Imagine you've decided to take the plunge and invest 40 euros in the latest edition of the Raspberry Pi 3, or alternatively, you managed to get a previous version at a significant discount. No matter how physically durable the mini computer might be, the question is: is it really worth leaving it exposed or hanging from a cable? If you think the answer is no, then today we have a small list of the best Raspberry Pi 3 cases, ranging from basic to advanced, including heatsinks and power supplies.
After six years on the market, the world's most popular mini computer has overcome most of its availability issues, except for the more economical Zero models, "punished" by constant demand. But in general, the only thing offered at its base price is the Raspberry Pi alone, and it requires a certain number of accessories, depending on the model. The most important is the power supply (a minimum of 2A is recommended), and immediately after that comes the case. While we can all be careful around the mini computer, it's not worth taking chances when there are pets or small children nearby, and you can avoid almost any problem for a few euros. Would you like to see some cases?
Raspberry Pi 3 Cases
Hikig NESPi System
NES Classic? Let Nintendo forgive us, but I think we can do better. With a Raspberry Pi, a memory card, a couple of gamepads and the Hikig NESPi case, it's possible to create a clone of the NES Classic that also emulates dozens of additional consoles. This case does not include a fan; however, for ten euros with free shipping, that's logical (you can buy a fan for less than two euros). (10 euros). If you're looking for nostalgic Raspberry Pi 3 cases, we recommend it.
Official Raspberry Pi 3 Case
If you're only looking for basic protection, there's nothing better than the official Raspberry Foundation case; of all Raspberry Pi 3 cases, this is the most used. The original design is white with a red frame, but for half a euro more you can get the black version. Additionally, buying this case supports the project more directly, and if you prefer a complete kit ready to use, there are alternatives like this one. (6 euros, red and white), the cheapest of the Raspberry Pi 3 cases.
Aukru 3-in-1 Kit for Raspberry Pi 3
Fortunately, there is life beyond official options, and the best part is that we can get much more for a minimal investment. The Aukru 3-in-1 kit includes a transparent case, screws, three heatsinks, a screwdriver, and a 5V power supply. A very complete kit, with everything needed to get your Raspberry Pi 3 Model B up and running, for only 10.99 euros! An excellent deal; it is the second cheapest of the Raspberry Pi 3 cases.
Smraza 4-in-1
Now, what happens when we don't want to leave loose ends? The solution is to buy something like the Smraza 4-in-1 kit. With a more robust case, three heatsinks, a fan for active cooling, a 2.5A power supply (ideal for the Series 3) and a cable with a switch that simplifies the power on/off process, it's very hard to go wrong. If you plan to overclock your Raspberry Pi, you need something at this level. (16 euros), one of the best Raspberry Pi 3 cases.
Clearain 5-in-1
At first glance, it's clear that the Clearain 5-in-1 kit's case has a more modest appearance, but that is compensated with slots to hang the Raspberry Pi on a wall, and the addition of the HDMI cable, which many users end up forgetting. With two heatsinks, a 2.5A power supply and an on/off switch, the Clearain 5-in-1 covers all angles. (16 euros)
To finish the list of Raspberry Pi 3 cases, two recommendations: Check the compatibility of your Raspberry Pi 3 with each of the cases and try connecting the fans to 3.3V on the GPIO if they make a lot of noise (something normal when they are that size). Good luck!