Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board supports the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 with dual 4K HDMI output and Gigabit Ethernet. This setup works well for users who need compact systems with wired networking and PCIe expansion. If you are looking for waveshare cm5 mini base board alternatives, you might want a different form factor or feature set. Some builders prefer smaller footprints, while others need support for older modules like the CM4. You may also seek a different brand or a solution optimized for Android.
We selected 6 similar picks that share key specifications with the original board. These alternatives overlap in areas like networking capabilities, size constraints, or module compatibility. The list includes options for cost-effective CM4 evaluation, compact Gigabit Ethernet setups, and even adapters for Pi Zero 2W modules. You can compare these models based on their published dimensions, interface types, and intended use cases. This guide helps you find a board that fits your specific project requirements without unnecessary features.
How the alternatives compare
Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board
The Waveshare CM4 Mini Base Board targets a different module generation. It supports the Compute Module 4 rather than the CM5. This board includes M.2 support for storage expansion, which the CM5 base board does not list. It lacks the PCIe Gen2/3 x1 interface found on the CM5 model. The dimensions are slightly larger at 3.35 by 2.2 by 2.2 inches. It offers Gigabit Ethernet for wired connectivity. You should choose this if your project relies on the CM4 processor. It is a cost-effective option for basic evaluation tasks. It does not support the newer CM5 chip or dual 4K output capabilities.
Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet
The Waveshare Nano CM4 Base Board is significantly smaller than the CM5 base board. Its dimensions are 2.2 by 1.61 by 0.39 inches. It weighs only 0.71 ounces. This board also uses the Compute Module 4. It includes Gigabit Ethernet for network access. It provides essential camera, display, and GPIO headers. It lacks the PCIe expansion slot and dual HDMI outputs of the CM5 model. The compact size makes it suitable for space-constrained embedded projects. You should pick this if you need a minimal footprint for a CM4 setup. It is ideal for simple integrations where extra expansion ports are not required. It does not support the CM5 module or advanced video features.
Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter
The Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter bridges two different form factors. It allows a Pi Zero 2W module to function with Pi 3B connectivity. The dimensions are 3.35 by 2.2 by 0.2 inches. It is much thinner than the CM5 base board. It does not support the Compute Module 5 or CM4. It lacks Gigabit Ethernet and PCIe expansion. It is designed for users upgrading from Pi 3B hardware. You should choose this if you need standard connectivity for a Zero 2W module. It is a practical bridge for specific hardware transitions. It does not offer dual 4K output or the same expansion capabilities as the CM5 board.
Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit
The Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit is a thermal management accessory. It is designed for the Khadas Edge2 SBC. The dimensions are 3.15 by 1.18 by 0.39 inches. It does not support the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5. It lacks networking ports, USB interfaces, and video outputs. It is not a base board for expansion. It provides active cooling for a specific board model. You should pick this if you need thermal solutions for the Edge2 SBC. It is a practical addition for temperature control. It does not offer the connectivity or expansion features of the CM5 base board. It is a specialized accessory rather than a general-purpose computing base.
Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero
The Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero is a complete single-board computer. It runs Android-based operating systems. It offers basic processing power and wireless features. It does not support the Compute Module 5. It lacks the specific GPIO and expansion headers of the Waveshare base boards. It provides GPIO access for simple projects. It is a compact form factor device. You should choose this if you need an Android-capable embedded system. It is suitable for basic projects requiring wireless connectivity. It does not offer the dual 4K output or PCIe expansion of the CM5 model. It is a standalone computer rather than an expansion base for a module.
MiiElAOD RADXA PD 30W Power Supply
The MiiElAOD RADXA PD 30W Power Supply is a power source. It provides 30W output for RADXA ROCK series boards. It features a European Standard plug. It does not support the Compute Module 5. It lacks networking, USB, and video interfaces. It is not a base board for expansion. It is a suitable power source for specific board models. You should pick this if you need a 30W power supply for RADXA devices. It fits users requiring a specific regional plug. It does not offer the connectivity or expansion capabilities of the CM5 base board. It is a dedicated power accessory rather than a computing platform.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board
Best for: Compact CM5 systems with dual displays
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet RJ45
- Video Resolution
- Dual 4K
View on Amazon: Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board Affiliate link
This base board supports the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5. It provides dual 4K video output via two HDMI ports. You get one Gigabit Ethernet port and a PCIe Gen2/3 x1 interface for expansion. The board includes two USB 3.2 ports and two USB 2.0 ports. It measures 85 by 56 mm and requires 5V at 5A power. It suits users needing compact CM5 integration.
