While using a Raspberry Pi without a case is fine, it's best to put it into a case. Using a case adds character, makes it easier to carry around, and protects it against accidental damage. There are also many different types of cases available.
This article lists my recommended cases for Raspberry Pi 4 (Model B) and Raspberry Pi Zero (Zero v1.3, Zero Wireless, and Zero 2).
If you don't already have a Raspberry Pi, I also list my recommended Raspberry Pi kits
below.
Aluminum Raspberry Pi 4 Cases
Aluminum cases are an excellent option if you're overclocking a Raspberry Pi. These cases are usually silent and keep your device very cool. The downside is that some aluminum cases might cause some interference with the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals which can weaken the signal. With that said, some cases are also designed to limit signal interference.
- This case has a sliding magnetic top to access the GPIO ports, display module, camera module, and PoE pins.
- It has an additional fan HAT to cool your Raspberry Pi.
- It comes with an 18-watt type-C power supply.
- Top-rated Raspberry Pi case.
- The cleanly designed aluminum case keeps your Raspberry Pi cool.
- The main connectors, including GPIO, are accessible through the bottom of the case.
- Built-in heatsink with thermal pad and four screws.
- This case has a programmable power button to power on/off your Raspberry Pi easily.
- The aluminum case and core serve as a passive heatsink to keep it cool without requiring a fan.
- Easy-access ports and includes VESA wall mounting brackets to attach the Raspberry Pi to any surface or monitor.
- This case has a solid aluminum body for dissipating heat naturally without fans.
- All ports/
slots are easily accessible, and it has a window for Wi-Fi to improve connection. - It comes with three thermal pads and two aluminum blocks for extra cooling.
- Passive cooling aluminum case, so there's no need for a fan.
- Access to all Raspberry Pi ports and space for GPIO and camera cables.
- The case is designed for additional heat dissipation and comes with two heatsinks and thermal pads.
- Wall mount capable and pre-drilled mounting holes for optional antennas.
Touchscreen Raspberry Pi 4 Case
Having a touchscreen on your Raspberry Pi case can add flexibility and more uses to your device. It can also reduce the space needed to see if everything is working correctly on your Raspberry Pi.
- This case includes a 4-inch IPS LCD touch screen (800x480 resolution). Touch functionality is only available with: Kali, Raspbian, Ubuntu, Octopi.
- It also includes a fan, heatsinks, and a touch pen.
Transparent Raspberry Pi 4 Case
Transparent cases are great for showing off your Raspberry Pi and style while keeping it protected.
- This case is made of high-quality acrylic and blue ABS material with access to all Raspberry Pi ports.
- Comes with fan and heat sinks.
- This slimline case is high-quality acrylic with a GPIO cutout and accessible ports.
- Cutout for a 40x30mm fan or heatsink.
- This neat little case makes your Raspberry Pi look like a mini desktop computer. The case is made of aluminum and clear acrylic and has access to all the ports.
- It comes with a cooling fan, a large heatsink, and adjustable light.
M.2 SSD Raspberry Pi 4 Case
Most Raspberry Pi cases don't have space or a slot for using an M.2 SSD. The case below is the best for using an M.2 SSD with your Raspberry Pi.
- This case is made for using with an M.2 SSD (B-Key or B+M Key).
- It includes two full-sized HDMI ports, a built-in IR for remote functionality, and a power button.
- Recommended M.2 SSDs for the Argon ONE M.2 case:
Raspberry Pi Zero 2
- This case is made from aluminum with a built-in heatsink.
- Compatible with the Raspberry Pi Zero 2.
- This case is made from stainless steel and acrylic. It's available in 3 color variations and is compatible with the Raspberry Pi Zero 2.
- Includes a heatsink and has cutouts for the SD card and camera ports.
Raspberry Pi Zero 1.3 & Zero Wireless
- This case fits the Raspberry Pi Zero Version 1.3 & Zero Wireless.
- It comes with a GPIO cutout and access to the camera port.
Best Fan for Raspberry Pi
Sometimes fans stop working or are way too loud. If you need a replacement, this fan is the best one available for keeping your Raspberry Pi quiet and cool.
- Premium quiet 5V fan.
- Rated for 150,000 hours of use.
