What is a Single Board Computer?
A single board computer (SBC) is a complete computer built on a single circuit board. Unlike traditional desktop or laptop computers, all essential components—processor, memory, storage interfaces, input/output ports, and networking—are integrated into one compact board.
In simple terms:
A Single Board Computer does everything a regular computer does, but in a much smaller, cheaper, and more energy-efficient form factor..
If you’ve ever heard about Raspberry Pi, DIY electronics, or small computers used in IoT projects, you’ve already brushed up against the concept of a single board computer—usually abbreviated as SBC
In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn what a single board computer is, how it works, what it’s used for, and whether it’s the right choice for your project.
What Components Does a Single Board Computer Include?
Even though it’s small, a single board computer contains all the core elements of a full computer:
🔧 Main Components of an SBC
- CPU (Processor)
Usually ARM-based, though x86 SBCs also exist. - RAM (Memory)
Typically soldered directly to the board. - Storage Interfaces
microSD, eMMC, NVMe, or SATA (depending on model). - Input / Output (I/O)
USB ports, HDMI/DisplayPort, GPIO pins. - Networking
Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth. - Power Input
USB-C, micro-USB, or DC jack.
Because everything is on one board, SBCs are compact, reliable, and ideal for embedded applications.
Single Board Computer vs Traditional Computer
| Feature | Single Board Computer | Desktop / Laptop |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Very small | Large |
| Power consumption | Very low | High |
| Expandability | Limited | High |
| Cost | Low | Higher |
| Use cases | IoT, robotics, embedded systems | General computing |
A traditional computer relies on separate components (motherboard, RAM, GPU, storage). An SBC combines everything into one unit, trading raw power for efficiency and size.
Why Are Single Board Computers So Popular?
Single board computers have exploded in popularity for several reasons:
✅ Low Cost
Many SBCs cost a fraction of a traditional PC, making them accessible for students, hobbyists, and startups.
✅ Energy Efficiency
They often consume 5–15 watts, making them perfect for always-on systems.
✅ Small Size
Their compact form factor allows deployment where full PCs simply won’t fit.
✅ Flexibility
You can run Linux, Android, or even Windows (on some models) depending on the board.
Common Uses of a Single Board Computer
Single board computers are used across many industries and skill levels.
🔹 Popular SBC Use Cases
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices
- Home automation systems
- Robotics and drones
- Media centers
- Network monitoring and firewalls
- Industrial control systems
- Education and learning programming
From simple DIY projects to industrial deployments, SBCs are incredibly versatile.
Operating Systems for Single Board Computers
Most SBCs support multiple operating systems, depending on architecture and manufacturer support.
🧠 Common SBC Operating Systems
- Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Debian, Arch)
- Android
- Windows IoT / Windows on ARM
- Custom embedded Linux systems
Linux is by far the most popular choice due to its flexibility, stability, and community support.
Advantages of Single Board Computers
✔ Compact and lightweight
✔ Low power consumption
✔ Affordable
✔ Ideal for automation and embedded systems
✔ Large community and open-source ecosystem
Limitations of Single Board Computers
⚠ Limited performance compared to desktops
⚠ Less upgradeability
⚠ Shared memory between CPU and GPU
⚠ Not ideal for heavy workloads like gaming or video editing
Understanding these limitations is key when deciding whether an SBC fits your needs.
Is a Single Board Computer Right for You?
A single board computer is an excellent choice if you:
- Want to learn Linux or programming
- Need a small, always-on computer
- Are building an IoT or embedded project
- Care about low power usage
- Have limited space or budget
However, if you need high performance, multiple monitors, or heavy multitasking, a traditional PC may be better.
Final Thoughts
A single board computer is one of the most powerful tools in modern computing when size, efficiency, and flexibility matter more than raw power. Whether you’re a beginner experimenting at home or a professional building embedded systems, SBCs open the door to endless possibilities.
In the next guides, we’ll dive deeper into:
- How to Choose the Right Single Board Computer for Your Project
- Top 10 Single Board Computers in 2026 (Compared)
- Single Board Computer vs Traditional Computer: Key Differences
- Single Board Computer FAQ: Everything Beginners Ask
- Single Board Computer Use Cases: IoT, Robotics & Edge Computing
- Beginner Projects You Can Build With a Single Board Computer
- Best Operating Systems for Single Board Computers
👉 Keep exploring and you’ll quickly see why single board computers are everywhere.