Pros
- Supports all Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 variants
- Dual 4K video output capability
- Includes Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 connector
- Features PCIe Gen2/3 x1 expansion interface
Cons
- Requires high 5A power input
- Limited to one Gigabit Ethernet port
- No built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth mentioned
Good fit if
- You need dual 4K display support
- You require PCIe expansion for CM5
- You want a compact 85x56mm form factor
Skip if
- You need built-in wireless connectivity
- You cannot provide 5A power
- You require multiple Ethernet ports
Verdict: Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board A offers solid expansion and dual 4K output for Compute Module 5 projects. It fits users who need wired networking and PCIe slots in a small footprint.
Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board
Best for: cost-effective CM4 evaluation and integration
- Ethernet
- RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions
- 3.35 × 2.2 × 2.2 inches
View on Amazon: Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board Affiliate link
This Waveshare board supports Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite and EMMC series modules. It features a standard CM4 socket and a color-coded 40-pin GPIO header. Connectivity includes Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, USB, and an M.2 slot. The board measures 3.35 by 2.2 inches. It is designed for evaluating CM4 modules or integrating them into end products. You get mounting screws for easy installation. This version is cost-effective for basic setups.
Pros
- Standard Raspberry Pi CM4 socket
- Color-coded 40-pin GPIO header
- Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
- M.2 slot support
Cons
- No RTC, fan controller, or battery holder on version A
- Requires matching screws for M.2 interface
Good fit if
- You need a cost-effective CM4 evaluation board
- You want Gigabit Ethernet and M.2 support
- You are integrating CM4 into a custom product
Skip if
- You require an RTC or battery holder
- You need a fan controller included
- You prefer a boxed version with more features
Verdict: Waveshare CM4 Mini Base Board A is a compact, cost-effective solution for Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 projects. It fits users who need Gigabit Ethernet and M.2 support without extra features like RTC or battery holders. It is ideal for basic evaluation or integration into end products.
Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet
Best for: compact CM4 projects requiring Gigabit Ethernet
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions
- 2.2 × 1.61 × 0.39 inches
- Weight
- 0.71 ounces
View on Amazon: Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet Affiliate link
This carrier board pairs a standard Raspberry Pi CM4 socket with onboard Gigabit Ethernet. Measuring 2.2 by 1.61 inches and weighing 0.71 ounces, it matches the footprint of the module for tight enclosures. You get a 40-pin GPIO header, USB 2.0, DSI, CSI, and a Micro SD slot for Lite modules, making it a fit for compact networking deployments.
Pros
- Dedicated Gigabit Ethernet port
- Matches the CM4 footprint at 2.2 by 1.61 inches
- Includes 40-pin GPIO, DSI, CSI, and 3.5mm audio jack
- Micro SD card socket supports CM4 Lite modules
Cons
- Compute Module 4 is not included
- USB connectivity is limited to USB 2.0
Good fit if
- You need wired Gigabit Ethernet in a minimal footprint.
- You use a Compute Module 4 Lite requiring Micro SD storage.
- You are designing for tight enclosures matching the CM4 dimensions.
Skip if
- You require USB 3.0 data transfer speeds.
- You need a carrier board bundled with a compute module.
Verdict: Waveshare Nano CM4 Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet suits builders embedding a CM4 module into space-constrained projects that demand wired networking. Its matching dimensions and essential camera, display, and GPIO headers keep the setup compact.
Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter
Best for: Pi Zero 2W users needing Pi 3B connectivity
- Ethernet
- 100M
- Dimensions
- 3.35 × 2.2 × 0.2 inches
View on Amazon: Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter Affiliate link
This adapter lets you use a Raspberry Pi Zero 2W in place of a Pi 3B or 3B+. It provides four USB ports, a 100M Ethernet port, and an HDMI output. The board connects via pogo pins for easy installation. It supports Pi 3B series HATs and includes audio jacks. This is a compact solution for upgrading older projects without changing the case.
