Waveshare or Khadas? Single Board Computers Compared in 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are comparing the waveshare vs khadas single board computer options for your next project. Both devices serve as compact computing platforms, but they target different technical needs. The Waveshare module relies on the familiar Raspberry Pi architecture for straightforward compatibility. The Khadas unit offers a more complex processor with dedicated neural processing capabilities. You must choose based on whether you prioritize established software support or advanced hardware acceleration for your specific workload.
Key differences
| Aspect | Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite | Khadas VIM3 Pro Single Board Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 | Amlogic A311D (quad Cortex-A73 + dual Cortex-A53) |
| RAM | 2GB | 4GB LPDDR4/X |
| Storage | 0GB (Lite) eMMC | 32GB |
| Neural Processing | Not listed | 5.0 TOPS NPU |
| Networking | WiFi | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite if
- You need a compact module compatible with existing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 software ecosystems.
- You require a lightweight solution for simple data compilation tasks without heavy storage needs.
- You prefer a smaller physical footprint with dimensions of 2.17 by 0.39 inches.
Choose Khadas VIM3 Pro Single Board Computer if
- You require hardware acceleration for deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow or Caffe.
- You need dual independent display support and high-speed video decoding up to 4K.
- You want integrated gigabit Ethernet and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity alongside Wi-Fi.
Verdict: The Waveshare module is the better choice if you need a small, compatible board for basic computing tasks. The Khadas VIM3 Pro suits users who need significant RAM, built-in storage, and AI processing power for complex applications.
Khadas vs Waveshare SBC Specs
Processor performance
The Khadas VIM3 Pro uses an Amlogic A311D SoC with four 2.2GHz Cortex-A73 cores and two 1.8GHz Cortex-A53 cores. This hybrid architecture targets higher performance for demanding tasks. The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite features a BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 processor. While both use ARM architectures, the Khadas chip offers higher clock speeds and a more recent core design. The Waveshare unit relies on the standard Raspberry Pi processor, which is reliable but generally less powerful than the A311D. For raw computational speed, the Khadas design has a clear advantage.
Neural processing
The Khadas VIM3 Pro includes a dedicated Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU). This NPU supports up to 5.0 TOPS INT8 inference at 800MHz. It includes internal L2 cache and a system workspace buffer. This hardware accelerates deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow and Caffe. The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite does not list any dedicated AI accelerator or NPU in its specifications. It relies solely on the CPU for processing. If your project involves machine learning or computer vision, the Khadas hardware provides specialized support that the Waveshare module lacks.
Memory capacity
The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite in this listing comes with 2GB of RAM. The Khadas VIM3 Pro is listed with 4GB of RAM. Both use modern memory types, with Khadas specifying LPDDR4/X. The Khadas unit offers double the memory capacity in this specific configuration. More RAM allows for heavier multitasking and larger datasets. The Waveshare module offers other RAM options, but the base comparison favors the Khadas capacity. For applications requiring more workspace, the Khadas VIM3 Pro is the stronger choice.
Storage type
The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite Lite version has 0GB of eMMC flash storage. It is designed to boot from external media like SD cards or USB drives. The Khadas VIM3 Pro listing indicates 32GB of storage in the title, though the key specs do not explicitly detail the storage type. The Waveshare unit offers faster eMMC options in other configurations, but this specific Lite model has none. The Khadas unit provides built-in storage for the operating system. For a plug-and-play experience without external storage, the Khadas configuration is more complete.
Connectivity options
The Khadas VIM3 Pro includes Gigabit Ethernet with Wake-on-LAN support. It also features Wi-Fi 2T2R AC and Bluetooth 5.0. The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite lists WiFi connectivity but does not mention Ethernet or Bluetooth in its key specs. The Khadas unit offers a more robust wired connection for stable network performance. It also includes Bluetooth for peripheral connections. The Waveshare module may require additional modules for Ethernet. For comprehensive connectivity without extra hardware, the Khadas VIM3 Pro is superior.
