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Mini PC vs Raspberry Pi: Which Is Right for Budget IoT Projects?

2/12/2026 · IoT · 8 min

Mini PC vs Raspberry Pi: Which Is Right for Budget IoT Projects?

TL;DR

  • Mini PCs offer more power and flexibility but come at a higher cost.
  • Raspberry Pi is affordable and highly customizable, ideal for DIY enthusiasts.
  • Your choice depends on project complexity, budget, and scalability needs.

Introduction

When starting an Internet of Things (IoT) project, hardware selection can make or break the experience. Two popular options are Mini PCs and Raspberry Pi devices, each catering to different needs. This article explores their features, pros, and cons to help you choose the right solution.

Performance Comparison

Mini PCs

  • Typically powered by x86 processors, Mini PCs deliver desktop-level performance.
  • Ideal for tasks requiring high processing power, such as edge AI or video processing.
  • Supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and custom OS options.

Raspberry Pi

  • Built on ARM architecture, Raspberry Pi excels in low-power scenarios.
  • Performance varies by model, with the Raspberry Pi 4 offering quad-core processing and up to 8GB RAM.
  • Suitable for lightweight tasks like sensor integration and data logging.

Versatility

Mini PCs

  • Equipped with multiple I/O ports, including USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet.
  • Supports external GPUs and other peripherals for advanced projects.
  • More storage options, including SSDs and HDDs.

Raspberry Pi

  • Highly modular and designed for DIY enthusiasts.
  • Extensive GPIO pins for connecting sensors, actuators, and other hardware.
  • A massive community of developers offers libraries, tutorials, and support.

Power Consumption

Mini PCs

  • Consumes more power, typically ranging from 10W to 65W or more.
  • May require active cooling, adding to energy usage.

Raspberry Pi

  • Exceptionally energy-efficient, with power usage between 2.5W and 5W depending on the model.
  • Passive cooling options are sufficient for most applications.

Cost

Mini PCs

  • Prices range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on specifications.
  • Higher upfront cost but delivers better performance and flexibility for resource-intensive projects.

Raspberry Pi

  • Costs between $35 and $75 for the board alone.
  • Additional expenses for peripherals like cases, power supplies, and storage.
  • Still the most budget-friendly option for simple IoT setups.

Ease of Use

Mini PCs

  • Plug-and-play with pre-installed operating systems.
  • Ideal for users who prefer less setup and configuration.

Raspberry Pi

  • Requires some technical expertise to set up and configure.
  • Offers a learning curve but provides excellent opportunities to gain hands-on experience.

Use Case Scenarios

Choose Mini PCs If:

  • You need to run complex applications or handle heavy data processing.
  • Your project requires multiple peripherals and high-speed connectivity.
  • You prefer a more robust, ready-to-use device.

Choose Raspberry Pi If:

  • You are working on a low-budget prototype or small-scale IoT project.
  • Your project needs extensive hardware customization.
  • You enjoy tinkering and learning about hardware and software integration.

Conclusions

Both Mini PCs and Raspberry Pi devices have their strengths and weaknesses. If you are prioritizing performance and ease of use, Mini PCs are a better fit, albeit at a higher cost. On the other hand, Raspberry Pi is unbeatable for low-budget, highly customizable IoT projects. Analyze your project requirements and choose the device that aligns with your goals.

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