single board computers, SBCs, 2025 SBC reviews, Bret.dk, tech retrospectives, hardware reviews, embedded systems, SBC market trends ## Introduction As technology continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, the world of single board computers (SBCs) has seen significant advancements over the past year. In a recent retrospective titled "Every Single Board Computer I Tested in 2025," Bret.dk meticulously examined 15 different SBCs from 8 leading companies. This article aims to delve deeper into those findings, highlighting the trends, innovations, and overall market landscape of SBCs in 2025. ## The Rise of Single Board Computers Single board computers have become a staple in various applications, from educational platforms to industrial automation. Their compact size, affordability, and versatility make them a preferred choice for hobbyists and professionals alike. In 2025, the SBC market has expanded substantially, driven by the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT) and enhanced computing demands. ### Key Market Trends in 2025 The retrospective by Bret.dk reveals several noteworthy trends within the SBC landscape in 2025: 1. **Increased Performance**: Many SBCs are now equipped with powerful processors and improved memory options, allowing for more complex tasks and applications. This trend is particularly evident in boards targeting AI and machine learning applications. 2. **Enhanced Connectivity Options**: With the rise of IoT, connectivity has become paramount. The introduction of advanced networking features, such as 5G support and enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities, has been a game-changer for SBCs. 3. **Sustainability Focus**: As environmental concerns grow, manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials. This shift reflects a broader industry trend towards green technology. 4. **Diverse Use Cases**: From robotics to media centers, the applications for SBCs have broadened significantly. The versatility of these boards is evident in their adoption across different industries, further fueling innovation. ## Highlights from Bret.dk’s Retrospective Bret.dk's exploration of 15 SBCs provides valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of various models. Here are some highlights based on his findings: ### Top Performers - **Raspberry Pi 5**: The latest iteration of the Raspberry Pi series continues to impress with its robust community support and versatile applications. The addition of USB 3.0 ports and improved GPU performance makes it a favorite among developers and educators. - **BeagleBone AI**: Aimed at developers working with machine learning, the BeagleBone AI offers an interesting balance between performance and ease of use. Its onboard AI capabilities allow for real-time data processing, making it ideal for IoT applications. - **Odroid N2+**: Known for its exceptional performance, the Odroid N2+ provides a powerful alternative for users looking for something beyond the Raspberry Pi. Its superior processing power and graphics capabilities cater to gaming and media applications. ### Notable Mentions - **ASUS Tinker Board 2**: With its impressive specs and competitive pricing, the Tinker Board 2 has carved out a niche for itself, particularly among multimedia enthusiasts. - **NVIDIA Jetson Nano**: Targeting developers in the AI space, the Jetson Nano stands out with its GPU capabilities, making it a preferred choice for AI projects and robotics. ## Evaluating the SBC Landscape ### Performance vs. Price One of the most significant takeaways from Bret.dk's review is the balance between performance and price. As manufacturers introduce high-end features, the price of SBCs has varied widely. Enthusiasts looking for budget-friendly options continue to lean towards boards like the Raspberry Pi, while developers focused on performance are willing to invest in high-end boards such as the NVIDIA Jetson family. ### Community and Support Another critical aspect of the SBC ecosystem is community support. Boards with a strong community presence not only provide better resources for troubleshooting but also foster innovation through shared projects and tutorials. The Raspberry Pi community remains one of the largest and most supportive, bolstering its position in the market. ## Future Outlook for SBCs As we move beyond 2025, the SBC market is poised for further evolution. Key areas to watch include: 1. **Integration of AI Capabilities**: As mentioned, AI is becoming more prevalent in SBC applications. Future boards will likely integrate more advanced AI features, making them suitable for a wider array of projects. 2. **Modular Designs**: The demand for customization will lead to more modular SBC designs, allowing users to tailor their boards to specific applications. 3. **Emerging Technologies**: As technologies like 5G become mainstream, SBCs will adapt to leverage these advancements, enhancing their applicability in IoT and edge computing. ## Conclusion The retrospective presented by Bret.dk offers a valuable snapshot of the SBC market in 2025, showcasing both established players and emerging technologies. As single board computers continue to capture the imaginations of developers, educators, and hobbyists alike, understanding their progression and the trends shaping their future is essential. With performance improvements, enhanced connectivity, and a focus on sustainability, the future of SBCs looks promising, paving the way for exciting innovations in technology. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting your journey, the world of SBCs holds endless possibilities waiting to be explored. Source: https://hackaday.com/2026/03/09/last-year-in-sbcs/