Ajay Waliahttps://curiousbit.netlify.app/Digital workplace, artificial intelligence, cloud, security, automation, and enterprise technology notes by Ajay Walia.en-auAjay WaliaAjay WaliaCopyright 2026 Ajay WaliaMon, 12 Oct 2026 05:42:57 +0000https://curiousbit.netlify.app/images/og-default.pngAjay Waliahttps://curiousbit.netlify.app/Top 50 Raspberry Pi Projects (+8 Bonus Builds)https://curiousbit.netlify.app/raspberry-pi-top-50-projects/https://curiousbit.netlify.app/raspberry-pi-top-50-projects/Sun, 04 Oct 2026 08:00:00 +1100Ajay Walia<style>#rpkb{--fg:#101418;--mut:#52525b;--line:#a1a1aa;--pn:rgba(127,127,127,.06);--bd:rgba(127,127,127,.24);--acc:#00a844;--wire:#334155;--warn:#b45309;--warnbg:rgba(245,158,11,.10);--danger:#b91c1c;--dangerbg:rgba(239,68,68,.08);color:inherit;} .dark #rpkb{--fg:#f4f4f5;--mut:#a1a1aa;--line:#71717a;--wire:#cbd5e1;--acc:#00e676;--warn:#fbbf24;--danger:#f87171;} #rpkb *{box-sizing:border-box;} #rpkb p{margin:0 0 1rem;} #rpkb 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0 0 40px -10px color-mix(in srgb,var(--neon) 45%,transparent); --fg:var(--sfg,#f5f3ff);--line:rgba(255,255,255,.5);--wire:rgba(235,235,255,.75);--acc:var(--neon);--pn:rgba(255,255,255,.04);--bd:rgba(255,255,255,.22);} #rpkb .rp-stage .t{fill:#f7f5ff;} #rpkb .rp-stage .tm{fill:rgba(235,235,255,.74);} #rpkb .rp-stage .bx{fill:rgba(255,255,255,.06);stroke:var(--neon2);} #rpkb .rp-stage .pn{fill:rgba(255,255,255,.04);stroke:rgba(255,255,255,.25);} #rpkb .rp-stage .flow{filter:none;} #rpkb .rp-badge{position:absolute;right:10px;top:8px;font-size:.62rem;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:.12em;text-transform:uppercase;color:var(--neon);opacity:.85;font-family:ui-monospace,Menlo,monospace;text-shadow:0 0 8px var(--neon);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .rp-btn{border-color:color-mix(in srgb,var(--neon) 55%,transparent);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .rp-btn:hover{border-color:var(--neon);box-shadow:0 0 12px -2px var(--neon);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .rp-btn.on{background:var(--neon);border-color:var(--neon);color:#05010a;box-shadow:0 0 16px -2px var(--neon);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon input[type=range]{accent-color:var(--neon);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .rp-out{border:1px solid color-mix(in srgb,var(--neon) 45%,transparent);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .rp-info{border-color:color-mix(in srgb,var(--neon) 45%,transparent);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .bf-node circle.hl{stroke:var(--neon2);} #rpkb .rp-fig.neon .pin.sel circle{stroke:#fff;} #rpkb .rp-cgrid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fill,minmax(min(100%,520px),1fr));gap:0 20px;} #rpkb .rp-cgrid .rp-fig{margin:.6rem 0 1.4rem;} #rpkb .rp-concepts{margin:0 0 .6rem;}</style> <div id="rpkb"> <div class="not-prose rp-wrap"><div class="rp-hero" style="border-radius:16px;overflow:hidden;border:1px solid var(--bd);margin:0 0 1.4rem;aspect-ratio:16/9;background:#05070d"><img src="https://curiousbit.netlify.app/images/raspberry-pi-top-50/hero.svg" alt="A Raspberry Pi board with wires to an LED, a camera, a Pico, a Sense HAT, a handheld console, a distance sensor, and a buzzer" width="1600" height="900" style="width:100%;height:100%;display:block;margin:0;border-radius:0;box-shadow:none"></div><p class="rp-lead">A Raspberry Pi is a small, low-cost computer. With a few parts, it can become a robot, a camera trap, a game console, or a web server. This guide collects 50 free projects from the official Raspberry Pi sites, plus 8 popular builds for adults. Each card gives a short summary, the parts list, and a link to the full guide. The diagrams explain the main ideas before you build.</p><![CDATA[Electronics
A Raspberry Pi board with wires to an LED, a camera, a Pico, a Sense HAT, a handheld console, a distance sensor, and a buzzer

A Raspberry Pi is a small, low-cost computer. With a few parts, it can become a robot, a camera trap, a game console, or a web server. This guide collects 50 free projects from the official Raspberry Pi sites, plus 8 popular builds for adults. Each card gives a short summary, the parts list, and a link to the full guide. The diagrams explain the main ideas before you build.

