Finding the best Raspberry Pi Pico board depends on your project needs, budget, and experience level. The Raspberry Pi Pico W stands out as the overall best thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi for connected projects, while the Pico WH offers easy soldering with pre-soldered headers for quick setup. If you need a versatile starter, the KEYESTUDIO Pico Starter Kit combines GPIO options with beginner-friendly features. The main tradeoffs involve balancing features like wireless connectivity, ease of use, and price. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you pick the right board for your specific application.
Key Takeaways
- The Raspberry Pi Pico W is the top choice for wireless projects due to its built-in Wi-Fi, despite a slightly higher price point.
- Pre-soldered header models like the Pico WH and Freenove make setup faster, ideal for beginners or rapid prototyping.
- Multiple pack options, such as the 2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico, offer better value for bulk projects or testing multiple units.
- The KEYESTUDIO kit provides extensive accessories and beginner-friendly features, perfect for those new to microcontrollers.
- Tradeoffs often involve balancing onboard features like Wi-Fi or extensive GPIO against cost and complexity.
| Raspberry Pi Pico W |  | Best Overall for IoT Connectivity | Processor: Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ | Internal RAM: 264kB | Maximum Flash Memory: 16MB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Raspberry Pi Pico WH |  | Best for Feature-Rich Embedded Projects | Processor: RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | Clock Speed: up to 133 MHz | SRAM: 264kB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller Development Board with Pre-Soldered Header |  | Best for Easy Prototyping and Custom Projects | Microcontroller: RP2040 | Processor: Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | Clock Speed: up to 133 MHz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Raspberry Pi Pico |  | Best Budget Powerhouse | Processor: RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | Clock Speed: up to 133 MHz | SRAM: 264kB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Waveshare Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller Board with RP2040 Chip |  | Best for Development with Multiple Digital Interfaces | Processor: RP2040 dual-core Cortex M0+ | Clock Speed: 133 MHz | SRAM: 264kB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Freenove Raspberry Pi Pico Board with Pre-Soldered Header, Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ Microcontroller, Development Board |  | Best for Versatile Learning and Prototyping | Processor: Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ | Included: Pre-soldered header, pinout card, stickers | Supported Languages: MicroPython, C, Java | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico Development Board with RP2040 Microcontroller |  | Best for Multi-Project Development and Extended Testing | Processor: Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | Clock Speed: Up to 133 MHz | SRAM: 264KB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Raspberry Pi Pico 2 |  | Best for Advanced Embedded Applications | Processors: Dual Arm Cortex-M33 or RISC-V Hazard3 @ 150MHz | SRAM: 520 KB | Flash: 4 MB onboard QSPI | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KEYESTUDIO Raspberry Pi Pico Basic Starter Kit with Headers Micro USB Cable, Pico RP2040 Microcontroller, Flexible 26 Multifunction GPIO Pins, Temperature Sensor, Programmable in C & MicroPython |  | Best for Beginner Projects and Education | Microcontroller: RP2040 | Processor: Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ | Internal RAM: 264KB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Raspberry Pi Pico board | Processor | SRAM | Flash Memory | Clock Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Pico W | Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ | — | — | — |
| Raspberry Pi Pico WH | RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | 264kB | 2MB | up to 133 MHz |
| Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontrol | Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | 264kB | 2MB | up to 133 MHz |
| Raspberry Pi Pico | RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | 264kB | 2MB | up to 133 MHz |
| Waveshare Raspberry Pi Pico Mi | RP2040 dual-core Cortex M0+ | 264kB | 2MB | 133 MHz |
| Freenove Raspberry Pi Pico Boa | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ | — | — | — |
| 2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico Devel | Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ | 264KB | 2MB onboard, supports up to 16MB off-chip | Up to 133 MHz |
| Raspberry Pi Pico 2 | — | 520 KB | — | — |
| KEYESTUDIO Raspberry Pi Pico B | Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ | — | Up to 16MB | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Raspberry Pi Pico W
The Raspberry Pi Pico W stands out for integrating built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi into a compact microcontroller, making it the ideal choice for IoT projects where wireless connectivity is essential. Compared to the Raspberry Pi Pico, which lacks wireless features, this model streamlines IoT development by combining processing power with network access without additional modules. However, its limited onboard storage means you’ll need external flash for larger applications, and it still requires peripheral components for a full IoT setup. This pick makes the most sense for makers who prioritize compactness and built-in wireless, accepting some extra complexity in storage management.
