Raspberry Pi has announced a significant upgrade to its compact computer-in-a-keyboard lineup with the introduction of the Raspberry Pi 500. This new device builds upon the success of its predecessor, the Raspberry Pi 400, and incorporates the performance enhancements of the Raspberry Pi 5 microcomputer, which was launched last September.

The Raspberry Pi 500 is priced at $90, a $20 increase from the Raspberry Pi 400, but offers substantial upgrades, including a 2.4GHz 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor and 8GB of RAM. For users who want a more comprehensive desktop experience, Raspberry Pi is also offering a $120 Desktop Kit, which includes the computer keyboard, a matching mouse, a 27W USB-C power supply, a single micro HDMI cable, and a printed copy of the Raspberry Pi Beginner's Guide book.

In addition to the upgraded computer keyboard, Raspberry Pi is introducing a dedicated display, the Raspberry Pi Monitor, which features a 15.6-inch full HD IPS panel with built-in speakers. Priced at $100, this display can be powered directly from a Raspberry Pi microcomputer with a USB port that outputs 1.5A at 5V, including the new Raspberry Pi 500 computer and its predecessor. However, users should note that brightness will be limited to 60 percent, and volume will max out at 50 percent when powered through the Raspberry Pi. To achieve full brightness and volume, a separate power supply is required.

The Raspberry Pi 500's keyboard features a compact tenkeyless design with various ports accessible on the back, including an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU, a 40-pin Raspberry Pi GPIO connector for attaching peripherals, support for 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, two USB 3.0 ports, one USB 2.0 port, a gigabit ethernet port, and a single USB-C port that's only used for power. The device also boasts a pair of micro HDMI ports that can drive two 4K displays at 60Hz each, and a microSD card slot that comes with a 32GB card preloaded with the Debian-based Raspberry Pi operating system.

Notably, the Raspberry Pi 400 will not be discontinued, but instead, will receive a price drop from $70 to $60. The Raspberry Pi 400 Personal Computer Kit, which includes additional accessories like a mouse and power supply, will also see a price cut from $100 to $80. This move demonstrates Raspberry Pi's commitment to providing accessible and affordable computing solutions to a wide range of users.

The introduction of the Raspberry Pi 500 and the optional display marks a significant milestone in the evolution of compact computing solutions. As the demand for portable and efficient devices continues to grow, Raspberry Pi's latest offerings are poised to appeal to a broad audience, from hobbyists and educators to professionals and entrepreneurs. With its enhanced performance, compact design, and affordable pricing, the Raspberry Pi 500 is likely to become a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile computing solution.