50official projects
8bonus builds
16beginner projects
18interactive diagrams

How to use this page

  1. Read the build steps and the safety rules below.
  2. Select a path, or use the filter bar to find a project for your level and your parts.
  3. Read the "Learn the idea first" diagrams in that group.
  4. Open the full guide from the card and build the project.

How a Pi project is built

Six steps from an idea to a project that works

Most projects on this page use these six steps.

1. IdeaSelect a project2. PartsGet the parts3. FlashWrite the SD card4. WireConnect the circuit</>5. CodeWrite the program6. TestRun it and fix itfix and test againSynthwave
  1. Select a project from this page. Read the full guide first.
  2. Collect all the parts before you start.
  3. Write the operating system to a microSD card (Raspberry Pi), or install MicroPython (Pico).
  4. Disconnect the power. Then connect the circuit.
  5. Write the program.
  6. Run the program. If it does not operate correctly, change the code and test again.

Before you start: safety

WARNINGDo not connect a 5 V supply to a GPIO pin. The GPIO pins use 3.3 V logic. A higher voltage can cause permanent damage.
WARNINGDo not point a laser at the eyes of a person or an animal.
WARNINGDo not connect mains voltage to your projects. Use only low-voltage supplies, for example 5 V or 12 V.
CAUTIONDisconnect the power before you change the wires. A wrong connection can cause a short circuit.
CAUTIONKeep water away from the Pi and the power supply. In the touch-free tap, put the pump and the water below the electronics.
CAUTIONUse the official power supply for your model. A weak supply can cause errors and damage to the SD card.

Learning paths

Do not know where to start? Select a path. Each path puts 5 or 6 projects in a good order. Select a project name to go to its card.

First weekend

No solder and no special parts. Start here.

  1. Setting up your Raspberry Pi
  2. Using your Raspberry Pi
  3. Pac-Man treasure hunt on the terminal
  4. Physical Computing with Scratch
  5. Santa detector
  6. Build a Python web server with Flask

With kids

Craft materials, sounds, and lights. Each build is fast.

  1. Scratch LED game
  2. Wire loop game
  3. Ultrasonic theremin
  4. Whoopi cushion
  5. LED firefly
  6. Party popper

Road to a robot

Learn the pins, then build and upgrade one robot.

  1. Physical Computing with Python
  2. Python quick reaction game
  3. Build a robot buggy
  4. Remotely control your buggy
  5. Build a line-following robot

Pico only

One low-cost board. You do not set up an operating system.

  1. Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico
  2. LED firefly
  3. Beating heart
  4. Sound machine
  5. Time to make
  6. Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico W

Camera and nature

Photos, time-lapse, wildlife, and plant science.

  1. Getting started with the Camera Module
  2. The parent detector
  3. Cress egg heads
  4. Push-button stop motion
  5. Infrared bird box
  6. Capture plant health with NDVI

Home server

Make the Pi a useful always-on box for your home.

  1. Build a Python web server with Flask
  2. Build a LAMP web server with WordPress
  3. Pi-hole network ad blocker
  4. Home NAS with OpenMediaVault
  5. Home Assistant hub

The projects

Getting started (4)

Set up the board first. These four guides show the desktop, the settings, and remote access.

Illustration for Getting started with Raspberry Pi#1
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Getting started with Raspberry Pi

Connect the board to a screen, a keyboard, and a mouse. Complete the first-boot questions. Then use the desktop and the web browser.

You learn: Board ports, First-boot setup, Desktop basics

Parts you need

Monitor and HDMI cable, USB keyboard and mouse, power supply, microSD card. Headphones and an Ethernet cable are optional.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Setting up your Raspberry Pi#2
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Setting up your Raspberry Pi

Select a model, a power supply, and storage. Write the operating system to the SD card. Start the Pi with a screen or without a screen (headless).

You learn: Raspberry Pi Imager, Headless setup, Power needs

Parts you need

The page helps you select power and storage. It does not give one fixed kit.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Using your Raspberry Pi#3
BeginnerRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Using your Raspberry Pi

Change the desktop, keyboard, Wi-Fi, and sound settings. Install new software and update the software that you have.

You learn: System settings, Software updates

Parts you need

None. You need a Raspberry Pi that you set up before.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Using Raspberry Pi Connect#4
BeginnerRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Using Raspberry Pi Connect

Use a web browser on a different computer to see and control the Pi desktop. This also works when you are away from home.

You learn: Remote access, Screen share

Parts you need

A second computer with a browser. The page names a Raspberry Pi 4, 5, or 400 with 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

GPIO and physical computing (11)

These projects connect real parts to the pins of the Pi. A button gives an input. An LED or a buzzer is an output.

Learn the idea first

The 40-pin GPIO header

Select a pin or a colour. The same layout is on the Raspberry Pi 2, 3, 4, 5, Zero, and 400.