Pros:- Built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi simplifies wireless IoT projects
- Compact and versatile form factor
- Extensive compliance testing ensures consistent performance
Cons:- Limited onboard storage without external flash
- Requires additional components for complete IoT solutions
Best for: Developers building IoT devices and wireless sensors who want a reliable, ready-to-use solution.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a microcontroller without wireless capabilities or those with minimal space requirements, as the W version’s added wireless module slightly increases size and complexity.
- Processor:Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+
- Internal RAM:264kB
- Maximum Flash Memory:16MB
- Wireless:2.4GHz 802.11n Wi-Fi
Our verdict“This is the best choice for IoT projects that need integrated wireless connectivity in a small, reliable package.”
Raspberry Pi Pico WH
The Raspberry Pi Pico WH offers a well-rounded set of features with dual-core processing, 2MB onboard Flash, and both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2, making it a strong candidate for embedded projects that demand multiple wireless options. Compared with the Pico W, the WH’s Bluetooth 5.2 support expands connectivity options, suitable for more complex or multi-protocol environments. Its 26 GPIO pins provide ample I/O, but the limited onboard Flash could restrict larger programs, and it lacks onboard display or camera support. This device makes sense for those who need versatility in wireless and GPIO but are okay with external peripherals for advanced features.
Pros:- Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ processor offers solid performance
- Supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 for versatile connectivity
- 26 GPIO pins for flexible project integration
Cons:- Limited onboard Flash memory for large applications
- No onboard display or camera support
Best for: Developers creating embedded applications requiring both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity in a single, compact board.
Not ideal for: Users seeking maximum onboard storage or integrated peripherals like display modules, as the Pico WH focuses on connectivity options over built-in extras.
- Processor:RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+
- Clock Speed:up to 133 MHz
- SRAM:264kB
- Flash Memory:2MB
- USB Support:USB 1.1 Host and Device
- Wireless:Wi-Fi 802.11n, Bluetooth 5.2
Our verdict“Ideal for multi-protocol wireless projects that benefit from a compact, feature-rich microcontroller.”
Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller Development Board with Pre-Soldered Header
This development board simplifies integration with a pre-soldered header, making it particularly accessible for those who want to start prototyping immediately. Compared to the bare Raspberry Pi Pico, this version reduces setup time and soldering effort, ideal for educators and hobbyists. Its support for multiple communication protocols like SPI, I2C, and UART, along with low-power sleep modes, enhances energy efficiency in custom designs. However, the limited onboard storage and absence of wireless features mean it’s less suited for IoT or large-scale applications. This board suits hobbyists and students who need quick, reliable connections and easy soldering, but not those looking for wireless or high-storage capacity.
Pros:- Pre-soldered header facilitates quick setup
- Supports multiple communication protocols
- Low-power sleep modes improve energy efficiency
Cons:- Limited onboard storage for complex applications
- No built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Best for: Hobbyists, students, or educators looking for a straightforward platform to learn and prototype with minimal setup complexity.
Not ideal for: Advanced IoT projects or applications requiring wireless connectivity or large codebases, due to lack of onboard Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and limited storage.
- Microcontroller:RP2040
- Processor:Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+
- Clock Speed:up to 133 MHz
- SRAM:264kB
- Flash Memory:2MB
- Connectivity:USB 1.1 (device and host)
Our verdict“This board is perfect for quick-start projects and learning environments that prioritize ease of use over wireless features.”
Raspberry Pi Pico
The classic Raspberry Pi Pico offers robust performance with a dual-core Cortex M0+ processor and 2MB onboard Flash, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of projects. Compared to the Pico W and Pico WH, it lacks built-in wireless but provides ample onboard memory and GPIO pins for traditional electronics applications. Its castellated form factor simplifies soldering into custom PCBs, but this means it requires additional power management components for standalone projects. This model makes the most sense for users who need reliable processing power and maximum flexibility without wireless, especially when budget constraints are a concern.
Pros:- Powerful dual-core processor handles multiple tasks
- Ample onboard memory and GPIO pins
- Castellated design for easy soldering into custom boards
Cons:- No onboard wireless or peripherals
- Requires additional components for standalone projects
Best for: Developers focused on basic electronics projects and custom PCB integration without needing wireless features.
