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For a new Kodi-based TV media center, buy the Raspberry Pi 5. It has current LibreELEC support, hardware 4Kp60 HEVC decoding and more processing headroom than Pi 4. If you already own a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B—or can get one for less—it remains a capable choice for local Kodi playback, including 4K HEVC. Avoid buying a Pi 3 or older specifically for modern 4K playback.
Raspberry Pi 5 vs. Pi 4: what matters for a media center
The key distinction for current Kodi use is hardware HEVC decoding: LibreELEC documents it on Pi 4 and Pi 5, but not Pi 2 or Pi 3. Both newer boards can decode HEVC video up to 4Kp60. Pi 5 is the better new-build pick; Pi 4 is a practical lower-cost or already-owned alternative.
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| Factor | Raspberry Pi 5 | Raspberry Pi 4 Model B | Pi 3 and earlier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current LibreELEC image | Listed | Listed | Pi 3 listed; Pi 2 has a designated image |
| Hardware HEVC decoding in documented LibreELEC releases | Yes | Yes | No; software decoding only |
| 4K at 60 Hz output | Enabled by default in LibreELEC’s guide; the full setup must support it | Supported, but configuration may be needed | Not the target choice for modern 4K playback |
| Recommended setup power | 5V/5A USB-C; a 5V/3A supply restricts power available to USB peripherals | 5V/3A USB-C | Depends on model; Pi 3 uses micro-USB |
| Best fit | New build and greater headroom | Existing board or cost-conscious 4K HEVC Kodi build | Basic or legacy use |
LibreELEC’s download page lists version 12.2 with Kodi 21.3 images for Pi 5, Pi 4, Pi 400, CM4, Pi 3 and Pi 2. Check the current download page and select the image for your exact board before installing: LibreELEC downloads.
Why Pi 5 is the default new purchase
Raspberry Pi specifies a 2.4GHz quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 CPU, VideoCore VII GPU, dual 4Kp60 HDMI output with HDR support, a 4Kp60 HEVC decoder, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, gigabit Ethernet, a microSD slot and USB-C power input. The board provides more headroom for a Kodi interface and large libraries. LibreELEC reports smoother navigation through large libraries on Pi 5 than Pi 4; that is the project’s observation, not an independent benchmark. See the Raspberry Pi 5 specifications and LibreELEC’s Pi 5 article.
#1 Best Overall
- Includes Raspberry Pi 5 with 2.4Ghz 64-bit quad-core CPU (8GB RAM)
- Includes 128GB Micro SD Card pre-loaded with 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS, USB MicroSD Card Reader
- CanaKit Turbine Black Case for the Raspberry Pi 5
- CanaKit Low Noise Bearing System Fan
- Mega Heat Sink - Black Anodized
When Pi 4 is enough
Pi 4 Model B has hardware H.265 (HEVC) decoding up to 4Kp60, according to its official datasheet. If your main task is playing local Kodi media and you already have a Pi 4, there is no need to replace it just to get HEVC playback. Pi 5’s newer processing hardware and simpler default 4K60 output setup are advantages for a new build, not proof that every video will play better. See the Raspberry Pi 4 datasheet.
Why not Pi 3 or earlier for a new 4K setup
LibreELEC says Pi 2 and Pi 3 rely on software HEVC decoding in its newer releases, while Pi 4/400 and Pi 5 have native hardware decoding. Older boards can still suit simpler, lower-resolution uses, but are a poor choice when modern 4K HEVC playback is the goal. LibreELEC’s Pi 5 guidance describes the generational decoding difference.
Rank #2
- CanaKit Raspberry Pi 5 Essentials Starter Kit
Check the whole 4K setup, not just the Pi
4K60 is an end-to-end capability. The display or receiver input, its settings, the Pi’s output mode, the media format and the HDMI cable all matter. LibreELEC notes that Pi 4 and Pi 5 do not support 4K60 4:2:0 output. Its guide says Pi 5 outputs 4K60 by default, while Pi 4 may need configuration to enable 4K50/60 modes. Some media is 4K at a lower refresh rate, so 4K60 is not necessary for every library.
- Check that the TV or receiver port supports the resolution and refresh rate you want, and enable any required input mode in its settings.
- Use a cable rated for the bandwidth of your intended 4K60 chain; a certified 4K60 cable may be needed.
- If choosing Pi 4, follow LibreELEC’s instructions to configure 4K50/60 output modes.
See LibreELEC’s 4K/HDR documentation for output and format details.
Rank #3
- Pi5 8GB Pack: RasTech Pi 5 8GB kit includes 1 x Pi5 8GB board ,1 x 64GB Card, 2 x Card Readers,1 x Active Cooler,1 x Case for Pi5, 2 x 4K Micro HD Out Cable,1 x GaN 27W 5A USB-C Power supply,1 x Screwdriver and 1 x instructions.
- Pi5 8GB Board: The Pi5 board is equipped with a 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor running at 2.4GHz and an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU with support for OpenGL ES 3.1 and Vulkan 1.2, which delivers a significant increase in graphics performance. Dual HD Out 4Kp60 display outputs and a built-in dual 4-channel MIPI camera/display transceiver provide state-of-the-art camera support. The Pi 5 offers a 2-3 times increase in CPU performance compare to Pi4.
- Important Graphics Features: Equipped with an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU and providing better graphics performance, suitable for multimedia applications,gaming,and graphics intensive tasks.Provides 1 UART interface,1 card slot that supports high-speed operation, 2 USB. 3 0.5 ports that support synchronous 0Gbps operation,2 USB 2.0 port ports,2 4Kp60 display outputs that support HDR.Built-in dedicated dual 4-channel 1Gbps MIPI DSI/CSI connectors,triple the total bandwidth.
