7 Best Single Board Computers Under $300, Compared
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You need reliable hardware for your next project. These are the best single board computers under $300. We compared 7 options using only the specifications published on their listings. The top pick is the LattePanda V1 Intel Quad-Core SBC. It leads because its compact 4.13-inch width fits tight spaces while supporting Windows and Arduino. This guide helps you decide which board matches your size, memory, and connectivity needs.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need Windows compatibility with Arduino integration LattePanda V1 Intel Quad-Core SBC The Intel Z8350 processor runs Windows and supports Arduino projects.
- You want the most compact model on the list WayPonDEV youyeetoo X1 Celeron SBC This board measures just 2.95 by 1.38 inches for tight spaces.
- You want a complete setup with reliable cooling Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Turbo Cooled Kit The kit includes a cooled case for stable Raspberry Pi 5 operation.
Our 7 picks
LattePanda V1 Intel Quad-Core SBC
Best for: Windows SBC development and Arduino projects
- Processor
- Intel Cherry Trail Z8350
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB
- Storage
- 64GB eMMC
- Operating System Support
- Windows 10, Linux
- Dimensions
- 4.72 × 4.13 × 1.38 inches
- Weight
- 3.53 ounces
The LattePanda V1 is a single-board computer powered by an Intel Cherry Trail Z8350 quad-core processor. It includes 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage. This unit runs Windows 10 with an enterprise license or Linux. It also features a built-in Arduino-compatible processor for hardware expansion. This setup suits users seeking a compact Windows platform for development or light computing tasks.
Pros
- Intel Cherry Trail Z8350 quad-core processor up to 1.92GHz
- 4GB RAM and 64GB eMMC storage
- Built-in Arduino-compatible processor for hardware projects
- Supports Windows 10 and Linux operating systems
Cons
- 4GB RAM limits multitasking compared to modern standards
- 64GB eMMC storage is modest for large files
- No mention of included power supply or peripherals
Good fit if
- You need a compact Windows 10 SBC for development
- You want to integrate Arduino hardware into your projects
- You require a low-power, small-footprint computer
Skip if
- You need high-performance gaming or heavy video editing
- You require more than 4GB of RAM
- You want a modern processor with higher clock speeds
Verdict: LattePanda V1 Intel Z8350 Mini PC is a practical choice for developers needing Windows compatibility and Arduino integration. It fits users who prioritize small size and hardware flexibility over raw processing power.
WayPonDEV youyeetoo X1 Celeron SBC
Best for: Windows-based industrial or media projects
- Processor
- Celeron N5105
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB
- RAM Type
- LPDDR4
- Storage
- 128GB eMMC
- Ethernet
- Gigabit
- Video Resolution
- Dual 4K
The youyeetoo X1 is a compact x86 single board computer powered by an Intel Celeron N5105 processor. It comes with 8GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage. This unit supports Windows 10 or 11, making it suitable for daily tasks and media streaming. It features dual 4K video output and a Gigabit Ethernet port. The design includes M.2 expansion slots for SSDs and wireless modules.
Pros
- Intel Celeron N5105 processor for x86 compatibility
- 8GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage
- Supports Windows 10/11 and Linux distributions
- Dual 4K video output via HDMI and MIPI
- Gigabit Ethernet with 24W PoE support
Cons
- Uses eMMC storage instead of faster SSD for base capacity
- No included Wi-Fi antenna or 4G LTE module
- Pre-sale status may delay shipping
Good fit if
- You need a Windows-compatible mini PC in a small form factor
- You require PoE power for industrial or outdoor deployments
- You want expandable storage via an M.2 NVMe slot
Skip if
- You need immediate stock availability
- You require built-in Wi-Fi without extra parts
- You prefer a traditional desktop PC over a single board computer
Verdict: The youyeetoo X1 N5105 Mini PC fits developers and users needing a Windows-capable x86 board with PoE support. It is ideal for media centers or industrial projects where compact size and expansion matter.
Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Turbo Cooled Kit
Best for: beginners needing a complete Pi 5 setup
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB
- Operating System Support
- Raspberry Pi OS
This Vilros kit gives you an 8GB Raspberry Pi 5 board with a 32GB microSD card and a black aluminum case. The pre-installed Raspberry Pi OS lets you start projects immediately. A built-in fan and heat sinks keep the processor cool during heavy use. You get a complete setup for coding, home automation, or retro gaming without buying extra parts.