12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940Pin 1 (square pad on the board)Pin 40 is next to the USB portsEven pins: top rowOdd pins: bottom rowPCB glow
3.3 V power5 V powerGround (0 V)GPIO (3.3 V logic)ID pins for HAT boards
Select a pin to see what it does.

Two numbers for each pin. Thepin number (1 to 40) is the physical position. TheGPIO number is the name that your code uses. For example, pin 11 is GPIO 17. Python with GPIO Zero uses the GPIO number.

WARNINGDo not connect a 5 V pin to a GPIO pin. The GPIO pins use 3.3 V. 5 V can cause permanent damage to the Pi.

Input, decide, output

Push the red button to send a signal through the program.

INPUTbutton (push me)if button.is_pressed:  led.on()Raspberry PiDECIDEyour programOUTPUTLEDArcade

Nearly all physical projects use this loop. Aninput gives information to the Pi. Theprogram decides what to do. Anoutput does the action. In the Santa detector, the input is a PIR sensor and the output is an alarm sound.

Why each LED needs a resistor

Select a resistor value. Watch the current and the brightness change.

GPIO 173.3 V when onGND0 V330 ΩresistorLED(about 2 V)current flows: pin → resistor → LED → groundBlueprint
I = (3.3 V − 2.0 V) ÷ 330 Ω ≈ 3.9 mA

An LED does not limit its own current. Without a resistor, too much current can flow. This can damage the LED or the pin. The resistor sets the current. A larger resistor gives less current and a dimmer light. The values here are approximate. The forward voltage of an LED changes with its colour.

How an ultrasonic sensor measures distance

Move the slider. The echo time changes with the distance.

triggerecho30 cmSonar
echo time ≈ 1.75 ms

The sensor sends a short ultrasonic pulse. The pulse reflects from your hand and comes back. The Pi measures the time. Sound moves at about 343 m/s. The pulse goes out and back, so divide by 2:

distance = time × 343 m/s ÷ 2

The ultrasonic theremin changes this distance into a note. The touch-free tap uses it to start a pump.

Illustration for Physical Computing with Python#5
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Physical Computing with Python

Learn the GPIO header with Python. Make LEDs come on, read buttons, and operate a buzzer, sensors, and a motor.

You learn: GPIO Zero in Python, Inputs and outputs, Analogue input with an MCP3008

Parts you need

Breadboard, jumper wires, button, LEDs, resistors, buzzer, ultrasonic sensor, PIR, LDR, capacitor, MCP3008, potentiometer, motor and motor controller, battery pack.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Physical Computing with Scratch#6
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Physical Computing with Scratch

Use Scratch blocks to control an LED, a button, a buzzer, and a motion sensor.

You learn: GPIO in Scratch, Event blocks

Parts you need

LED, resistor (47 to 330 ohm), button, buzzer, PIR, jumper leads. The page names a Raspberry Pi 4.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for GPIO music box#7
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
GPIO music box

Each button plays a different sound. Push a button to hear its sound.

You learn: Button events, Sound files in Python

Parts you need

Breadboard, four buttons, jumper leads, speakers or headphones.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Python quick reaction game#8
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Python quick reaction game

An LED comes on after a random time. Two players try to push their button first.

You learn: Random delay, Read two inputs

Parts you need

Breadboard, one LED, 330 ohm resistor, jumper wires, two buttons.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Whoopi cushion#9
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Whoopi cushion

Make a pressure switch from paper plates and foil. When a person sits on it, the speakers play a funny noise.

You learn: Make your own switch, Foil as a conductor

Parts you need

Crocodile clips, jumper leads, speakers, paper plates, foil, sponge, copper tape.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Raspberry Pi laser tripwire#10
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi laser tripwire

Point a laser at a light sensor (LDR). When an object breaks the beam, the buzzer sounds.

You learn: Light sensor, Time measurement with a capacitor, Alarm logic

Parts you need

Breadboard, 1 µF capacitor, LDR, jumper leads, laser pointer, drinking straw, buzzer or speaker.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Santa detector#11
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Santa detector

A motion sensor (PIR) sends a signal to Scratch. Scratch then starts an alarm when a person comes into the room.

You learn: PIR motion sensor, Scratch events

Parts you need

PIR motion sensor and socket-to-socket jumper leads. The page names a Raspberry Pi 4.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for People in space#12
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
People in space

The Pi reads a public web count of the people in space. It then makes one LED come on for each person.

You learn: Read web data (API), Control many LEDs

Parts you need

Breadboard, 10 LEDs, 10 resistors (the page says 47 ohm), jumper leads.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Ultrasonic theremin#13
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Ultrasonic theremin

Move your hand near an ultrasonic sensor. The distance changes the note from the buzzer.

You learn: Measure distance, Change a value into a note

Parts you need

Breadboard, ultrasonic distance sensor, tonal buzzer, six jumper leads.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Scratch LED game#14
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Scratch LED game

Play a hide-and-seek game in Scratch to find a hedgehog. A real LED on your desk is part of the game.

