After much anticipation, the Raspberry Pi 5 Single Board Computer (SBC) has finally made its grand entrance, arriving four years post the introduction of the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B. This latest iteration is not just an incremental upgrade, but a substantial leap forward in terms of processing power and capabilities.
Let’s delve deeper into the impressive specifications, features, and potential future developments of the Raspberry Pi 5.
Overview of the Raspberry Pi 5’s specs
At the heart of the Raspberry Pi 5 lies the remarkable Broadcom BCM2712 System-on-Chip (SoC). This powerhouse boasts a quad-core Cortex-A76 CPU, clocked at an impressive 2.4 GHz. This is a significant upgrade from its predecessor and promises to handle demanding tasks with remarkable efficiency. Additionally, the inclusion of a VideoCore VII GPU brings about a notable enhancement in graphical processing capabilities, enabling smoother graphics and more immersive experiences.
Enhancements beyond power
The Raspberry Pi 5 isn’t just about raw processing power. It introduces several key enhancements that set it apart from its predecessors. With an expanded MIPI interface featuring four lanes, compared to the Pi 4’s two, it doubles the peak performance for microSD cards. This is a boon for applications that rely on fast data access, such as high-definition video playback or data-intensive computing tasks.
Moreover, the support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) signifies a leap in visual quality, ensuring more vibrant and lifelike images. The addition of a PCIe 2.0 x1 FPC connection further expands the possibilities for attaching compatible accessories, opening doors to a wider range of expansions and customizations.
Additional features
In addition to the core upgrades, the Raspberry Pi 5 hosts a range of thoughtful additions. An integrated Real-Time Clock (RTC) ensures accurate timekeeping even in the absence of external power. The inclusion of a separate UART connector allows for expanded connectivity options, catering to a broader spectrum of applications.
A dedicated power button adds a level of convenience, simplifying the process of turning the board on and off. Notably, the Raspberry Pi 5 continues to operate on the widely favored Raspberry Pi OS, ensuring a seamless transition for existing users.
Here is a more detailed look at Pi5’s specifications:
- Broadcom BCM2712 2.4GHz quad-core 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 CPU, with cryptography extensions, 512KB per-core L2 caches and a 2MB shared L3 cache
- VideoCore VII GPU, supporting OpenGL ES 3.1, Vulkan 1.2
- Dual 4Kp60 HDMI® display output with HDR support
- 4Kp60 HEVC decoder
- LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM (4GB and 8GB SKUs available at launch)
- Dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi®
- Bluetooth 5.0 / Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
- microSD card slot, with support for high-speed SDR104 mode
- 2 × USB 3.0 ports, supporting simultaneous 5Gbps operation
- 2 × USB 2.0 ports
- Gigabit Ethernet, with PoE+ support (requires separate PoE+ HAT)
- 2 × 4-lane MIPI camera/display transceivers
- PCIe 2.0 x1 interface for fast peripherals (requires separate M.2 HAT or other adapter)
- 5V/5A DC power via USB-C, with Power Delivery support
- Raspberry Pi standard 40-pin header
- Real-time clock (RTC), powered from external battery
- Power button
Looking forward: Raspberry Pi 5 Model C?
While the Raspberry Pi Model B’s form factor has been a hallmark feature, there are considerations for potential improvements. Speculations about a Raspberry Pi 5 Model C are circulating, hinting at a possible transition to a Pico-ITX form size. This hypothetical model might incorporate additional features, including enhanced networking capabilities with 2.5GbE support. Moreover, there’s the prospect of utilizing a future Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 (CM5) to explore new dimensions in computing.
Availability and pricing
The Raspberry Pi 5 maintains its tradition of accessibility, with the 4GB variant priced at a modest $60, and the 8GB model available for $80. Sales are slated to commence by the end of October, with production planned until at least January 2035, assuring an impressive 11 years of availability for this groundbreaking piece of technology.
For those eager to get their hands on the Pi 5, the official website advises, “Check with your favourite Raspberry Pi Approved Reseller to find out whether they are offering pre-orders.”
The Raspberry Pi 5 stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation in the world of single-board computers. With its formidable processing capabilities, expanded features, and budget-friendly pricing, it is poised to be a transformative force in the tech landscape. As enthusiasts await its release, the Raspberry Pi 5 promises to unlock a new realm of possibilities for makers, developers, and technology enthusiasts worldwide.
Meanwhile, if you were to be interested in the newest releases in the mobile industry, make sure to check out our article on the release date, specs, price, and more about the Redmi Note 13 Pro.
Featured image credit: Reddit
