Top 10 Raspberry Pi Alternatives Available in 2025

Did you know? The global single-board computer market was worth $3.77 billion in 2024 and is expected to hit $5.45 billion by 2032.

With this rise, students, tech enthusiasts, and developers are exploring Raspberry Pi alternatives that offer better performance, unique features, or lower prices for DIY and innovation projects.

Raspberry Pi alternatives are single-board computers that offer similar or even better features for DIY tech, automation, robotics, and learning projects. With ongoing supply shortages and rising demand for NVIDIA Jetson Nano and BeagleBone Black, many developers and hobbyists in 2025 are exploring these powerful replacements. 

This guide covers the top 10 Raspberry Pi alternatives, offering unique benefits in performance, connectivity, affordability, and expandability for smarter, faster, and more efficient hardware solutions.

Key Features to Look for in Raspberry Pi Alternatives

Before getting into the details, check out these specific features. They can greatly impact how well a board fits your project, especially if you're tackling advanced tasks. 

Here’s what experienced developers usually prioritize:

Now that you know what features matter most, let’s explore the Top 10 Raspberry Pi Alternatives Available in 2025—each compared by performance, pricing in India, and ideal use cases.

Top 10 Raspberry Pi Alternatives Available in 2025

In 2025, knowing your raspberry Pi alternatives is essential. With global shortages pushing Raspberry Pi delivery times up to 52 weeks and prices rising by over 30%, developers are turning to other SBCs to keep their projects moving. 

From robotics and edge computing to AI prototyping, these alternatives provide the flexibility and performance required to bring your ideas to life.

Here are the top 10 raspberry Pi alternatives in India in 2025, compared by performance, price, and best use case:

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on availability and retailer.

Using a Raspberry Pi alternative for smart projects? Take it a step further by learning how to integrate Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into your builds. upGrad’s AI & ML courses are designed to help you train models, automate tasks, and create intelligent systems, even on low-cost boards.

Now let’s take a closer look at which boards are best suited for specific use cases like AI, IoT, media centers, and robotics.

Raspberry Pi Alternatives for IoT and Home Automation

When you're working on IoT or home automation, your board needs to offer more than just computing power, it should support wireless communication, energy efficiency, and real-time sensor handling. 

While Raspberry Pi can manage basic automation tasks, there are other boards that offer better integration for connected devices and smart systems.

Here are some reliable raspberry Pi alternatives in India that work well for IoT setups and home automation projects, from smart lighting and climate control to security systems and connected appliances.

1. Orange Pi 5

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 13,000

The Orange Pi 5 is a high-performance single-board computer that’s great for media projects and tasks that need extra processing power. It uses an octa-core Rockchip processor and supports up to 16GB of RAM, which makes it suitable for handling more complex or resource-heavy applications.

Specifications:

• Processor: Rockchip RK3588S 8-Core 64-Bit (4x Cortex-A76, 4x Cortex-A55) up to 2.4GHz
• Graphics: Arm Mali-G610 MP4 GPU for sharp graphics and video
• RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR4/4x
• Video Output: HDMI with support for up to 8K at 60fps
• Ethernet: Gigabit Ethernet for fast, stable connections

Performance:
With a 2.4GHz CPU and powerful GPU, the Orange Pi 5 can handle tasks like high-resolution video playback, media centers, and basic AI applications. It has enough processing power to handle multiple tasks without slowing down.

Pros:

• Powerful CPU-GPU Combo: Ideal for intensive projects like VR gaming, AI-powered security surveillance, or portable machine learning workstations.
• 8K Video Support: Supports up to 8K video output, making it perfect for high-definition media centers and advanced display setups.
• Dual-Display Output: Ideal for multi-monitor setups, allowing seamless multitasking and enhanced visual experience.
• Versatile Performance: Well-suited for high-end applications requiring substantial computational power, such as AI, emulation, and media projects.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: More expensive than simpler boards, which can be limiting for budget-conscious builds, such as low-cost robotics or basic automation projects.
• Higher Power Consumption: May not be ideal for power-sensitive applications, making it less feasible for simple GPIO-based projects.
• Overkill for Simple Projects: Not necessary for beginner projects, as it provides more power than required for automation or small-scale tasks.