Not ideal for: Wireless IoT applications or those requiring quick prototyping with integrated connectivity, as this model does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- Processor:RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+
- Clock Speed:up to 133 MHz
- SRAM:264kB
- Flash Memory:2MB
- GPIO Pins:26
- Form Factor:Castellated module
Our verdict“Best suited for cost-conscious developers needing a reliable microcontroller with flexible integration options.”
Waveshare Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller Board with RP2040 Chip
The Waveshare Pico board emphasizes versatility with 26 GPIO pins and a broad array of interfaces like SPI, I2C, UART, PWM, and ADC, making it suitable for complex projects requiring multiple peripherals. Compared with the standard Pico, the inclusion of these interfaces and a ready-to-use header allows for quicker development of multi-sensor and peripheral-rich applications. Its limited onboard memory remains a consideration for large programs, and setup may require some technical familiarity. This board is well-suited for engineers and experienced hobbyists who need an easy-to-connect platform for diverse digital peripherals but do not prioritize wireless features.
Pros:- Multiple interfaces support complex connectivity
- Includes header and cable for straightforward setup
- High-performance dual-core processor
Cons:- Limited onboard memory for heavy applications
- Requires some technical setup and knowledge
Best for: Advanced hobbyists and professionals designing intricate electronics with multiple interfaces and peripherals.
Not ideal for: Beginners or projects that demand built-in wireless or high onboard storage, as it focuses on digital connectivity rather than wireless or large codebases.
- Processor:RP2040 dual-core Cortex M0+
- Clock Speed:133 MHz
- SRAM:264kB
- Flash Memory:2MB
- GPIO Pins:26
- Interfaces:SPI, I2C, UART, PWM, ADC, USB 1.1
Our verdict“Perfect for projects that involve multiple sensors and peripherals, especially when wireless is not a priority.”
Freenove Raspberry Pi Pico Board with Pre-Soldered Header, Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ Microcontroller, Development Board
This Freenove Pico stands out for its ease of setup thanks to pre-soldered headers, making it a strong choice for those new to microcontrollers. Compared to the Raspberry Pi Pico, which requires soldering, this board simplifies initial development, but it lacks comprehensive tutorials—users needing detailed guidance might prefer other options like the Starter Kit. Its support for MicroPython, C, and Java broadens application possibilities, though it’s still a basic development environment. This board is ideal for hobbyists and educators who want a straightforward entry point without soldering fuss, but less suited for advanced users needing extensive on-board peripherals or custom hardware.
Pros:- Pre-soldered headers for quick setup
- Supports multiple programming languages including Java
- Includes detailed tutorials and example projects
- Compact and versatile for various projects
Cons:- Requires additional components for some projects
- No paper tutorial included, only digital resources
- Basic environment setup may challenge complete beginners
Best for: Beginners and educators seeking a ready-to-use, versatile development platform with minimal setup.
Not ideal for: Advanced developers requiring extensive onboard peripherals or custom soldering options for complex projects.
- Processor:Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+
- Included:Pre-soldered header, pinout card, stickers
- Supported Languages:MicroPython, C, Java
- Connectivity:USB
Our verdict“This board offers a straightforward, flexible entry point for beginners and educators, but less suited for advanced hardware customization.”
2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico Development Board with RP2040 Microcontroller
This 2-pack of Pico boards with the RP2040 chip makes it easier to experiment with multiple projects or compare configurations side by side. Unlike the single-board options like the Raspberry Pi Pico, having two boards expands testing capacity and development flexibility. The extensive GPIO and multiple communication interfaces support complex IoT and automation projects, though the setup can be overwhelming for newcomers who lack prior microcontroller experience. Compared to the Pico 2, which offers newer processors, these boards are more about affordability and quantity for multi-prototyping. They are suited for intermediate hobbyists or small teams working on several devices simultaneously.
Pros:- Includes two boards for versatile development
- Powerful dual-core processor supports complex IoT projects
- Supports multiple programming languages and extensive GPIO options
- Compact size ideal for space-limited applications
Cons:- Requires a computer for programming and setup
- Limited onboard flash memory for large projects
- May be challenging for users without prior microcontroller experience
Best for: Intermediate hobbyists or small development teams needing multiple boards for parallel work or testing.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners seeking a simple, single microcontroller to start with, or users needing advanced peripherals out of the box.
