Raspberry Pi 3 Model B — Classic Quad‑Core 64‑bit Single‑Board Computer

The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is the classic credit‑card‑sized Linux computer that helped popularize modern maker culture. With a quad‑core 64‑bit CPU, 1 GB RAM, on‑board Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, and GPIO, it remains a solid platform for education, kiosks, media centers, and lightweight servers.

Choose the Pi 3 Model B when you want a well‑understood, well‑documented Raspberry Pi with huge community support, stable operating system images, and compatibility with a wide range of HATs, cases, and accessories.

Why the Pi 3 Model B is still relevant

• Quad‑core performance: 64‑bit Broadcom BCM2837 CPU @ 1.2 GHz with 1 GB RAM for multitasking and light desktops.
• Built‑in wireless: 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth 4.1 mean fewer dongles and cleaner setups.
• Full‑size connectors: HDMI, 4 × USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 40‑pin GPIO header for serious I/O and expansion.
• Massive ecosystem: Works with countless HATs, cases, and Raspberry Pi‑optimized Linux distributions.

Project ideas and applications

• Classroom Linux workstations: Teach Python, Scratch, and basic Linux administration on real hardware.
• Media centers: Run Kodi or similar software for living‑room streaming and local media playback.
• Retro gaming consoles: Build an emulation box for classic consoles with USB controllers.
• IoT hubs and gateways: Aggregate sensor data, host dashboards, and bridge to cloud services.

Starter bundles

• Pi 3 desktop starter: Board + official‑style 5 V PSU + case + microSD card + HDMI cable.
• Learning lab: Pi 3 + HDMI monitor + GPIO kit + breadboard and jumper wires.
• Media center kit: Board + low‑noise case with cooling + remote + large microSD card.

Recommended add‑ons

• 5 V 2.5 A or higher power supply to handle USB devices and HATs.
• microSD card (16 GB or higher) for the OS and storage.
• Raspberry Pi 3 case with good airflow, plus optional heatsinks.
• Raspberry Pi HATs for relays, motor drivers, sensors, and expansion I/O.

Technical specifications

Pinout & power notes

• 3.3 V GPIO: Use level shifting when connecting 5 V sensors, relays, or logic devices.
• Power budget: Remember that USB devices and HATs share the same 5 V rail, so size your PSU generously.
• Cooling: For sustained high load or warm environments, add a heatsink or small fan inside the case.

What’s in the box

• 1 × Raspberry Pi 3 Model B board

FAQ

Is Raspberry Pi 3 still good today?

Yes. For many educational, kiosk, and light server tasks, the Pi 3 Model B remains very capable and is supported by current Raspberry Pi OS releases.

Which operating system should I use?

Most users run Raspberry Pi OS, but there are also specialized images for media centers, retro gaming, and IoT use cases.

What accessories do I need to start?

At minimum, you’ll want a reliable 5 V power supply, microSD card, HDMI cable, and USB keyboard and mouse. From there you can add HATs, sensors, and a camera as needed.