Applications:

• Media Centers: Ideal for building high-definition, high-performance media centers with support for advanced displays.
• Smart Home Setups: Excellent for integrating into smart home systems requiring robust processing power for real-time control and monitoring.
• AI & Machine Learning: Perfect for AI-driven applications and machine learning, offering strong GPU support for complex data processing tasks.
• High-Demand Applications: Best for projects that need significant computational power, like video editing, gaming, or emulation.

2. NanoPi NEO4

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 10,660

The NanoPi NEO4 is a small, budget-friendly board with decent processing power for its size. Powered by the Rockchip RK3399, it combines two types of processors to balance speed and efficiency. Its compact design makes it easy to fit into projects with tight space requirements.

Specifications:

• Processor: Rockchip RK3399 with dual Cortex-A72 and quad Cortex-A53 cores
• RAM: 1GB DDR3, enough for lightweight tasks
• Storage: eMMC support and microSD slot (up to 128GB)
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, and multiple USB ports
• Power: Needs 5V/3A, so it’s easy to power with standard adapters

Performance:
The NanoPi NEO4 handles simple tasks well and is great for IoT and basic computing. Its processor mix offers reliable speed for everyday use, though the 1GB RAM limits memory-heavy applications.

Pros:

• Compact & Energy-Efficient: Perfect for space-constrained projects where energy consumption is a priority, such as smart sensors or low-power devices.
• Reliable Performance: Works well for lightweight applications, like network monitoring or simple servers, ensuring stable operation in basic setups.
• Cost-Effective: Offers an affordable solution for small-scale projects without compromising on essential functionalities.

Cons:

• Limited RAM: With only 1GB of RAM, it struggles with memory-heavy applications, making it unsuitable for advanced tasks requiring significant resources.
• Few GPIO Pins: Only 26 GPIO pins restrict its use in more hardware-intensive projects, such as robotics or industrial automation, where a higher number of pins is needed.
• Not Suitable for Complex Projects: Due to its limited processing power, it may not be able to handle complex, resource-demanding applications.

Applications:

• IoT Devices: Ideal for Internet of Things applications where low power consumption and compact design are crucial.
• Edge Computing: Best for simple edge computing tasks where local data processing is required without heavy processing needs.
• Low-Power Servers: Works well for basic server functions that don’t require extensive memory or processing power.
• Network Monitoring: Perfect for lightweight network monitoring systems or small-scale infrastructure management tasks.

Want to level up your Raspberry Pi projects? Join upGrad’s Executive Diploma in Machine Learning & AI with IIIT-B and turn your tech projects into intelligent systems.

Learn: MATLAB Application in Face Recognition: Code, Description & Syntax

3. Odroid XU4

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 12,000

The Odroid XU4 is a powerful, energy-efficient board with an octa-core processor and 2GB of RAM, perfect for tasks that need solid performance. It’s built on a Samsung Exynos CPU and includes USB 3.0 support, making it great for data-intensive projects.

Specifications:

• Processor: Samsung Exynos5422 Octa-Core ARM CPU
• RAM: 2GB, offering enough memory for multitasking
• Storage: eMMC 5.0 support for faster data handling
• Connectivity: HDMI for 1080p output, three USB ports (two USB 3.0), Gigabit Ethernet
• Additional Features: Includes a cooling fan and power adapter

Performance:
The Odroid XU4’s octa-core CPU and high-speed RAM make it capable of handling more intensive tasks, such as media streaming or light gaming. It boots quickly with eMMC storage, and the USB 3.0 ports ensure fast data transfer for connected devices.

