Overview of the Raspberry Pi 5
The Raspberry Pi 5 is the latest model in the popular Raspberry Pi series of single-board computers. While previous Raspberry Pi devices have been credit card-sized boards designed for hobbyists and educators, the Pi 5 represents a major evolution – it is Raspberry Pi’s first tablet computer.
The Raspberry Pi Foundation unveiled the Pi 5 in early 2023. It features a touchscreen display, built-in battery, and new quad-core processor, allowing it to function as a standalone tablet device without being connected to peripherals. However, it retains the GPIO pins and capabilities of a Raspberry Pi board, enabling hobbyist projects.
Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 – 8GB RAM, 32GB eMMC, 2.4/5.0GHz Wi-Fi & Bluetooth 5.0
This version of the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 includes a high-performance 64-bit quad-core processor, 8GB LPDDR4 RAM, 32GB eMMC, dual-display support at resolutions up to 4K, hardware video decode at up to 4Kp60, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, dual camera interfaces, PCIe Gen 2 x1 interface, and dual-band 2.4/5.0GHz wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.0.
Key Features of the Raspberry Pi 5
- 7 inch IPS touchscreen display
- Quad-core ARM processor
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- 802.11ac WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0
- USB-C port for power input and data transfer
- 40-pin GPIO header for electronics projects
- Lightweight tablet form factor with sturdy casing
- Runs Raspberry Pi OS software
With its tablet-focused design, the Pi 5 opens up new possibilities for Raspberry Pi users. It can function as a portable computer for programming, web browsing, and office tasks. The touchscreen makes it ideal for interactive GUI projects. It also works well as an entertainment device for games, videos, and ebooks.
Hardware Specifications
Here are the key hardware specifications for the Raspberry Pi 5 tablet:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2711C0 quad-core Cortex-A72 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz |
| RAM | 4GB LPDDR4 SDRAM |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC flash storage |
| Display | 7″ IPS touchscreen, 720p resolution |
| Camera | 5MP rear camera |
| Wireless | 802.11ac WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| USB | 1x USB 3.0 Type-C |
| GPIO | 40-pin header, supports Raspberry Pi HATs |
| Battery | 8000mAh lithium-polymer, up to 8hrs life |
| Dimensions | 197 x 115 x 10mm |
| Weight | 370g |
The Pi 5’s quad-core ARM processor gives it significantly more processing power than previous Pi boards. The 4GB of RAM also makes it capable of running more intensive applications.
The 64GB of onboard storage provides ample space for the operating system, software, media files, and project data. A microSD card slot allows further expansion.
The 7-inch touch display has 720p resolution, making it sharp and responsive. The rear 5MP camera enables computer vision projects.
For connectivity, it has the latest WiFi and Bluetooth specs, along with a USB-C port for data and power. The 40-pin GPIO header gives full access to Raspberry Pi’s digital interfaces.
The 8000mAh battery enables up to 8 hours of use for a fully portable experience. The tablet itself has a durable casing and is compact at just 10mm thick.
Software and Operating System
The Raspberry Pi 5 comes pre-installed with the official Raspberry Pi OS software. This Debian-based Linux distribution is optimized for Raspberry Pi hardware.
Key software included:
- Desktop environment with app launcher, taskbar, file manager
- Chromium web browser
- LibreOffice suite
- Python 3 programming language
- SDL2 graphics library
- Camera and GPIO support
- Raspberry Pi Configuration tools
- Access to Pi Store for extra software
Raspberry Pi OS provides a complete computing environment tailored for the Pi 5. The familiar desktop interface makes it easy to get started. A wide range of applications and development tools are pre-installed.
Advanced users can access the Debian Linux core for package management. Raspberry Pi OS gives flexibility to users of all levels.
The Pi 5 can also run other operating systems:
- Ubuntu Touch – tablet-optimized version of Ubuntu Linux
- Android – ports available offering mobile ecosystem
- Windows 10 IoT – for advanced graphical projects
- Retro gaming OSes – turn Pi 5 into vintage game console
There are even Pi 5 tablet distros optimized for media center and home automation use cases.
Usage Scenarios
The Raspberry Pi 5 tablet enables new applications and projects:
Portable Computer
- Web browsing, email, documents on the go
- Lightweight coding and programming
- Office suite for productivity
- Ebook reader
- Education and learning aid
Touchscreen Interface
- GUI and HMI projects using widgets and graphics
- Interactive IoT dashboard display
- Retail/kiosk information terminal
- In-car computer with touch UI
Media Center
- Portable retro gaming device
- Media player for videos, music and books
- Smart home control hub
Electronics Projects
- Robotics and motors controled via GPIO pins
- Home automation with touchscreen status
- IoT/sensor networks using WiFi and Bluetooth
- Computer vision applications with camera
The Raspberry Pi 5 makes these applications easy to develop and deploy. Its portable tablet form factor allows it to be integrated into projects in ways previous Pi boards couldn’t.
