The Raspberry Pi Foundation has introduced a new 2GB version of its flagship microcomputer, the Raspberry Pi 5, lowering the price to $50. Although the reduced RAM could limit its performance for certain high-demand tasks, the Foundation’s CEO, Eben Upton, assures that the 2GB model remains "functionally identical" to its more powerful predecessors.

When the Raspberry Pi 5 was initially launched last year, it was only available in 4GB and 8GB versions priced at $60 and $80, respectively. These models were $5 more expensive than their Raspberry Pi 4 counterparts. While the new 2GB version might not be suitable for resource-heavy applications like AI projects or media centers, Upton believes it is still ideal for users with less intensive needs.

The Raspberry Pi 5 is the most advanced model from the Foundation, featuring an in-house RP1 I/O controller and a quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor clocked at 2.4GHz. To make the 2GB version more affordable, the Foundation developed a cost-optimized chip that removes unnecessary functionality while retaining key features such as the PCI Express 2.0 interface.

The new 2GB Raspberry Pi 5 is now available for purchase through authorized resellers, including CanaKit and PiShop.us.