Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Raspberry Pi Connect lets you reach a Raspberry Pi’s desktop or shell from a web browser, without manually exposing a VNC server or configuring port forwarding in the usual case. It began as a beta announced on 7 May 2024 and is now presented by Raspberry Pi as a service for screen sharing, remote shell access and remote updates. The current compatibility list, package names and experimental features can change, so check the official documentation before installing.
What Raspberry Pi Connect is
Connect is Raspberry Pi’s browser-based remote-access service. After the Raspberry Pi is linked to a Raspberry Pi account, you sign in to the Connect website and select the device. Depending on the operating-system configuration and enabled features, the browser can display the Pi desktop, open a remote shell or manage remote-update jobs.
The service is software running on the Raspberry Pi host; it does not require a special display, keyboard, case, power supply or networking accessory for browser access. A Raspberry Pi 5 is a suitable host-computer example, but model and operating-system support should be confirmed against the current documentation rather than inferred from the 2024 beta announcement.
Release timeline and current feature set
| Date | What Raspberry Pi reported |
|---|---|
| 7 May 2024 | Connect beta announced for 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS Bookworm using Wayland on Pi 5, Pi 4 and Pi 400. These were launch-era requirements, not a complete current compatibility statement. Launch announcement |
| 13 November 2024 | Connect was installed but disabled by default in the latest Raspberry Pi OS release; Raspberry Pi described menu activation, the rpi-connect on command and a rpi-connect doctor connectivity test. Update |
| 9 May 2025 | Version 2.5 removed the beta label. Raspberry Pi also reported an install base of more than 100,000 devices, a vendor-reported historical figure. Out-of-beta announcement |
| 20 March 2026 | Remote updates were announced through the rpi-connect-ota package and an experimental workflow involving a signed update artefact and SHA-256 checksum. Check its status before treating it as generally available. Remote-updates announcement |
| 6 May 2026 | Raspberry Pi announced device tags and filtering, required two-factor authentication and a mobile keyboard. Feature announcement |
How a browser connection works
Raspberry Pi says the browser and the Pi negotiate a WebRTC peer connection. The Connect daemon coordinates a session with the device’s VNC server for desktop sharing. When a direct path is possible, traffic normally does not need to pass through Raspberry Pi’s servers. If network conditions prevent a direct path, the browser and daemon may use a server relay; Raspberry Pi says that relayed traffic is encrypted with DTLS. The company’s launch post describes this behavior, so relay locations and deployment details from the 2024 beta should not be assumed to remain current.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
That design is useful outside your home network because the service handles connection negotiation instead of requiring you to publish a VNC or SSH port. It does not guarantee that every restrictive firewall or corporate network will permit a direct path; the relay fallback and the diagnostic tools are relevant when a connection fails.
Installing and enabling Connect
Installation steps have changed as Connect moved beyond its beta. The original beta instructions used:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
sudo apt updatesudo apt upgradesudo apt install rpi-connect- Reboot, then sign in.
Those commands were written for the 64-bit Bookworm/Wayland beta environment. Do not treat them as a universal current recipe. Use the package and setup path in the current Connect documentation, then enable the service from the Raspberry Pi OS menu or, where supported, with rpi-connect on. Sign in with the same Raspberry Pi account in the browser and on the device.
When connectivity needs troubleshooting
The rpi-connect doctor command was introduced as a diagnostic check for API communication, authentication, STUN and TURN connectivity. Run the version supplied by your installed client and use its output to distinguish account, service and network problems. A failed direct connection does not by itself prove that the Pi or browser is offline; restrictive NAT or firewall rules can force relay use or prevent negotiation altogether.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Security and data handling
According to Raspberry Pi’s Connect documentation, screen-sharing and remote-shell session traffic is DTLS-encrypted between the Pi and browser. The device and browser create fresh key pairs for each WebRTC peer connection; Raspberry Pi says the device’s private key remains in memory for that session and that its servers cannot derive those keys. These are the vendor’s design claims about session traffic, not a guarantee that every account or service datum follows the same path.
The same documentation states that connection offers and answers are retained for no more than one minute, device heartbeat and state are current-state data rather than a history, and device metadata remains while the device is linked to an account. Account data is encrypted at rest and held for the account’s lifetime. Organisation audit logs are retained for 90 days, while personal accounts have no connection log according to that documentation.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Raspberry Pi also says Cure53 assessed the Connect web application and infrastructure, Raspberry Pi ID and Connect client versions 2.2 to 2.3 in January 2025. That assessment should not be read as covering every later client release.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Plans and organisation use
| Offering | Listed terms | Relevant use |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $0, according to Raspberry Pi’s product page when checked | Personal device access through the browser |
| Connect for Organisations | $0.50 per device per month, according to the same page when checked | Organisation-oriented device management and features |
Prices and included features can change; verify the official Connect page before budgeting. The organisation service is a vendor offering, not a Raspberry Pi hardware accessory.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteBest Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Connect compared with traditional VNC and SSH
Connect is most attractive when you want a browser as the client and want Raspberry Pi to handle much of the connection setup. Traditional VNC can provide desktop access but commonly requires you to manage a server, authentication and network exposure yourself. SSH remains the natural choice for command-line administration and automation. The practical choice depends on the following axes:
- Desktop work: Connect’s screen-sharing mode is designed for graphical sessions; SSH is command-line only.
- Client requirements: Connect needs a supported browser and account; conventional tools may require a native client.
- Network administration: Connect uses WebRTC negotiation and a relay fallback; self-hosted VNC or SSH may require firewall rules, VPN access or port forwarding.
- Security model: Raspberry Pi documents DTLS session encryption and per-connection keys for Connect. The security of another tool depends on its own configuration.
- Fleet management: Connect’s organisation plan, tags, filtering and audit-log behavior matter more for multiple devices than for a single home Pi.
These are workflow differences, not a universal performance or security ranking; the cited Raspberry Pi material does not provide an independent benchmark against VNC or SSH.
Which Raspberry Pi should you use?
The launch announcement specifically named Pi 5, Pi 4 and Pi 400 with 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS Bookworm and Wayland. Those details establish the beta’s scope in May 2024, not every model supported today. Before purchasing or deploying a device, check the current compatibility information in Raspberry Pi’s documentation and confirm that the installed Raspberry Pi OS edition and desktop session meet the requirements for the Connect feature you need.
Bottom line
Raspberry Pi Connect is a practical way to reach a Raspberry Pi desktop or shell from a browser, especially when you do not want to expose and maintain your own remote-access endpoints. Its capabilities have expanded from the 2024 beta to screen sharing, remote shell, organisation management and announced remote-update tooling. Treat compatibility, pricing and experimental features as changeable, and use Raspberry Pi’s current documentation for the installation and recovery steps that match your OS release.
Quick Recap
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.
