Waveshare vs KICKPI Single Board Computers: Which Brand Fits You?
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This waveshare vs KICKPI single board computer comparison helps you choose between two distinct platforms. Both units offer 2GB of RAM for basic tasks, but they serve different purposes. The Waveshare model relies on the Raspberry Pi ecosystem, while the KICKPI board uses an Allwinner chip. You need to decide if you prefer the established Pi community or the multimedia features of the KICKPI design.
Key differences
| Aspect | Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite | KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 | Allwinner H618 quad-core Cortex-A53 |
| Storage | 0GB (Lite) eMMC Flash | 16GB eMMC |
| Networking | WiFi | Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-Band WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Video Output | not listed | HDMI up to 4K@60Hz |
| Dimensions | 2.17 x 0.39 x 0.19 inches | 3.16 x 2.2 x 0.75 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite if
- You need a compact module that fits into existing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 carriers.
- You require the specific BCM2711 processor for compatibility with the Raspberry Pi OS ecosystem.
- You are building a project where the smallest possible footprint is critical.
Choose KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC if
- You need built-in storage without relying on external SD cards.
- You require Gigabit Ethernet and Bluetooth for robust connectivity.
- You plan to use the board for multimedia tasks like 4K video playback.
Verdict: Choose the Waveshare board if you need a small, standardized module for the Raspberry Pi ecosystem. Pick the KICKPI K2B if you want integrated storage, Ethernet, and better multimedia capabilities for standalone projects.
Waveshare vs KICKPI SBC Comparison
processor performance
The Waveshare board uses the BCM2711 SoC with a quad-core Cortex-A72 processor. This is a 64-bit ARM v8 chip designed for powerful performance. The KICKPI K2B uses the Allwinner H618, which also has four cores but based on the Cortex-A53 architecture. Both are quad-core designs. The Waveshare chip is generally considered more powerful for heavy compilation tasks. The KICKPI chip focuses on balanced computing and includes a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU. This GPU helps with graphics and video processing. You get different performance profiles depending on which chip you choose.
storage capacity
Storage options differ significantly between these two boards. The Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite comes with 0GB of eMMC flash storage. It is a lite version that requires external storage. The KICKPI K2B includes 16GB of eMMC flash storage built-in. This allows you to install an operating system and basic files immediately. The KICKPI board also supports SD cards for additional space. The Waveshare board offers faster eMMC data rates if you add storage, but it starts empty. You need to plan your storage setup carefully for the Waveshare model.
networking options
Connectivity varies between the two platforms. The Waveshare board supports WiFi connectivity. It offers options for fully certified radio modules suitable for industrial applications. It can use PCB trace antennas or external antennas. The KICKPI K2B offers more comprehensive wireless options. It includes dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi along with Bluetooth support. Additionally, the KICKPI board features Gigabit Ethernet for wired connections. This provides faster and more stable network speeds than WiFi alone. The Waveshare board lacks mentioned Ethernet ports in its specs.
operating system support
Software flexibility is a key difference. The KICKPI K2B supports both Android 12 and Ubuntu 22.04. Android 12 gives you access to a rich mobile app ecosystem. Ubuntu 22.04 provides a familiar Linux environment for development. The Waveshare board is part of the Raspberry Pi ecosystem. It typically runs Raspberry Pi OS or other Linux distributions compatible with the BCM2711 chip. The KICKPI board explicitly lists Android support, which is rare for this form factor. If you need Android apps, the KICKPI board is the better choice for your project.
form factor size
Physical dimensions affect how you can mount these boards. The Waveshare board is very compact. It measures 2.17 inches in length, 0.39 inches in width, and 0.19 inches in height. It weighs only 3.53 ounces. The KICKPI K2B is larger and thicker. It measures 3.16 inches in length, 2.2 inches in width, and 0.75 inches in height. It weighs 2.12 ounces. The Waveshare board is significantly smaller and thinner. It fits better in tight spaces or custom enclosures. The KICKPI board is more standard in size for single-board computers.
Which single board computer fits your needs
Users needing standard Raspberry Pi compatibility
The Waveshare module uses the BCM2711 processor, which is the same chip found in the Raspberry Pi 4. This ensures full compatibility with the vast Raspberry Pi software ecosystem. You get a quad-core Cortex-A72 processor for reliable performance. The compact form factor allows you to integrate this compute module into existing Pi-based projects without major hardware changes.
Developers requiring Ethernet and modern Android
The KICKPI board includes Gigabit Ethernet for stable wired connections, which the Waveshare model lacks. It supports Android 12, giving you access to the mobile app ecosystem. The Allwinner H618 processor handles multimedia tasks efficiently. You also get dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for flexible wireless connectivity. This board is better for projects needing robust networking and modern operating system options.
Users needing pre-installed storage and video decoding
The KICKPI unit comes with 16GB of eMMC storage, whereas the Waveshare Lite version has none. This means you can install an operating system immediately without needing an SD card. The board also features hardware video decoding for 4K content at 60Hz. This dedicated GPU acceleration reduces CPU load during media playback, making it a more complete solution for media-focused embedded projects.
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 and 2GB of RAM. It includes WiFi connectivity but has 0GB of eMMC storage. The board measures 2.17 by 0.39 inches. It suits developers who need a compact Raspberry Pi compatible base. You can use it for projects requiring a small footprint and standard ARM architecture.
