Do Raspberry Pi Computer Kits Include Monitors?
Most Raspberry Pi computer kits don't include monitors. Standard starter kits and desktop kits provide the Pi board, power supply, case, cables, and sometimes a keyboard and mouse, but you'll need to supply your own HDMI display. A few specialized "Desktop Kit with Display" bundles exist that include small touchscreen monitors, typically 7-inch models, though these cost significantly more.
The confusion stems from the term "desktop kit" – it refers to kits with peripherals like keyboards and mice, not complete desktop setups with monitors. Understanding which kit types include displays helps you budget correctly and avoid surprise purchases.
Understanding Raspberry Pi Kit Categories
Raspberry Pi kits fall into three main categories, each with different components and price points.
Starter Kits are the most basic option, containing only essential items to get your Pi running. These typically include the Raspberry Pi board itself, a power supply (USB-C for Pi 4/5 models), a microSD card preloaded with the operating system, a protective case, and heat sinks or a cooling fan. You'll need to provide your own monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Prices range from $60 to $90 depending on the Pi model and RAM configuration.
Desktop Kits add peripherals to the starter kit foundation. These bundles include an official Raspberry Pi keyboard and mouse alongside the core components. The keyboard often has built-in USB ports for additional connectivity. Despite the "desktop" name, these kits still require you to connect your own monitor via HDMI cable. The official Raspberry Pi 4 Desktop Kit costs around $120-130, while the newer Pi 5 Desktop Kit runs about $140-150.
Desktop Kits with Display are specialized bundles that actually include a monitor. These are less common and significantly more expensive. CanaKit's Raspberry Pi 4 Desktop Kit with Display includes a 7-inch touchscreen LCD, while other vendors offer kits with 10-15 inch displays. These complete setups typically cost $250-350, depending on screen size and Pi specifications.
The key distinction: "desktop kit" refers to peripherals, not displays. If a kit includes a monitor, it will explicitly state "with display" or "with touchscreen" in the product name.
What Standard Kits Actually Include
Let's break down the typical contents of mainstream Raspberry Pi kits to set clear expectations.
The CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 Starter Kit, one of the most popular options, includes the Pi 4 board (available in 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB RAM), a 32GB microSD card preloaded with NOOBS installer, a premium black case with fan, USB-C power supply with noise filter, micro HDMI to HDMI cable, three aluminum heat sinks, and a quick-start guide. Notice what's missing: no keyboard, no mouse, and definitely no monitor.
The official Raspberry Pi 4 Desktop Kit steps up by adding the official keyboard and mouse in the signature red-and-white colorway. It includes two micro HDMI cables for dual-monitor support, making it desktop-ready except for the displays themselves. This $120-130 kit assumes you already have at least one HDMI monitor available.
Vilros and other third-party manufacturers follow similar patterns. Their complete starter kits may throw in extras like additional cables or a microSD card reader, but monitors remain separate purchases. The industry standard is clear: unless explicitly labeled otherwise, assume no display is included.
This approach makes sense economically. Many buyers already own monitors from previous computers, and display preferences vary widely – some want dual 4K monitors, others prefer a single 1080p screen, and some plan portable projects with small displays. Bundling a monitor would force a one-size-fits-all solution that inflates costs unnecessarily.
Kits That Actually Include Displays
While uncommon, several manufacturers do offer complete Raspberry Pi systems with integrated displays.
CanaKit's Raspberry Pi 4 Desktop Kit with Display stands out as the most comprehensive option from a major vendor. This bundle includes a 7-inch touchscreen LCD (800×480 resolution) with a custom case that mounts the Pi board behind the display. The touchscreen connects via the Pi's GPIO pins and draws power from the board itself, creating an all-in-one unit. The kit includes the official Raspberry Pi keyboard and mouse, completing a genuinely screen-included desktop setup. Pricing sits around $280-320 depending on RAM configuration.
V-Kits and similar vendors offer alternative bundles with 7-10 inch displays. These typically feature HDMI connection rather than GPIO mounting, which offers more flexibility but requires separate power for the screen. The Raspberry Pi 3 Complete Starter Kit with 7-inch LCD Touchscreen and mini keyboard runs approximately $180-200.
