Raspberry Pi devices have evolved a lot recently, with better performance, newer features, and more options for different uses. If you’re thinking of buying one, here are the newest models, what they offer, and how much they cost (approx) in India as of mid-2025.
Key Models & Their Features
Below are two of the most important Raspberry Pi mini PC models available now, along with their major features.
| Model | Processor / Performance | RAM / Connectivity / Ports | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 5 | Broadcom BCM2712, quad-core ARM Cortex-A76 @ 2.4 GHz — offers ~2-3× CPU improvement over Pi 4. | Multiple variants: 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB (some shops also list 16 GB). Dual 4K60 HDMI output. VideoCore VII GPU. Dual-band WiFi (2.4 & 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0. USB: 2 × USB 3.0 + 2 × USB 2.0. Gigabit Ethernet. PCIe 2.0 interface, etc. | Includes the new RP1 I/O controller for better performance of I/O, improved Image Signal Processor (camera), onboard power button, real-time clock support. Great for desktop use, makers, hobbyists, even light industrial tasks. |
| Raspberry Pi 400 | Based on Raspberry Pi 4’s Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 @ ~1.8 GHz. Slightly less powerful than Pi 5 CPU, but still decent for many tasks. | Comes built into a keyboard. 4 GB RAM. Wireless LAN, dual-band, Bluetooth 5.0. Gigabit Ethernet. 2× USB 3.0, 1× USB2.0. Dual micro-HDMI supporting up to 4K60 output. 40-pin GPIO header. | The idea is “PC-in-a-keyboard” → plug in monitor, mouse & power, and you have a ready-to-use mini PC. Good for beginners, education, coding, media consumption. Its form factor is unique. Less upgrade potential compared to Pi 5. |
Current Prices in India
Prices fluctuate based on variant (RAM), seller, import cost, and GST. Here are rough current prices (including GST where noted) from Indian retailers or distributors:
| Model / Variant | Price (India, approx) |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 5 – 8 GB | ₹8,200-₹9,200 from retailers like Robu.in. |
| Raspberry Pi 5 – 4 GB / other variants | Slightly less (₹6,000 – 8,000) depending on RAM & availability. e.g. ₹6,249 for 4 GB variant at one store. |
| Raspberry Pi 400 (Kit / Keyboard PC) | Around ₹11,500-₹12,000 (in kit form where it includes power supply, mouse, and SD card). Some sellers list the unit itself lower if accessories excluded. |
Pros & Use Cases
Here’s what makes these models shine and where they are especially useful:
- Raspberry Pi 5 is best for users who want more power: multitasking, dual displays, better GPU performance, camera projects, or even light server / home-lab tasks. The 8 GB variant is nice if you plan to do more demanding work (e.g. multiple apps, programming, etc.).
- Raspberry Pi 400 is great if you want something more plug-and-play: you get the mini PC embedded in a keyboard, which reduces setup clutter. Particularly useful in educational settings, media playback, or learning to code.
Limitations & What to Watch Out For
Even with newer models, there are certain trade-offs:
- Storage: They mostly use micro-SD cards (external), which are slower than SSDs. Although Pi 5 supports PCIe interface for external high-speed drives (with add-ons).
- Thermals & Power: When pushing CPU or GPU hard (e.g. heavy loads, video encoding, long use), Pi 5 will need a good cooler or active fan. Power supply requirements are also higher (especially for Pi 5, which demands USB-C PD and more current).
- Software/OS: While Raspberry Pi OS and many Linux distros are well supported, not all software (especially proprietary / commercial) will run easily. For heavy desktop usage, performance still lags behind mid-range laptops or desktops.
- Accessory costs: Cases, power supply, cooling, displays all add to your total cost. Buying “bare board” is cheaper, but to use effectively you often need more peripherals.
What’s Next & Tips for Buying
If you’re considering buying one in the near future, here are some suggestions:
- Decide on RAM size based on what you plan to do. If just coding, light media etc., 4 GB is often enough. For heavier multitasking or media editing, go for 8 GB.
- Check for official accessories to ensure compatibility (power adapter, cooler, case). Using mismatched power supplies can cause instability.
- Watch for sales or bundle offers, especially from Raspberry Pi resellers in India. During festivals or tech sale days, you often get discounts.
- If you’re building something that demands constant uptime or heavy usage, invest in a cooling solution and possibly a better case + passive/active cooling.
- For educational or beginner setups, the Raspberry Pi 400 is good value because most needed components are included and setup is easier.