You learn: GPIO output from Scratch, Simple game logic

Parts you need

One LED, a resistor (47 to 330 ohm), three socket-to-socket jumper cables. Use the Scratch desktop app.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Wire loop game#15
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Wire loop game

Move a wire loop along a foil track. If the loop touches the track, the buzzer sounds and Scratch counts the error.

You learn: A circuit as a switch, Count in Scratch

Parts you need

Buzzer, jumper and crocodile leads, pipe cleaners, foil, plasticine or Blu Tack.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Raspberry Pi Pico (8)

A Pico is a small microcontroller. It runs one program and has no desktop.

Learn the idea first

Raspberry Pi or Pico?

Both boards come from Raspberry Pi. They start in very different ways.

Raspberry Pia computerPowerBoot loaderLinuxDesktopYour programPicoa microcontrollerPowerYour programCyber timeline
Raspberry Pi 5Pico 2 / Pico
What it isA small computerA microcontroller
Operating systemYes (Raspberry Pi OS)No. It runs MicroPython or C directly.
Programs at one timeManyOne
Desktop, HDMI, USB keyboardYesNo. Connect it to a computer and use Thonny.
Best forCameras, web servers, media, AISimple gadgets, toys, sensors on batteries

PWM: how a digital pin makes a dim light

Move the slider to change the duty cycle.

3.3 V0 Vtime → (one cycle is very short, so the eye sees an average)Oscilloscope
25% on · average ≈ 0.8 V

PWM (pulse-width modulation) switches a pin on and off very fast. Theduty cycle is the percentage of time that the pin is on. A high duty cycle makes an LED bright. A low duty cycle makes it dim. The Beating heart and LED firefly projects use this method. A buzzer uses the same idea, but thefrequency of the pulses sets the musical note.

How a relay switches a big load from a small pin

Push the button to send a signal from the Pico.

Control circuit · 3.3 VLoad circuit · 12 VPicocoilswitch12 VpumpElectric
GPIO pin: OFF · pump: OFF

A GPIO pin cannot supply a pump. Arelay is a switch that a small current operates. Current in the coil makes a magnet. The magnet pulls the switch closed. The pump then receives power from its own 12 V supply. The two circuits do not connect electrically.

WARNINGDo not connect mains voltage to a relay in a hobby project. Use only low-voltage supplies, for example 5 V or 12 V.

Illustration for Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico W#16
BeginnerPico
Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico W

Install MicroPython on a Pico W and connect it to Wi-Fi. Serve a small web page that switches the onboard LED.

You learn: MicroPython, Wi-Fi on a microcontroller, A small web server

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi Pico W, micro USB data cable, and a computer with Thonny on the same network.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico#17
IntermediatePico
Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico

Connect a Pico and install MicroPython. Make the onboard LED flash. Optional examples use a button and an analogue input.

You learn: Thonny editor, Digital and analogue pins

Parts you need

A Pico and a USB cable. The later examples use optional parts.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for LED firefly#18
BeginnerPico
LED firefly

A Pico flashes an LED in a firefly pattern. A handmade wire switch starts the light.

You learn: Flash patterns, A handmade switch

Parts you need

Pico with headers, USB data cable, one LED, a resistor (75 to 220 ohm), jumper wires.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Party popper#19
BeginnerPico
Party popper

Pull a card-and-foil switch. The Pico then shows colours on an RGB LED and plays a sound on a buzzer.

You learn: RGB LED colours, Buzzer tones

Parts you need

Pico with headers, USB data cable, passive buzzer, common-cathode RGB LED, three resistors, jumper wires, card, foil, string.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Beating heart#20
IntermediatePico
Beating heart

An LED in a paper heart pulses like a heartbeat. Turn a dial (potentiometer) to set the speed of the beat.

You learn: Analogue input, LED brightness with PWM

Parts you need

Pico with headers, USB cable, red LED with resistor, potentiometer, jumper wires, paper, tape.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Time to make#21
IntermediatePico
Time to make

A stepper motor turns a cardboard wheel. The wheel stops at a random prompt.

You learn: Stepper motor control, Random choice

Parts you need

Pico, USB cable, breadboard, jumper wires, stepper motor and driver, button, LED, 220 ohm resistor.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Touch-free tap#22
IntermediatePico
Touch-free tap

Put your hands near an ultrasonic sensor. The Pico switches a relay, and a small pump gives water.

You learn: Distance sensor, Relay switch, Pump control

Parts you need

Pico, 5 V USB supply, HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, relay, 5 to 12 V submersible pump.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Sound machine#23
AdvancedPico
Sound machine

Use buttons or a dial to select sounds and tunes. A passive buzzer plays them.

You learn: Tones and frequency, Design a user input

Parts you need

Pico with headers, USB data cable, potentiometer or buttons, passive buzzer, jumper wires, craft materials.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Camera (6)

These projects use a Camera Module for photos, video, time-lapse, and plant science.

