Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini vs Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board (2026): Key Differences
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This guide compares the waveshare mini base board raspberry vs nano base board. Both boards support the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and include Gigabit Ethernet. They share a standard CM4 socket and 40-pin GPIO header. The main difference is physical size. The Mini Base Board measures 3.35 by 2.2 inches. The Nano Base Board matches the CM4 dimensions at 2.2 by 1.61 inches. This affects how you fit them into your project.
Key differences
| Aspect | Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board | Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.35 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches | 2.2 x 1.61 x 0.39 inches |
| Storage Options | Micro SD slot and M.2 slot | Micro SD slot only |
| Audio Output | Not listed | 3.5mm Audio Jack |
| Fan Support | 5V fan only | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board if
- You need an M.2 slot for additional storage.
- You require a larger board for easier wiring.
- You plan to use a 5V cooling fan.
Choose Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet if
- You need the smallest possible footprint.
- You want a built-in 3.5mm audio jack.
- You are working in a narrow space.
Verdict: The Mini Base Board offers more connectivity with its M.2 slot, making it better for storage expansion. The Nano Base Board is ideal if your project demands minimal size and includes audio output. Choose based on whether you prioritize extra ports or compact dimensions.
Size and Connectivity Differences
Form Factor
The Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board measures 3.35 inches in length, 2.2 inches in width, and 2.2 inches in height. This footprint is significantly larger than the Nano Base Board, which matches the exact dimensions of the Compute Module 4 itself at 2.2 inches long and 1.61 inches wide. The Nano design prioritizes a compact profile suitable for narrow application environments. If space is your primary constraint, the Nano board offers a much smaller physical footprint. The Mini board requires more room but provides a more traditional base board layout.
Connectivity
Both boards include a standard CM4 socket and a 40-pin GPIO header. The Mini Base Board expands on this with a wider array of onboard connectors. It features HDMI ports, USB ports, an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port, a Micro SD card slot, an M.2 slot, and dedicated CSI/DSI interfaces. It also includes headers for RTC and FAN connections. The Nano Base Board includes Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, DSI, CSI, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It relies on a Micro SD card for Lite variants. The Mini board offers more versatile expansion options via its M.2 slot and additional ports.
Networking
Both the Mini Base Board and the Nano Base Board support Gigabit Ethernet. The Mini board specifies an RJ45 port for this connection. The Nano board also lists Gigabit Ethernet in its specifications. This means both products provide the same level of wired network speed potential for your projects. Neither board offers a distinct advantage in networking performance based on the published data. You can expect identical bandwidth capabilities for file transfers and network applications on either platform.
Cooling
The Mini Base Board includes a specific header for a FAN connection. It explicitly notes that this header only supports 5V fans and does not support 12V fans. You must confirm the fan voltage before connecting it to avoid damage. The Nano Base Board data does not mention any fan header or active cooling support. If you plan to use active cooling for your Compute Module 4, the Mini board provides the necessary hardware interface. The Nano board may rely on passive cooling or external solutions.
Storage
Both boards support storage via a Micro SD card slot for Compute Module 4 Lite variants that lack internal eMMC. The Mini Base Board also includes an M.2 slot, which allows for additional storage or expansion cards beyond the SD card. The Nano Base Board does not list an M.2 slot in its features. If you need flexible storage options or wish to use an M.2 drive, the Mini board is the superior choice. The Nano board limits you to the Micro SD card for storage on Lite modules.
Which Base Board Fits Your Project
Need CM4-sized footprint
The Nano Base Board matches the exact dimensions of the Compute Module 4. It measures 2.2 inches by 1.61 inches. This compact size suits narrow application environments where space is limited. You get Gigabit Ethernet and standard interfaces without extra bulk.
Need M.2 slot
The Mini Base Board includes an M.2 slot for storage expansion. It also features a Micro SD card slot. The larger 3.35-inch length provides room for these connectors. You can connect fans and displays directly. This board supports both Lite and EMMC modules.
Want standard evaluation board
This board is designed for evaluating the CM4 or integration into end products. It includes a standard CM4 socket and color-coded 40-pin GPIO header. You get RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, and USB ports. The included mounting screws make installation straightforward for testing.
