The Raspberry Pi is amazing at two levels—the advanced functionality that
you get in a credit card-sized SBC (Single Board Computer) and its price.
Even with today’s Pi competitors, the Raspberry Pi reigns supreme because
few can beat its price. Further, it enjoys great software and community
support.
Price is an important advantage of the Pi that competitors don’t
always appreciate. Hobbyists and makers are applying the Pi in new and
sometimes risky ways. Someone starting out doesn’t want to lose their
SBC because of a rookie mistake. At the low Pi price point, the loss can be
absorbed without losing heart. Imagine a student buying an Intel Joule1
(when it was offered) for $349 USD and toasting it by accident. That would
be enough to make most people give up right there! Price allows everyone
to proceed fearlessly in their learning.