Learn the idea first

Time-lapse: from many photos to one video

Each new frame is one photo.

1 photo / 10 minframes on the SD card1 day = 144 photos → play at 25 per second → a 6-second videoDarkroom

Atime-lapse shows slow changes fast. The camera takes a photo at fixed intervals. Software joins the photos into a video. Stop motion uses the same idea, but you push a button for each frame. The cress egg heads and the push-button stop motion projects use this method.

NDVI: see plant health with a camera

Compare a healthy leaf with a stressed leaf.

NIRRedlight that the leaf reflectsNDVI0.72healthyThermal
NDVI = (NIR − Red) ÷ (NIR + Red)

A healthy leaf absorbs red light for photosynthesis. It reflects a lot of near-infrared (NIR) light. A stressed leaf reflects less NIR and more red. A NoIR camera can see NIR. The formula gives a number from −1 to +1. A higher number shows a healthier plant. The values in this diagram are examples only.

Illustration for Getting started with the Camera Module#24
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Getting started with the Camera Module

Connect a Camera Module to the Pi. Take photos and record video from the command line and from Python.

You learn: Camera ribbon cable, Photos and video in Python

Parts you need

A Camera Module. A Zero and a Pi 5 need the smaller ribbon cable.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Cress egg heads#25
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Cress egg heads

Grow cress in an eggshell. The camera takes a photo at set intervals. Join the photos into a time-lapse video.

You learn: Time-lapse, Timed capture

Parts you need

Camera Module, eggshell and egg cup, cotton wool, cress seeds.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Push-button stop motion#26
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Push-button stop motion

Each push of a GPIO button takes the next frame of a stop-motion film.

You learn: Capture from a button, Join frames into a video

Parts you need

Camera Module, full-size breadboard, two jumper leads, button.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Infrared bird box#27
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Infrared bird box

A NoIR camera and infrared LEDs record a nest box. The birds do not see a bright white light.

You learn: Infrared light, NoIR camera

Parts you need

NoIR camera module, female jumper leads, 220 ohm resistors, 5 mm infrared LEDs.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Capture plant health with NDVI#28
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Capture plant health with NDVI

Use a filtered or NoIR camera and Python. Change leaf photos into a simple picture of plant health.

You learn: Near-infrared light, The NDVI formula, Image maths

Parts you need

High Quality Camera or NoIR module, with a red filter and an 850 nm NIR filter, or a Rosco 26 filter.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for The All-Seeing Pi#29Archived
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
The All-Seeing Pi

Make a photo booth with a touchscreen. Push a button to take a photo.

You learn: Camera preview, A simple photo app

Parts you need

Camera Module, touchscreen or a normal monitor, two buttons, breadboard, jumper leads.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Media centre (2)

The Pi plays music and video. It sends the picture to a TV through HDMI.

Learn the idea first

How a Pi media centre works

Video flows from left to right. Commands come from the phone.

Video fileUSB driveStreamhome networkRaspberry PiKodi decodes videoHDMITVphoneremote commands (Wi-Fi)Cinema

The Pi reads a video from a file or from your network. It decodes the video and sends the picture and the sound to the TV through HDMI. A phone app on the same network can operate as the remote control.

Illustration for Sense HAT music player#30
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Sense HAT music player

Tilt and push the Sense HAT to change the track and the volume. The LED matrix shows a light show.

You learn: Motion as an input, Media in Scratch

Parts you need

Sense HAT. Speakers or headphones are optional. The page says that a Zero does not work.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Video player: HTPC media centre#31
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Video player: HTPC media centre

Install OSMC and Kodi to make a media player for your TV. Play a video file or a stream.

You learn: Media centre software, A phone as a remote

Parts you need

HDMI display or TV, keyboard, USB flash drive with a test video. A phone can be the remote.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Official Magazine

Home sensing (2)

A sensor measures the room or the weather. The Pi reads the value and does an action.

Learn the idea first

How a motion sensor sees a person

The person moves through the zones of the sensor.

PIRMotion!camera recordsHeat vision

APIR (passive infrared) sensor does not send a beam. It detects the heat of a body. Its lens divides the room into zones. When heat moves from one zone to the next zone, the sensor sets its output pin HIGH. The program then starts the camera or an alarm. The parent detector and the Santa detector use this method.

Illustration for The parent detector#32
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
The parent detector

A motion sensor starts the camera. The Pi records a video clip when a person comes into the room.

You learn: PIR trigger, Record video on an event

Parts you need

Camera Module, PIR sensor, socket-to-socket jumper wires.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Build your own weather station#33
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Build your own weather station

Record the pressure, temperature, and humidity. Optional gauges record wind and rain. Use sensors that can stay outdoors.

You learn: I2C sensors, Data logs, An outdoor build

Parts you need

BME280, DS18B20 probe, resistors, breadboard. Optional: wind and rain gauges and an MCP3008.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Robots (6)

These projects drive motors. Some robots use sensors to steer without your help.