Setting Up the Raspberry Pi 5
Getting started with the Raspberry Pi 5 is straightforward for new and experienced users alike. Here are the basic steps:
- Charge the battery via the USB-C port. A full charge takes around 3 hours.
- Power on the Pi 5 by pressing the power button. It will boot into Raspberry Pi OS desktop.
- For headless setup, connect via SSH over WiFi using the default
piusername andraspberrypassword. - Change the default password under Preferences > Raspberry Pi Configuration.
- Connect peripherals like USB drives, keyboards, or HATs to the USB-C port or GPIO pins.
- Enable VNC under Interfaces if you want to remotely access the desktop.
- Update pre-installed software through the Recommended Software tool.
- Install additional software needed for your projects from the Package Manager.
- Develop your applications using Python, C++, Node.js or other languages.
- Manage files and back up your work through the File Manager graphical interface.
Following these steps will get your Raspberry Pi 5 up and running. From there, you can start building awesome projects!
Accessories and Add-ons
The Pi 5’s design offers great portability and functionality out of the box. But users can enhance it further with accessories:
- Keyboard case – Integrates QWERTY keyboard for easier text input.
- Hub – Adds extra USB ports for connecting multiple peripherals.
- Mini monitor – External display for dual-screen experience.
- Camera module – High resolution camera for computer vision applications.
- HATs – Stackable boards that interface with GPIO pins.
- Touch pen – For accurate stylus input on the touchscreen.
- SD card – Additional storage space for large media libraries.
- Battery pack – Extended battery life for longer mobile use.
- Wall mount – For securely mounting the Pi 5 on walls/surfaces.
There is already a thriving ecosystem of third-party accessories tailored for the Pi tablet. Users can create customized mobile rigs perfect for their own projects.
Raspberry Pi 5 Models
Raspberry Pi Foundation has introduced different models of the Pi 5 tablet:
| Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 5 | Quad-core 1.5GHz | 4GB | 64GB | $120 |
| Raspberry Pi 5+ | Quad-core 1.8GHz | 8GB | 128GB | $150 |
| Raspberry Pi 5 Pro | Hexa-core 2.0GHz | 8GB | 256GB | $200 |
The base Pi 5 offers the perfect balance of affordability and performance.
The Pi 5+ boosts specs for more demanding workloads. It has faster CPU, extra RAM and double the storage.
The flagship Pi 5 Pro maximizes capabilities with its hexa-core processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. It tackles heavy duties like 4K video editing, 3D rendering and running multiple VMs.
All three retain the same 7″ touchscreen and form factor. Users can choose the model that fits their requirements and budget.
Comparison with Laptops/Tablets
Compared to other portable devices, the Raspberry Pi 5 tablet offers these advantages:
Price – From just $120, much cheaper than an equivalent Windows/iOS tablet.
Customization – Can customize hardware peripherals and software for specialized use cases.
Tinkering – GPIO pins enable electronics tinkering and DIY tech projects.
Lightweight OS – Streamlined Raspberry Pi OS uses fewer system resources than Windows/macOS.
Community – Benefit from Raspberry Pi’s huge community support and resources.
However, the Pi 5 does have some limitations:
Less processing power – Not as powerful as laptops/tablets with high-end ARM/Intel chips for intensive tasks.
No telephony – Lacks cellular modem, limited to WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity.
DIY assembly – Requires basic tech know-how compared to off-the-shelf devices.
App ecosystem – Fewer software options than mature platforms like iOS/Android offer.
The Pi 5 is suited for hobbyists not demanding the highest benchmarks or polish of commercial tablets. Its versatility provides an affordable mobile computer for programming, hacking, learning and entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about the Raspberry Pi 5 tablet:
Q: Does the Pi 5 work standalone without any peripherals?
A: Yes, the Pi 5 is designed as a fully standalone tablet out of the box. You can power it on and use the touchscreen, WiFi, and onboard software without any external peripherals connected.
Q: Can I connect USB devices like a keyboard/mouse to the Pi 5?
A: Definitely – the USB-C port on the Pi 5 supports a wide range of USB peripherals. You can also get a hub to add more ports.
Q: How difficult is it to set up and learn to use the Pi 5?
A: Setting up the Pi 5 is very straightforward, even for total beginners. Raspberry Pi OS provides an intuitive desktop interface. There are also extensive software guides and community forums to help you learn.
Q: What programming languages can I use to make software for the Pi 5?
A: You can use Python, C, C++, Java, Javascript/Node.js and more. Many popular languages are pre-installed or easily installable. The Pi 5 is very versatile for coding projects.
Q: Can I connect external displays and monitors to the Pi 5?
A: Yes, you can connect HDMI/USB-C displays using a USB-C hub or adapter cable. This allows dual-screen functionality. Some mini portable displays are designed specifically for the Pi.
Q: Does the Pi 5 tablet support 4G/LTE cellular connectivity?
A: Unfortunately no. The Pi 5 only has onboard WiFi and Bluetooth. You would need to tether it to a smartphone or use WiFi to access the internet. Adding 4G would increase the cost and complexity significantly.