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Raspberry Pi 500+ is a complete Raspberry Pi 5-based desktop built into a low-profile mechanical keyboard. Raspberry Pi announced it on 25 September 2025 at a $200 launch list price. That configuration includes 16GB of LPDDR4X-4267 memory, a pre-fitted 256GB Raspberry Pi SSD and Raspberry Pi OS. The $220 Desktop Kit adds a mouse, power supply, HDMI cable and beginner’s guide.
It is not a monitor-included all-in-one: you supply an external display. The 500+ is best understood as a ready-to-use keyboard computer with substantially more memory and faster internal storage than the 8GB Raspberry Pi 500 listing.
What is the Raspberry Pi 500+?
The Raspberry Pi 500+ combines the Raspberry Pi 5 platform, storage and a full-size keyboard in one desktop-style unit. Its 2.4GHz quad-core 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 processor is paired with 16GB LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM. Raspberry Pi OS is installed on the internal 256GB Raspberry Pi SSD.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The computer retains the connectivity expected from the keyboard-computer family: dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Gigabit Ethernet, USB ports, dual micro-HDMI display outputs and a documented 40-pin GPIO header. Raspberry Pi says the 500+ will remain in production until at least January 2035.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL PROCESSOR: Features a 2.4GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A76 processor with 8GB RAM capacity for smooth performance and multitasking capabilities
- COMPLETE KIT: Includes 32GB microSD card, micro HDMI to HDMI-A cable, USB mouse, US keyboard, and power supply for immediate setup
- CONNECTIVITY: Multiple ports including USB 2.0, dual USB 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth for versatile connectivity options
- DISPLAY OUTPUT: Supports micro HDMI output with OpenGL capabilities for high-quality visual display and graphics performance
- EXPANSION OPTIONS: Equipped with GPIO pins, SD card slot, and wireless connectivity for extensive project development and customization
Raspberry Pi 500+ price and what you get
| Configuration | Announced launch price | Included hardware |
|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 500+ | $200 | 500+ keyboard computer, 16GB RAM, 256GB internal SSD and Raspberry Pi OS |
| Raspberry Pi 500+ Desktop Kit | $220 | 500+ plus Raspberry Pi Mouse, Raspberry Pi 27W USB-C power supply, 2m micro-HDMI-to-HDMI cable and Raspberry Pi Beginner’s Guide, 5th Edition |
These are Raspberry Pi’s launch list prices from 2025. Regional taxes, shipping, stock and subsequent reseller pricing can change the amount you pay. Check the local SKU description because kit contents can vary by region.
Keyboard and physical design
The defining upgrade is the keyboard. Raspberry Pi 500+ uses Gateron KS-33 Blue low-profile mechanical switches rather than a membrane design. The keycaps are removable, and individually addressable RGB LEDs provide per-key lighting effects. An included key puller makes keycap removal easier.
An RP2040 controller runs QMK firmware. Raspberry Pi says most aftermarket keycap sets are compatible, although the fit of any particular set should be checked before purchase.
Can you upgrade the Raspberry Pi 500+ SSD?
Yes. The internal storage bay accepts 2280-format M.2 boards, the 80mm size commonly used by desktop and laptop NVMe drives. The launch configuration arrives with a 256GB Raspberry Pi SSD, but the bay allows replacement or expansion with a compatible 2280 M.2 board.
Rank #2
- Includes Raspberry Pi 5 with 2.4Ghz 64-bit quad-core CPU (8GB RAM)
- Includes 128GB Micro SD Card pre-loaded with 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS, USB MicroSD Card Reader
- CanaKit Turbine Black Case for the Raspberry Pi 5
- CanaKit Low Noise Bearing System Fan
- Mega Heat Sink - Black Anodized
Booting from a microSD card or an external USB SSD remains supported, so you are not limited to the factory drive. Confirm compatibility and follow Raspberry Pi’s installation and boot documentation before opening the computer or changing storage.
Does Raspberry Pi 500+ include a monitor?
No. The 500+ is a keyboard computer, not a display-equipped laptop or monitor all-in-one. You need an external monitor or television and a micro-HDMI connection. Its two micro-HDMI outputs support up to 4K displays, allowing a dual-display setup when your screens and cables support it.
Display checklist
- External monitor or TV with HDMI input
- Micro-HDMI-to-HDMI cable for each display you plan to connect
- A second compatible cable and display for dual-screen use
The Desktop Kit includes one 2m micro-HDMI-to-HDMI cable, so a second screen requires another cable.
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The Desktop Kit includes a Raspberry Pi 27W USB-C power supply and a 2m micro-HDMI-to-HDMI cable. If you buy the computer by itself, plan for a compatible USB-C power supply and a micro-HDMI cable; the exact accessories supplied with standalone regional SKUs should be confirmed before ordering.
A standard full-size HDMI cable cannot plug directly into the 500+’s micro-HDMI port without the appropriate micro-HDMI connection or adapter. Cable length and display resolution can affect which cable is practical, especially for 4K or dual-display installations.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Raspberry Pi 500+ vs Raspberry Pi 500
| Feature | Raspberry Pi 500+ | Raspberry Pi 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | 16GB LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM | 8GB listing |
| Internal storage | 256GB Raspberry Pi SSD in an internal M.2 bay; 2280 boards supported | Not established in the supplied product details |
| Keyboard | Low-profile Gateron KS-33 Blue mechanical switches, removable keycaps and individually addressable RGB | Membrane keyboard |
| Display setup | External display required; dual micro-HDMI outputs support up to 4K displays | External display required for the keyboard-computer format |
| Accessories | Base computer is $200; $220 Desktop Kit adds mouse, 27W USB-C supply, cable and guide | Package contents and current regional pricing depend on the listing |
| Total purchase cost | Varies with region, tax, shipping, monitor and any extra storage or cables | Varies with region, tax, shipping, monitor and accessories |
The 500+’s clear specification gains are memory, factory-fitted SSD storage and the mechanical RGB keyboard. There are no benchmark results here, so the table does not claim a measured performance difference between the two models.
Is the Raspberry Pi 500+ worth $200?
At its announced launch price, the 500+ is a strong value if you want a compact Raspberry Pi 5 desktop, 16GB of memory, ready-installed 256GB storage and a mechanical keyboard in one product. The Desktop Kit costs $20 more and bundles several setup essentials, which can simplify a first purchase.
Budget for an external display, and possibly a second micro-HDMI cable, if you do not already own them. Regional pricing and stock can change the final cost, so compare the complete setup rather than the computer’s list price alone.
Quick Recap
Choose the 500+ when
- You want a keyboard-centered Raspberry Pi desktop with 16GB RAM.
- You value mechanical switches, removable keycaps and RGB lighting.
- You want internal 2280 M.2 storage that can be replaced or expanded.
- You already have, or are willing to buy, an external monitor.
Consider the regular 500 when
- You do not need more than the 8GB listing’s memory.
- You prefer a membrane keyboard or find the 500 at a meaningfully lower local price.
- You are comparing complete regional bundles whose included accessories differ.
What to check before ordering
- Confirm whether the seller is listing the $200 computer or the $220 Desktop Kit.
- Check the regional SKU contents, taxes, shipping and current stock.
- Make sure you have an external monitor and the required micro-HDMI cable.
- Choose a compatible USB-C power supply; the Desktop Kit’s bundled model is rated at 27W.
- If you plan a storage upgrade, buy a compatible 2280-format M.2 board and verify the installation procedure.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