Pros
- 8GB RAM for multitasking
- 32GB pre-installed microSD card
- Active cooling with fan and heat sinks
- Pre-installed Raspberry Pi OS
- Includes protective aluminum case
Cons
- Only supports Raspberry Pi OS
- No Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter included in specs
- Case is black only
Good fit if
- You want a ready-to-run Pi 5 setup
- You need 8GB of RAM for heavier tasks
- You prefer a quiet active cooling solution
Skip if
- You need Windows 10 support
- You want a router-specific board
- You prefer a passive cooling design
Verdict: Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Starter Kit is ideal for users who want a plug-and-play experience with ample RAM and reliable cooling for creative projects.
Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB 128GB Starter Kit
Best for: beginners seeking a complete starter kit
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB
- Storage
- 128GB Micro SD
- Operating System Support
- Raspberry Pi OS
- Memory
- 8GB RAM
- Dimensions
- 7 × 5 × 2 inches
- Weight
- 2 pounds
This Vilros kit includes the official Raspberry Pi 5 board with 8GB of RAM. It comes with a 128GB preloaded microSD card and Raspberry Pi OS. The package adds a case, power supply, and cooling fan. It is designed for users who want a ready-to-use setup. You get all essentials in one box. This suits makers who prefer a seamless start without buying separate components.
Pros
- 8GB RAM capacity for multitasking
- 128GB preloaded microSD card included
- Official Raspberry Pi 5 board
- Whisper-quiet fan and heat sinks for cooling
Cons
- Limited to Raspberry Pi OS support
- Requires separate display and peripherals
- 2 pounds weight is heavier than bare boards
Good fit if
- You want a complete starter kit
- You need 8GB RAM for projects
- You prefer pre-installed operating systems
Skip if
- You need Windows 10 support
- You want a compact single board
- You already have a case and power supply
Verdict: Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB MAX Kit is a solid choice for beginners who want a hassle-free start with official hardware and included storage. It fits users who value convenience over minimalism.
Seeed Studio Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Starter Kit
Best for: Developers needing immediate setup
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB
- Storage
- 128GB microSD card
- Operating System Support
- Raspberry Pi OS
- Memory
- 8GB RAM
This kit includes the Raspberry Pi 5 board with 8GB of RAM and a 128GB microSD card pre-loaded with Raspberry Pi OS. It features an official case with active cooling and a 27W USB-C power supply. You get a complete setup ready for immediate use. It suits makers and developers who need reliable performance for demanding applications without complicated initial configuration.
Pros
- 8GB RAM for multitasking
- 128GB pre-loaded microSD card
- Official active cooling fan
- 27W USB-C power supply included
Cons
- Uses microSD card instead of built-in storage
- Requires separate monitor and peripherals
- Limited to Raspberry Pi OS compatibility
Good fit if
- You want a ready-to-use starter kit
- You need 8GB RAM for development
- You prefer official cooling solutions
Skip if
- You need built-in storage
- You require Windows compatibility
- You want a compact mini PC
Verdict: Seeed Studio Raspberry Pi 5 8GB PRO Kit delivers a complete, cooled solution for developers needing 8GB RAM and immediate setup. It fits makers who value official components and pre-loaded software over standalone board flexibility.
Waveshare CM5 with Antenna and Heatsink
Best for: Network-focused embedded projects
- Processor
- BCM2712 quad-core Cortex-A76
- Storage
- eMMC Flash
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet PHY
The Waveshare CM5 Series uses the BCM2712 quad-core Cortex-A76 processor for upgraded performance. It includes fast eMMC flash storage with data rates up to 200 Mbps. The module features onboard Gigabit Ethernet PHY supporting IEEE1588 for network applications. It also provides a PCIe Gen 2 x1 interface for connecting additional modules. This SBC suits users needing reliable connectivity and expansion options in a compact form.
Pros
- BCM2712 quad-core Cortex-A76 processor
- eMMC Flash storage up to 200 Mbps
- Onboard Gigabit Ethernet PHY with IEEE1588
- PCIe Gen 2 x1 interface
Cons
- No RAM included in the module specification
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity listed
- Requires separate carrier board for full functionality
Good fit if
- You need precise network timing via IEEE1588
- You want to expand with PCIe modules
- You are building a custom embedded system
Skip if
- You need a ready-to-use desktop computer
- You require built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- You want a complete kit with a display
Verdict: Waveshare CM5 Series BCM2712 Compute Module offers strong network and expansion features for custom projects. It fits developers who need PCIe access and precise Ethernet timing.
