In the next iteration of the Model B line, Raspberry Pi has given us the very powerful Model B 4 with
the goal of the credit card-sized development platform becoming a full desktop experience. The 8GB
DDR4 RAM version of this board has the ability to run two 4K monitors at once via two micro HDMI
ports and features the long-asked-for, true Gigabit Ethernet. This creates a much higher-performing
multimedia experience with the new Pi! In addition to two USB2 ports, the Raspberry Pi 4 also has
two USB 3 ports, making data transfers that much quicker over USB.
The Raspberry Pi Model B line is a desktop computer in a package the size of a credit card. All you
need to do is plug in a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and load the latest Raspbian image onto a MicroSD
Card, and you have a full desktop computer solution. Projects like Tensorflow, PiHole, Minecraft,
and Kodi make it an excellent tool for a multitude of uses.
The RPi4 retains a lot of the features of the RPi3 B+, including the pin-out for the 40-pin header.
Wireless is still available on the 4 in the form of dual-band 2.4/5.0 GHz WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0. A
new feature on the 4 is the inclusion of a USB Type-C connector for power delivery, replacing the
Mini-B connector.
The Raspberry Pi 4 does have the ability to consume more power than the Pi 3 B+, so a proper power
supply will be needed. Power over Ethernet (PoE) is available with the use of the PoE HAT (see
related products). Those looking to use third-party power supplies and cables or to run more
intensive programs on the Pi should consider proper power sources and heat dissipation measures.