Pros
- BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 processor
- 2GB RAM capacity
- Built-in WiFi connectivity
- Compact 2.17-inch form factor
Cons
- No internal eMMC storage
- Limited 2GB RAM for heavy tasks
- Requires external storage solution
Good fit if
- You need a Raspberry Pi compatible module
- You require a compact size for embedded projects
- You plan to use external storage
Skip if
- You need built-in storage
- You require more than 2GB of RAM
- You want a complete computer out of the box
Verdict: Waveshare CM4 2GB RAM Compute Module offers a compact ARM base for developers. It fits users who need Raspberry Pi compatibility and have external storage plans.
KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC
Best for: compact IoT and development projects
- Processor
- Allwinner H618
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB
- RAM Type
- DDR
- Storage
- 16GB eMMC
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wireless Connectivity
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
View on Amazon: KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC Affiliate link
The KICKPI K2B is a compact single board computer built around the Allwinner H618 quad-core processor. It includes 2GB of DDR RAM and 16GB of eMMC storage. You get dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Gigabit Ethernet for reliable connectivity. The unit supports Android 12 and Ubuntu 22.04, allowing you to choose your preferred environment. It handles 4K video decoding efficiently, making it suitable for media or light development tasks.
Pros
- Allwinner H618 quad-core CPU with Mali-G31 GPU
- Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Supports Android 12 and Ubuntu 22.04
- Gigabit Ethernet port included
Cons
- Only 2GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- 16GB eMMC storage fills up quickly
- No mention of a cooling fan or heatsink
Good fit if
- You need a small Linux development board
- You want to run Android 12 apps
- You require Gigabit Ethernet for stable networking
Skip if
- You need more than 2GB of RAM
- You require large internal storage capacity
- You want a pre-assembled desktop computer
Verdict: The KICKPI K2B 2GB SBC offers a balanced mix of connectivity and dual-OS support for hobbyists. It fits users who need a compact Linux or Android base for IoT projects.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite | KICKPI Allwinner H618 2GB SBC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | BCM2711, quad-core Cortex-A72 | Allwinner H618 |
| RAM Capacity | 2GB | 2GB |
| RAM Type | not stated | DDR |
| Storage | 0GB (Lite) eMMC Flash | 16GB eMMC |
| Ethernet | not stated | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Wireless Connectivity | WiFi | Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Video Resolution | not stated | 4K at 60Hz |
| Operating System Support | not stated | Android 12, Ubuntu 22.04 |
| Memory | 2GB RAM | not stated |
| Operating System | not stated | Android |
| Networking | not stated | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Dimensions | 2.17 × 0.39 × 0.19 inches | 3.16 × 2.2 × 0.75 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | 2.12 ounces |
| Color | 2GB RAM-0GB (Lite) with WIFI | Black |
| Model | CM4102000 | KICKPI K2B |
| Size | not stated | 2G and 16G |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Waveshare CM4 module better for Raspberry Pi compatibility?
Yes. The Waveshare module uses the BCM2711 processor, which is identical to the chip in the Raspberry Pi 4. This ensures full software compatibility with the vast Raspberry Pi ecosystem. You can use standard Raspberry Pi OS and accessories without modification. This makes it ideal for users who already own Pi peripherals or want to migrate existing projects easily.
Does the KICKPI board support Android and Linux?
Yes. The KICKPI K2B offers dual operating system support for both Android and Linux. This flexibility allows you to choose the environment that best suits your project needs. Whether you are building a media center or a development station, you can switch between systems. This makes it a versatile choice for hobbyists who need different software bases for different tasks.
Which SBC has built-in Wi-Fi without extra dongles?
The Waveshare Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Lite includes Wi-Fi capabilities. The product data specifies it comes with Wi-Fi integrated into the module. This means you do not need to purchase separate USB adapters to connect to a network. It provides a cleaner setup for compact projects where space is limited and you want fewer external cables.
Does the KICKPI K2B have gigabit Ethernet?
Yes. The KICKPI K2B features gigabit Ethernet networking. This allows for faster data transfer speeds compared to standard USB adapters. It is suitable for IoT projects or development stations that require stable, high-speed network connections. This built-in connectivity reduces the need for additional hardware, keeping your setup compact and efficient for networked applications.
Is the Waveshare module smaller than the KICKPI board?
Yes. The Waveshare module measures 2.17 inches in length and 0.39 inches in width. The KICKPI board is larger at 3.16 inches long and 2.2 inches wide. The Waveshare unit is designed as a compute module, making it significantly more compact. This size difference matters if you are integrating the board into a tight enclosure or a custom case.
Which board has internal eMMC storage?
The KICKPI K2B includes 16GB of eMMC storage. This provides faster read and write speeds compared to using a microSD card. It is ideal for running operating systems and applications directly from the board. The Waveshare Lite module does not list internal storage, so you would need to use external storage solutions for your operating system and data files.
Can I use the Waveshare module for IoT projects?
Yes. Although the KICKPI is marketed for compact IoT projects, the Waveshare module is also suitable. It offers 2GB of RAM and Wi-Fi connectivity, which are essential for IoT tasks. Its Raspberry Pi compatibility gives you access to numerous IoT libraries and frameworks. You can use it for sensor data collection or remote control applications just like the KICKPI board.