WayPonDEV Banana Pi WiFi 7 Router Board
Best for: custom home routers and NAS builds
- Processor
- MediaTek MT7987A
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB
- RAM Type
- DDR4
- Storage
- 8GB eMMC
- Ethernet
- 1x 2.5G SFP, 1x 2.5G WAN, 4x GbE LAN
- Wireless Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 7
This is a router development board built for home networking and NAS projects. It features a MediaTek MT7987A processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM. You get extensive connectivity with four Gigabit LAN ports and two 2.5G WAN options. The board supports Wi-Fi 7 and runs OpenWRT. It includes slots for 4G/5G modules and an NVMe SSD, making it a versatile base for custom network setups.
Pros
- MediaTek MT7987A quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor
- Wi-Fi 7 support with MT7995AV module
- Four Gigabit LAN ports and two 2.5G WAN ports
- M.2 KEY-B slot for 4G/5G modules and NVMe SSD
- Runs OpenWRT operating system
Cons
- Only 2GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- 8GB eMMC storage is small for large file servers
- Requires assembly and configuration knowledge
Good fit if
- You want to build a high-speed home router
- You need 5G cellular connectivity for your network
- You prefer open-source OpenWRT software
Skip if
- You need a pre-configured plug-and-play device
- You require more than 2GB of RAM
- You want to use Windows 10
Verdict: Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite WiFi 7 Router Board is a specialized tool for users who want to build a custom, high-performance home network or NAS. It fits those who value extensive port options and cellular connectivity over out-of-the-box simplicity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LattePanda V1 Intel Quad-Core SBC | WayPonDEV youyeetoo X1 Celeron SBC | Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Turbo Cooled Kit | Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB 128GB Starter Kit | Seeed Studio Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Starter Kit | Waveshare CM5 with Antenna and Heatsink | WayPonDEV Banana Pi WiFi 7 Router Board |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Cherry Trail Z8350 | Celeron N5105 | not specified | not specified | not specified | BCM2712 quad-core Cortex-A76 | MediaTek MT7987A |
| RAM Capacity | 4GB | 8GB | 8GB | 8GB | 8GB | not specified | 2GB |
| RAM Type | not specified | LPDDR4 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | DDR4 |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC | 128GB eMMC | not specified | 128GB Micro SD | 128GB microSD card | eMMC Flash | 8GB eMMC |
| Ethernet | not specified | Gigabit | not specified | not specified | not specified | Gigabit Ethernet PHY | 1x 2.5G SFP, 1x 2.5G WAN, 4x GbE LAN |
| Wireless Connectivity | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Video Resolution | not specified | Dual 4K | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Operating System Support | Windows 10, Linux | Windows 10/11, Ubuntu, Debian | Raspberry Pi OS | Raspberry Pi OS | Raspberry Pi OS | not specified | OpenWRT |
| Memory | not specified | 8GB RAM | not specified | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | not specified | not specified |
| Operating System | not specified | Windows 10 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Home, NAS |
| Networking | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 4.13 × 1.38 inches | 4.53 × 2.95 × 0.71 inches | not specified | 7 × 5 × 2 inches | not specified | not specified | 5.82 × 3.97 × 0.78 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | 14.1 ounces | not specified | 2 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | 4GB/64GB with Enterprise License | 8GB RAM+128GB Storage | Black | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2GB |
| Model | DFR0470-ENT | youyeetoo X1 N5105 x86 Mini PC | not specified | RPI5-128GB-8GB-MAX | not specified | not specified | BPI-R4 Lite WiFi7 Router Board |
| Size | not specified | 115mm x 75mm x 18mm | 8GB | 8GB RAM | 8GB Starter Kit | not specified | Bundle3 |
You can compare desktop specifications for a computer workstation under 300 if your build needs standard expansion slots.
How to choose the right SBC
-
Match the processor to your OS
Your software needs dictate the chip architecture. The LattePanda V1 uses an Intel Z8350 to run Windows, which suits developers needing full desktop compatibility. In contrast, Raspberry Pi boards like the Vilros kits use ARM processors that run Linux-based systems. If you require specific Windows applications or legacy drivers, an x86 board is necessary. For general-purpose coding or lightweight tasks, an ARM-based Raspberry Pi offers sufficient power. Check the processor type early to ensure your target operating system is supported by the hardware.
