Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W vs Pi Zero: The Tiny $5-$15 Computers in 2026
In November 2015 Raspberry Pi launched the $5 Raspberry Pi Zero, a computer so cheap it was given away free on the cover of MagPi magazine. I’ve followed Raspberry Pi devices for years, from the official case to the official touchscreen, and the Zero was a sensation that sold out everywhere. The family has grown since, with the Zero 2 W. Here’s how they compare in 2026.
Quick answer: The original Pi Zero ($5) has a single-core processor and no wireless. The Pi Zero W adds Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W (launched 2021 at $15) keeps the same tiny size but uses a quad-core processor, making it roughly five times faster for multi-threaded tasks. For most new projects, the Zero 2 W is the one to buy.
Table of Contents
Raspberry Pi Zero models compared
- Pi Zero (2015): 1GHz single-core, 512MB RAM, mini HDMI, micro USB, no wireless.
- Pi Zero W (2017): same as Zero plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Pi Zero 2 W (2021): 1GHz quad-core Arm Cortex-A53, 512MB RAM, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, same footprint.
- “H” versions come with pre-soldered GPIO headers.
What you can build
- Network ad blocker (Pi-hole) or VPN server.
- Retro gaming handhelds and tiny media players.
- Weather stations, sensors and home automation nodes.
- USB gadgets, security cameras and time-lapse rigs.
What else you need
- A microSD card with Raspberry Pi OS (Lite for headless projects).
- A 5V micro USB power supply.
- Mini HDMI and USB OTG adapters if you connect a screen or keyboard.
- A case and, for the Zero, a GPIO header if you need one.
When to choose a bigger Pi
For desktop use, heavier software or many USB devices, a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 is a better fit. The Zero range shines where size, power use and cost matter most. See the official Zero 2 W page (external site) for full specs.
FAQ
Is the Raspberry Pi Zero still $5?
The original Zero kept a very low list price, but availability and local prices vary.
Can a Pi Zero 2 W run a desktop?
It can run a lightweight desktop, but 512MB of RAM limits web browsing.
Does the Pi Zero have Wi-Fi?
The original doesn’t; the Zero W and Zero 2 W do.
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A mini computer with only 5 $ will be a great thing. I would love to have it.
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The raspberry pi is an awesome line of micro-computers and is great for both people with a low income and as a component to power your low power projects. I like how the price of this model is so low.
so from where i can buy this mini computer??
I want a raspberi pi so badly. Just haven’t gotten around to buying one yet.
Excellent device to the people who needs a cheap and functonal PC. It’s amazing when someone want do something to help other people. This can be a milestone for the computer industry
Rapid advancements in technology make it possible.
This is crazy! As he says the cost used to be prohibitive for some people to get into computers. At this price it just opens up so much possibility. I totally missed the give-away on the magazine, but I’m going to get a PiZero!
Recently Raspberry Pi launched their latest computer called Raspberry Pi Zero, a 5$ computer which promises to change the way even Raspberry devices are used. It is possibly the cheapest computer hardware available in the market and pushes computing costs to a new low.
It features an 1Ghz, Single-core CPU with 512MB RAM. It has a mini HDMI and USB On-The-Go ports, and is powered by Micro USB power. It also features a HAT-compatible 40-pin header and composite video and reset headers.
Is that offer is still available ? please tell me
This article made me laugh so hard because i clearly remember the banner in Karachi which stating that “buy Computer Rs 100 / Kg.” Means USD 1 / Kg.
Honestly, I have never used Raspbery Pi but everyone is talking about it.
This is great thing if I can on example run a small backup server (with linux) on it :) ?
Does it have WiFi? Or Lan?
Thanks in advance for your answer
I use Raspberry Pi, for research & developement. I am a big fan of it. Thanks for update
Thanks for this review of the raspberry pi . $5? That is really really crazy.
this is really a good news that a computer is only in 5 $. in the devoloping countries it is like a wish…
Damn ! A Computer only at $5 ?? :o i cant believe. where can i buy it bro ?
Raspberry Pi – I have been keep on reading about this, your’s is one today that makes some lesson.
New version of rasberry pi is very useful!
nice
I like the power consumption of PiZero, it’s much lower than other pi’s.
The only thing I really miss is the CSI connector for the Pi Camera. I have so much projects involving camera in mind!
nice posttt
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Thanks for sharing with us.
Enjoy the day.
rasperry pi is really useful and cheap
It was a short deal : Now it isn’t available
Raspberry Pi, only $5? Good for 3rd world countries!
This is very useful guide for me, Thank’s for sharing this strategy
Hey good to know about raspberry pie Zero. I would like to get this inexpensive computer to manage my online tasks. Could you please help me to find out the best place to purchase it?
Wow! its amazing. The Raspberry Pi Zero is half the size of a Model A+, with twice the utility.
Yeah, good thing and just only $5
Pi Zero is meant to be for integrating into projects. Like stuff you would use an Arduino, for when you need more processing power and a full OS. It really isn’t meant to replace other Pis.
