Raspberry Pi 500 Review: A Full PC in a Keyboard!

Raspberry Pi 500 Basic Kit – Compact Computing in a Keyboard

The Raspberry Pi has long been a favourite among tinkerers, hobbyists, and those who simply want an affordable computer that can do much more than its size suggests. With the #ad Pi 500 Basic Kit, Raspberry Pi has taken things in an exciting new direction, integrating the computer directly into a compact keyboard. The result is a neatly packaged, easy-to-use desktop-style device that offers remarkable versatility for its price point.

At first glance, the Pi 500 looks like a slim, lightweight keyboard. But hidden beneath the keys is a full Raspberry Pi computer, ready to handle day-to-day computing tasks or act as a flexible platform for experimentation. The kit itself is well thought out, providing everything you need to get started: the Raspberry Pi 500 unit, a GPIO adapter board for hardware projects, an HDMI to micro HDMI cable, and a 27W USB-C power supply. This saves the hassle of sourcing separate components, which is often the case with traditional Raspberry Pi boards.

The design feels immediately approachable. The keyboard is comfortable enough for extended typing sessions, with keys that are well-spaced and responsive. It’s not going to rival a high-end mechanical keyboard, but it doesn’t feel flimsy either. More importantly, having the entire computer integrated into this form factor means there’s less clutter on the desk, and it makes the Pi 500 especially appealing as a starter computer for students or anyone who just wants a simple setup.

Connectivity is another area where the Pi 500 impresses. Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth support make it easy to connect peripherals and get online without fiddling with adapters. Around the back, you’ll find USB ports, dual micro HDMI outputs capable of supporting dual-4K displays, and of course, the GPIO expansion via the included adapter. This strikes a great balance between being user-friendly for beginners and still offering enough flexibility for advanced users who want to build and customise projects.

Performance-wise, the Pi 500 is powered by the same capable silicon found in the Raspberry Pi 5, which means it can handle web browsing, document editing, media playback, and even some light coding and development work with ease. Paired with Raspberry Pi OS or another compatible distribution, it provides a smooth and responsive experience for everyday tasks. Of course, it’s not designed to compete with full desktop PCs in raw power, but that’s not really the point here. Instead, it shines as a low-cost, reliable, and highly adaptable system.

One of the standout features is the dual-4K video output. It’s genuinely impressive to see a machine this compact driving two ultra-high-definition monitors. For productivity tasks such as having a browser on one screen and a document editor on the other, it works beautifully. While you won’t be using it for intensive 4K gaming or video rendering, it certainly holds its own for general use and media consumption.

The inclusion of the GPIO adapter board is a thoughtful touch, reinforcing the Pi 500’s roots as a platform for creativity and learning. Whether you’re interested in robotics, electronics, or just experimenting with coding projects, it’s easy to extend the functionality without losing the convenience of the keyboard form factor. This makes it a strong option for classrooms, coding clubs, or hobbyists who want a tidy yet powerful setup.

In practice, the Pi 500 Basic Kit is simple to set up. Plug in the power supply, connect to a monitor, attach a mouse, and you’re good to go. The pre-packaged nature of the kit makes it especially beginner-friendly, removing some of the barriers to entry that can occasionally put newcomers off the Raspberry Pi ecosystem.

Overall, the Raspberry Pi 500 Basic Kit strikes an excellent balance between accessibility and capability. By merging the computer into a keyboard, it delivers a clean and practical design while still retaining the flexibility that makes Raspberry Pi so popular. For students, hobbyists, or anyone curious about computing beyond the standard laptop or desktop, it’s an appealing choice. It won’t replace a high-end PC, but that was never its aim. Instead, it’s a compact, clever, and genuinely enjoyable way to explore the world of computing.

Verdict: The #ad Pi 500 Basic Kit is a smart evolution of the Raspberry Pi, combining convenience with versatility. It’s ideal for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike, and it manages to pack surprising performance into a small, tidy package.

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