Pros
- Supports Raspberry Pi Zero 2W
- Includes 4 USB ports
- Features 100M Ethernet and HDMI
- Compatible with Pi 3B HATs
- Has 3.5mm headphone jack
Cons
- Ethernet is limited to 100M
- Does not support PoE
- GPIO height is higher than Pi 3B
Good fit if
- You want to use a Pi Zero 2W
- You need Pi 3B form factor compatibility
- You require 4 USB ports
Skip if
- You need Gigabit Ethernet
- You require PoE support
- You are using a Pi Zero (non-W)
Verdict: Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter is a practical bridge for users upgrading from Pi 3B hardware while switching to the Zero 2W module. It fits those who need standard connectivity without the bulk of a full-sized board.
Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit
Best for: Edge2 SBC thermal management
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 1.18 × 0.39 inches
View on Amazon: Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit Affiliate link
This is an active cooling solution for the Khadas Edge2 Single Board Computer. It includes an Edge heatsink and a 3705 cooling fan to manage thermal performance. The kit measures 3.15 inches in length, 1.18 inches in width, and 0.39 inches in height. It comes with thermal pads and mounting screws. This accessory suits users who need reliable heat dissipation for their Edge2 Maker Kit setup.
Pros
- Includes a 3705 cooling fan for active heat removal
- Comes with off-white thermal pads for efficient heat transfer
- Specifically designed for compatibility with the Edge2 Maker Kit
- Includes four CM2 x 4.5 screws for secure mounting
Cons
- The 3705 cooling fan cannot be mounted on the Khadas Edge SBC due to short wires
- Only provides cooling for the Edge2 model, not other Khadas boards
- Requires separate purchase of the Edge2 SBC to function
Good fit if
- You own a Khadas Edge2 Single Board Computer
- You need active cooling for your Edge2 Maker Kit
- You want a complete kit with thermal pads and screws
Skip if
- You use a Khadas Edge SBC instead of the Edge2
- You prefer passive cooling solutions without fans
- You do not have a Khadas Edge2 board
Verdict: Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit provides essential thermal management for the Edge2 SBC. It is a practical addition for users who require active cooling for their specific board model.
Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero
Best for: Android-based embedded projects
- Processor
- Quad Core ARM Cortex A7 CPU H3
- RAM Capacity
- 512MB
- RAM Type
- SDRAM
- Wireless Connectivity
- WiFi (AP6212) & Bluetooth
- Operating System Support
- Raspbian, Android, Armbian, Ubuntu
View on Amazon: Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero Affiliate link
The Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero is a single-board computer with a Quad Core ARM Cortex A7 CPU H3 and 512MB SDRAM. It supports Android and Linux distributions. You get onboard WiFi and Bluetooth for connectivity. The board features a Mini HDMI port and 40-pin GPIO headers. It is a compact option for projects needing open-source software support and wireless capabilities.
Pros
- Quad Core ARM Cortex A7 CPU H3 processor
- 512MB SDRAM memory capacity
- Onboard WiFi (AP6212) and Bluetooth connectivity
- Supports Android, Raspbian, Armbian, and Ubuntu operating systems
Cons
- Only 512MB of RAM limits multitasking
- Uses Mini HDMI instead of standard HDMI
- No mention of Ethernet port for wired networking
Good fit if
- You need a small board with Android support
- You require onboard wireless connectivity
- You are building a low-power embedded project
Skip if
- You need high performance for heavy computing
- You require standard HDMI output
- You need more than 512MB of RAM
Verdict: Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero offers basic processing power and wireless features in a small form factor. It fits users who need Android support and GPIO access for simple projects.
MiiElAOD RADXA PD 30W Power Supply
Best for: RADXA ROCK series power needs
View on Amazon: MiiElAOD RADXA PD 30W Power Supply Affiliate link
This is a 30W power supply from MiiElAOD designed for RADXA ROCK 5, ROCK 4, and ROCK3 boards. It features a European Standard plug configuration. You can choose between UK, European, or American plug types depending on your region. It provides the necessary power for these specific single-board computers. It is a straightforward accessory for users who need a compatible power source for their RADXA projects.