- 40x40x10 mm.
Best Raspberry Pi Kits
Raspberry Pi kits are good for getting everything you need in one package. You'll be getting mostly everything you need to start, including the Raspberry Pi device.
- The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is great if you want something faster with more flexibility than the Raspberry Pi Zero W. It's also easier to customize if you're going to modify it later.
The Raspberry Pi Zero W is the lowest-cost and smallest kit option that's good for starting. It has a slower processor and less RAM than the other two Raspberry Pi devices.
The Raspberry Pi Zero W is useful for projects such as robots since it requires less power. However, having fewer ports and lower speeds than the other Raspberry Pi devices may not have as much flexibility for a broader range of projects.
Alternative to Raspberry Pi
Depending on your use case, this Beelink Mini S PC might be an excellent alternative to the Raspberry Pi. It's small and compact, yet even more powerful. If you still want to use Pi OS, you can install it on this mini PC by following these instructions.
- Beelink Mini S specs:
- 2.9 GHz four-core processor
- 8 GB DDR4 RAM
- Supports dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz) Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Ethernet port
- Two HDMI ports that support 4K 60 Hz
- Four USB 3.0 ports
- NO GPIO port
- Only the mini PC is in the box, so you'll need the usual PC accessories.
- Beelink Mini S Mini PC with N5095 CPU on Amazon
Required Items to Start
Some Raspberry Pi kits include most items that are required for starting. With that said, it's best to make sure you have all that you need.
Below is a list of all that is required to begin. I've also included some recommended products to make it easier to choose.
USB Power Adapter
Depending on the model, you will need either a micro USB or USB C power adapter to use your Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi 4B uses a USB C power adapter. The Raspberry Pi Zero W uses a micro USB power adapter.
Raspberry Pi 4B Power Supply on Amazon
Raspberry Pi Zero W Power Supply on Amazon
MicroSD Card
Lower capacity microSD cards ( 8 GB) will work for most projects, but a 32 GB or higher microSD card is recommended since there's not much price difference. A larger microSD card would allow you to repurpose the Raspberry Pi in the future or use it for multiple tasks.
I recommend the SanDisk Extreme Pro 32 GB SDHC Memory Card on Amazon if you don't already have one and aren't getting one in a kit.
Ethernet or Wi-Fi
The Raspberry Pi 400 and 4 Model B both have an Ethernet port and Wi-Fi capability. The Raspberry Pi Zero W only has Wi-Fi.
Using Ethernet, which requires an Ethernet cable, may provide a slightly faster response time for some projects and a more stable connection than Wi-Fi. However, you most likely won't notice much of a difference between the two.
Mouse and Keyboard
To first set up your Raspberry Pi, you will need a USB keyboard and USB mouse. After setting up your Raspberry Pi, you can use a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse if you want to instead.
If you need a keyboard, I recommend Mechanical Keyboards on Amazon for the most enjoyable experience.
If you need a mouse, I recommend getting a Logitech Wired USB Mouse on Amazon
TV or Monitor
You will need a TV or monitor to view the Raspberry Pi OS desktop environment.
Check out my other articles for Choosing the Best Monitor for Programming and How to Choose a Gaming Monitor.
HDMI to Micro-HDMI Cable
To connect a display that has an HDMI port to the Raspberry Pi, you will need an HDMI to micro-HDMI cable or adapter.
I recommend the UGREEN 10FT Micro HDMI to HDMI Cable Adapter 4K 60 Hz on Amazon if you don't already have one and aren't getting one in a kit.
Headphones or Speakers
If your project involves anything with sound, you will need either Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
I recommend the OontZ Angle 3 Bluetooth Portable Speaker on Amazon if you want a small Bluetooth speaker.
If you want some headphones, check out my other article: Are Noise-Cancelling Headphones Worth the Added Expense?
A Case
If you aren't getting a Raspberry Pi kit, which includes a case, you may want one to provide protection and easier portability. Getting a case is optional, and your Raspberry Pi will still be usable without one.
Keep in mind that there are different versions of cases depending on which model of Raspberry Pi you are going to get.
Raspberry Pi 4 Model B Cases on Amazon Raspberry Pi Zero W Cases on Amazon