Form factor size
The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite is extremely compact. Its dimensions are 2.17 inches in length, 0.39 inches in width, and 0.19 inches in height. It weighs 3.53 ounces. The Khadas VIM3 Pro is described as a Mini PC and Single Board Computer, but specific dimensions are not provided in the data. The Waveshare module is designed for integration into custom enclosures due to its small size. The Khadas unit appears larger, serving as a standalone desktop. If space is extremely limited, the Waveshare module is the more compact solution.
Choose your SBC based on specs
Developers needing AI acceleration
The Khadas VIM3 Pro includes a dedicated NPU with 5.0 TOPS INT8 inference power. This hardware accelerator supports major deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow. If your project involves machine learning or neural network tasks, this processing unit handles heavy computational loads efficiently without relying solely on the CPU cores.
Users wanting Ethernet connectivity
Stable wired connections are crucial for many industrial or server applications. The Khadas VIM3 Pro features Gigabit Ethernet with Wake-on-LAN support. This ensures reliable, high-speed data transfer and remote management capabilities that the Waveshare module does not explicitly list in its specifications, making it a better choice for networked deployments.
Fans of the Raspberry Pi ecosystem
The Waveshare module uses the BCM2711 processor found in the Raspberry Pi 4. This ensures broad software compatibility with existing Pi distributions and libraries. If you already have experience with the Raspberry Pi environment or need to reuse existing code and tools, this familiar architecture reduces setup time and learning curves for your next project.
The products compared
Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite
Best for: compact Raspberry Pi compatible projects
- Processor
- BCM2711, quad-core Cortex-A72
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB
- Storage
- 0GB (Lite) eMMC Flash
- Wireless Connectivity
- WiFi
- Memory
- 2GB RAM
- Dimensions
- 2.17 × 0.39 × 0.19 inches
View on Amazon: Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite Affiliate link
This Waveshare compute module uses the BCM2711 quad-core processor for reliable performance. It includes 2GB of RAM and 0GB of eMMC flash storage. The compact size measures 2.17 inches in length. WiFi connectivity is built in for network access. It suits projects needing a small footprint and standard ARM architecture. You get a familiar Raspberry Pi ecosystem in a tiny package.
Pros
- BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 processor
- 2GB RAM capacity
- Built-in WiFi connectivity
- Compact 2.17-inch form factor
Cons
- 0GB eMMC flash storage limits local data retention
- 2GB RAM is lower than many modern alternatives
- No mention of Bluetooth support in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a small Raspberry Pi-compatible module
- You require WiFi for network tasks
- You are building a lightweight embedded project
Skip if
- You need high storage capacity for large files
- You require Bluetooth for peripheral connections
- You need more than 2GB of RAM
Verdict: Waveshare CM4 2GB BCM2711 is a compact compute module for users needing Raspberry Pi compatibility in a small size. It fits developers who prioritize WiFi and a small footprint over high storage or memory.
Khadas VIM3 Pro Single Board Computer
Best for: AI prototyping and dual display setups
- Processor
- Amlogic A311D
- RAM Type
- LPDDR4/X
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wireless Connectivity
- 2T2R AC Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
- Video Resolution
- 4Kx2K@60fps+1x1080P@60fps
- Operating System Support
- Khadas OOWOW, Android, LibreELEC, Ubuntu
View on Amazon: Khadas VIM3 Pro Single Board Computer Affiliate link
The Khadas VIM3 Pro uses an Amlogic A311D processor with a dedicated NPU for 5.0 TOPS INT8 inference. It includes LPDDR4/X RAM and supports dual independent displays up to 4Kx2K@60fps. You get gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0. This single board computer runs Android or Ubuntu. It suits makers needing hardware acceleration for machine learning tasks without a bulky chassis.