For those wanting a larger display, Elecrow's Raspberry Pi 400 Personal Computer Kit includes a 13.3-inch portable monitor. The Pi 400, which has the computer built into a keyboard, connects to this 1920×1080 IPS display via HDMI. This setup costs around $300-350 but provides a genuinely portable computing solution.
Raspberry Pi's own ecosystem recently expanded with the official Raspberry Pi Monitor, a 15.6-inch 1080p display launched in December 2024. While sold separately for $100, some retailers now bundle it with Raspberry Pi 500 Desktop Kits for around $220-250. This represents the first time the foundation itself has offered an official display option designed specifically for Pi computers.
These display-included kits solve the "just add a monitor" problem but come with trade-offs. The 7-inch touchscreens work well for kiosk projects or portable builds but feel cramped for regular desktop use. The larger displays add significant cost and reduce portability. You're paying for convenience and integration, which matters most when building embedded projects or learning environments where separate monitors aren't practical.
The Raspberry Pi Monitor: A New Official Option
Raspberry Pi Ltd's entry into the display market changes the purchasing equation for many users.
The Raspberry Pi Monitor arrived in late 2024 as a purpose-built companion for Pi computers. This 15.6-inch IPS display offers 1920×1080 resolution, built-in stereo speakers, and a simple four-button control system on the rear panel. It connects via HDMI and draws power through USB-C, with an interesting power-sharing feature – you can power the monitor directly from your Pi's USB port, though this limits brightness to 60% and volume to 50% of maximum. Using a dedicated USB-C power supply unlocks full performance.
The monitor costs $100 when purchased separately, or it's included in some bundles. CanaKit offers a Raspberry Pi 5 Desktop PC with SSD and Monitor kit that packages everything together. The mounting options are versatile: an integrated stand for desktop use, VESA mounting for monitor arms, and screw holes for custom installations.
What makes this monitor compelling isn't just the official branding. It's genuinely designed around Pi use cases. The power-from-Pi option means one less wall adapter in educational settings. The compact 15.6-inch size matches the Pi's efficiency-focused philosophy better than repurposing a bulky desktop monitor. And the $100 price point undercuts many generic portable monitors while ensuring compatibility.
For someone buying a Raspberry Pi 5 setup from scratch, the math works out reasonably: Pi 5 board ($60-80), official desktop kit accessories ($40-60 if purchased separately), plus the monitor ($100) totals $200-240. That's competitive with buying a Pi 4 Desktop Kit and adding any decent 1080p monitor separately. The integration and guaranteed compatibility add value beyond the component costs.
The monitor works with all HDMI-equipped Pi models, not just the Pi 5. This means Pi 4, Pi 3, and even Pi Zero 2 W users can take advantage of this official display option. That backward compatibility protects your investment if you're building a multi-Pi setup or planning future upgrades.
What You'll Actually Need to Complete Your Setup
Even with a display-included kit, several components typically remain separate purchases.
Storage beyond the included microSD card often becomes necessary quickly. Most kits ship with 16-32GB cards preloaded with NOOBS, which works for testing but fills up fast if you're installing multiple applications or storing media files. Upgrading to a 64-128GB card costs $15-30 and provides breathing room. Some users prefer adding a USB-based SSD for better performance, particularly on Pi 4 and Pi 5 models that support USB 3.0 boot.
Internet connectivity requires consideration. Pi 4 and Pi 5 models include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so wireless networking works out of the box. However, wired Ethernet often performs better for bandwidth-intensive projects like media servers or network-attached storage. Most kits don't include an Ethernet cable, so budget $5-10 if wired connection matters for your application.
Audio equipment depends on your use case. The Pi's 3.5mm audio jack handles headphones or powered speakers adequately. If you want better sound quality or need to drive passive speakers, a USB audio adapter or HAT (Hardware Attached on Top) expansion board adds $10-40 depending on specifications. The official Raspberry Pi Monitor's built-in speakers eliminate this need for basic audio output.
Input devices for display-included kits still require attention to detail. Touchscreen kits with 7-inch displays often include only the screen, assuming you'll add a wireless keyboard and mouse. Some bundle a mini wireless keyboard with integrated touchpad, which saves desk space but can feel cramped for extended typing. Full-size keyboards and mice remain the most comfortable option for desktop use.
