$15 Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W is 5x faster than the original Pi Zero

Raspberry Pi founder Eben Upton has announced a $15 Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W board sequel to the $5 Pi Zero board introduced way back in 2015.

Unlike the Raspberry Pi Zero, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W comes with a much faster Raspberry Pi RP3A0 system-in-package designed with a 64-bit quad-core Cortex A53-based Broadcom BCM2710A1 processor clocked at 1GHz, overclockable to 1.2 GHz, and with 512MB SDRAM (meaning it is even five times as fast as the original Raspberry Pi Zero with one-core and 32-bits). I think this is the biggest improvement made in the board, though there are other enhancements like better wireless RF compliance and upgraded CSI-2 camera connection. The Pi Zero 2 W however, has the same board size, port layout, and mounting points as the Pi Zero, meaning it should still fit all existing cases and accessories made for the Pi zero.

The diminutive Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W also features 2.4 GHz 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 LE with PCB antenna, 2x micro USB connections for power and OTG data, 1x mini HDMI port with support for up to 1080 resolution at 30 frames/second, 1x micro SD card slot, and a HAT-compatible 40-pin connector.

Does the board require additional cooling?

Despite the fact that the board has a really small size (65mm x 30mm) and can be overclocked to 1.2 GHz, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W does not have a problem staying cool. The board performs well without a heatsink except if you are using it possibly for full loads for an extended time, or a higher room temperature of about 35°C and above.

Application and Uses Cases

The Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W will be suitable for different use cases because of the available connectors, smaller memory capacity, and power. It will be of great value if you’re working on some specific tasks or even headless projects, but not as a desktop machine. These include a number of smart home applications and IoT projects such as security cameras and Bluetooth speakers.

Production and Availability

The company hopes to get out about 200,000 boards before the end of the year and an additional 250,000 by June next year. I’m sure the board will be a hit with the maker crowd because of the dramatically boosted power and the more flexible wireless options. The board is already available and sold for $15 on retailers like Adafruit and MicroCenter, but you might have to wait a little more for shipping to start.

Other useful details on the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W may be found on the product page.

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