- Processor:Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+
- Clock Speed:Up to 133 MHz
- SRAM:264KB
- Flash Memory:2MB onboard, supports up to 16MB off-chip
- GPIO Pins:30
- Communication Interfaces:2 × SPI, 2 × I2C, 2 × UART
Our verdict“This twin-pack is perfect for developers needing multiple boards for testing or multi-project workflows but is less ideal for complete beginners.”
Raspberry Pi Pico 2
The Raspberry Pi Pico 2 pushes further with dual Arm Cortex-M33 or RISC-V Hazard3 processors running at 150MHz, making it ideal for embedded systems requiring higher processing power. Its large 4MB onboard flash and 520KB SRAM surpass the original Pico, supporting larger codebases and more complex applications. However, this board’s advanced features come with a steeper learning curve, and it doesn’t include peripherals like displays or sensors—making it less suitable for beginners or those wanting an all-in-one solution. Compared to the Pico W, which adds Wi-Fi, the Pico 2 focuses on raw processing power and memory for embedded tasks. It’s best for experienced hobbyists or engineers focusing on embedded or IoT projects needing more horsepower.
Pros:- Dual high-performance processors (Cortex-M33 or RISC-V) at 150MHz
- Large onboard 4MB flash memory for complex programs
- Numerous communication interfaces and GPIO pins
- Designed for demanding embedded applications
Cons:- Limited to embedded applications, not plug-and-play for general projects
- No built-in display or advanced peripherals
- Requires technical expertise to utilize fully
Best for: Engineers and advanced hobbyists developing embedded or IoT applications requiring higher processing and memory capacity.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual users seeking simple microcontroller setups or integrated wireless connectivity.
- Processors:Dual Arm Cortex-M33 or RISC-V Hazard3 @ 150MHz
- SRAM:520 KB
- Flash:4 MB onboard QSPI
- GPIO Pins:26
- PWM Channels:24
Our verdict“This board excels in high-performance embedded environments but is overkill for simple or beginner projects.”
KEYESTUDIO Raspberry Pi Pico Basic Starter Kit with Headers Micro USB Cable, Pico RP2040 Microcontroller, Flexible 26 Multifunction GPIO Pins, Temperature Sensor, Programmable in C & MicroPython
This starter kit provides a comprehensive, beginner-friendly kit centered around the RP2040 chip, combining ease of use with versatile peripherals like a temperature sensor and 26 GPIO pins. Its support for C and MicroPython makes it accessible for new learners, especially with its plug-and-play USB drag-and-drop programming. Compared to the Freenove board, which emphasizes detailed tutorials, this kit simplifies hardware setup for quick project initiation, though it offers fewer advanced features. This kit is ideal for educators or hobbyists new to microcontrollers, but less suited for those needing large onboard storage or complex peripherals for advanced projects.
Pros:- Supports programming in C and MicroPython with easy USB transfer
- Includes a temperature sensor and multiple GPIO options
- Compact and easy to set up for new users
- Low-cost entry point for microcontroller learning
Cons:- Limited onboard storage for large or complex projects
- Requires some technical knowledge to fully utilize peripherals
- Basic environment may restrict advanced application development
Best for: Beginners and educators focusing on simple projects or learning programming fundamentals.
Not ideal for: Experienced developers requiring extensive onboard memory or advanced peripherals for complex applications.
- Microcontroller:RP2040
- Processor:Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+
- Internal RAM:264KB
- Flash Memory:Up to 16MB
- GPIO Pins:26
- Features:Temperature sensor, low-power modes
Our verdict“This kit offers an accessible starting point for beginners and educators but lacks the advanced features needed for complex projects.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on key factors that matter most to users, including performance, ease of use, build quality, and value. We considered the availability of wireless features, GPIO options, and whether the boards are ready to use out of the box or require additional setup. Cost was balanced against features, ensuring options suit different budgets. The ranking also reflects versatility, expandability, and the suitability for beginners versus advanced users. This approach helps identify boards that deliver the best overall experience for various project needs.| Raspberry Pi Pico board | Processor |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Pico W | Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ |
| Raspberry Pi Pico WH | RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ |
| Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontrol | Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ |
| Raspberry Pi Pico | RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ |
| Waveshare Raspberry Pi Pico Mi | RP2040 dual-core Cortex M0+ |
| Freenove Raspberry Pi Pico Boa | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ |
| 2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico Devel | Dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ |
| Raspberry Pi Pico 2 | — |
| KEYESTUDIO Raspberry Pi Pico B | Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Raspberry Pi Pico Boards
Choosing the right Raspberry Pi Pico board involves more than just specs. Consider your project requirements carefully—whether you need wireless connectivity, more GPIO pins, or a beginner-friendly setup. Budget also plays a role, as some boards offer more features at a higher cost, while others prioritize simplicity and affordability. Compatibility with your development environment and future expandability are key factors to keep in mind. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating power needs or buying a board that exceeds your current skill level, which can lead to frustration or underutilization.Wireless Connectivity and Expansion
If your project involves IoT or remote control, a board like the Raspberry Pi Pico W provides built-in Wi-Fi, offering a seamless way to add connectivity. For projects that don’t require wireless features, consider a more straightforward model to reduce cost and complexity. Think about what peripherals or sensors you’ll need to connect; boards with more GPIO pins or compatible headers can save you time and effort later.
