Best Single Board Computer for Gaming – Complete Buying Guide

Best Single Board Computer for Gaming – Complete Buying Guide

Best Single Board Computer for Gaming

The best single board computer for gaming is an important decision to make. Computers are expensive and it is best not to buy one that won’t meet your needs. A lot of people find themselves stuck on which ones to choose from, so we have created this guide with the best single-board computers for gaming! This article will provide you with a buying guide, as well as reviews of some great products that we recommend.

What is a Single-Board Computer?

A single-board computer is a complete, built computing device. It comes with a processor and memory to run applications very similar to traditional desktop or laptop PCs. Unlike traditional computers that need additional components such as hard drives, monitors, keyboards etc., the only thing you will need with your SBC is an input method (like a keyboard) and peripherals like printers/scanners! This makes them extremely convenient devices to use when space or money is at a premium. They can be used in lots of different ways from home appliances to industrial projects even drones!

Are single board computers being like a full PC?

Although single-board computers have the appearance of a motherboard of a normal PC, they are very different from normal or full PC.

  • A Single Board Computer is designed to be used as a computer on its own, but a normal desktop or laptop will need additional components such as a monitor and input device (keyboard/mouse). For example Raspberry Pi; ODROID XU; Banana Pro etc.
  • The single-board PC should run an operating system like Windows & Linux which you can install yourself if needed. However, most of them come with an OS installed such as Android and Ubuntu MATE etc.

Why Use Sigle board PC instead of Full PC?

You can do many things with one. The best way to get started is by looking at what you want your single-board computer for, and how much it needs to handle.

Here are some examples:

  • Automation projects – controlling lights/appliances/sensors etc. throughout your house or workplace using an app interface through WiFi or Bluetooth connection (e.g., Raspberry Pi)
  • Drones – having access to powerful computing capabilities while being small enough to fit into tiny spaces within drones..g, Intel Edison

Top SBC for Gaming:

here are the top three selections if you don’t want to go through the whole article you can find the best single board computer for gaming:

CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4

CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4
9.7/10

128GB Edition (8GB RAM)

ODROID-XU4 SBC

ODROID-XU4 SBC
9.5/10

Quad Core 2GHz A15, 2GB RAM, USB 3.0

NVIDIA Jetson Nano 2GB

NVIDIA Jetson Nano 2GB
9.1/10

2GB, 802.11ac wireless, microSD card slot

 

Best Single Board PC for Gaming – Buying Guide:

There are many different options when it comes to choosing a single-board computer for gaming. It is important to keep the budget in mind, but also think about what you can get out of purchasing one. This buying guide will go over some features that matter most and help narrow down your best choice! We hope this helps you make an informed choice!

1. The operating system of SBC

A single-board computer should run an operating system like Windows & Linux which you can install yourself if needed. However, most of them come with an OS installed such as Android and Ubuntu MATE etc.

You can choose a device with desired OS so that it can fulfil your requirements. For gaming normally, windows OS is a better option.

2. Performance and specifications of SBC:

While choosing the SBC for gaming check the high-performance single board pc while considering the following features:

  • CPU: The processor is the most important factor in determining how well your SBC will perform. Some CPUs are faster than others, but that’s not to say that one with a slower clock speed won’t outperform another based on other factors such as I/O support (more on this later), RAM, and architecture (e.g., ODROID XU; Raspberry Pi)
  • GPU: While you may have noticed we mentioned “gaming” several times so far, it should be noted here too – GPUs can also play a large role in gaming devices! We’ll often see them paired with the best value high-performance single-board PCs for best performance.
  • RAM: The more of it the merrier! This is because RAM allows you to multitask – if your SBC has only one or two gigs, then switching between apps will be incredibly slow. So high RAM improve the performance.
  • Storage: An important factor for most home appliances sbc with gaming capabilities. SSDs are slowly becoming common in consumer electronics they’re much faster as compared to old fashioned hard drives.

3. Price of Single Board Computer:

The cost of the single-board computer is also important factor to consider before buying the best single-board computer for gaming. This guide is intended to help you get started with your search and not be overwhelming! We’ve made sure to include options in a variety of price ranges, so whether you want the best SBC under 50 dollars or the best one over 200, we have it here.

