What is the Pi 400?
Despite its small size, the Raspberry Pi 400 packs a punch with its quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 processor and built-in graphics processor that supports up to two 4K displays. With 4GB of RAM and an SD card slot for additional storage, the Raspberry Pi 400 can handle a wide range of tasks, including multimedia applications, basic gaming, and even running a small business.
The Raspberry Pi 400 is also highly portable, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go work or learning. Its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allow for wireless internet access and device connectivity, eliminating the need for messy cables and cords.
At a price point of around $70, the Raspberry Pi 400 is an affordable option that provides an impressive amount of power and versatility in a complete computer system built into a keyboard form factor.
Key features
Here are some of the key features of the Raspberry Pi 400:
- Powerful Processor: The Raspberry Pi 400 is powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 processor, which delivers fast and efficient performance.
- Built-in Graphics: The Raspberry Pi 400 has a built-in graphics processor that supports up to two 4K displays, making it ideal for multimedia applications.
- Plenty of Storage: The Raspberry Pi 400 comes with 4GB of RAM and an SD card slot for additional storage, so you can store all your files and applications.
- Connectivity: The Raspberry Pi 400 has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can connect to the internet and other devices wirelessly.
- Easy to Use: The Raspberry Pi 400 comes with a pre-installed Raspberry Pi OS, making it easy to get started with programming and other tasks.
- Expandability: The Raspberry Pi 400 has a variety of ports for connecting peripherals, including USB ports, a gigabit Ethernet port, and a micro-HDMI port.
Technical specifications
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1.8GHz
- RAM: 4GB LPDDR4-3200
- Networking: Dual-band (2.4GHz and 5.0GHz) IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac wireless LAN, Bluetooth 5.0, BLE, Gigabit Ethernet
- Video outputs: 2 × micro-HDMI ports (supports up to 4Kp60)
- USB: 2 × USB 3.0, 1 × USB 2.0
- GPIO: 40-pin GPIO header (accessible via rear slot)
- Storage: MicroSD card slot
- Power: 5V DC via USB-C connector (minimum 3A)
- Operating temperature: 0°C to 50°C
GPIO and expandability
Thanks to its GPIO pins, the Raspberry Pi 400 is not just a computer but a versatile tool for makers and developers. The GPIO pins allow for direct access to the Raspberry Pi's hardware, enabling you to interface with a range of electronic components and sensors to create DIY projects such as home automation systems or robotics.
Accessing GPIO: The Pi 400's 40-pin GPIO header is accessible via a rear slot on the keyboard. You can connect HATs, breakout boards, or jumper wires to the header for electronics projects.
Expandability: You can easily connect a wide range of peripherals:
- Mouse, external keyboard, and external hard drives via USB ports
- Monitors or TVs via micro-HDMI ports
- Gigabit Ethernet for fast and reliable wired internet connectivity
- HATs and accessories via the GPIO header
What you can do with Pi 400
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced coder, a maker or a student, the Raspberry Pi 400 is an incredibly versatile tool that can help you learn, create, and explore.
Learning to code: The Pi 400 comes with a range of programming languages, including Python, Scratch, and Java. This makes it easy for beginners to get started with coding, while also providing enough flexibility and power for experienced developers.
Desktop computing: The Pi 400 is powerful enough for web browsing, office work (LibreOffice, Google Docs), email, and multimedia playback.
Education: Ideal for classrooms, homeschooling, or personal learning. Takes up minimal desk space and provides a complete computer system.
Maker projects: Build robotics, home automation systems, or IoT devices using the GPIO pins and add-on hardware.
Customization: Install a range of operating systems, including Raspberry Pi OS, Ubuntu, and even Windows 10 IoT. Choose the OS that best suits your needs and expertise.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Raspberry Pi 400 is its compact form factor. The keyboard design means that you have a complete computer system that takes up very little desk space. This makes it ideal for use in classrooms, small offices, or at home where space is limited.