You've probably seen it over the past few days: the Recalbox team has been working hard to make the Raspberry Pi 5 2GB compatible with your favorite emulation system. This is great news for this more affordable, more energy-efficient, and cooler-running model. However, we'd like to draw your attention to a few important points regarding its use.

While the Pi 5 2GB comes with 2 GB of RAM, as its name suggests, that's not the only difference. The Raspberry Pi Foundation has also removed certain components from the board and modified others, such as the Broadcom network chip. These changes initially made Recalbox incompatible with this version. That issue has now been resolved. However, a dedicated installation will be required: a microSD card configured for the Pi 5 4GB will not work with the 2GB model.

At the moment, the Pi 5 2GB delivers performance comparable to the 4GB and 8GB models, while offering the benefits mentioned earlier: lower power consumption and reduced heat output. Its attractive price tag—around €15 less than the 4GB version depending on the bundle and retailer—also makes it an appealing option for certain use cases.

[Editor's note] While we had some doubts about the Pi 5 2GB's capabilities when it was first released—and when this article was originally written—that is no longer the case. Every emulator and core has now been optimized to run the standard Recalbox library (with the obvious exception of what can be achieved on more powerful PCs).

So there's no need to worry about recently added systems on the Pi 5, such as the GameCube or Model 3. In fact, all of the hardware solutions available on the Recalbox Shop (RGB Dual 2, JAMMA 2 and JVS) now ship with the 2GB model when you select the Raspberry Pi 5 option.

Please note that if you purchase a Pi 5 outside the Recalbox store, we strongly recommend using the official power supply and cooling fan to ensure the best possible gaming experience and avoid overheating or system instability.

To conclude this article update regarding the various Raspberry Pi 5 models, we'd like to remind you that the 8GB model is unnecessary for running Recalbox, while the 4GB model remains an excellent alternative and is the version we use for many of our tests.

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However, we'd like to offer a word of caution regarding the future. We are currently working on adding new emulators, including GameCube support, which requires additional resources, particularly RAM. While the 2GB model is fully capable of running all currently supported systems, we cannot guarantee compatibility with GameCube emulation. Therefore, if you plan to expand your Recalbox setup in the future, we do not recommend purchasing this model.

On the other hand, if your goal is to build a dedicated arcade cabinet, the Pi 5 2GB will be more than sufficient. Compatible with our RGB JAMMA and RGB Dual hardware solutions, it can run all the "traditional" systems up to PlayStation 1, Dreamcast, and Saturn without issue (subject to the Pi 5's specific audio limitations, which can be easily worked around using the available tips and tricks).

Finally, if you're considering purchasing the 2GB model, we recommend the following:

• The official Raspberry Pi 5 power supply.
• The official ventilated case.
• Keeping your Recalbox installation up to date.

Also note that RetroFlag is expected to release a compatible case soon, likely featuring an integrated cooling system.