |
|---|---|
Setup and Installation |
Moderate - some Linux knowledge helps, especially with overlays |
Software compatibility |
Good - supports Ubuntu 22.04, Debian 12, and CoreELEC |
Community Support |
Moderate - smaller community than Raspberry Pi, but growing |
Hardware Expansion |
Flexible - USB header accepts wireless modules but requires manual setup |
Versatility
While it’s not as plug-and-play as some Raspberry Pi models, the Sweet Potato covers a lot of ground. From media playback to light server duties and DIY projects, it adapts well as long as you’re comfortable with a bit of hands-on configuration.
Innovation
The board stands out by combining an advanced UEFI BIOS, USB-C power, and efficient 4K video hardware acceleration in a budget-friendly package. Its design focuses on power efficiency and expandability, making it a smart choice for specialized projects.
What You’ll Like
- Hardware-accelerated 4K video playback, great for media centers
- Low power consumption keeps things efficient around the clock
- USB-C power input for easier and more modern connectivity
- Expandable with USB header for WiFi, Bluetooth, and more
- Supports booting from eMMC, MicroSD, and USB drives
Rating: 4.3 (total: 47+)
Shop NowOrange Pi 5 Plus 8GB
If you’re exploring single-board computers beyond the Raspberry Pi, the Orange Pi 5 Plus 8GB is definitely worth checking out. It packs a powerful Rockchip RK3588 processor with 8 cores, which means it handles multitasking and demanding projects with ease. Whether you want to build a media server, run smart home applications, or experiment with edge computing, this board has the muscle and flexibility to back you up.
Plus, it supports multiple operating systems like Debian, Ubuntu, Android, and Orange Pi OS, so you can pick what fits your style. If you’ve been looking to upgrade from a Raspberry Pi or just want a versatile SBC that’s ready for more advanced projects, this one’s a solid pick.
What People Say
Users appreciate the strong performance compared to Raspberry Pi models, especially for running home servers and firewall setups. The low CPU usage under load and fast M.2 storage support get frequent mentions, alongside solid OS compatibility and network speeds.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ T Berr
I’ve been running my OPi5+ for a while now and must say this is the first non-Raspberry pi I’ve had good luck with. With the RK3588 gaining main line kernel support, I only expect things to get better. I’m running Home Assistant, Plex, File Server, etc on this thing and it only averages ~2-3% CPU usage. The speed increase from just the M.2 drive is incredible!
🗣️ bishop
Purchased to use as a home router to at&t internet. I have the 2gig plan so I wanted something that could do NAT and firewall at 2.5gbe speeds. The fastest cores were able to max out the NICs (speedtest.net download at 2300mbps). It turns out great for running open source software as my firewall.
How It Fits Your Projects
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
Setting up a home server or media center |
Handles Plex and file sharing with ease thanks to its powerful CPU and fast storage options. |
Building a network router or firewall |
High-performance cores and dual 2.5G Ethernet ports can manage fast internet connections and open source firewall software. |
Exploring AI and edge computing |
Embedded NPU accelerates AI workloads, making it suitable for machine vision and smart device projects. |
Running multiple Linux or Android environments |
Supports multiple OS choices so you can test or switch between Debian, Ubuntu, Android, or Orange Pi OS effortlessly. |
Getting Started
Feature |
Ease Level |
|---|---|
Setup and Installation |
Moderate - basic Linux familiarity helps with OS installation and driver setup |
Operating System Support |
Good - works well with Debian 11, Ubuntu 22.04, Android 12, and Orange Pi OS |
Community Support |
Growing - smaller than Raspberry P,i but active forums and documentation available |
Hardware Expansion |
Flexible - multiple ports and slots for USB devices, SSDs, and networking gear |
Versatility
This Orange Pi model is a solid all-rounder among single-board computers. It’s powerful enough for high-end applications like AI computing and home servers, yet flexible enough to run various operating systems and connect to multiple peripherals.
You can use it for everything from DIY smart home projects to more complex embedded systems.