4. Intended use

If you are buying a single-board PC then Intended use is the most important factor to consider. Normally following are the few intended for which you may need the SBC:

  • SBC for Home appliances – best single-board computer for home automation like controlling lights/appliances etc., you can use SBC for under 50 dollars such as Raspberry pi; Banana Pro, ODROID XU; Odroid C .etc
  • Gaming console – SBC with gaming capabilities such as NVIDIA Shield TV; Rock64 Media Board Computer and Asus Tinkerboard .etc
  • Industrial projects: best cheap SBC for industrial applications (e.g., Intel Edison) and best value high-performance single-board PC(ODROID HC²). High-Performance Single Board Pc is also known as High Computing or Hackintosh devices which can be used in various ways.

5. Underlying architecture – ARM vs. x86 SBCs

ARM vs. x86 single board computers are best suited to different tasks due to how they handle computations, so it’s important that you have an idea of what each architecture is before making a purchase! ARM devices tend to be smaller and cheaper but generally provide less processing power than their x86 counterparts. This does not mean they can’t run heavy applications – many common programs such as Chrome work on both architectures – but the performance will vary depending on which application you’re running (e.g., Raspberry Pi; ODROID XU). On the other hand, if your intended use case requires high computing capabilities then the best value Hackintosh device should go with Intel Edison Mini PC best SBC for projects.

Top 6 Best Single Board PC for Gaming:

I have selected the best single board computer for gaming based on base on above features the CPU, GPU and RAM. I hope this collection will help you find your best SBC for gaming:

Image Product Features Price
CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4

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ODROID-XU4 SBC ODROID-XU4 SBC

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NVIDIA Jetson Nano 2GB NVIDIA Jetson Nano 2GB

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LattePanda Delta 432 LattePanda Delta 432

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ASUS SBC Tinker Single board PC RK3288 ASUS SBC Tinker Single board PC RK3288

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Orange Pi 4 Single Board Computer Orange Pi 4 Single Board Computer

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https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-raspberry-pi-alternative

1. CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 8GB Extreme Kit

The CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 offers significant increases in processor speed, high multimedia performance and good connectivity. The board also features backwards compatibility with previous-generation boards as well as similar power consumption levels to an entry-level PC system – perfect for those who want desktop-like functionality but on a smaller scale!

CanaKit’s Raspberry Pi 4 8GB Extreme Kit is the perfect way for you to experience what it feels like have your own personal computer! This amazing box includes everything needed – including a 128GB Samsung EVO+ Micro SD Card (Class 10) Pre-Loaded with NOOBS. The included power supply also has an integrated noise filter that will keep your system running smoothly at full capacity while keeping it cool with its set heat sinks or 2 extra long-lasting micro HDMI cables.

8GB RAM
128GB Samsung EVO-Micro SD Card
1.5GHz 64-bit quad-core CPU
6 feet Micro HDMI to HDMI Cables INcluded

The CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 Extreme kit comes with either the more affordable and versatile 4GB or 8GB RAM versions of its high-end product line. The 128 GB Samsung EVO Plus MicroSD card is preloaded with NOOBS, which gives you access to all sorts of operating systems.

The elegance and beauty of the Silver Cooling Case for Raspberry Pi 4 is something you can’t put into words. This innovative cooling system perfectly captures what makes a good looking case, while also providing incredible performance in every aspect imaginable – from insulation with its soft-touch lid to an aesthetically pleasing silver colour scheme that will go well with any décor or desktop background alike. The design team over at the Arctic approved this product because it effectively transfers heat away from your precious hardware so they don’t get too hot during operation without generating noise as many fans might do.

Features:

✅ Raspberry Pi-4 has 8GB with Model B with 1.5GHz 64-bit quad-core Processor
✅ 128 GB Samsung EVO+ storage (Pre-loaded with NOOBS)
✅ Raspberry Pi 4 Case with Integrated Fan Mount
✅ Set of Heat Sinks
✅ USB MicroSD Card Reader
✅ 2 Set of 6 foot Micro HDMI
✅ CanaKit GPIO Reference Card

2. ODROID-XU4 Single Board Computer

The Odroid-XU4 is a high performance and extremely versatile SBC featuring a Samsung Exynos 5422 Octa-Core CPU. The largest difference between the XU4Q model, which features a heat sink instead of the fan for cooling purposes. It also houses 2GB DDR3 RAM, 32GB eMMC 5th generation storage memory with a USB 3.0 interface providing up to 4800Mbps data transfer capacity for such small form factor PC’s! The Odroid XU4 can run Android as well various Linux distributions including Ubuntu 16. Gigabit Ethernet interface makes data transfers very fast indeed.