Cooling solutions vary by kit quality. Budget kits may include basic aluminum heat sinks, while premium kits add active cooling fans. The Pi 4 and Pi 5 generate more heat than earlier models, especially when overclocked or under sustained load. If your included cooling seems insufficient – indicated by thermal throttling warnings – aftermarket cooling solutions cost $8-20 and can significantly improve sustained performance.
Price Comparison: Complete vs. Separate Purchases
Understanding the cost difference between bundle options helps optimize your budget.
Building a basic Raspberry Pi 4 desktop setup by purchasing components separately breaks down like this: Pi 4 board (4GB RAM) costs $55, official USB-C power supply runs $8, a decent case with fan adds $15, a 32GB microSD card preloaded with OS costs $12, keyboard and mouse together run $35-50, micro HDMI to HDMI cable is $8, and you still need a monitor. If purchasing a basic 1080p HDMI monitor separately, that's another $80-120. Total: $213-268.
Compare that to buying the CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 Desktop Kit for $125-130, then adding your own $80-120 monitor. Total: $205-250. The kit saves $8-18 while ensuring component compatibility and including bonus items like heat sinks and a quick-start guide. The savings aren't dramatic, but the convenience value is real – everything arrives together, installation guides cover the specific components you have, and there's a single point of contact for support if something doesn't work.
For the display-included route, CanaKit's Desktop Kit with Display at $280-320 compares favorably against separate purchases. The integrated 7-inch touchscreen alone costs $60-80 retail, the specialized mounting case adds $25, and you're getting guaranteed compatibility between components. You're paying a $35-50 premium for integration and bundling convenience, which becomes worthwhile if your project specifically needs a compact touchscreen interface.
The wild card is reusing existing equipment. If you already own a USB keyboard, mouse, and HDMI monitor from a previous computer, buying just a Pi 4 board ($55) and a basic starter kit with power supply and case ($35-45) gets you running for under $100. This "minimum viable purchase" approach works well for experienced users who understand compatibility issues and don't need hand-holding through setup.
Monitor selection dramatically impacts final costs. A used 1080p monitor from Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist costs $25-50, cutting total system price below $180. A new 24-inch 1080p monitor from a budget brand runs $90-120. Splurging on a quality 27-inch display pushes the monitor cost to $180-250, which might exceed the cost of the entire Pi setup. Match your monitor investment to your intended use – a $200 display paired with a $60 Pi makes sense for a permanent desktop replacement, but not for a learning project or occasional tinkering.
Which Kit Type Makes Sense for Your Project
Different projects and skill levels call for different kit configurations.
First-time Pi users benefit most from official Desktop Kits that include keyboard and mouse. The guaranteed component compatibility reduces troubleshooting frustration, and the included quick-start guide walks through initial setup step-by-step. The official Raspberry Pi keyboard and mouse aren't premium products, but they're solidly built and their red-and-white styling immediately identifies them as part of the Pi ecosystem. Budget $120-150 for this category, then add your own monitor.
Educational environments and classroom deployments have different priorities. Schools often prefer display-included kits with 7-inch touchscreens because they create truly portable units that students can move between desks and homes. The compact size reduces storage challenges, and the integrated nature minimizes setup time at the start of each class. Touchscreen functionality supports interactive learning applications without requiring mouse skills from younger students. Expect $200-280 per complete unit, which often includes volume pricing discounts from educational suppliers.
Embedded projects and kiosk applications work well with touchscreen-integrated kits because the final installation needs exactly what these bundles provide – a compact, self-contained computer with built-in display. Whether building a smart mirror, home automation control panel, or retail point-of-sale system, the 7-inch touchscreen kits from CanaKit or similar vendors eliminate the need to source and mount separate displays. The slightly higher upfront cost pays off in reduced installation complexity.
Desktop replacement users should stick with standard Desktop Kits and invest in a proper monitor separately. The 7-inch displays in integrated kits feel impossibly cramped for regular productivity work, and even 13-inch portables lack the screen real estate for comfortable multitasking. A standard 24-inch 1080p monitor costs about the same as upgrading from Desktop Kit to Desktop Kit with Display, but provides far better usability for everyday computing tasks. The Pi 4 (with 4-8GB RAM) and Pi 5 can legitimately serve as secondary computers for web browsing, document editing, and media consumption when paired with appropriate displays.
