Raspberry Pis are popularly used as a stand-alone device, for they will need some form of protection. This post features 6 variations of Raspberry Pi cases.
Table of contents
Introduction to Raspberry Pi cases
Apart from pure protection, depending on its purpose, a good Raspberry Pi case is also aesthetically pleasing, small enough to hide easily and has enough space to add additional components.
The Raspberry Pi A models and B models have different ports — so they will need different cases. The Raspberry Pi 4 is also different. The Raspberry Pi 2B and Raspberry Pi 3B/3B+ can all use the same case while the Raspberry Pi 4B has its own case.
Sponsored links
2019 Model B, 4GB RAM
2019 Model B, 8GB RAM
2019 Model B, 4GB RAM
DesignSpark Professional Raspberry Pi cases
DesignSpark brings us some strong, traditional professional cases made from ABS for the Raspberry Pi. The range includes four polished colour options namely black, white, red and clear/transparent.
The DesignSpark Raspberry Pi cases are strong and easy on the eye and are branded with the Raspberry Pi logo.
The three pieces of the case snap together and don’t need tools or screws. The design allows the top to be removed giving quick access to the GPIO connections.
Official Raspberry Pi cases
Various suppliers also stock the official Raspberry Pi cases. They are available in white & red and black colours.
The official Raspberry Pi cases are stylish and lightweight and are made from high quality moulded plastic. They are also branded with the Raspberry Pi logo on the top.
These cases consist of five pieces that easily snap together without the need for any tools or screws. The design allows the sides and top to be removed allowing quick access to internal GPIO connections and interfaces.
Multicomp Pi-BLOX cases
If you’re into LEGO® bricks, the Multicomp Pi-BLOX cases are just the thing for you. These LEGO brick compatible cases come in four colours (black, white, red, yellow, and blue) and stack top and bottom on standard LEGO brick.
The Multicomp Pi-BLOX cases also feature all the necessary openings for connectors and ports and include mounts for the Pi camera, which can be fitted inside of the case with holes in the lid for the camera lens and flash.
Pimoroni Pibow Raspberry Pi cases
Pimoroni offers funky, colourful, “hackable” Raspberry Pi cases where the board is visible from the outside. The series includes Pibow, Pibow Coupé and Pibow Timber (for older Raspberry Pis).
Variations that are available include the Pibow Rainbow, the Pibow Coupé Red, Ninja, Flotilla, Royale and Tangerine.
Generic cases
The ABS Case for the Raspberry Pi Model Bs is very basic and budget, but in my opinion, quite a sleek-looking rounded-edged case.
These cases consist of four pieces and assembling using screws and a screwdriver will be required.
Note that this case does not have an opening for the Raspberry Pi camera module.
Lazer cut Raspberry Pi cases
Raspberry Pi cases can also be laser cut. Various CAD files to cut your own, or pre-cut cases are available.
Lazer-cut Raspberry Pi cases allow for customisation in the form of look, colour and material.
Where to buy Raspberry Pi cases
Although some of these Raspberry Pi cases are already discontinued, some might still be available from online shops like Amazon, BangGood and eBay.
For South Africans, Raspberry Pi cases are available from RS Online, PiShop and Takealot.
Conclusion
A case is a good thing when it comes to protecting stand-alone Raspberry Pis. Raspberry Pi cases depend on the Raspberry Pi model used and are available in many variations.