2GB LPDDR3 RAM 
Samsung 5422 Cortex-A15 2 GHz CPU /Cortex-A7 Octa core CPUs
eMMC5.0 HS400 Flash Storage
2 USB 3.0 ports/host
1 USB 2.0 Host
Gigabit Ethernet port
Display: HDMI 1.4a 

The Odroid-XU4 can use Solid State storage via eMMC module, but you are still able to plug in a microSD card. An external USB disk will also function properly with this device and it would not require an extra 6A power supply for operation since the board already provides enough juice!

You can this single board PC with OGST Gaming Console Kit for XU4 for the best gaming experience.

Features:

✅ CPUs=Samsung Exynos5422 2Ghz and Cortex™-A7 Octa-core
✅ 2Gbyte LPDDR3 RAM
✅ HDMI 1.4a for display
✅ Support SSD and flash storage
✅ 2 3.0 USB port and 1 2.0 USB port
✅ GE Network port

3. LattePanda Delta 432 

LattePanda is a high performance, palm-sized SBC (single board computer) that runs a full Windows 10 or Linux operation system. The LattePanda Delta is perfect for those who need to do some serious work on the go. It comes with a quad-core processor, which clocks in at 1.1GHz but can reach up to 2.4GHz when needed. The Intel UHD Graphics 600 integrated into this device will give you enhanced media conversion and fast frame rates so your videos are always looking best.

Quad-core 1.43 GHz Processor ARM A57 
GPU: 128-core Maxwell 
RAM : 64-bit 4 GB LPDDR4 
4 USB 3.0 port 
1 Micro-B USB 2.0 
802.11ac wireless adapter
Gigabit Ethernet interface
MIPI CSI-2 camera connector
DisplayPort = HDMI 

The LattePanda Delta has an eDP interface, which makes it easy to connect your device directly with LCDs. It has an integrated Type-C interface for data, power supply and video output. It provides a more efficient transmission capacity than traditional laptops while also making it easy to transfer equipment between devices without having wires all over your desk or under furniture.

Features:

✅ Pocket Size PC provides the best performance
✅ Ultra-thin design
✅ 4K DP video output (3850X2160)
✅ Provide 5GBps Data Transfer rates
✅ USB 3.0 interfaces
✅ Intel HD Graphics 600, 200-700MHz
✅ This single-board PC has pre-installed Win10 pro OS but you can also install Linux as well.
✅ eDP interface allows directly to an LCD.

4. ASUS SBC Tinker board RK3288

The ASUS SBC Tinker board is perfect for those looking to upgrade their gaming experience with the latest technology and features. This QuadCore ARM Soc 1.8GHz machine supports 2GB of DDR3 memory, as well as an embedded GPU processor – all on one compact piece.

It is a single board computer, which is designed for SBC hobbyists and for gamers. It features a quad-core 1.8GHz SoC with 2GB DDR3 RAM that can be expanded up to 16GB using various memory modules or SD card slots available on the side of its PCB layout. which also makes it great if you want your project’s functionality increased without requiring any modifications from what was already there before. There are non shared Gbit LAN ports as well WiFi capabilities.

OS: Windows 10
Ram Memory Installed : 4 GB 
CPU:Intel Celeron N4100, Quad-Core 1.1GHz 
Display: HDMI
Graphics Coprocessor Intel UHD Graphics 600
Storage: SSD-Solid State Hard Drive

The Tinker Board is a powerful, yet compact computer that features 4 core ARM-based RK3288 SoC to intensify the multithread performance. Operating at frequencies of up 1.8GHz (the highest available) this increase in processor frequency helps speed the majority of PC tasks for more responsive workflows across all projects without sacrificing power or expandability thanks to its onboard USB 3 slot!

Features:

✅ High-performance QuadCore ARM SoC 1.8GHz CPU
✅ SBC has 600MHz GPU
✅ 2GB of RAM
✅ Fast Giga-Bit LAN
✅ Shielded Wi-Fi with upgradable antenna support
✅ HD Audio & video support requires the use of a media player in TinkerOS

5. NVIDIA Jetson Nano 

The NVIDIA Jetson Nano 2GB Developer Kit is perfect for gaming. It’s small, powerful, affordable-especially for educators who want an easy solution that doesn’t need professional equipment or time spent training on doing projects themselves. With this one development board, you can create your own project using fast algorithms programmed into software programs like TensorFlow Object Recognition Software.

