The Ultimate Guide on Choosing the Best Power Supply for your Raspberry Pi

A detailed guide to powering your Raspberry Pi, including different types of power supplies, how much current and voltage you need, and how to ensure your setup is reliable and safe. …


Updated October 12, 2023

Need help with your Raspberry Pi?
Contact Me!

Do you love silly Raspberry Pi Projects?
Check out my this YouTube Channel!


A detailed guide to powering your Raspberry Pi, including different types of power supplies, how much current and voltage you need, and how to ensure your setup is reliable and safe.

Raspberry Pi is a versatile single-board computer that can be used for various projects like home automation, media centers, surveillance systems, and even controlling robots or drones. One of the most important aspects to consider when setting up your Raspberry Pi project is power supply. In this article, we will discuss different types of power supplies available, how much current and voltage you need for your Raspberry Pi, and how to ensure your setup is reliable and safe.

Types of Power Supplies

There are several types of power supplies available for Raspberry Pi. Some of the common ones include:

  1. Official Raspberry Pi Power Supply - The official power supply provides 5V at 2.5A (12.5W). It is recommended by the Raspberry Pi Foundation and is available in both micro USB and barrel jack versions. However, it can be expensive if you buy just one for your project.

  2. External Power Adapters - External power adapters are AC to DC converters that provide a regulated 5V output at higher current (usually between 1A to 3A). They come in various shapes and sizes, from small USB adapters to larger adapters with multiple ports.

  3. Breadboards - Breadboards are used for prototyping and can provide power through a 5V regulated output pin. They usually have a switch that allows you to turn the power on or off.

  4. USB Hubs - USB hubs can also be used as a power source, especially when connecting multiple USB devices to your Raspberry Pi. Make sure to check the current rating of the USB hub to ensure it is sufficient for all connected devices.

Choosing the Right Power Supply

Before choosing a power supply, you should consider the following factors:

  1. Current - The power supply should be able to provide enough current (measured in amperes) to support your Raspberry Pi and any other components connected to it. The official power supply provides 2.5A, which is usually sufficient for most projects. However, if you have multiple peripherals or a high-power project like a 3D printer, you may need an external power adapter with higher current rating.

  2. Voltage - Raspberry Pi operates at 5V. Make sure the power supply provides a stable and regulated 5V output voltage.

  3. Efficiency - A high-efficiency power supply will waste less energy as heat, which can help keep your Raspberry Pi cooler and extend its lifespan.

  4. Connectors - Choose a power supply that has the right connector for your project: USB, barrel jack, or breadboard.

  5. Reliability - Ensure the power supply you choose is reliable and can handle sudden spikes in current demand without shutting down.

Calculating Current Requirements

To calculate the total current required by your Raspberry Pi setup, add up the current draw of all components connected to it. The official Raspberry Pi Foundation recommends a 2A power supply for most projects. However, if you have additional peripherals or high-power devices, you may need more. Here are some common components and their current requirements:

  • Raspberry Pi itself - 700mA
  • Micro SD card reader - 50mA
  • USB peripherals (e.g., keyboard, mouse) - 100mA each
  • HDMI monitor - 200mA
  • Wifi or Bluetooth dongle - 80mA
  • 3D printer - up to 5A depending on the model

Safety Precautions

To ensure the safety of your Raspberry Pi and other components, follow these guidelines:

  1. Use a power supply with proper current rating - Choose a power supply that can handle the total current required by your setup without shutting down. Overloading a power supply can damage it or cause fire hazards.

  2. Avoid power surges and voltage fluctuations - Use a power conditioner or UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against sudden spikes in voltage that could damage your Raspberry Pi and other devices.

  3. Use short cables for power connections - Shorter cables will have lower resistance and reduce the risk of voltage drop, which can cause brownouts or shutdowns.

  4. Keep your setup cool - Make sure to provide adequate ventilation around your Raspberry Pi and other components to keep them cool. Overheating can cause damage or reduced performance.

  5. Use a power bar - If you are using multiple power adapters, consider using a power bar to organize and manage cables more efficiently. This will also help with heat dissipation.

In conclusion, the right power supply is essential for your Raspberry Pi project. Choose one that meets your current and voltage requirements, provides enough efficiency, and has the right connector type. Also, take safety precautions to avoid damage or fire hazards. By following these guidelines, you can power your Raspberry Pi safely and reliably for years to come.