Learn the idea first

How a line-following robot decides

Select a sensor state. See the action.

LRGo forwardRacetrack

Each sensor tells the Pi one thing: "I see the line" or "I do not see the line". The program uses a small rule table to steer. This is afeedback loop. The robot reads the sensors, corrects its direction, and reads the sensors again, many times each second. This table shows a common rule set. Your project can use different rules.

Illustration for Build a robot buggy#34
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Build a robot buggy

Assemble a chassis with two motors. Drive it with short Python commands.

You learn: Motor controller, Robot movement

Parts you need

Motor controller, two 3 to 6 V DC motors, wheels, AA battery holder and four AA cells, ball caster, jumper leads, USB power bank.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Build a line-following robot#35
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Build a line-following robot

Add two line sensors to your buggy. The buggy then follows a tape track without your help.

You learn: Sensor feedback loop, Turn logic

Parts you need

A finished buggy from the project above, two line sensors, jumper leads, solder, tape.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Explorer HAT buggy#36
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Explorer HAT buggy

Make a simpler two-wheel robot with an Explorer HAT. Drive it from a different computer.

You learn: HAT add-on boards, Remote drive

Parts you need

Explorer HAT, four jumper leads, two motors, two wheels, USB power pack.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for LEGO remote-controlled car#37
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
LEGO remote-controlled car

Use a phone and Bluetooth to steer two LEGO motors on a Build HAT.

You learn: Build HAT, Bluetooth control

Parts you need

Build HAT, two LEGO Technic motors, LEGO wheels, an Android phone or tablet, AA batteries.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for LEGO robot face#38
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
LEGO robot face

A camera and a machine-learning model detect objects. LEGO motors then move the eyebrows and the mouth.

You learn: Machine learning on the Pi, Motors that react

Parts you need

Build HAT, Camera Module and 30 cm ribbon, LEGO Technic motors, mini breadboard, jumper wires, two 8×8 LED matrices.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Remotely control your buggy#39
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Remotely control your buggy

Add a remote control to a buggy that you built before. One option uses an Android phone.

You learn: Remote input options

Parts you need

A buggy that operates. The remote parts change with the option that you select.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Games and retro (6)

Make games on the Sense HAT, in the terminal, or with LEGO parts. Play old games on a handheld.

Learn the idea first

The game loop

The highlighted step runs now. The grid shows the result.

Read inputMove objectsCheck hitsDrawCRT arcade

Every game on the Sense HAT uses agame loop. The loop reads the joystick or the tilt sensor. It moves the ball. It checks for hits on the bat or the wall. Then it draws the next picture on the LED grid. The loop repeats many times each second. Sense HAT Pong, Flappy Astronaut, and the LEGO game controller all use this idea.

Illustration for Sense HAT Pong#40Archived
IntermediateRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Sense HAT Pong

Play a one-player Pong game on the Sense HAT LED grid. You can also use the on-screen emulator.

You learn: A game loop, Collision checks

Parts you need

Sense HAT, or none if you use the emulator.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Flappy Astronaut#41
AdvancedRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Flappy Astronaut

Tilt the Sense HAT to fly a character through gaps in a wall.

You learn: Tilt as an input, Scroll a game world

Parts you need

Sense HAT, or a computer with the emulator.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Pac-Man treasure hunt on the terminal#42
BeginnerRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Pac-Man treasure hunt on the terminal

Follow a guided hunt in the terminal to find the ghosts. You do not need extra boards.

You learn: Terminal commands, Files and folders

Parts you need

None.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for LEGO game controller#43
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
LEGO game controller

Turn the shaft of a LEGO motor to move the paddle in a Pong game on the screen.

You learn: A motor as a position sensor

Parts you need

Build HAT and one or more LEGO Technic motors. A buzzer is optional.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Pixel pet#44
BeginnerRaspberry Pi
Pixel pet

Draw a small pet on the Sense HAT LED matrix. Show frames one after the other to make it move.

You learn: Pixel art, Animation frames

Parts you need

Sense HAT.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Build a handheld console#45
IntermediateRaspberry Pi
Build a handheld console

Put a Pi into a handheld case with a small screen and real buttons. Install RetroPie to play retro games.

You learn: RetroPie, Game emulators

Parts you need

The article uses a Retroflag GPi Case with a Raspberry Pi Zero, or a PiBoy DMG. Also a microSD card and batteries.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Official Magazine

Networking (3)

The Pi can be a web server or a small cluster on your network.

Learn the idea first

What happens when you open a page on your Pi

The request goes right. The answer comes back left.

raspberrypi.local:5000/your browserGET /HTMLRaspberry Pi · Flask@app.route("/")def index():  return render_    template("i.html")Hacker terminal

A web server waits forrequests. Your browser sends a request for a page, for example/. Flask finds the function for that address (aroute). The function sends back HTML. The browser then shows the page. In the LAMP project, Apache receives the request, PHP makes the page, and MariaDB stores the data.

