What is the difference between Raspberry Pi 4 and other models?

You probably know that the Raspberry Pi has just launched a new model. The Raspberry Pi 4 is available, but should you buy it after all? What does it offer that other options don't have?

Raspberry Pi 4 is a game changer. Here's what you need to know about Pi 4 and how this model is different from the previous Raspberry Pi 3B +.

Raspberry Pi 4 and earlier models

The main difference you see between Raspberry Pi 4 and earlier versions is speed. With faster processors, more RAM and Gigabit Ethernet ports, each performance indicator has been enhanced.

Raspberry Pi 4

Some people believe that the Raspberry Pi 4 is the first 64-bit version of this computer, but this is not true. In fact, the Raspberry Pi 2 is the first product to have a 64-bit processor.

Meanwhile, the USB ports have also been upgraded. In general, the Raspberry Pi 4 is the most powerful version of the Raspberry Pi. It retains the familiar flexibility that makes it the perfect device for almost any project.

3 Raspberry Pi 4 models

Pi 4 is the first version of the Raspberry Pi available with multiple RAM configurations. Previous models have been upgraded with small versions (such as Pi Zero and Pi Zero W, or Raspberry Pi 3 and 3B +). You can choose from three versions of the Raspberry Pi 4:

1. Raspberry Pi 4 2GB

2. Raspberry Pi 4 4GB

3. Raspberry PI 4 8GB

Three versions have different prices, equivalent to RAM capacity.

Compare the specifications of the Raspberry Pi 3 and 4

The most powerful version of the Raspberry Pi before Pi 4 is the Raspberry Pi 3B +, released in 2018. The main features of this version are:

1. Quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU 1.4GHz
2. Broadcom VideoCore IV GPU @ 250MHz
3. 1GB
4. 4 USB 2.0 ports
5. TRRS a / v 5 mm
6. 2 Micro-HDMI ports
7. Gigabit Ethernet port (hardware limited to 300Mbps)
8. Dual band WiFi b / g / n / ac 2.4 / 5GHz
9. Bluetooth 4.2
10. Connect microUSB source
11. Weight 45g

The three versions of the Raspberry Pi 4 have the same specifications:

1. Quad-core Cortex-A72 CPU 1.5GHz
2. Broadcom VideoCore VI GPU @ 500MHz
3. RAM 2GB / 4GB / 8GB
4. 2 USB 2.0 ports
5. 2 USB 3.0 ports
6. TRRS a / v 5 mm
7. 2 Micro-HDMI ports
8. Gigabit Ethernet port
9. Dual band WiFi b / g / n / ac 2.4 / 5GHz
10. Bluetooth 5.0
11. Connect the USB-C power
12. Weighs 46g, weighs one gram more than the Raspberry Pi 3B +

Each of the specs here is an improvement over the Raspberry Pi 3B +. Moreover, some additional enhancements have been introduced, such as additional interfaces via GPIO and other ports.

Each specification has been improved over the Raspberry Pi 3B +

In addition, the Raspberry Pi 4 needs a dedicated USB-C power source. Reusing an older PSU with a converter from microUSB to USB-C won't work, as the Raspberry Pi 4 requires an average of 600mA (3W) when inactive. This requirement will obviously increase under heavy load.

Is the Raspberry Pi 4 compatible with existing accessories?

If you already have a case, HAT, and pHAT, you may want to know if they're compatible with Pi 4.

In the years since its first release, the Raspberry Pi model B has remained virtually unchanged. The board still measures 85.60mm x 56.5mm and the ports (Ethernet, power, TRRS) are still in the same place.

However, some changes have taken place. Two additional USB ports have been added to the Raspberry Pi B + (2014) and continue to be maintained in subsequent models. Similarly, the Raspberry Pi A and B originally had 26 GPIO batteries. Once again, Model B + has increased this number to 40 batteries.

These modifications have been kept with the Raspberry Pi 4, but there are some changes. Specifically, they include a USB-C power connector and two micro HDMI ports. As a result, while expansion boards can work on Pi 4, the Raspberry Pi case will not fit.

Since this is probably the most important accessory for the Pi, you will need a replacement. Consider the best Raspberry Pi 4 cases for the best option.

For HAT and pHAT, the GPIO remains unchanged. Anything you own should still fit in with the Pi 4 and run as expected, though you should download the updates to ensure you can run the latest software.

What can you do with a Raspberry Pi 4?

Although the Pi 4 is designed with backward compatibility, it does have some advantages over previous models. For example:

1. Build a retro gaming machine with greater reliability
2. Use it to stream online (e.g. with Kodi or Plex)
3. Manage DIY NAS box 
4. Host online games
5. Run a web server
6. Create a compact podcast studio
7. Play games on PC

Does not end there. The increased system specifications of the Raspberry Pi 4 and the minimum storage capacity of 2GB bring something new. You probably already know that Pi has long been able to run LibreOffice, send emails and other desktop tasks. But only with the Pi 4 series will you find the power to manage these tasks without being suspended.

This small computer is currently a desktop replacement for under $ 100. Use the 8GB model for the best Raspberry Pi experience (4GB is a suitable replacement).

Which Raspberry Pi 4 model should you choose?

If you ignore the amount of RAM, there is very little difference between Raspberry Pi 4. So which model should you buy?

If you are looking for an upgrade to a Raspberry Pi 3B + or an earlier version, then the 2GB Raspberry Pi 4 model is ideal. You get the latest motherboard with twice the RAM and the same price as Pi 3B +.

If you need to build a NAS, server or some other project that requires more RAM than usual, use the Raspberry Pi 4 4GB. It can also revolutionize the retro gaming system and handle host media and streaming better than ever.

There is very little difference between Raspberry Pi 4 boards

To get the Raspberry Pi experience as close to your desktop as possible, buy an 8GB motherboard. It may be more expensive, but the Raspberry Pi 4 8GB can handle anything that previous models couldn't.

But what if you want a powerful Raspberry Pi but can't afford a Raspberry Pi 4? Raspberry Pi 3B + would be the best choice in this case. If you have a more limited budget, consider buying a Raspberry Pi Zero.