NVIDIA Jetson Nano Super vs Raspberry Pi: Comprehensive Comparison
February 26, 2025
NVIDIA’s newly announced Jetson Nano Super Developer Kit sets a new benchmark for AI enthusiasts and developers in the ever-evolving world of single-board computers. It is designed with cutting-edge capabilities and invites comparison with the well-known Raspberry Pi family, mainly the Raspberry Pi 5. This article delves into their features, strengths, and ideal use cases.
Introduction to Single-Board Computers
Single-board computers (SBCs) like the Raspberry Pi and NVIDIA Jetson Nano have revolutionized computing by providing affordable, compact, and versatile platforms for developers, hobbyists, and educators. While the Raspberry Pi is renowned for its general-purpose utility and affordability, the NVIDIA Jetson Nano family focuses on high-performance AI and machine learning applications.
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The Players: Raspberry Pi and Jetson Nano Super
NVIDIA Jetson Nano Super Developer Kit
The Jetson Nano Super Developer Kit is an enhanced version of NVIDIA’s AI-focused SBCs, priced at $249. It boasts significant upgrades in processing power and AI performance, making it suitable for complex applications in robotics, edge AI, and more.
Key Features:
- AI Performance: Up to 67 TOPS (trillions of operations per second)
- GPU: NVIDIA Ampere GPU with tensor cores
- I/O Ports: Comprehensive connectivity options for AI workloads
- Target Applications: Robotics, edge AI, and machine learning
Raspberry Pi 5
The Raspberry Pi 5 represents the pinnacle of the Raspberry Pi series. It maintains its reputation for accessibility and affordability while offering improved hardware specifications and connectivity.
Key Features:
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2712 quad-core Cortex-A76
- Memory: 4GB or 8GB LPDDR4X
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
- Target Applications: General-purpose computing, education, and IoT
Feature-by-Feature Comparison Table
The following table summarizes the key differences and similarities between the NVIDIA Jetson Nano Super and the Raspberry Pi 5:
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Performance Analysis
AI Capabilities
The Jetson Nano Super stands out with its ability to handle up to 67 TOPS, making it a powerhouse for AI and machine learning tasks. This capability is unmatched mainly by the Raspberry Pi 5, which is more suited to basic computing and IoT projects.
GPU Performance
With an NVIDIA Ampere GPU and tensor cores, the Jetson Nano Super provides robust support for AI inference and graphics-intensive tasks. In contrast, the Raspberry Pi’s VideoCore VII GPU is sufficient for multimedia applications but lacks specialized AI capabilities.
Connectivity
While the Jetson Nano Super supports advanced peripherals and AI-specific hardware, it lacks built-in wireless connectivity and requires an external adapter. The Raspberry Pi 5, with its integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, is more convenient for wireless applications.
4. Consider Alternatives
Alternatives like Linux or ChromeOS Flex offer viable paths for those looking to break away from the Windows ecosystem. These operating systems can breathe new life into older hardware and reduce reliance on Microsoft updates. However, they may require adjustments, especially for users dependent on Windows-specific software.
5. Invest in New Hardware
If your current system is nearing its end, upgrading to a new PC preloaded with Windows 11 is an excellent long-term solution. New devices come with better performance, enhanced security, and compatibility with modern software.
Ideal Use Cases for Each
Jetson Nano Super:
- AI and Machine Learning: Training and inference for AI models at the edge.
- Robotics: Powering autonomous systems and intelligent machines.
- Video Analytics: Real-time processing of video streams for surveillance or analysis.
Raspberry Pi 5:
- General Education: A tool for teaching programming and electronics.
- IoT Applications: Serving as a hub for smart devices.
- Home Projects: Multimedia centers, personal servers, and DIY projects.
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Conclusion
If these devices were to be used as thin clients in a VDI or DaaS scenario, the Raspberry Pi 5 remains the preferred choice. Its affordability, built-in wireless connectivity, and sufficient performance for remote desktop applications make it more practical and accessible for such use cases.
The NVIDIA Jetson Nano Super Developer Kit and the Raspberry Pi 5 cater to different audiences and use cases. The Jetson Nano Super, with its unparalleled AI performance, is ideal for developers working on advanced AI and robotics applications. On the other hand, the Raspberry Pi 5’s affordability, community support, and ease of use make it the go-to choice for education, IoT, and general-purpose computing.
Both devices represent the pinnacle of innovation in their respective domains, offering exciting possibilities for developers and hobbyists alike.