The ports on there are largely there for first time programming and setup. Gpio header requiring soldering is kind of a dead giveaway. This is a little project pi you integrate into other projects,
How its possible just for $5. where to buy?
Version 1.3 is updated to include a camera port. The new Pi Zero camera port only works with a Raspberry Pi Zero Camera Cable. It DOES NOT work with a standard Raspberry Pi Camera cable.
That would be amazing. A Min-computer for only 5$.
I suppose that the last post on this blog was in Dec 2015.
Why your blog is not updating now?
Mini computer only for 5$ thats amazing deal.Can you tell me where i can buy it from?
It is great but it i can’t find it anywhere online. Is this availabe at some store? where can i get it from?
its really interesting ! Computer with a price of $5 will be some new interesting revolution and it will simply enhance the desire of people to purchase a computer with in low range of money. Thanks for sharing…
The recent version of Raspberry is Pi 3, We have tested and verified it. Visit esprit.co.in to know more about mobile app development including android, iphone and php web development using latest tools and technologies.
Wow! I’ve never heard of this. Only $5, that’s crazy!
I like the power consumption of PiZero, it’s much lower than other pi’s.
The only thing I really miss is the CSI connector for the Pi Camera. I have so much projects involving camera in mind!
Delivery was ~7 days, but it is still cheaper then buying from local German resellers and product was in stock. Was able to get it here while all other resellers show “Backorder” tag when trying to order.
Good job Pimoroni!
Cheers!
wow Great news I can’t believe this because we are getting computer for $5. Let me the reviews about this product. Who already purchased this please give me review
This is crazy! As he says the cost used to be prohibitive for some people to get into computers. At this price it just opens up so much possibility. I totally missed the give-away on the magazine, but I’m going to get a PiZero!
Zero is a full-fledged member of the Raspberry Pi family, The Raspberry Pi Zero is half the size of a Model A+, with twice the utility. A tiny Raspberry Pi that’s affordable enough for any project
What is expected launching date sir ?
Can you tell me more about this computer?? Would be helpful for me. thank you.
Raspberry Pi Zero? How come i’ve never seen any of this? at $5 dollar i’m not surprised its sold out everywhere.
We now have 5 USD computers and phones with 4 GB of Ram! Funny world!
I can’t believe this because we are getting computer for $5. Let me the reviews about this product. Who already purchased this please give me review
this is really a good news that a computer is only in 5 $, where i can buy it ?
wow Great news Raspberry Pi Zero is just 5$ awesome dear
Thanks for d lovly post :)
The article is good. The small Partner raspberry Pi is so powerful and flexible I like to do experiment with it. Thanks for sharing
The Raspberry Pi 2 is less than half the cost of a PS4 or Xbox One game but, given the time and effort, could provide far more satisfaction in the long run. Available since December, the new sleek Raspbian desktop runs well on the B+, but on the Pi 2, it feels like a responsive desktop that we normally see on our main computers.
I love the idea, although I wouldn’t purchase one, I would sure invest in the company.
Raspberry Pi Zero? How come i’ve never seen any of this? at $5 dollar i’m not surprised its sold out everywhere. I’ll check online stores to see if i can cop mine.
Thanks for sharing this.
Both Intel and Raspberry Pi are handing pocket PC’s.
Good article. I can’t believe this because we are getting computer for $5. Let me the reviews about this product. Who already purchased this please give me review. Thanks.
I can’t believe I’m only hearing about this now. It’s so awesome what these developers are doing. Have you ever tried it out?
Raspberry Pi is available at different site at price ranging from $5 to $50 , what exactly real difference between them,please find
amazing to know that technology is moving so fast.. that we are getting high version hardware at such a low price..
Good One. May be this is good to be at the 5$ price but may impact the other technology which is upcoming.
Raspberry Pi – I have been keep on reading about this, your’s is one today that makes some lesson.
Raspberry Pi new version is sounds good but not used it yet. Looking forward to use it and the computer cost $5 generates more people to buy it.
Wow is this for real? Just $5? I guess there must be some other things attached to it. Anyway, how can I get one?
I think that this product should be offered to people in poor countries.
That Little small thing is so powerful and flexible. I like to do experimental things with the small Partner raspberry Pi :)
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this is really a good news that a computer is only in 5 $. in the devoloping countries it is like a wish…
Where can I buy this computer? I couldn’t find it for this price. On Amazan, they sell a Raspberry for around 90$ and that’s an used one.
where can i buy it and does it have a hdmi port .. where is the display port..or is it something like 8086
I heard about Raspberry Pi Zero few months back. At first, I could not understand what was it. But today while scrolling through your blog, it caught my attention. Really, the technology is crossing all barriers. Thanks for sharing with us. :)
Mini computer only for 5$ thats amazing deal.Can you tell me where i can buy it from
Raspberry Pi newly version is very good. I already a user of this. And their rate is also so cheap.