- Cooling Kit for Pi 5: Compatible with Active Cooler for Raspberry Pi5, It can provide Pi 5 board with better cooling effect in using. The Case can accurately access usb-c power jack,Micro HD Out ports, usb ports, Ethernet jack, card slot, power button, 4-lane MIPI DSI/CSI connectors and so on, and it also supports installation of cooling fan.
- 64GB Card Kit and GaN 27W USB-C Power Supply: With extra 64GB card to store more files and card readers for multiple medium, keep better performance for Raspberry Pi 5, 27W USB C Power Supply is Compatible with Pi5 8GB, offers a variety of output voltage options, including 5.1V at 5A, 9.0V at 3.0A, 12.0V at 2.25A, and 15.0V at 1.8A, providing for different device requirements.
What you need to build the media center
Power supply
Raspberry Pi recommends a high-quality 5V/5A USB-C supply for Pi 5. A 5V/3A supply limits the current available to USB peripherals, which matters if you plan to connect a powered USB drive or other devices. Pi 4’s recommended supply is 5V/3A USB-C. See Raspberry Pi power-supply documentation.
Boot storage
The Pi needs boot media; microSD is a common choice. Raspberry Pi’s guidance recommends at least 32 GB for a standard Raspberry Pi OS installation and 16 GB for Raspberry Pi OS Lite. Those are Raspberry Pi OS recommendations, not LibreELEC minimums. Check Raspberry Pi’s storage guidance and LibreELEC’s current installation instructions for the system you intend to use.
Rank #4
- A RASPBERRY PI 5 KIT FROM AN APPROVED RESELLER: This Vilros Complete Starter Kit for Pi 5 Includes Raspberry Pi 5 Board with all the accessories you need to get started.
- 9 PART KIT INCLUDES MOST ACCESSORIES NEEDED YOU TO GET UP AND RUNNING: 1. Raspberry Pi 5 Board–2.Metal/Aluminum Alloy Passive & Active Cooling Case–3.Raspberry Pi 5 Compatible Power Supply–4. PWM fan With 10k Max RPM Capacity (pre-installed in the case)--5. 32GB Micro SD Card With 64bit Raspberry Pi OS Preinstalled–6. Standard HDMI to Micro HDMI Adapter Cable--7.Neoprene Storage bag–8.Vilros Quickstart Guide for Raspberry Pi–9. Mini To Standard Camera Module Adapter Cable to use a camera module with a PI 5
- RASPBERRY PI 5 SPECS AND FEATURES:--Processor: Broadcom BCM2712 2.4GHz quad-core 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 CPU, with cryptography extensions, 512KB per-core L2 caches, and a 2MB shared L3 cache----Features: 2.4GHz quad-core, 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 CPU–VideoCore VII GPU supporting Vulkan 1.2 and OpenGL ES–LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM (4GB and 8GB options)--PCIe 2.0 x1 interface for fast peripherals ( Requires adapter)--Dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz –Bluetooth 5.0 / Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
- MULTIFUNCTION PASSIVE & ACTIVE COOLED CASE: The case features a built-in pole/column that contacts the main chip on the Raspberry Pi 5 board via an included thermal pad to passively cool the board and also includes a preinstalled PWM Fan that plugs directly into the fan port on the board. The fan will only turn on if needed and will also increase RPMs as needed. Other features include a built-in power button that shows the onboard light status, camera module compatibility, and can be used in the single-layer configuration for hat compatibility
- HIGH-QUALITY COMPONENTS: All components are manufactured with Raspberry Pi in mind and are backed by the Vilros 1-Year warranty.
Case and cooling
Raspberry Pi says Pi 5 works best with active cooling under general use; its official Pi 5 case includes a fan. Pi 5 does not fit the Pi 4 case, so choose a case made for your board. A passive-cooling option is also available: LibreELEC names the FLIRC Kodi Edition case, but check current availability and compatibility before buying. See the Pi 5 product information and LibreELEC’s Pi 5 article.
Network and media storage
Both Pi 5 and Pi 4 offer Wi-Fi and gigabit Ethernet. For a large library, you can use a network share or USB storage; choose the network connection and storage arrangement that suits where your files live. If attaching USB storage to Pi 5, account for the available peripheral current when selecting the power supply.
Best Value
- Includes Raspberry Pi 5 16GB with 2.4Ghz 64-bit quad-core CPU (16GB RAM)
- Includes 128GB Micro SD Card pre-loaded with 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS, USB MicroSD Card Reader
- CanaKit Turbine Black Case for the Raspberry Pi 5
- CanaKit Low Noise Bearing System Fan
- Mega Heat Sink - Black Anodized
Is a Raspberry Pi a good choice for Netflix or Prime Video?
Do not assume that a Kodi-capable Pi works like a certified commercial streaming box. LibreELEC’s release notes describe using Widevine DRM for protected add-ons such as Prime Video and Netflix, and note that the Pi 4/5 move to aarch64 can require replacing older DRM libraries. This documents a technical route and a maintenance complication; it does not establish reliable current playback, resolution or provider approval for every service. If a particular subscription app is essential, check that provider’s current supported-device list before purchasing. See the LibreELEC release information.
Quick Recap
Quick buying decision
- Starting from scratch for Kodi: choose Pi 5, with a suitable USB-C supply, board-compatible case and boot storage.
- Already own a Pi 4: use it for local 4K HEVC Kodi playback; check its 4K output configuration if you need 50/60 Hz modes.
- Considering Pi 3 or older for 4K HEVC: choose Pi 4 or Pi 5 instead, because the older boards lack the hardware HEVC decoding documented for current LibreELEC releases.
- Buying mainly for a named streaming app: confirm the service supports the device and setup before choosing any Pi.
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