QuadCore ARM SOC 1.8GHz 
2 GB  DDR3 RAM
Arm Mali-T764 GPU
802.11 b/g/n Shielded Wi-Fi 
Non shared GBit LAN
Bluetooth V4.0 + EDR

The Jetson Nano 2GB Developer Kit is an artificial intelligence development kit for makers. It includes USB 3.0 and 2 ports that allow you to connect different devices, plus it has a 40 pin header ready with expandable features so users can attach more accessories easily! The integrated WiFI supports AC wireless networking enabled by Intel’s Wireless 7260 or Marvell 88W8300 SoC along with Windows 10 IoT Enterprise Evaluation Kits Production Boards available on Amazon.

You can learn how to build your own robotic projects with Hello AI World from NVIDIA – all while using the same tools used by professionals in this field.

✅ MicroSD card slot for main storage
✅ Gigabit LAN port
✅ MIPI CSI-2 camera connector
✅ two USB 2.0 ports and 1 USB 3.0 port
✅ Support HDMI output
✅ USB-C interface for 5V power input

6. Orange Pi 4 Single Board Computer

The Orange Pi 4 is an open-source single-board computer. It can run Android 8, Ubuntu 16 or 18 and Debian 9 image on the Rockchip RK3399 CPU with a dual 4GB LPDDR4 memory option available for storage space of up to 16GB eMMC.

Dual 4GB LPDDR4 
16GB EMMC flash
6-core ARM 64-bit processor
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB And Ethernet
Display:  HDMI

The RK3399 is a processor that’s optimized for gaming. Based on the architecture with both big and little cores, it can reach speeds up to 2 GHz!

Features:

✅ Onboard WIFI Bluetooth
✅ LAN:10/100/1000Mbps
✅ Audio Output: 3.5mm Jack and HDMI2.0a; Input: MIC
✅ HDMI 2.0 port for video output
✅ Camera: 2 x MIPI-CSI
✅ Two USB2.0 ports & 1 3.0 USB Type-C
✅ RTC: Support RTC, on-board battery backup interface
✅ Power Source: DC 5V/3A & 5V/3A for TYPE-C
✅ LED: Power led & Status led
✅ OS : Android 8

 

FAQS- Best Single Board Computer for Gaming

Why should I even consider using a Single Board Computer?

SBCs can be used in a wide range of applications for both gaming and streaming, as well as just browsing the internet. Sailing through your favourite websites or running experiments without any hassle at all would not be possible with most other boards because they’re too big – but not so here!
The small size makes it easy to carry around; plus you don’t have to deal with those pesky cables getting tangled up when travelling from place A (wherever)to B(home). Not only does this make everything more convenient than ever before. but it also means less time wasted trying unsuccessfully

What’s better than a Raspberry Pi?

You can’t go wrong with the Raspberry Pi. It’s a versatile board, and it has been featured on every major news outlet from around the world! But if you want more performance for your project then look no further than these alternative boards. we have shared some good single board PC options that are better than Raspberry Pi

  • Odroid XU4.
  • Nvidia Jetson Nano Developer Kit
  • ASUS Tinker Board
  • UDOO BOLT V8

What can single board computer do?

Single board computers are small, cheap and easy to use for a variety of purposes. They can be used as an experimenter’s humble beginnings in programming or as the backbone on which you build your media player/NAS drive – there is no limit! SBC has been increasingly being put into industrial applications such as IoT devices due to their versatility with robotics being just one example out many others available today at any moment thanks to google search “Single Board Computer”
The technology behind these little boxes might not seem glamorous but don’t let its size fool you. SingleBoard Computers offer tremendous power packed inside something convenient enough to make even almost every task like the normal computers.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for the best single board computer for gaming, then it all boils down to what your specific needs are. You also need to consider budget because a more expensive SBC may have better technologies than a cheaper one but if performance is lacking in certain features, it might not be worth paying extra. What type of games do you play? The type of PC that will suit your needs varies depending on what kind of experience or challenges you want from your game. Here’s a list of our top picks and hope this helps narrow down the search process!

Waqas Azam
Me Waqas Azam and I am a professional blogger & freelance writer. I also working in the IT industry for over 7 years. I am graduated in Computer Science and information technology.