In the ever-evolving world of single-board computers, the Raspberry Pi series has consistently been at the forefront of innovation. Today, we delve into a comparison between the Raspberry Pi 2040 (RP2040) and the newly released Raspberry Pi 2350 (RP2350) to understand their unique features, capabilities, and the exciting project possibilities they unlock for engineers and hobbyists alike.

Raspberry Pi 2040: A Compact Powerhouse

The Raspberry Pi 2040, introduced in early 2021, is a microcontroller chip that marked Raspberry Pi's first step into the microcontroller market. The RP2040 basic specs are:

- Dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ processor running at 133 MHz
- 264KB of SRAM
- Support for up to 16MB of off-chip flash memory
- 30 GPIO pins, including 4 dedicated to ADC
- USB 1.1 with host and device support

Key Features of Raspberry Pi 2040

1. Dual-Core Processor: The dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ processor offers efficient performance for a variety of embedded applications.
2. Memory: 264KB of on-chip SRAM allows for handling moderate computational tasks.
3. GPIO Pins: 30 GPIO pins provide connectivity to a range of sensors and peripherals.
4. USB Support: USB 1.1 with host and device capabilities enables basic USB connectivity.

These features make the Raspberry Pi 2040 ideal for a wide range of applications, particularly in IoT projects, wearable devices, and small-scale automation systems. Its low power consumption and compact size make it a versatile choice for embedded systems.

Side-by-side look at the pinout diagrams of the RP2040 56QFN and RP2350 60QFN chips from the official datasheets. The RP2350 has 4 additional pins.

Raspberry Pi 2350: The Next Generation

The newly released Raspberry Pi 2350 takes the legacy of the RP2040 to new heights. While it retains the compact form factor, it introduces several enhancements that promise to inspire new project ideas. Specs include:

- Dual-core Arm Cortex-M33 or Hazard3 processors at up to 150MHz
- 520KB multi-bank high performance SRAM
- Support for up to 16MB of off-chip flash memory
- 30 GPIO pins, including 4 dedicated to ADC
- USB 1.1 with host and device support
- Available in 4 different configurations

Key Features of Raspberry Pi 2350

1. Dual-Core Processor: The dual-core Arm Cortex-M33 processor offers even greater performance for more power hungry applications.
2. RISC-V Support: Open a world of possibilities thanks to the addition of two Hazard3 RISC-V cores
3. Double the Memory: At 520KB of on-chip SRAM, RP2350 can handle even more computational tasks.
3. More PIO Cores: One additional PIO interface for 4 additional state machines.
4. Reduced Power Consumption: Despite being more powerful, the 2350 consumes less power

Side-by-side look at the pinout diagrams for RP2350's two different package variants

Unlike it's predecessor, the RP2350 comes in two different package sizes, the 7x7mm 60QFN package and the larger 10x10mm 80-pin 80QFN package. Both package sizes come in 0MB and 2MB internal flash variants (which technically is called RP2354) making a total of 4 configurations. RP2345 configurations also have 18 more GPIOs, 4 of which are analogue.

The new PICO 2, which is based on the RP2350 chip looks almost identical to its predecessor, maintaining the same form factor and castellated hole design, allowing existing projects to take advantage of RP2350's features with a little bit of rework. Possibly the only downside is the extra cost with RP2040 selling for $4 at retail and RP2350 going for $5. 

As a direct upgrade in almost all aspects, the RP2350 opens up a plethora of possibilities for more complex projects. Whether you're developing robotics, home automation systems, or IoT devices, the RP2350 is ready to handle the challenge.

Project Ideas to Get You Started

To help you get the most out of the Raspberry Pi 2350, here are some project ideas that leverage its advanced features:

1. Smart Home Hub

Utilize the Raspberry Pi 2350's processing power to create a simple central hub for your smart home. Integrate various sensors and smart devices to monitor and control your home environment seamlessly.

2. Advanced Robotics

Take advantage of the faster dual-core processor and expanded memory to add programmable functions to RC vehicles, boats or aircraft. build robots with complex functionalities.

3. IoT Devices

Develop IoT devices that require higher processing power and memory. With its enhanced capabilities, the RP2350 can handle data-intensive tasks, making it perfect for applications in agriculture, healthcare, and industrial automation.

4. Portable Gaming Console

Create a portable gaming console that can run retro games or even modern, lightweight games. The improved processing power and memory will ensure a smooth gaming experience.

5. Wearables - Simple fitness trackers, step counter or smartwatch. The RP2350's capabilities are enough for a variety of wearable applications.

 

Bigger Better Open

RP2350 is a worthwhile improvement on what is already a very popular MCU in hobbyists and even professional circles. By targeting pain points and stepping up on every level, the RP2350 is the answer to both new and existing projects that would benefit from the greater processing power, energy efficiency and open architecture. 

Are you excited to dive into your next Raspberry Pi project with RP2350? Share your ideas and experiences in the comments below. Would you still pick RP2040 for the lower cost or are you excited to get your hands on RP2350's extra capabilities?

Be sure to take advantage of NextPCB's reliable PCB manufacturing service for your RP2350 or Pico 2 projects. Now you can try HQ NextPCB's reliable PCB manufacturing service for free up to $20 including shipping worldwide.
 

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