History of Raspberry Pi (2012–2026): Timeline, Key Models, and Why It Changed Computing
7 min read
A visual overview of how Raspberry Pi evolved from an educational board into a powerful mini computer ecosystem.
Last updated: January 2026 ✅
Introduction
The Raspberry Pi started as a small educational project with a big idea:
Make computing affordable and accessible for everyone.
In 2012, it launched as a tiny board that could run Linux and basic programs — something that felt revolutionary for the price.
Today, the Raspberry Pi ecosystem includes:
- powerful single-board computers (SBCs)
- microcontrollers (Pico series)
- industrial-grade modules (Compute Module)
- accessories, cameras, storage, HATs, and AI add-ons
And it’s not just a hobby tool anymore — Raspberry Pi is used in:
- education
- robotics
- smart home automation
- media centers
- servers
- industrial automation
In fact, Raspberry Pi has sold tens of millions of units, reaching 68 million units as of March 2025.
In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn:
✅ the real history of Raspberry Pi
✅ the most important models and why each mattered
✅ a timeline table (easy to scan)
✅ how Raspberry Pi changed tech and education
✅ what matters in 2026 (Pi 5 era and beyond)
✅ Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)
- Raspberry Pi launched in 2012 as a low-cost board to teach computing.
- The “Pi” evolved from simple ARM boards into powerful mini computers.
- The biggest jumps happened with Pi 2 (2015), Pi 4 (2019), and Pi 5 (2023).
- Raspberry Pi now has multiple product families: Flagship, Zero, Compute Module, and Pico.
- In 2026, Raspberry Pi is still one of the best platforms for learning Linux + hardware + real-world projects.
What Is Raspberry Pi? (Quick Definition)
Raspberry Pi is a family of low-cost computers designed to run Linux (usually Raspberry Pi OS) on a small board — called a single-board computer (SBC).
Unlike Arduino-type devices, Raspberry Pi behaves more like a real PC:
- multitasking OS
- file system
- apps and browsers
- networking tools
- programming environments
✅ It’s basically a tiny Linux computer that you can use for learning, building, and automation.
Why Raspberry Pi Was Created (The Original Mission)
The Raspberry Pi was created in the UK with a very specific goal:
help students learn computer science using affordable hardware.
At the time:
- PCs were expensive for many schools
- many students had limited access to programming
- the “maker” culture was growing fast
So Raspberry Pi made a board that was:
✅ cheap
✅ small
✅ capable of running Linux
✅ good enough to teach programming
That mission is still alive today — but Raspberry Pi also became a platform for hobbyists and professionals.
Raspberry Pi Timeline (2012–2026) — Table (SUPER CTR)
✅ Raspberry Pi History Timeline Table
| Year | Major release | Why it mattered |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Raspberry Pi Model B | The beginning: cheap Linux computer for education |
| 2013 | Model A | Lower cost and power |
| 2014 | Model B+ / A+ | Better GPIO + improved design |
| 2015 | Raspberry Pi 2 Model B | Big CPU upgrade + more “real PC” experience |
| 2015 | Pi Zero | Ultra-cheap, tiny board for basic projects |
| 2016 | Raspberry Pi 3 Model B | Added Wi-Fi + Bluetooth, huge leap for IoT |
| 2017 | Zero W | Wi-Fi for the Zero series |
| 2018 | Pi 3B+ / 3A+ | Faster network + refinements |
| 2019 | Raspberry Pi 4 | Major performance + RAM options up to 8GB |
| 2020 | Compute Module 4 / Pi 400 | Industrial use grew; Pi inside a keyboard |
| 2021 | Raspberry Pi Pico | New microcontroller line (RP2040) |
| 2021 | Zero 2 W | Zero with much better CPU power |
| 2023 | Raspberry Pi 5 | Huge performance jump + PCIe support |
| 2024 | Continued ecosystem expansion | More official add-ons and clearer product families |
| 2026 | Pi 5 era maturity | Best time to build projects (supply stabilized) |
The Most Important Raspberry Pi Models (Beginner Explanation)
Raspberry Pi 1 (2012–2014): The beginning
The first Raspberry Pi boards were simple, but revolutionary:
- tiny board
- Linux-capable
- low price
- GPIO pins to interact with electronics
For many people, this was the first affordable gateway to:
Linux + hardware + coding.
Raspberry Pi 2 (2015): The “serious learning” moment
Pi 2 introduced a multi-core CPU jump, which improved:
- performance
- Linux usability
- project capability
Pi became less “toy” and more “mini computer.”