The products compared
Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board
Best for: compact CM4 integration projects
- 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 Mini Base Board provides a standard socket for Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 units. It features a 40-pin GPIO header and connects to Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, and USB ports. The board includes an M.2 slot and a Micro SD card slot for storage expansion. Its compact 85x56mm footprint makes it suitable for integration into custom projects or evaluation setups.
Pros
- Includes RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Features M.2 slot for storage expansion
- Provides standard 40-pin GPIO header
- Supports Micro SD card slot
Cons
- Fan header only supports 5V fans
- DSI1 display interface is not connected
- Does not include a case enclosure
Good fit if
- You need a compact board for CM4 evaluation
- You require Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
- You want to add M.2 storage to your project
Skip if
- You need a pre-built case for the module
- You require support for 12V cooling fans
- You need both DSI display interfaces active
Verdict: Waveshare Mini Base Board for CM4 offers essential I/O and M.2 support in a small form factor. It is ideal for developers integrating CM4 modules into custom enclosures who need Gigabit Ethernet.
Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet
Best for: Narrow space integration with 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 Waveshare Nano Base Board (B) matches the exact dimensions of the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4. It provides a standard CM4 socket and essential interfaces like Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, DSI, CSI, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Its compact size of 2.2 by 1.61 inches makes it suitable for narrow application environments. You can use it for evaluation or integration into end products. Note that the CM4 module is not included.
Pros
- Same size as the CM4 for compact integration
- Includes Gigabit Ethernet port
- Features 40PIN GPIO, USB 2.0, DSI, and CSI
- Includes 3.5mm audio jack
Cons
- CM4 module is not included
- Micro SD card socket only for Lite variants without eMMC
- No mention of wireless networking capabilities
Good fit if
- You need a base board that fits narrow spaces
- You are evaluating the CM4 or integrating it into a product
- You require Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with the CM4 included
- You require built-in wireless networking
- You need eMMC storage support on the board itself
Verdict: Waveshare Nano Base Board CM4 is a compact solution for users needing a standard CM4 socket in a small form factor. It fits buyers who prioritize Gigabit Ethernet and precise dimensional matching for narrow installations.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Waveshare Raspberry Pi CM4 Mini Base Board | Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board with Gigabit Ethernet |
|---|---|---|
| Ethernet | RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Networking | not stated | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Dimensions | 3.35 × 2.2 × 2.2 inches | 2.2 × 1.61 × 0.39 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 0.71 ounces |
| Color | CM4-IO-BASE-B | not stated |
| Model | not stated | Nano Base Board (B) |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Waveshare CM4 Nano Base Board smaller than the Mini Base Board?
Yes. The Nano Base Board measures 2.2 inches in length and 1.61 inches in width. The Mini Base Board is larger, measuring 3.35 inches in length and 2.2 inches in width. The Nano board is designed for narrow space integration where minimal footprint is critical.
Do both boards support Gigabit Ethernet?
Yes. Both the Waveshare CM4 Mini Base Board and the Nano Base Board include Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. This allows you to use either board for networked applications without needing additional adapters or network interface cards.
Which board is better for tight spaces?
The Nano Base Board is better for tight spaces. It measures only 0.39 inches in height and 1.61 inches in width. This precise dimensional matching makes it ideal for narrow installations where the Mini Base Board would not fit.
Does the Mini Base Board have M.2 support?
Yes. The Mini Base Board offers M.2 support for storage expansion. This feature is not mentioned for the Nano Base Board. If you need additional storage connectivity in a compact form factor, the Mini board provides this capability.
Can I use the Compute Module 4 with both boards?
Yes. Both boards feature a standard CM4 socket. You can plug any Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 into either the Mini or Nano base board. They both also include a 40-pin GPIO header for general-purpose input and output.
What is the weight of the Nano Base Board?
The Nano Base Board weighs 0.71 ounces. This lightweight design supports its use in portable or space-constrained projects. The Mini Base Board weight is not specified in the available data, so the Nano board is the lighter option.
Are both boards suitable for custom enclosures?
Yes. The Mini Base Board is ideal for developers integrating CM4 modules into custom enclosures. The Nano Base Board also suits custom projects requiring a compact solution. Both boards allow you to build tailored hardware setups around the Compute Module 4.