Raspberry Pi 5 B (Broadcom BCM2712) vs Intel Celeron N4020

The Intel Celeron N4020, introduced in the fourth quarter of 2019, is an energy-efficient processor for affordable laptops and compact systems.

It is designed for basic tasks such as web browsing and media playback. Based on Intel's Gemini Lake architecture and manufactured using a 14 nm process, it features two cores and two threads, as well as 4 MB of Level 3 cache, but no Level 2 cache. The integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 600.

Its very low power consumption enables fanless designs. As a component of entry-level devices, the Intel Celeron N4020 offers good value for money. The Raspberry Pi 5 B with Broadcom BCM2712, released in October 2023, is aimed at developers and enthusiasts seeking a powerful single-board computer platform.

The Broadcom BCM2712 is based on the modern Cortex-A76 architecture and is manufactured using a 16 nm process. It offers four cores and four threads, as well as 2 MB of Level 2 and 2 MB of Level 3 cache. The integrated graphics unit, Broadcom VideoCore VII, proves effective for emulations and lighter games.

Compared to the Intel Celeron N4020, the Broadcom BCM2712 shows significantly higher single- and multi-core performance. Its power consumption is efficient for its class, but higher. Via PCIe 2.0, the Raspberry Pi 5 B offers extended connectivity options and a very competitive price-performance ratio as a standalone board.

For basic office and media tasks in energy-efficient, cost-effective systems, the Intel Celeron N4020 is a suitable choice. The Raspberry Pi 5 B (Broadcom BCM2712), on the other hand, is recommended for projects requiring higher computing and graphics performance, such as embedded systems or as a versatile mini-PC.