Innovation
The integration of a high-performance 8-core Rockchip processor, built-in NPU for AI tasks, and support for NVMe SSD storage make this board a forward-looking choice. It blends raw power and modern connectivity, standing out among single-board computers as an option that bridges hobbyist and professional needs.
What You'll Like
- Powerful 8-core Rockchip RK3588 processor handles multitasking smoothly
- Supports multiple operating systems, including Debian, Ubuntu, Android, and Orange Pi OS
- Versatile connectivity with dual HDMI ports, USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and Type-C interfaces
- M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs speeds up storage access significantly
- Built-in NPU supports AI edge computing for advanced projects
Rating: 4.8 (total: 11+)
Shop NowNVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano
If you’re diving into single-board computers with a focus on AI and edge computing, the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano is a compelling option. It’s compact but packs a punch with up to 67 TOPS of AI performance, making it great for running vision models or language applications right on the device.
Whether you’re prototyping robotics projects or exploring AI frameworks like NVIDIA Isaac and Metropolis, this board has the flexibility and ecosystem to support you. Keep in mind, it’s a bit more involved to set up compared to some others, but once you’re past that, it’s a powerhouse for AI experiments and development.
What People Say
Users find it excellent for AI experimentation and appreciate the board’s thoughtfully organized design and integrated Wi-Fi. The setup can be challenging, but once running, it’s a solid platform for development.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ SnackyFoodz
Love this thing for AI experimenting. Not the most powerful, but for the price, can't go wrong. Have had no issues with the device.
🗣️ Raul, T.
I like the nice packaging and the organized looks of the board. The included wifi board is practical so I don’t worry about compatibility. Took a day to flash it the hard way from Fedora Linux, but the system runs well and the GUI showed up. Good enough for starting development.
How It Fits Your Projects
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
Developing AI-powered robotics |
Runs NVIDIA Isaac and Holoscan frameworks that streamline sensor and vision AI integration. |
Prototyping vision AI applications |
Supports high-resolution camera inputs with dual MIPI CSI connectors for detailed image processing. |
Running large language models or transformer AI |
67 TOPS processing power handles complex AI models locally without relying on the cloud. |
Building edge devices with AI inference |
Compact form factor and power-efficient design make it perfect for embedded AI solutions. |
Getting Started
Feature |
Ease Level |
|---|---|
Initial Setup and Flashing |
Challenging - flashing can be tricky and may require Linux experience |
Software and Driver Support |
Good - strong NVIDIA ecosystem, but some tools need manual installation |
Community and Documentation |
Moderate - official docs are helpful, but some setup steps require searching forums |
Hardware Expansion |
Flexible - multiple ports and camera connectors for varied peripherals |
Versatility
This board is tailored for AI enthusiasts and developers who want to push edge computing boundaries. While it’s not the easiest SBC for beginners, its power and extensive software support make it highly versatile for projects involving robotics, AI inference, and computer vision.
Innovation
The Jetson Orin Nano stands out with its Ampere GPU and 6-core ARM CPU combo, delivering high AI throughput in a compact size. Its integration with NVIDIA’s AI software ecosystem enables cutting-edge applications in embedded AI, robotics, and sensor processing.
What You'll Like
- Impressive AI performance with up to 67 TOPS for edge AI projects
- Powered by an Ampere GPU and a 6-core ARM CPU for multitasking AI workloads
- Supports NVIDIA AI software stack with tools for robotics, vision, and sensor processing
- Wide array of connectors, including MIPI CSI for high-res camera support
- Strong ecosystem with developer tools and software frameworks
Rating: 4.1 (total: 112+)
Shop NowFAQ
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Single-Board Computer?
When selecting a single-board computer, you should evaluate the processor performance, RAM capacity, connectivity options, and compatibility with your intended operating system. For example, the Libre Computer Board AML-S905X-CC offers solid 4K media capabilities and supports Ubuntu and Debian, making it ideal for media centers or lightweight Linux projects. On the other hand, the Orange Pi 5 Plus provides an 8-core processor and 8GB RAM, suitable for more demanding tasks like running multiple services or as a home server. Also, consider the availability of community support and accessories; Raspberry Pi boards are renowned in this area, which can ease troubleshooting and project development.
