The Raspberry Pi Zero W is one of the smallest and most affordable single-board computers (SBCs) in the Raspberry Pi lineup. Despite its compact size, this tiny powerhouse comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it perfect for IoT projects (See Raspberry Pi Solutions), robotics, and DIY electronics. In this article, we’ll explore the full specifications of the Raspberry Pi Zero W, its capabilities, and how it compares to other Raspberry Pi models.
What is the Raspberry Pi Zero W?
The Raspberry Pi Zero W, released in February 2017, is an upgraded version of the original Raspberry Pi Zero (2015). The “W” stands for Wireless, as this model adds onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity—key features missing in the first Zero model.
Designed for ultra-low-power applications, the Pi Zero W is a great choice for embedded systems, portable devices, and network-connected projects.
Raspberry Pi Zero W Full Specifications
1. Processor & memory
- CPU: 1GHz single-core Broadcom BCM2835 (ARM11 architecture)
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV (supports H.264 and MPEG-4 decoding)
- RAM: 512MB LPDDR2
The BCM2835 processor is the same chip used in the original Raspberry Pi 1, but it’s clocked at 1GHz, offering a noticeable performance boost. The 512MB RAM ensures smooth operation for lightweight applications.
2. Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz)
- Bluetooth: 4.1 + Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
With built-in wireless capabilities, the Raspberry Pi Zero W eliminates the need for external adapters, making it ideal for IoT and remote-access applications.
3. Ports & Interfaces
- 1 x Mini HDMI port (supports 1080p video output)
- 1 x Micro-USB for power
- 1 x Micro-USB OTG for peripherals (keyboard, mouse, storage, etc.)
- 40-Pin GPIO header (unpopulated, compatible with Raspberry Pi HATs)
- CSI Camera Connector (supports Raspberry Pi Camera Module)
- Composite video output via test pads
The GPIO pins allow users to connect sensors, buttons, and other electronic components, making the Zero W perfect for DIY electronics. The Camera Serial Interface (CSI) enables camera module connectivity, useful for projects like time-lapse photography and security cameras.
4. Storage
- MicroSD card slot (required for OS and file storage)
Since the Zero W lacks onboard storage, a microSD card serves as both the boot drive and primary storage medium.
5. Power consumption
- Voltage: 5V via Micro-USB
- Typical power consumption: ~120mA (idle), ~230mA (under load)
The low power draw makes the Pi Zero W perfect for battery-powered and energy-efficient applications.
Raspberry Pi Zero W vs. Other Raspberry Pi Models
While the Zero W is significantly less powerful than the Raspberry Pi 4, it excels in size, power efficiency, and wireless connectivity—perfect for small-scale and embedded applications.
Popular use cases for Raspberry Pi Zero W
If you are looking for Raspberry Pi Zero W projects, you can find several good options to work on:
- IoT and smart home projects – Control smart devices, sensors, and automation systems.
- Retro gaming – Run lightweight emulators for NES, Game Boy, and other classic consoles.
- Security cameras – Set up a wireless surveillance system with a Raspberry Pi Camera Module.
- Wearable tech – Build portable devices like smart badges or GPS trackers (See IoT wearables).
- DIY robotics – Power small robots with wireless control.
- Portable media players – Stream music or video via Kodi or VLC.
Despite being an older model, the Raspberry Pi Zero W remains a fantastic choice for budget-friendly, wireless-enabled projects. Its compact size, low power consumption, and solid connectivity make it a favorite among makers and developers.
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