The Raspberry Pi 4: new, top-notch and tough to get hold of
25.6.2019
Translation: Eva Francis
The Raspberry Pi Foundation has redesigned its DIY computer. The new additions to the Raspberry Pi 4 have it all: more computing power, more RAM, faster USB and 4K!
The last Raspberry Pi update was more than a year ago. The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ was launched on 14 March 2018, boasting 5 GHz wifi and Gigabit LAN (via USB). The 2019 update is a leap to version 4, offering fittingly exciting developments. The Raspberry Pi Model B is based on a Broadcom system on a chip (SOC), the BCM2711.
A closer look at what's new
More performance means more power consumption. When idle, the new Raspberry Pi requires 4.4 watts (with a USB keyboard, mouse and Ethernet). If you use Wi-Fi instead of Ethernet, you're still looking at 4.2 watts. That's considerably more than the Raspberry Pi 3 B+'s consumption with 3.1 watts (Ethernet) and 2.5 watts (Wi-Fi). At full load, however, its power consumption is relatively similar at 7.6 watts.
But the software doesn't seem to be quite there yet. The Raspberry Foundation is working hard on a new release of Raspian. The new HDMI ports can't be fully used yet because VLC and co. haven't yet been optimised for the new BCM2711 SoC and the chipsets used.
Verdict: a big fat update
I'm thrilled about the new Raspberry Pi 4 Model B. Its idle power consumption of 4.4 watts is an increase of almost a watt. But you get a lot more than that. The additions are practical and give the mini computer numerous new applications. Whether it's a straight replacement for a desktop computer, as the Raspberry Foundation claims on its website, I'm not sure.
However, the Raspberry Foundation is offering the Pi 4 Model B for around the same price as the 3 B+ – that's extremely fair considering what's included. The most exciting developments are definitely the expanded memory, 4K facility, faster network and USB 3.0. The new Raspberry Pi 4 B can finally be used as a mini media centre with Kodi or Plex. Or a mini NAS thanks to the superfast ports. We'll try it out, of course.
Pre-order the new model and accessories
Using the power supply of an older model can make things tricky. The new official adapter is a 3A 15-watt version. But you can use any power supply with an amperage of three or more over USB-C.
If you're looking to reuse an old case, you'll have to use a file to accommodate the HDMI sockets or get yourself one of the new cases. DIY plans using a 3D printer will no doubt be flying around on relevant platforms in the coming days.
You'll need a micro HDMI to HDMI adapter to connect to the monitor. (Not to be confused with mini HDMI!)
Aurel Stevens
Chief Editor
aurel.stevens@digitecgalaxus.chI'm the master tamer at the flea circus that is the editorial team, a nine-to-five writer and 24/7 dad. Technology, computers and hi-fi make me tick. On top of that, I’m a rain-or-shine cyclist and generally in a good mood.
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