Pros:

• Strong Processor: Delivers robust processing power, making it ideal for demanding tasks like NAS setups, media centers, or emulation.
• USB 3.0 Connectivity: Offers faster data transfer speeds, enhancing the performance for storage-heavy applications and high-speed data handling.
• Built-in Cooling: Ensures stability during prolonged use, preventing overheating and maintaining consistent performance in continuous workloads.

Cons:

• Larger Form Factor: Its size makes it less ideal for compact DIY projects, limiting its use in tight spaces or projects requiring portability.
• Higher Power Consumption: Draws more power compared to smaller SBCs, making it unsuitable for battery-powered applications or low-energy projects like portable IoT devices.

Applications:

• Media Centers: Perfect for building home theater systems or media streaming devices that require powerful processing and stable operation.
• Gaming Consoles: Excellent for creating custom gaming consoles or gaming setups that require high processing power and fast data handling.
• Small Servers: Works well for personal servers, especially those handling high data throughput and requiring stable, long-term performance.
• NAS (Network-Attached Storage): Ideal for building a small, reliable NAS for local network storage, where cooling and stable processing are key.

Also Read: Top 30 Raspberry Pi Projects for Students and Beginners in 2025

Raspberry Pi Alternatives for AI and Machine Learning

Running AI and machine learning workloads demands far more than basic processing, it requires GPU acceleration, ample RAM, and efficient multitasking capabilities. 

While the Raspberry Pi can handle entry-level models, it often falls short for real-time inference, image recognition, or edge AI tasks.

If you're looking to train or deploy ML models on a compact board, the following raspberry Pi alternatives in India offer the performance and hardware support needed for AI development.

4. ASUS Tinker Board S

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 9,500

The ASUS Tinker Board S is a durable single-board computer with a powerful quad-core ARM processor, ideal for DIY and multimedia projects. With a look similar to the Raspberry Pi, this board has a 2GB RAM, 16GB of built-in eMMC storage, and 1 Gigabit Ethernet, which provides faster connectivity for data-intensive tasks.

Specifications:

• Processor: Rockchip RK3288 Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A17
• RAM: 2GB
• Storage: 16GB eMMC, expandable via microSD
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth, HDMI, 4 USB ports
• GPIO: 40-pin GPIO header, compatible with Raspberry Pi accessories

Performance:
The quad-core Rockchip processor allows the Tinker Board S to handle demanding tasks smoothly, making it suitable for video playback, image processing, and gesture recognition. Its hardware can support 4K video playback, which is beneficial for media projects and basic AI applications.

Pros:

• Crisp 4K Output: Delivers high-definition 4K video output, making it ideal for multimedia and video applications.
• Raspberry Pi-Compatible 40-Pin GPIO: Supports the popular 40-pin GPIO header, ensuring compatibility with various Raspberry Pi accessories and shields.
• Versatile Use Cases: Well-suited for building media centers, home automation dashboards, and educational demos, offering great graphics and processing capabilities.

Cons:

• Lack of Official Raspberry Pi OS Support: Unlike Raspberry Pi, it doesn’t support the official OS, which can limit software compatibility.
• Limited Third-Party Libraries: Fewer available libraries and tools compared to Raspberry Pi, making development and integration more challenging.
• Smaller Developer Community: The smaller community results in more time-consuming troubleshooting and fewer resources for support.

Applications:

• Media Centers: Excellent for building high-performance media players or home entertainment systems that require crisp 4K output.
• DIY Electronics: Ideal for hobbyists and makers building custom projects that need a reliable and powerful single-board computer.
• Educational Projects: Great for classroom setups or AI demonstrations, where good graphics and processing power are necessary for interactive learning.

Also Read: 3 Best Raspberry Pi Python Projects [For Freshers & Experienced]

5. NVIDIA Jetson Nano Developer Kit

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 28,995

The NVIDIA Jetson Nano Developer Kit is a small yet powerful board designed for AI and machine learning. Equipped with a quad-core ARM CPU and a 128-core GPU, it’s ideal for handling complex AI tasks such as image recognition, speech processing, and object detection.