Pros
- 30W output power
- Compatible with ROCK 5, ROCK 4, and ROCK3
- Available in three regional plug standards
Cons
- Limited to 30W power output
- Region-specific plug configuration
- No mention of cable length
Good fit if
- You own a RADXA ROCK 5 board
- You need a 30W power supply
- You require a specific regional plug
Skip if
- You use a different brand of SBC
- You need more than 30W power
- You require a universal plug adapter
Verdict: MiiElAOD 30W Power Supply is a suitable power source for RADXA ROCK series boards. It fits users who need a specific regional plug and 30W output.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board | Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board | Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet | Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter | Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit | Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero | MiiElAOD RADXA PD 30W Power Supply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Quad Core ARM Cortex A7 CPU H3 | not stated |
| RAM Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 512MB | not stated |
| RAM Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | SDRAM | not stated |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 | RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | 100M | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Wireless Connectivity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | WiFi (AP6212) & Bluetooth | not stated |
| Video Resolution | Dual 4K | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Operating System Support | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Raspbian, Android, Armbian, Ubuntu | not stated |
| Operating System | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Android | not stated |
| Networking | not stated | not stated | Gigabit Ethernet | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 3.35 × 2.2 × 2.2 inches | 2.2 × 1.61 × 0.39 inches | 3.35 × 2.2 × 0.2 inches | 3.15 × 1.18 × 0.39 inches | not stated | not stated |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | 0.71 ounces | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Model | CM5-IO-BASE-A | CM4-IO-BASE-A | Nano Base Board (B) | Pi Zero 2W to Pi3 Converter-Ver B | KAHS-E-F02 | not stated | not stated |
| Color | not stated | CM4-IO-BASE-A | not stated | PI 2W to Pi 3 Series Adapter | Edge2's Active Cooling Kit | not stated | European Standard |
If your hardware requirements include different port layouts, you can evaluate primochill base alternatives alongside these specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Waveshare CM4 Mini Base Board with the CM5 module?
No, the Waveshare CM4 Mini Base Board is designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4. It does not support the Compute Module 5. You need a base board compatible with the CM5 interface for your project. The CM4 board lacks the necessary connectivity for the newer module.
What is the smallest base board option for the CM4?
The Waveshare Nano CM4 Base Board is the most compact option listed. It measures 1.61 inches wide by 2.2 inches long. This form factor suits builders embedding a CM4 module into space-constrained projects. It includes Gigabit Ethernet and essential headers while keeping the footprint minimal.
Does the CM5 Mini Base Board support dual displays?
Yes, the Waveshare CM5 Mini Base Board offers dual 4K HDMI output. This feature supports users who need compact systems with multiple display connections. It fits projects requiring high-resolution video output from the Compute Module 5. The board provides wired networking alongside this display capability.
Is there an adapter for Pi Zero 2W to use Pi 3B peripherals?
Yes, the Waveshare Pi Zero 2W to Pi 3B Adapter bridges the two modules. It allows users upgrading from Pi 3B hardware to use the Zero 2W module. The adapter maintains standard connectivity without the bulk of a full-sized board. It fits those needing practical expansion for the Zero 2W.
What power supply works with RADXA ROCK series boards?
The MiiElAOD RADXA PD 30W Power Supply is suitable for RADXA ROCK series boards. It provides 30W output to meet power needs. This unit is available in a European Standard plug configuration. It fits users who require a specific regional plug for their embedded projects.
Which alternative supports Android operating systems?
The Youyeetoo Banana Pi M2 Zero supports Android-based embedded projects. It offers basic processing power and wireless features in a small form factor. This board fits users who need Android support and GPIO access for simple projects. It is a distinct option from the Waveshare CM5 alternatives.
How do I manage heat on the Khadas Edge2 SBC?
The Khadas Edge2 Active Cooling Kit provides essential thermal management for the Edge2 SBC. It is a practical addition for users who require active cooling for this specific board model. The kit measures 3.15 inches long by 1.18 inches wide. It helps maintain stable performance under load.
Does the CM4 Mini Base Board include M.2 storage support?
Yes, the Waveshare CM4 Mini Base Board includes M.2 support for storage expansion. This feature allows for additional storage options not listed on the CM5 base board. It is ideal for basic evaluation or integration into end products. The board focuses on cost-effective solutions without extra features like an RTC.