Overview
Whether you're an experienced coder or just starting to learn, a Raspberry Pi starter kit can be a great way to make a strong start on new projects. These kits combine multiple components, so you can pursue several different kinds of projects without having to buy lots of individual separate pieces up front. They have the programming and electronic requirements so you'll be ready for new invention updates.
Here are 3 of the best Raspberry Pi starter kits for beginners and some of their key features.
1. Vilros Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Kit with Clear Case
If you're technically minded and looking for a versatile kit that will allow you to do multiple kinds of projects, this is a great kit to start with. This kit comes with a 64-bit quad processor which can handle 1GB of RAM running at 1.2GHz. Its transparent case makes it easy to see all the ports accessible from the circuit board – and this model has lots of port possibilities.
What's included
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B
- Clear Transparent Case
- Set of 2 Aluminum Heatsinks (1 small, 1 large)
Key specs
- Broadcom BCM2837 64bit ARMv8 Quad-Core Processor at 1.2GHz
- 1GB RAM
- BCM43143 WiFi
- Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
- 40-pin extended GPIO
- 4 x USB 2.0 ports
- 4-pole Stereo output and Composite video port
- Full-size HDMI
- CSI camera port
- DSI display port
- MicroSD port
- Upgraded Micro USB power source (supports up to 2.4 Amps)
Pro Tip: If you're just getting started with Raspberry Pi, make sure to install the Raspbian Operating System. Check out: 9 Things to Do After Buying a Raspberry Pi.
2. Vilros Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ Complete Starter Kit
If you're a beginner or hobbyist facing challenges in creating great project designs, then check out this complete starter kit model released in March 2018. This kit comes with the newest Pi 3 B+ Board and is great in a school or other educational setting to introduce students to creating projects.
Its many accessories – including a 5-foot Micro USB power supply cord and a Samsung Micro SD card preloaded with NOOBS – make it easy to get started in no time. Plus, Vilros covers all parts of this kit with a full 1-Year warranty.
What's included
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ (Plus)
- Self-Cooling Aluminum Case (functions as a heatsink)
- Samsung 32 GB Evo Plus (Class 10) Micro SD Card Preloaded With NOOBS
- Certified 2.5 Amp USB Power Supply with Micro USB Cable and ON/OFF Switch & Noise Filter
- 5 Ft. CEC Compatible HDMI Cable
- Full 1-Year Warranty, backed by 5-Star US-based Customer Support
Key specs
- Broadcom BCM2837B0, Cortex-A53, 64-bit SoC at 1.4 GHz (upgraded on Pi 3+)
- 1GB LPDDR2 SDRAM
- BCM43143 WiFi
- Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy (BLE)
- 5V DC via GPIO header
- 4 x USB 2.0 ports
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) enabled (requiring separate PoE HAT for 3B+)
- Vilros Raspberry Pi 3+ Quick Start Guide included
3. Vilros Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ Retro Arcade Gaming Kit
If your children love to play video games and want to fix any problems themselves, that's a great sign they could become passionate about technology and design. For them, this Retro Arcade Gaming Kit could be a wonderful introduction to learning both design and technology in a fun way at home.
This kit contains all the components needed for creating great designs and comes with retro style game controllers for playing classic old-school games. You also get a detailed booklet with instructions for assembly, so it's easy to make a quick-start. Plus, this kit's quality hardware features and flexible interface mean it can grow with your children as they develop their skills and abilities.
What's included
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ (Plus)
- 5-Piece Retro USB-style Gamepad (with classic Nintendo & Sega Genesis-style controllers)
- Samsung 32 GB Evo Plus (Class 10) Micro SD Card Preloaded with NOOBS & RETROPIE
- 8GB Flash Drive preloaded with folders for easy game transfers
- 2.5 Power Supply with Switch—HDMI Cable—Heatsink
- Vilros Quick Start Booklet with Retro Gaming Instructions
- Full 1-Year Warranty, backed by 5-Star US-based Customer Support
Key specs
- Broadcom BCM2837B0, Cortex-A53, 64-bit SoC at 1.4 GHz (upgraded on Pi 3+)
- Upgraded onboard WiFi and Bluetooth Connectivity
- UL Certified 2.5A Micro USB Power Supply and 5 Ft. High-Quality HDMI Cable
- Set of 2 Heatsinks
Note: This kit requires hookup with a monitor and a mouse, not included. In order to play games, ROMs must be downloaded and installed.
With these starter kits, it can be fun and easy for anyone to get started designing with Raspberry Pi!
By Asher Klien