The Raspberry Pi 5’s new 2GB variant has hit the shelves, and it’s packing more than just a smaller memory footprint. As highlighted by the company’s head, Eben Upton, this latest iteration of the popular single-board computer brings a host of improvements under the hood. The new 2GB model sports an updated Broadcom BCM2712C1 processor with a D0 stepping, trimming away unused functionalities to optimize performance and efficiency.
Tech enthusiast and vlogger Jeff Geerling has put the new Raspberry Pi 5 2GB through its paces, confirming that it mirrors the performance of its 4GB and 8GB siblings, with one notable exception: RAM-dependent tasks. The major highlight, however, is the chip’s reduced size, which is 33% smaller than its predecessor—a detail Geerling verified by peeling back the thermal spreader and measuring the silicon directly.
But it’s not just the size that’s impressive. The 2GB model also boasts significant power and thermal efficiency. In standby mode, it draws just 2.4 watts, while during intensive tasks, it requires 8.9 watts—down from the 4GB’s 3.3 watts and 9.8 watts, respectively. Additionally, it runs cooler, with temperatures reaching only 30°C at idle and 59°C under load, compared to the 4GB model’s 32°C and 63°C.
While the specifics of the missing functionalities in the new D0 stepping remain vague, Geerling suggests that it might be linked to the dedicated RP1 I/O chip, which manages Ethernet, USB, display, and GPIO interfaces. The company has yet to confirm if the D0 stepping will extend to the 4GB and 8GB versions, but the possibility of using a more cost-effective processor could potentially benefit all models.
Overall, the new Raspberry Pi 5 2GB offers a compelling option for those seeking an efficient, high-performance board without the higher power demands of its larger counterparts.
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