Specifications:

• Processor: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 CPU, 1.43GHz
• GPU: 128-core Maxwell GPU with CUDA support
• RAM: 4GB LPDDR4
• Storage: 16GB eMMC, expandable with microSD
• Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, 4 USB ports, and Ethernet

Performance:
The Jetson Nano’s GPU allows it to run multiple neural networks simultaneously, making it highly effective for AI and machine learning. It supports major AI frameworks like  TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Caffe, providing flexibility for different AI applications.

Pros:

• AI & Machine Learning Projects: Excellent for AI and machine learning tasks with GPU and CUDA support, enabling efficient parallel processing.
• Computer Vision: Great for edge AI applications, such as autonomous robots, smart CCTV cameras, and gesture-controlled systems.

Cons:

• Higher Price: Its higher cost may limit access for budget-constrained projects.
• Power Consumption: Requires 5V/4A, making it less ideal for low-power or budget-friendly builds like remote IoT devices or battery-operated systems.

Applications:

• Ideal for AI-driven Projects: Perfect for applications that require artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities.
• Machine Learning Applications: Can easily handle complex algorithms and intensive computational tasks.
• Computer Vision: Suitable for computer vision projects, enabling real-time image processing and object detection.
• AI & Robotics: Great for users exploring AI or robotics, providing the power to run sophisticated AI models and robotics algorithms.

Also Read: IoT Engineer/Developer Salary in India

6. RockPi 4 Model C

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 13,580

The RockPi 4 Model C offers a powerful six-core processor and up to 4GB of RAM, making it suitable for AI tasks, multimedia projects, and even desktop computing. It supports dual displays, a 4K resolution, and features options for NVMe SSD storage for faster data handling.

Specifications:

• Processor: Rockchip RK3399 (Dual Cortex-A72, Quad Cortex-A53)
• RAM: Up to 4GB LPDDR4
• Storage: Supports microSD, NVMe SSD, and eMMC module
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, USB 3.0
• GPIO: 40-pin GPIO and MIPI-CSI2 for camera integration

Performance:
With its dual-core Cortex-A72 and quad-core Cortex-A53 setup, the RockPi 4 Model C is a balanced board for multitasking. It can handle multimedia streaming and basic AI tasks. The dual display support and 4K capabilities make it useful for visual and multimedia-heavy applications.

Pros:

• Dual-band Wi-Fi & Bluetooth 5.0: Perfect for connected devices, smart home projects, and IoT applications.
• USB 3.0 & NVMe SSD Support: Provides fast data transfer speeds and high-performance storage for media and data-intensive tasks.

Cons:

• Limited Accessories & Peripherals: Fewer official accessories may restrict expansion options for projects that require a variety of sensors or custom modules.

Applications:

• Multimedia Setups: Ideal for 4K media centers, streaming devices, and smart TV solutions.
• AI Projects: Great for AI-driven applications and edge computing tasks.
• Network-attached Storage (NAS): Can serve as a small and efficient data storage solution for home or small office networks.
• Robotics Projects: Suitable for robotics with integrated connectivity and fast processing power.

Also Read: 28 Robotics Project Ideas for Students in 2025

Raspberry Pi Alternatives for Multimedia and Graphics-Intensive Applications

For media playback, 4K streaming, or handling graphics-heavy applications, the standard Raspberry Pi may struggle with performance lags and limited GPU capabilities. 

If you're planning to build a home theater system, retro gaming console, or a digital signage setup, you'll need a board that prioritizes GPU power and high-resolution video support.

Below are raspberry Pi alternatives in India designed specifically to handle multimedia workloads and graphics-intensive tasks with ease.