Hobby electronics projects often need only the bare minimum. If you're building a weather station, media center, or network appliance, you don't need keyboard, mouse, or permanent display. A basic starter kit ($60-80) provides the Pi, power, and case, then you can add a cheap USB keyboard and use your TV as a monitor via HDMI for initial configuration. Once the project is running, it may operate headlessly (without any display) entirely. This approach minimizes cost while maximizing flexibility for creative applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any HDMI monitor with a Raspberry Pi?
Yes, any monitor or TV with an HDMI input works with Raspberry Pi 4, 5, and later models. Earlier Pi models (3B+ and older) use full-size HDMI, while Pi 4 and 5 use micro HDMI ports that require adapter cables. Resolution support extends to 4K at 60fps on Pi 4/5, though the Pi's GPU won't handle demanding 4K video editing or gaming. Most users find 1080p displays provide the best balance of performance and usability.
Do the official Raspberry Pi Desktop Kits include displays?
No, the official Raspberry Pi Desktop Kits do not include displays. These kits contain the Pi board, official keyboard and mouse, power supply, microSD card with pre-installed OS, and cables to connect to your own HDMI monitor. The "desktop" designation refers to including peripherals (keyboard/mouse) for desktop use, not that it's a complete desktop system. You must provide your own monitor separately.
What's the cheapest way to get a complete Raspberry Pi setup with monitor?
The most budget-friendly approach is buying a basic Raspberry Pi 4 Starter Kit ($60-80) and pairing it with a used monitor from Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or a thrift store ($20-40). This gets you a complete working system for under $120. Alternatively, many users repurpose existing monitors, keyboards, and mice from old computers, reducing the new purchase to just the Pi and starter kit components.
Should I buy a touchscreen kit or regular monitor for learning projects?
Regular monitors generally work better for learning programming and general computing skills. The larger screen size (20-24 inches) makes code easier to read and allows multiple windows side-by-side. Touchscreen kits with 7-inch displays excel at specific embedded projects or when portability matters, but their small size creates eye strain during extended learning sessions. Save touchscreen kits for projects that specifically benefit from touch input, like interactive displays or control panels.
Making Your Purchase Decision
The monitor question ultimately breaks down to your specific needs and existing equipment.
For most buyers, purchasing a standard Desktop Kit without a display offers the best value and flexibility. These kits provide everything except the monitor for $120-150, then you choose a display that matches your preferences and budget. This approach avoids paying bundling premiums while ensuring you get the screen size and quality you actually want. A $90 1080p monitor paired with a $130 desktop kit creates a capable system for under $220.
The display-included route makes sense in specific scenarios. If you're building embedded projects, need portable computing, or want the simplest possible setup process, kits with 7-inch touchscreens justify their $200-300 price tags through convenience and integration. These work particularly well for educational settings, kiosk applications, or smart home control panels where compact size and touch input add genuine value.
The new official Raspberry Pi Monitor presents an interesting middle path. At $100, it costs about the same as a budget third-party monitor but offers purpose-built features like USB-C power sharing and guaranteed Pi compatibility. If you're buying a new Pi 5 setup and want an official, integrated solution without the compromises of small touchscreens, bundling the Pi 5 Desktop Kit with the official Monitor creates a cohesive system for around $230-250.
Reusing existing equipment remains the most economical option if you already own compatible peripherals. The Pi was designed to work with standard PC components – any USB keyboard and mouse, any HDMI display, any USB-C phone charger with sufficient amperage. This reuse-first approach gets you started for the cost of just the Pi board and basic accessories, often under $100 total.
The bottom line: standard Raspberry Pi kits don't include monitors because most users either already own displays or have specific screen requirements. When you do need a bundled display, several specialized kits exist, but they're premium options rather than the standard offering. Plan your purchase around either adding your own monitor to a desktop kit or selecting one of the display-integrated packages designed for projects where compact, built-in screens make sense.
Data Sources:
Raspberry Pi Official Website - Product specifications and kit contents
CanaKit.com - Kit configurations and pricing
Raspberry Pi Foundation blog - December 2024 monitor launch announcement
The Pi Hut, Adafruit, Vilros - Retailer kit comparison data