The easiest way to access video signal on a Raspberry Pi is through an HDMI connection. Another option is to enable remote desktop support, although that requires a second computer, and we must not forget the composite output compatible with older TVs. However, sooner or later we will want to implement a more elegant video solution on our mini computer. With that idea in mind, we have decided to look for four screens for Raspberry Pi 3 and its previous models.
It was in October 2016 that we saw a Raspberry Pi connected to a television from 1980. In the middle of last year, RGB-Pi, a SCART cable appeared, a custom SCART cable that helps us accurately reproduce RGB modes without differences between the emulated environment and the original systems. Both options are wonderful and guarantee a formidable retro experience, but there are times when we only need to reproduce text, images, and video in a much more compact format, and for that there is nothing better than dedicated screens.
Screens for Raspberry Pi 3
It is very easy to get lost in the wide variety of models offered by the market, and it is a shame that the official seven-inch screens for Raspberry Pi 3 distributed by the foundation are so expensive (46 pounds, without taxes or shipping). Therefore, our priority is always to maintain a good price-performance ratio, and that leaves us facing the Kuman screens. Today we will see four alternatives:
Kuman SC11 with case
If for some strange reason you have missed our guide to cases for Raspberry Pi 3... no problem. The Kuman SC11 screen of 3.5 inches and resolution of 480 x 320 has the exact measurements to replace the top cover of a transparent case. The kit includes all screws, three aluminum heatsinks, and a simple stylus that takes advantage of the available touch support. If you prefer to solve two problems at once, this is what you are looking for.
Kuman SC06
Do you already have a case in your possession and do not want to buy another? Again, no problem. You can save ten euros in the process, ignore the case with the heatsinks, and purchase the Kuman SC06 screen, which remains at 3.5 inches and 480 x 320, and includes the stylus. Depending on the distro used, you may need to work a bit on the drivers, but YouTube is full of tutorials on the subject, and personally I recommend that route.
Kuman SC6A
Third option on our list of screens for Raspberry Pi 3 and its brothers. The Kuman SC6A delivers a base resolution of 480 x 320 and touch support, but this model is a bit more complete. The maximum resolution reaches 1080p (ideal if you want to experiment with high definition), and the panel on the back includes a 3.5mm audio output, a micro USB port, a switch for the backlight, and a standard-sized HDMI port that we connect to the HDMI of the Raspberry Pi with a small bridge.
Kuman SC5A
To close, we will take a step up. The Kuman SC5A screen has five inches and a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. On the back we find an HDMI port, micro USB, and a backlight switch, but there is no audio output. With final dimensions of 12.1 by 7.6 centimeters, the Kuman SC5A is the most logical option when 3.5-inch panels turn out to be too small.
Do you have other screens for Raspberry Pi 3 that you want to recommend? Any configuration or installation suggestions? As always, comments are open. It doesn't matter if you plan to create a retro console or a mini player, I am sure that one of the panels presented here will serve you. Good luck!