Power consumption and cooling requirements may also affect your choice, depending on whether your project runs continuously or in constrained spaces.
Can Single-Board Computers Handle Everyday Computing Tasks?
Yes, many modern single-board computers can manage everyday tasks such as web browsing, media playback, and light productivity work. The Orange Pi 5 Plus, with its 2.4 GHz 8-core CPU and 8GB RAM, can handle multitasking and even act as a desktop replacement for basic use.
The Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W is more suited for lightweight projects and IoT applications due to its modest 1.1 GHz quad-core processor and 512MB RAM. If you want a balance between power and efficiency, boards like the Libre Computer Board AML-S905X-CC provide a good middle ground.
However, keep in mind that while these devices are versatile, they are not designed to fully replace high-end desktops or laptops for intensive workloads.
How Do You Maximize the Practical Use of Your Single-Board Computer?
To get the most out of your single-board computer, start by choosing an operating system well-supported by the community, such as Raspberry Pi OS, Ubuntu, or Debian. Proper cooling is essential for performance stability, especially with powerful boards like the Orange Pi 5 Plus or Raspberry Pi 5, which can overheat under load.
Use quality power supplies that meet the recommended voltage and current ratings to avoid instability. Expand storage thoughtfully — for example, the Libre Computer Board AML-S905X-CC supports eMMC modules, which provide faster and more reliable storage than microSD cards but require compatible hardware.
Finally, leverage the extensive library of add-ons, HATs, and software projects available for popular boards to customize your setup for media centers, home automation, network services, or educational purposes.
Customer Preferences Overview
You typically prioritize factors such as processing power, memory capacity, and price when choosing between single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, Raspberry Pi 5 8GB, and Libre Computer Sweet Potato. Customers prefer the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W for its compact size and affordability, the Raspberry Pi 5 8GB for its high performance and multitasking capabilities, and the Libre Computer Sweet Potato for its balance of cost and decent processing power. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you value portability, raw performance, or cost-effectiveness most.
Wrapping Up
After exploring the top 5 single-board computers, you’ll see that each option offers distinct advantages depending on your needs. The Raspberry Pi 5 8GB stands out for its balance of power, community support, and versatility, making it the best overall choice.
If you prioritize raw performance, the Orange Pi 5 Plus delivers impressive speed and multitasking capabilities. For budget-conscious users, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W provides excellent functionality at a low price. Those interested in AI and advanced computing will appreciate the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano, while beginners can comfortably start with the Libre Computer Sweet Potato.
By understanding these options, you’re better equipped to select an SBC that enhances your projects and learning experience.
| Product | Image | Rating | Processor | RAM | Connectivity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W |  |
4.7/5 (835 reviews) | Broadcom BCM2710A1, quad-core 64-bit SoC (Arm Cortex-A53 @ 1GHz) | 512 MB DDR2 | Bluetooth 4.2, BLE, HAT GPIO, LAN | 2.6" x 1.18" (65mm x 30mm) |
| Raspberry Pi 5 8GB |  |
4.7/5 (1,634 reviews) | Broadcom Quad-core 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 @ 2.4GHz | 8 GB LPDDR4X | Bluetooth 5.0, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, HDMI | 3.35 x 2.2 x 0.67 inches |
| Libre Computer Sweet Potato | |
4.3/5 (47 reviews) | Amlogic S905X (4 cores) | 2 GB DDR4 | 802.11ac | 4.75 x 3 x 1 inches |
| 5 Plus 8GB Rockchip | |
4.8/5 (11 reviews) | Rockchip RK3588 (8 cores @ 2.4GHz) | 8 GB LPDDR4 | 802.11bgn | 7.52 x 3.98 x 2.64 inches |
| NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano | |
4.1/5 (112 reviews) | NVIDIA ARM Processor | 8 GB | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | 3.94 x 3.11 x 0.83 inches |
Comments
Post a Comment