Pros
- Amlogic A311D SoC with 5.0 TOPS NPU
- Supports dual displays up to 4Kx2K@60fps
- LPDDR4/X RAM for efficient performance
- Gigabit Ethernet with WOL support
Cons
- Wi-Fi 5 (AC) instead of Wi-Fi 6
- Limited to Android or Linux operating systems
- Requires external power for heavy applications
Good fit if
- You need hardware acceleration for deep learning models
- You want dual display output for productivity
- You prefer Linux-based development environments
Skip if
- You require Windows operating system support
- You need Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- You want a plug-and-play desktop replacement
Verdict: Khadas VIM3 Pro Mini PC delivers dedicated NPU power for AI workloads. It fits developers building machine learning prototypes on Linux. Skip it if you need Windows or Wi-Fi 6.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite | Khadas VIM3 Pro Single Board Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | BCM2711, quad-core Cortex-A72 | Amlogic A311D |
| RAM Capacity | 2GB | not stated |
| RAM Type | not stated | LPDDR4/X |
| Storage | 0GB (Lite) eMMC Flash | not stated |
| Ethernet | not stated | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Wireless Connectivity | WiFi | 2T2R AC Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Video Resolution | not stated | 4Kx2K@60fps+1x1080P@60fps |
| Operating System Support | not stated | Khadas OOWOW, Android, LibreELEC, Ubuntu |
| Memory | 2GB RAM | not stated |
| Operating System | not stated | Android |
| Dimensions | 2.17 × 0.39 × 0.19 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | not stated |
| Color | 2GB RAM-0GB (Lite) with WIFI | Blue |
| Model | CM4102000 | VIM3 Pro |
| Size | not stated | Pro |
Frequently asked questions
Which single board computer is better for AI prototyping?
The Khadas VIM3 Pro is the better choice for AI prototyping. It features a dedicated NPU with 5.0 TOPS INT8 inference power. This hardware accelerator supports major deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow. The Waveshare module lacks this specialized processing unit. You should select the Khadas unit if your project involves machine learning tasks.
Does the Waveshare module support Raspberry Pi projects?
Yes, the Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite is designed for Raspberry Pi compatibility. It uses the BCM2711 processor, which matches the architecture of popular Raspberry Pi boards. This makes it ideal for developers who need to reuse existing Pi software or peripherals. It fits those who prioritize a small footprint and WiFi connectivity over raw power.
What is the size difference between these two boards?
The Waveshare module is significantly smaller and lighter than the Khadas unit. The Waveshare CM4 Lite measures 2.17 inches in length and weighs 3.53 ounces. It is designed as a compact compute module. The Khadas VIM3 Pro is a larger single board computer. Its physical dimensions are not fully listed, but it is built for more extensive development setups.
Can I run Android on the Khadas VIM3 Pro?
Yes, the Khadas VIM3 Pro supports the Android operating system. This makes it suitable for projects that require an Android interface or application environment. The Waveshare module, however, is based on the Linux-based Raspberry Pi architecture. You should choose the Khadas board if your workflow depends on Android compatibility rather than standard Linux distributions.
Which board is better for dual display setups?
The Khadas VIM3 Pro is recommended for dual display setups. It is explicitly noted as being best for this type of configuration. The Waveshare Compute Module 4 Lite is focused on compact integration and basic connectivity. It does not highlight multi-display capabilities. If you need to drive two monitors simultaneously, the Khadas unit is the more appropriate choice.
Does the Waveshare module include WiFi?
Yes, the Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite includes WiFi. The specific model listed is the Lite version with WiFi enabled. This allows for wireless connectivity without needing additional adapters. The Khadas VIM3 Pro data does not explicitly confirm its wireless capabilities in the provided specs. You should verify the specific Khadas SKU if WiFi is a strict requirement for your project.
Is the Khadas VIM3 Pro compatible with Windows?
No, the Khadas VIM3 Pro is not recommended for Windows users. The provided verdict explicitly states to skip this unit if you need Windows. It is optimized for Linux and Android environments. The Waveshare module is also Linux-based. If you require a Windows operating system, neither of these specific single board computers is suitable for your needs.
Which board has more RAM?
The Waveshare module lists 2GB of RAM in its specifications. The Khadas VIM3 Pro specifications do not provide a RAM amount in the provided data. You cannot determine if the Khadas unit has more memory based on the available information. The Waveshare board is confirmed to have 2GB, which may be sufficient for lightweight projects or basic prototyping tasks.