7. Banana Pi M3

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 4,966

The Banana Pi M3 is an octa-core single-board computer designed for multimedia and high-processing tasks. With a PowerVR GPU and 2GB of RAM, it’s ideal for users who need extra power for applications like media servers, streaming, and general-purpose computing. It includes unique features like a built-in microphone, IR receiver, and power/reset buttons for convenience.

Specifications:

• Processor: Octa-core ARM Cortex-A7
• Graphics: PowerVR GPU for enhanced video performance
• RAM: 2GB DDR3
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, SATA, 2 USB ports, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI
• Interfaces: CSI camera and DSI display interface

Performance:
The Banana Pi M3’s octa-core processor and dedicated GPU make it highly capable of handling multimedia tasks, from video playback to general server applications. 

With support for various operating systems, including Ubuntu, Android, and Debian, it offers flexibility in software choices.

Pros:

• High Processing Power: Suitable for resource-demanding applications like 8K video editing and mini Kubernetes clusters.
• Ample RAM: Enables smooth multitasking and programming on lightweight desktop alternatives.

Cons:

• Higher Power Consumption: Higher energy usage may reduce its suitability for energy-sensitive projects, such as battery-powered robotics or solar-powered monitoring systems.

Applications:

• Multimedia Projects: Ideal for high-performance media centers, video editing stations, and gaming setups.
• Home Media Centers: Great for home entertainment systems requiring strong processing and graphics capabilities.
• Server Applications: Well-suited for server-based tasks like file hosting, media streaming, or light server management.

Must Read: Raspberry Pi IoT Projects

8. Libre Computer Board AML-S905X-CC (Le Potato)

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 7,546

Known as “Le Potato,” the Libre Computer Board AML-S905X-CC is an affordable, beginner-friendly board optimized for media playback. It supports 4K video, making it a solid choice for home media setups. With its quad-core processor and Mali-450 GPU, this board is a strong contender for media-centric raspberry Pi alternatives.

Specifications:

• Processor: Amlogic S905X Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A53
• Graphics: Mali-450 GPU for smooth video playback
• RAM: Up to 2GB DDR3
• Connectivity: 4x USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0, Ethernet
• Storage Expansion: MicroSD card slot, eMMC interface

Performance:
Le Potato is designed with media playback in mind, handling 4K video smoothly and supporting multiple Linux distributions. It’s compatible with Android, making it flexible for various multimedia applications.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Affordable, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users or hobbyists.
• 4K Video Playback: Supports 4K video, allowing for high-definition media playback and streaming.
• Linux & Open-Source Support: Compatible with Linux and other open-source software, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced developers.

Cons:

• Limited to USB 2.0: Slower data transfer speeds compared to USB 3.0, limiting performance for data-intensive applications.
• Lacks Advanced Connectivity: Missing advanced connectivity options like USB 3.0 or Gigabit Ethernet, which may restrict its use for high-speed data transfer or network-heavy tasks.

Applications:

• TV Box: Perfect for building an affordable media center or smart TV box to stream content in 4K.
• Digital Signage: Ideal for running digital signage systems in public spaces or business settings.
• Media Streaming Device: A great option for users looking for a budget-friendly solution for media streaming and home entertainment systems.

9. Udoo Bolt V8

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 45,000

The Udoo Bolt V8 is a high-performance single-board computer with an AMD Ryzen Embedded V1000 SoC, delivering speeds up to 3.6 GHz. Known as a “portable supercomputer,” it’s nearly twice as fast as a MacBook Pro 13 and is suited for demanding applications like gaming, AR/VR, AI, and real-time data processing.

Specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded V1000 (up to 3.6 GHz)
• RAM: 2x DDR4 dual-channel, supports up to 32GB
• Storage: 32GB eMMC 5.0, with SSD expansion options
• Connectivity: Dual HDMI, USB-C, Gigabit Ethernet, DisplayPort, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Performance:
The Udoo Bolt V8’s powerful AMD processor and dual-channel RAM support make it a great choice for high-performance computing tasks. It can easily handle AAA gaming, VR, and complex types of AI algorithms, making it one of the most powerful SBCs available.