How a cluster shares the work

Yellow blocks are parts of one job.

Client Pidivides the jobPi 1Pi 2Pi 3Pi 4Pi 5Pi 6Pi 7Pi 88 workers do their parts at the same timeData centre

Acluster divides one big job into small parts. Each worker computer does one part at the same time. The client collects the results. Eight workers can finish some jobs nearly eight times faster. The OctaPi project uses this method.

Illustration for Build a Python web server with Flask#46
IntermediateRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Build a Python web server with Flask

Use Flask to serve a small website from the Pi. Add more than one page and some HTML.

You learn: Web routes, HTML templates

Parts you need

None. Use a Raspberry Pi with the latest Raspberry Pi OS.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Build a LAMP web server with WordPress#47
IntermediateRaspberry PiNo extra parts
Build a LAMP web server with WordPress

Install Apache, PHP, and MariaDB. Then install WordPress and use it on your local network.

You learn: A web server stack, A database

Parts you need

None. Use a Raspberry Pi on your network.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Build an OctaPi#48
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Build an OctaPi

Connect many Raspberry Pi computers on a private network. One Pi sends jobs, and the other Pis share the work.

You learn: Cluster computers, Shared tasks

Parts you need

Nine Raspberry Pi 3 boards, a wireless router, short micro USB cables, a power hub, an Ethernet cable. Unicorn HATs are optional.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Sense HAT (2)

The Sense HAT has an LED matrix, a joystick, and sensors for the environment and motion.

Learn the idea first

How a data logger records

Each tick adds one row to the file.

every minutereadtime, temp °C, humidity, hPa12:00:00, 20.1, 44%, 101012:01:00, 21.2, 45%, 101112:02:00, 22.3, 46%, 101212:03:00, 23.4, 47%, 101312:04:00, 24.5, 48%, 101412:05:00, 25.6, 49%, 1015Matrix

Adata logger repeats two steps. It reads the sensors. Then it adds one line to a CSV file (comma-separated values). A spreadsheet can open the file and draw a chart. Set the program to start at boot, then the Pi can record with no screen or keyboard.

Illustration for Getting started with the Sense HAT#49
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Getting started with the Sense HAT

Show text and pictures on the LED matrix. Read the environment sensors on the board.

You learn: LED matrix, Temperature, humidity, and pressure

Parts you need

Sense HAT.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects
Illustration for Sense HAT data logger#50
AdvancedRaspberry Pi
Sense HAT data logger

Record sensor values to a file at set intervals. Set the logger to start when the Pi starts.

You learn: Timed logs, CSV files, Start a program at boot

Parts you need

Sense HAT.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi Foundation projects

Beyond the basics (8)

These eight builds are popular with adult makers. They are not on the official projects site. Each link goes to the official documentation or a trusted guide.

Learn the idea first

How Pi-hole blocks adverts for the whole network

Select a question. Watch where the answer comes from.

Your devicePi-holeon your PiUpstreamDNS serverads.example.com?news.example.org?0.0.0.0Shield

Before your device loads a page, it asks aDNS server for the address of each domain. Pi-hole becomes that DNS server for your home. If a domain is on a block list, Pi-hole sends back an empty address, so the advert does not load. For other domains, Pi-hole asks an upstream DNS server and sends the answer back.

CAUTIONThe quick install command runs a script from the internet. Read the script before you run it, or use one of the other install methods in the Pi-hole documentation.

Illustration for Pi-hole network ad blocker#B1
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry PiNo extra parts
Pi-hole network ad blocker

Use the Pi as the DNS server for your home network. It blocks requests to known advert and tracker domains for all devices.

You learn: DNS, A static IP address, An always-on service

Parts you need

None. A wired Ethernet connection is better than Wi-Fi.

Open the guide ↗Pi-hole documentation
Illustration for Home Assistant hub#B2
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry Pi
Home Assistant hub

Install Home Assistant OS on a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5. Control smart lights, plugs, and sensors from one dashboard.

You learn: Home automation, Local control

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 with 2 GB RAM or more, power supply, 32 GB A2 microSD card, Ethernet cable.

Open the guide ↗Home Assistant documentation
Illustration for Home NAS with OpenMediaVault#B3
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry Pi
Home NAS with OpenMediaVault

Connect a USB 3 drive to a Pi 4 and install OpenMediaVault. Share files and backups on your home network.

You learn: Network file shares, Backups

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi 4 (the guide uses 8 GB), USB 3.0 hard drive or SSD, power supply.

Open the guide ↗Core Electronics guide
Illustration for Local AI chat with the AI HAT+ 2#B4
Advanced (est.)Raspberry Pi
Local AI chat with the AI HAT+ 2

Install an AI HAT+ 2 on a Raspberry Pi 5. Use the Hailo Ollama server to run a small language model on the device.