-
Check RAM for multitasking needs
Memory determines how many applications you can run simultaneously. Most modern kits, including the Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB options, come with 8GB of RAM. This amount handles multitasking well for beginners and intermediate users. The youyeetoo X1 also provides 8GB, ensuring smooth performance for Windows media projects. If you plan to run virtual machines or heavy development environments, 8GB is a safe baseline. Lower memory configurations may cause slowdowns when switching between multiple browser tabs or background services.
-
Consider storage for project scope
Storage capacity affects how many files and images you can keep locally. The youyeetoo X1 includes 128GB of storage, which is helpful for media servers or large codebases. The LattePanda V1 offers 64GB, suitable for basic development tasks. Raspberry Pi kits often rely on microSD cards, so check if the kit includes a high-endurance card. For network-attached storage projects, internal storage might be less critical if you use external drives. Ensure the included storage meets your minimum requirements to avoid immediate upgrades.
-
Evaluate form factor for space
Physical dimensions determine where you can place the board. The LattePanda V1 is extremely compact, measuring 4.13 by 1.38 inches, making it ideal for tight enclosures. The youyeetoo X1 is slightly larger at 2.95 by 0.71 inches but remains thin. Larger kits, like the Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB 128GB Starter Kit, measure 5 by 2 inches and include bulky cases. If you are mounting the board inside a display or industrial chassis, measure your available space carefully before purchasing.
-
Assess networking for connectivity
Network capabilities vary significantly across boards. The youyeetoo X1 supports Power over Ethernet, which simplifies installation in industrial settings by providing both power and data through one cable. The Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite focuses on advanced networking with WiFi 7 and Gigabit Ethernet, perfect for custom home routers. Standard Raspberry Pi boards typically offer basic Ethernet and WiFi. If you need specific connectivity features like PoE or high-speed wireless, verify the specifications before deciding on a board.
-
Check cooling for sustained load
Thermal management impacts long-term stability. The Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Turbo Cooled Kit includes active cooling to prevent throttling during intensive tasks. The Waveshare CM5 also features a heatsink for passive cooling. Without adequate cooling, boards may slow down to protect themselves from overheating. If you plan to run your SBC continuously or under heavy load, prioritize kits that include fans or robust heatsinks. This ensures consistent performance and extends the lifespan of your hardware.
Frequently asked questions
Which single board computer runs Windows?
The LattePanda V1 and the youyeetoo X1 are the primary Windows-capable options on this list. The LattePanda V1 uses an Intel Z8350 processor for development and Arduino integration. The youyeetoo X1 features an Intel Celeron N5105, making it suitable for industrial or media projects that require full Windows 10 compatibility.
What is the smallest single board computer available?
The LattePanda V1 is the most compact model, measuring 4.13 inches in width, 4.72 inches in length, and 1.38 inches in height. It weighs only 3.53 ounces. This small form factor makes it ideal for users who need to fit hardware into tight spaces while maintaining desktop-level functionality.
Which SBC is best for beginners?
The Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 kits are designed for beginners seeking a hassle-free start. The Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 8GB 128GB Starter Kit includes official hardware and pre-loaded storage. These kits provide a complete setup with cooling and cases, allowing new users to begin projects immediately without sourcing individual components.
Do any boards support PoE?
Yes, the youyeetoo X1 supports Power over Ethernet (PoE). This feature allows it to receive both data and power through a single Ethernet cable. It is particularly useful for industrial projects or media centers where reducing cable clutter and simplifying power distribution is a priority for the installation.
Which board is best for network projects?
The Waveshare CM5 with Antenna and Heatsink is tailored for network-focused embedded projects. It offers strong network features and PCIe access for custom builds. Additionally, the Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite WiFi 7 Router Board provides extensive port options and cellular connectivity, making it a specialized tool for home routers and NAS builds.
How much RAM do these kits include?
Most kits on this list feature 8GB of RAM. The Vilros and Seeed Studio Raspberry Pi 5 kits all include 8GB of memory. The youyeetoo X1 also comes with 8GB of RAM. This amount of memory supports multitasking and ensures smooth performance for development, media, and industrial applications.