The Raspberry Pi Foundation has unveiled the Raspberry Pi 500, a powerful and versatile computer integrated within a compact keyboard, building upon the success of its predecessor, the Raspberry Pi 400. Priced at $90, the Pi 500 represents a $20 increase over the 400, but justifies the higher cost with significant performance upgrades. This includes a substantial jump to a 2.4GHz 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor and a doubling of RAM to 8GB. For those seeking a complete desktop setup, the $120 Desktop Kit bundles the keyboard computer with essential peripherals, including a matching mouse, a 27W USB-C power supply, a micro HDMI cable, and a helpful printed copy of the Raspberry Pi Beginner’s Guide. The Foundation has also introduced a dedicated 15.6-inch full HD IPS monitor, further simplifying the process of creating a complete Raspberry Pi-based workspace.
The Raspberry Pi 500’s design elegantly integrates a full computer within a tenkeyless keyboard chassis. All ports are neatly positioned at the rear of the keyboard, ensuring a clean and organized workspace. The device is powered by a robust 2.4GHz 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor, coupled with an impressive 8GB of RAM, delivering a significant performance boost over the previous generation. This enhanced processing power allows for smoother multitasking, faster application loading, and a generally more responsive computing experience. The integrated 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU offers capable graphics performance, supporting dual 4K displays at 60Hz via the two micro HDMI ports. Connectivity options are plentiful, including 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, a single USB 2.0 port, and a USB-C port dedicated solely for power delivery. A 40-pin GPIO header allows for extensive connectivity with various peripherals and hardware projects, maintaining the Raspberry Pi’s reputation as a versatile platform for makers and hobbyists.
Expanding the ecosystem beyond the computer itself, the Raspberry Pi Foundation has simultaneously launched the Raspberry Pi Monitor. This 15.6-inch full HD IPS display, priced at $100, offers crisp visuals and integrated 1.2W speakers. The monitor can be conveniently powered directly from a compatible Raspberry Pi computer, such as the 500 or its predecessor, via a USB port capable of outputting 1.5A at 5V. However, this direct power method limits brightness to 60% and volume to 50%. For full brightness and volume control, a separate power supply is required, which is not included with the monitor. The combination of the Raspberry Pi 500 and the Raspberry Pi Monitor provides an affordable and accessible all-in-one desktop solution priced at $220, catering to users seeking a simplified setup.
The introduction of the Raspberry Pi 500 doesn’t signify the end of the line for the Raspberry Pi 400. The older model remains available, with a price reduction from $70 to $60. Similarly, the Raspberry Pi 400 Personal Computer Kit, which bundles the keyboard computer with peripherals, also receives a price cut from $100 to $80. This strategic move allows the Foundation to offer a range of options catering to varying budgets and performance needs. The 400 remains a viable entry point for those seeking a cost-effective solution, while the 500 caters to users demanding higher performance for more resource-intensive tasks.
The Raspberry Pi 500 represents a compelling evolution of the keyboard computer concept. Its increased processing power, ample RAM, and comprehensive connectivity options make it a versatile platform for a wide range of applications, from basic computing tasks to more demanding projects. The accompanying Raspberry Pi Monitor further streamlines the user experience, offering an accessible and affordable all-in-one desktop solution. By retaining the 400 at a reduced price, the Foundation ensures its products remain accessible to a broad audience, solidifying its commitment to providing affordable and versatile computing solutions.
The continued availability of the Raspberry Pi 400 at a lower price point highlights the Foundation’s commitment to accessibility and affordability in computing. This tiered approach allows users to choose the model that best suits their needs and budget. The 500 caters to those requiring more power and RAM, while the 400 remains a viable option for basic computing tasks and less demanding applications. The introduction of the dedicated Raspberry Pi Monitor also simplifies the setup process, making it easier than ever to create a complete and functional Raspberry Pi-based workspace. With its competitive pricing and versatile features, the Raspberry Pi 500 stands poised to further extend the reach of the Raspberry Pi platform, empowering users with a powerful and accessible computing solution.
