Raspberry Pi 3 Model B
- Processor:
- Broadcom BCM2837
- Memory:
- 1GB LPDDR2
- Storage:
- microSD
- Price:
- $35
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Manufacturer: Raspberry Pi Foundation Last updated: September 15, 2026
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3) Review
Raspberry pi 3 model b specs and price still come up because it's the original, first-generation Pi 3, the one before the B+ refresh added Gigabit-capable networking and a faster clock.
It's dated hardware now (802.11n WiFi, single-band, 10/100 Ethernet), kept mainly for compatibility with older projects and tutorials written before the B+ existed.
Why Buy the Original Over the B+
Mostly you don't, unless you're replacing a dead unit in an existing fleet or following an older tutorial that assumes this exact board. Our Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ listing is the same price bracket with a faster CPU, dual-band 802.11ac WiFi, and full Gigabit Ethernet (throttled by the USB 2.0 bus, but still faster than 10/100).
Specifications
Identity
| Brand | Raspberry Pi Foundation |
|---|
Processor
| CPU Cores | 4 cores |
|---|
Power
| Power Input | 5V/2.5A via micro-USB |
|---|
| CPU Architecture | ARM |
|---|---|
| Memory | 1 GB |
| Storage Type | microSD |
| GPIO Header | Yes |
| Price | 35 USD |
| Use Case | Ultra-Compact / Budget |
| SoC | Broadcom BCM2837 |
| PCIe/M.2 Slot | No |
| Has AI Accelerator/NPU | No |
| GPU | VideoCore IV |
| Ethernet | 10/100 Ethernet |
| Video Output | Full-size HDMI, composite |
| OS Support | Raspberry Pi OS (32-bit recommended), legacy Linux distros |
| Board Size | 85 x 56mm |
| Camera/Display Connectors | CSI camera port, DSI display port |
| USB Ports | 4x USB 2.0 |
Expert Review
Reviewed by Burooj Alam. Rated by us, not by users.
Best for
- Replacing or expanding an existing fleet of original Pi 3 Model B units.
- Following older tutorials and courseware written for this exact revision.
Not for
- New projects, where the Pi 3 Model B+ or a Pi 4/5 is a better choice at a similar or only slightly higher price.
FAQs
What are the key specifications of the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3)?
The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3) is a single board computer from Raspberry Pi Foundation. Key specs: SoC Broadcom BCM2837, CPU Architecture ARM, CPU Cores 4, Memory 1, Storage Type microSD.
Will the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3) work with my current setup?
The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3) lists SoC is Broadcom BCM2837. Check that against the hardware you already own before buying, since this is the field that most often decides whether a part fits.
Who is the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3) best suited to?
It suits replacing or expanding an existing fleet of original pi 3 model b units., following older tutorials and courseware written for this exact revision..
What are the drawbacks of the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (Single-Board Computer/Broadcom BCM2837/Quad-Core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz/1GB LPDDR2/Original Pi 3)?
It is a poor fit for new projects, where the pi 3 model b+ or a pi 4/5 is a better choice at a similar or only slightly higher price..
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