Raspberry Pi Zero (2015): Tiny size, massive impact
The Pi Zero created a new category:
- ultra low-cost
- ultra small
- ideal for embedded projects
✅ It expanded Raspberry Pi into portable builds.
Raspberry Pi 3 (2016): Wireless built-in = IoT boom
Pi 3 was a turning point because it brought:
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
That made Raspberry Pi perfect for:
smart home + sensors + automation.
Raspberry Pi 4 (2019): The “desktop replacement” era
Pi 4 was a huge jump:
- faster CPU
- USB 3.0
- better video output
- up to 8GB RAM
Many users started treating it like a small desktop or server.
Raspberry Pi 400 (2020): Pi inside a keyboard
This model made Raspberry Pi even more beginner-friendly:
- built into a keyboard
- easy classroom use
- “plug and learn” vibe
Raspberry Pi Pico (2021): Microcontrollers for makers
Pi Pico entered the microcontroller world (like Arduino):
- cheap
- fast for embedded tasks
- great for robotics and sensors
This created an entire new product family.
Raspberry Pi 5 (2023): Modern performance level
The Raspberry Pi 5 introduced:
- a major CPU leap
- PCIe support
- stronger I/O
In practice:
it made Raspberry Pi capable of more advanced projects and workloads.
Raspberry Pi Product Families (Explained Simply)
As the product line expanded, Raspberry Pi officially grouped models into series, such as:
- Flagship
- Zero
- Compute Module
- Pico
Here’s the beginner summary:
1) Flagship (main boards)
Best for:
- learning Linux
- general projects
- desktop-style use
Examples:
- Pi 4
- Pi 5
2) Zero series (tiny boards)
Best for:
- compact IoT projects
- low power builds
- simple automation
Examples:
- Pi Zero
- Zero W
- Zero 2 W
3) Compute Module (industrial)
Best for:
- custom devices
- industrial products
- stable long-term supply for businesses
4) Pico microcontrollers
Best for:
- sensors
- robotics
- embedded electronics (no full OS)
Why Raspberry Pi Changed Computing
Here’s what Raspberry Pi really changed.
1) Made Linux accessible
Many people learned Linux for the first time through Raspberry Pi.
They learned:
- file system basics
- packages
- terminal commands
- SSH
- networking
That skill alone helps a lot in tech careers.
2) Made hardware projects easier
GPIO pins turned software learning into real-world physical computing:
- LEDs
- sensors
- motors
- relay control
That bridged:
coding → electronics → automation
3) Created a massive maker community
Raspberry Pi developed one of the biggest tech communities in the world:
- tutorials
- forums
- YouTube guides
- open-source projects
Raspberry Pi in 2026 — What Matters Today?
In 2026, Raspberry Pi is no longer just “a cheap board”.
It is:
✅ a learning platform
✅ a mini server platform
✅ an automation platform
✅ an embedded computing platform
Popular 2026 use cases:
- smart home dashboards
- local file server / NAS (beginner level)
- Pi-hole (ad-blocking DNS)
- retro emulation builds
- home cameras (DIY)
- Linux training + Python projects
Should You Learn Raspberry Pi in 2026?
Yes — especially if you want real skills.
Raspberry Pi teaches:
- Linux fundamentals
- programming (Python, Bash)
- networking basics
- hardware interaction
Even if you never become a hardware person, the Linux skill is extremely valuable.
FAQ
Quick answers to common beginner questions about Raspberry Pi history and models.
❓ When was Raspberry Pi invented?
The Raspberry Pi was first released in 2012 as a low-cost computer designed to help students learn programming and computer science.
❓ What is Raspberry Pi used for today?
Raspberry Pi is used for learning Linux and programming, smart home projects, robotics, small servers, automation, and educational computing.
❓ What is the difference between Raspberry Pi and Arduino?
Raspberry Pi is a full Linux computer, while Arduino is a microcontroller for simpler sensor/motor control tasks without a full operating system.
❓ Which Raspberry Pi model is best in 2026?
For most users in 2026, Raspberry Pi 5 is the best choice for performance, while Pi Zero 2 W is ideal for small compact IoT projects.
❓ Is Raspberry Pi good for beginners?
Yes. Raspberry Pi is one of the best tools for beginners to learn Linux, Python, networking, and electronics projects using GPIO.
Conclusion
Raspberry Pi started in 2012 as a simple educational board.
Over the years, it evolved into a full ecosystem that now supports:
- students learning programming
- hobbyists building robots
- professionals deploying automation
- creators building smart devices
And in 2026, it’s still one of the best ways to learn practical tech.