You learn: NPU accelerators, Local language models, Data that stays at home

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi 5, AI HAT+ 2, 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi documentation
Illustration for AI Camera object detection#B5
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry Pi
AI Camera object detection

The AI Camera runs a neural network on its Sony IMX500 sensor. The Pi receives the image and a list of the objects that the camera found.

You learn: AI on the sensor, Object detection

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi AI Camera. The page names a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5. Other models need small changes.

Open the guide ↗Raspberry Pi documentation
Illustration for MagicMirror² smart mirror#B6
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry Pi
MagicMirror² smart mirror

Put a monitor behind a two-way mirror. MagicMirror² shows the time, the weather, and your calendar through the glass.

You learn: Node.js apps, Modules and settings

Parts you need

A monitor. For the mirror effect, also a two-way mirror and a frame.

Open the guide ↗MagicMirror² documentation
Illustration for OctoPrint 3D printer control#B7
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry Pi
OctoPrint 3D printer control

Write the OctoPi image with Raspberry Pi Imager. Then control your 3D printer and its prints from a web browser.

You learn: Printer control over USB, A web dashboard

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi 3B, 3B+, 4B, or Zero 2, a 3D printer with USB. A camera is optional.

Open the guide ↗OctoPrint
Illustration for PiAware flight tracker#B8
Intermediate (est.)Raspberry Pi
PiAware flight tracker

Receive the ADS-B radio messages that aircraft send on 1090 MHz. Show the aircraft near you on a map.

You learn: Software-defined radio, ADS-B messages

Parts you need

Raspberry Pi 3, 4, or Zero W, power supply, USB SDR receiver, 1090 MHz antenna.

Open the guide ↗FlightAware

Starter kit: parts you use again and again

Many projects use the same small parts. Buy the six parts with the starter kit label together. Then you can build most of the GPIO projects. The count includes only projects 1 to 50.

PartWhat it doesProjectsFor example
Jumper wiresstarter kitConnect the pins of the Pi to the parts.
25
Physical Computing with Python,Physical Computing with Scratch,GPIO music box and 22 more
Breadboardstarter kitHolds the parts and connects them without solder.
11
Physical Computing with Python,GPIO music box,Python quick reaction game and 8 more
Resistors (47–330 Ω)starter kitLimit the current. Use one with each LED.
11
Physical Computing with Python,Physical Computing with Scratch,Python quick reaction game and 8 more
LEDsstarter kitGive light when current flows through them.
9
Physical Computing with Python,Physical Computing with Scratch,Python quick reaction game and 6 more
Push buttonsstarter kitGive an input when you push them.
8
Physical Computing with Python,Physical Computing with Scratch,GPIO music box and 5 more
Camera ModuleTakes photos and video. Connect it with a ribbon cable.
8
Getting started with the Camera Module,Cress egg heads,Push-button stop motion and 5 more
Raspberry Pi PicoRuns one MicroPython program. It is a low-cost second board.
8
Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico W,Getting started with Raspberry Pi Pico,LED firefly and 5 more
Buzzerstarter kitMakes a sound or a tone.
7
Physical Computing with Python,Physical Computing with Scratch,Raspberry Pi laser tripwire and 4 more
Sense HATGives an LED matrix, a joystick, and sensors on one board.
6
Sense HAT music player,Sense HAT Pong,Flappy Astronaut and 3 more
PIR motion sensorSenses the heat of a person who moves.
4
Physical Computing with Python,Physical Computing with Scratch,Santa detector and 1 more
DC motors and controllerTurn wheels. The controller supplies the motor power.
4
Physical Computing with Python,Build a robot buggy,Build a line-following robot and 1 more
Ultrasonic sensorMeasures distance with sound pulses.
3
Physical Computing with Python,Ultrasonic theremin,Touch-free tap
PotentiometerGives a value that changes when you turn the dial.
3
Physical Computing with Python,Beating heart,Sound machine
Speakers or headphonesPlay sound from the Pi.
3
GPIO music box,Whoopi cushion,Sense HAT music player
Build HAT + LEGO motorsConnects LEGO Technic motors and sensors to the Pi.
3
LEGO remote-controlled car,LEGO robot face,LEGO game controller
Light sensor (LDR)Changes its resistance with the light level.
2
Physical Computing with Python,Raspberry Pi laser tripwire

About this guide

The summaries on this page are original. They are not copies of the guides. Open each link for the full steps. Projects 1 to 50 come from the freeRaspberry Pi Foundation projects site and from articles inRaspberry Pi Official Magazine. The levels for projects 1 to 50 come from the projects catalogue. The levels for builds B1 to B8 are our estimate.

Two projects have the labelArchived: The All-Seeing Pi and Sense HAT Pong. Their pages are online, but the main catalogue does not list them. We checked all links on 4 October 2026. The parts lists show only what each page lists.

All pictures and diagrams on this page are original drawings. The body text uses the rules ofASD-STE100 Simplified Technical English: short sentences, one idea in each sentence, and active verbs.

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