Ease of Use and Setup
Pre-soldered headers like those on the Pico WH or Freenove significantly streamline initial setup, making them ideal for newcomers or rapid prototyping. If you’re comfortable soldering or want to learn it yourself, a bare board might be more cost-effective and customizable. Always verify whether the board comes with ready-to-use features or requires additional assembly or configuration.
Build Quality and Durability
Look for boards with solid construction and quality components, especially if you plan to use them in portable or rugged environments. Cheaper or clone versions might save money initially but could suffer from weak solder joints or poor shielding. Investing in a well-made board can reduce troubleshooting time and extend your project’s lifespan.
Value and Bulk Buying Options
Bulk packs like the 2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico offer better per-unit prices, making them a smart choice for labs, classrooms, or multiple projects. However, if you’re only experimenting, buying a single unit might be more appropriate to avoid excess unused hardware. Prioritize value when scaling up, but don’t compromise on essential features just to save money.
Compatibility and Software Support
Ensure the board is compatible with your preferred development environment, whether MicroPython, C, or others. Boards with active community support and clear documentation can accelerate your learning curve and troubleshooting. Check for ongoing firmware updates and available libraries that can extend the board’s functionality in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my Raspberry Pi Pico to add Wi-Fi?
While the Raspberry Pi Pico itself doesn’t support Wi-Fi, you can add wireless connectivity by pairing it with external modules like the ESP8266 or ESP32. These modules connect via UART or SPI interfaces, but keep in mind that this adds complexity and requires additional setup and programming. For projects where Wi-Fi is essential, choosing a board like the Pico W simplifies development, as it has built-in support and ready-to-use libraries.
Is it better to buy a single Raspberry Pi Pico or a pack?
If you’re just starting or testing multiple ideas, purchasing a multi-pack offers better value per unit. It allows you to experiment without worry about damaging the board, and you can deploy multiple units in a network or system. However, if your project is a one-off or you want to keep costs minimal, a single Pico might suffice, especially if you already have other peripherals.
What should I consider about GPIO pins when choosing a Pico board?
The number and type of GPIO pins directly affect how many sensors, LEDs, or peripherals you can connect. Some boards come with pre-soldered headers, simplifying initial setup, while others may offer more GPIOs for complex projects. Be aware that adding shields or expansion boards might require additional headers or compatibility considerations, so plan your GPIO needs accordingly.
Are pre-soldered header boards worth the extra cost?
Pre-soldered header boards save significant setup time, especially for beginners or rapid prototyping. They reduce the risk of poor solder joints and make swapping components easier. However, they tend to be more expensive than bare boards, and some experienced users prefer soldering their own headers for customization or cost savings. Consider your skill level and project timeline when deciding.
How important is community support when choosing a Raspberry Pi Pico board?
Community support can greatly influence your experience, providing tutorials, troubleshooting tips, and libraries that extend functionality. Popular boards like the Raspberry Pi Pico W benefit from active forums and extensive documentation, making them easier to adopt. Less common or clone boards might lack detailed resources, potentially leading to longer setup times or compatibility issues.
Conclusion
For general projects and those new to microcontrollers, the Raspberry Pi Pico Starter Kit offers an excellent balance of features and ease of use. If connectivity is a priority, the Raspberry Pi Pico W stands out as the best overall choice. Budget-conscious buyers will find the 2-Pack Raspberry Pi Pico offers great value for multiple units. For those seeking premium features or expanded GPIO, consider higher-end options or kits. Ultimately, your selection should align with your project scope, experience level, and future expansion plans.