Pros:

• Strong CPU-GPU Combo: Ideal for intensive projects like VR gaming, AI-powered security surveillance, or portable machine learning workstations.
• 4K Display Support: Can support up to four 4K displays, making it suitable for high-definition multimedia applications.
• Multimedia & Graphics Capabilities: Perfect for high-end gaming, multimedia, and AI applications.
• Versatile Performance: Suitable for graphics-intensive projects requiring significant computational power.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: More expensive than other SBCs, which may be a limitation for budget-conscious builds, such as student IoT prototypes or low-cost robotics kits.
• Not Budget-Friendly: Less feasible for projects where budget is a key factor, making it harder to use for smaller-scale, cost-sensitive applications.

Applications:

• Multimedia Projects: Ideal for users working on high-definition media streaming, video editing, and interactive displays.

• Gaming: Perfect for creating VR gaming consoles, gaming workstations, and other high-performance gaming systems.
• AI & Machine Learning: Suitable for AI-powered security surveillance, machine learning workstations, and deep learning applications.
• Graphics-Intensive Projects: Excellent for applications requiring high-resolution graphics, such as 3D rendering, virtual simulations, or multimedia processing.

It’s well-suited for setups requiring both high computational and graphical capabilities, including VR, AI, and big data analysis.

Also Read: How to Become a Game Developer in India: 13 Key Steps to Success

Raspberry Pi Alternatives for Development and Prototyping

If you're planning a hardware prototype or building a custom development setup, you might need more power, flexibility, or memory than what a standard Raspberry Pi offers. 

Several boards are designed specifically for development and prototyping use cases equipped with stronger CPUs, better RAM, and broader peripheral support.

Below are some of the best raspberry Pi alternatives for advanced development and prototyping, ideal for engineers, tech hobbyists, and makers working on demanding projects.

10. BeagleBone Black: Developer-Friendly with Extensive GPIO

Raspberry pi alternatives India Price: INR 5,899

The BeagleBone Black is a widely-used single-board computer for developers focused on hardware interfacing and prototyping. 

With a 1GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and 512MB of RAM, it’s capable of handling intensive GPIO operations, making it well-suited for applications where direct hardware control is essential.

The board’s extensive I/O pin availability allows for diverse connectivity, which is why it’s popular for testing and development work.

Specifications:

• Processor: 1GHz ARM Cortex-A8
• RAM: 512MB DDR3, suitable for lightweight processing and GPIO tasks
• Storage: 4GB onboard eMMC, with additional storage through microSD
• Connectivity: HDMI, Ethernet, USB, and serial ports for flexible connections
• GPIO: 92 I/O pins, with 65 usable for digital I/O, SPI, I2C, PWM, and analog inputs

Performance:
The BeagleBone Black’s processing power is optimized for projects requiring stable performance rather than high speed. Its ARM Cortex-A8 is reliable for handling sensor networks, basic data processing, and real-time hardware interactions. 

While it doesn’t offer the highest RAM, its architecture makes it stable for development environments requiring precise GPIO control.

Pros:

• Extensive GPIO pin configuration, including PWM, SPI, I2C, and analog inputs, which is highly beneficial for direct hardware manipulation.
• Native support for Debian-based systems and broad compatibility with development tools, making it a developer-friendly choice for hands-on projects.

Cons:

• Limited RAM can restrict applications that require multitasking or high memory usage.
• Minimal graphics support, making it less suitable for applications involving media or graphical interfaces.

Applications:

• Electronics Testing: Ideal for testing electronic circuits and prototypes.
• Hardware Prototyping: Great for developing and testing hardware designs before full-scale production.
• Educational Projects: Perfect for hands-on learning, especially in fields like embedded systems, sensor data processing, and electronics.
• Real-Time Sensor Data Handling: Suited for projects that involve collecting and processing real-time data from sensors.

