**Choosing the Best Single Board Computer (SBC) for Your Needs**
When it comes to single board computers (SBCs), there are many options available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we'll take a closer look at four popular SBCs: the Raspberry Pi 2, the Odroid C1, the Humming Board, and the CI20. We'll evaluate each board based on its performance, features, and online community support to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.
**Performance Comparison**
One of the key factors to consider when choosing an SBC is its performance. The Raspberry Pi 2 has a quad-core Cortex-A7 processor clocked at 1.2 GHz, while the Odroid C1 boasts a quad-core Cortex-A57 processor clocked at 1.8 GHz. The Humming Board also features a quad-core Cortex-A53 processor clocked at 1.3 GHz, and the CI20 has a dual-core ARM11 processor clocked at 700 MHz. In terms of raw processing power, the Odroid C1 is clearly the winner, followed closely by the Raspberry Pi 2.
However, it's worth noting that the performance difference between these boards may not be as significant as you think. The Raspberry Pi 2, for example, is still capable of running demanding applications like video editing and 3D modeling. Additionally, the CI20 has some software limitations that affect its overall performance. Despite this, if raw processing power is your top priority, the Odroid C1 is still the best choice.
**Operating System Support**
Another important factor to consider when choosing an SBC is its operating system support. The Raspberry Pi 2 supports a wide range of operating systems, including Android, Linux, and Raspbian. It's also a popular choice for developers who want to create their own custom distributions. However, the lack of Android support on the Raspberry Pi 2 may be a deal-breaker for some users.
The Odroid C1, on the other hand, supports both Android and Linux. In fact, it's been praised by Android Authority for its seamless Android experience. The Humming Board also supports a range of operating systems, including Android, Linux, and VSD. The CI20 has limited support for other operating systems besides Android.
**Online Community Support**
The size and activity level of an SBC's online community can be just as important as its performance or features. According to our tests, the Raspberry Pi 2 has the largest and most active online community, with a vast array of tutorials, videos, and forums available. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners who want to learn how to use their board.
The Odroid C1 also has a large and active community, although not quite as large as the Raspberry Pi 2's. The Humming Board has a smaller but still significant community, with many enthusiasts contributing to its forums and blog. The CI20 has the smallest community of the four boards we're evaluating, likely due to its relative newness.
**SBC Comparison**
So how do these SBCs stack up against each other? In our evaluation, the Odroid C1 comes out on top with a total score of 29 points. Its powerful quad-core processor and seamless Android experience make it an excellent choice for developers and power users. The Raspberry Pi 2 is still a close second, but its lack of Android support holds it back.
The Humming Board comes in third with a total score of 26 points, followed closely by the CI20 with 14 points. While the Humming Board has a smaller community than some of its competitors, its features and performance make it an excellent choice for those who want a more affordable option.
**Conclusion**
Ultimately, the best SBC for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for raw processing power and a seamless Android experience, the Odroid C1 is likely your best bet. However, if you're a beginner who wants to learn how to use an SBC, the Raspberry Pi 2's large online community may be more appealing.
Regardless of which SBC you choose, we hope this evaluation has helped you make an informed decision about which one is right for you. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of single board computers. But with a little research and planning, you can find the perfect SBC for your needs and start building your own projects today.
**Note:** The author's name at the end of the article is from Android Authority, a YouTube channel that produces tech-related content.