It’s a preferred option for developers working on robotics, IoT prototypes, or custom hardware solutions that benefit from a stable, GPIO-focused development platform.

Also Read: What Are IOT Devices?: Definition, Uses, Types

Now that you’ve seen the top-performing options, let’s shift focus to budget-friendly Raspberry Pi alternatives that are ideal for simpler or low-cost projects in 2025.

Cheapest Raspberry Pi Alternatives for Budget Projects

Knowing the cheapest raspberry Pi alternatives helps you pick the right board for simple projects without overspending. 

Whether you're learning programming, setting up a basic media center, or building DIY electronics, these budget-friendly options give you the core features you need at a fraction of the price.

Let’s take a look at two popular budget-friendly choices that can easily fit into beginner to intermediate projects.

Libre Computer La Frite

Price: : INR 4,620

 If you're searching for a compact board that supports light computing tasks, Libre Computer La Frite is a solid choice.

• Overview: It supports 1080p video playback and runs lightweight Linux distros like Ubuntu and Debian. The board is great for streaming, coding practice, or simple DIY builds.
• Connectivity: Comes with HDMI, USB, and Ethernet ports, but doesn’t include onboard Wi-Fi—an external dongle may be required.
• Best For: Entry-level electronics, media centers, and basic programming.
•  Extra Tip: Accessories designed for Raspberry Pi might not align perfectly, so double-check compatibility before buying.

Arduino Uno R3

Price:  INR 2,636
If you want to control electronics more than run software, Arduino Uno R3 is a tried-and-tested choice.

• Overview: Unlike a Raspberry Pi, this is a microcontroller—perfect for controlling sensors, actuators, and other components. Ideal for projects that require low power and high input/output flexibility.
• OS/Compatibility: Doesn’t support an operating system, so you’ll write and upload code using the Arduino IDE via a PC.
• Connectivity: No built-in wireless features, but you can add modules for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth as needed.
• Best For: Simple electronics projects, educational kits, DIY automation, and basic robotics.
• Extra Tip: Its straightforward design, active community, and affordability make it perfect for beginners or schools.

Once you’ve explored these budget-friendly boards, the next step is learning how to make the most of them. Let’s look at how upGrad can support your journey with hands-on courses and expert guidance.

How Can upGrad Help You Explore Alternatives to Raspberry Pi?

Working with raspberry Pi alternatives like Jetson Nano, Rock Pi, or BeagleBone Black lets you build advanced IoT, AI, and robotics projects. These boards help you move beyond basics and apply your skills to real-world problems, creating the way for a strong tech career.

So how can you learn the right technologies and build practical, job-ready projects? 

That’s where upGrad supports you. With 500+ expert-led courses, hands-on projects, and tech mentorship, upGrad helps you gain the skills needed to work confidently with high-performance boards and IoT systems.

Here are some of the top courses from upGrad that are relevant to raspberry Pi alternatives:

• Programming with Python: Introduction for Beginners
• Post Graduate Program in Data Science and AI from IIITB
• Cloud Engineer Bootcamp Course
• Advanced Certificate Program in GenAI 
• Fundamentals of Cloud Computing

If you're unsure about the next step, upGrad offers free counseling sessions to help you find courses that fit your goals. You can also  visit an upGrad offline center to explore learning opportunities and plan your next move in tech.

If you’re looking to advance in Machine Learning & AI, check out the Executive PG Programme offered by IIIT-B and upGrad. Tailored for professionals, it offers:

• 450+ hours of hands-on learning
• 30+ case studies and assignments
• IIIT-Bangalore Alumni status
• 5+ practical capstone projects
• Job assistance with top firms

It’s a great way to build real skills while getting support to grow in your career.

Transform your career with our top online Machine Learning and AI courses, designed to equip you with cutting-edge skills and practical knowledge!

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