Are you seeking the perfect case to protect and cool your Raspberry Pi 5? Whether you’re building a NAS or experimenting with the Raspberry Pi OS desktop, the GeeekPi Aluminum Case for Raspberry Pi 5 is an excellent choice for keeping your Pi 5 safe and cool. And yes, it’s a solid contender, even if you’ve already dabbled with other cases.
For over 27 years, I’ve been building computer systems, and I’ve gone through more cases than I can count. So, when I say this is a “great little case,” it’s not just because it looks nice—it works. You’ll appreciate this case if you’re like me and love your Raspberry Pi projects.
The Build: Lightweight Yet Tough
The GeeekPi Aluminum Case is lightweight but sturdy aluminum, designed to protect your Raspberry Pi 5 from bumps, dust, and scratches. This case fits snugly and gives easy access to all the necessary ports, including the USB-C power jack, micro HDMI ports, USB ports, Ethernet jack, SD card slot, power button, and even the 4-lane MIPI DSI/CSI connectors. It feels durable without adding unnecessary bulk. Plus, it weighs only 5.6 ounces, which won’t bog down your project if portability is a factor.
The Cooling System: Keeping It Chill
If you’re worried about overheating (because, let’s face it, Raspberry Pis do get hot), the Raspberry Pi 5 Active Cooler will ease your mind. This cooling system combines an aluminum heatsink with a PWM fan to maintain optimal temperatures, ensuring smooth application performance. Whether you’re using it for a NAS build, a media center, or just tinkering, this cooler will keep your Pi 5 running cool—pun intended.
I’ve had no issues with the fan installation; it’s an easy setup. It also comes with a screwdriver and screw pack, which is always a nice touch, saving you a trip to the toolbox. And let’s be honest, we’ve all misplaced a screwdriver at some point, right?
Space and Ventilation: Perfect for Custom Builds
One thing that stands out about this case is its thoughtful design. The sides are vented, which adds an extra layer of cooling. There’s enough room for those who like to add additional components, like an SSD Pi Hat. I used this case for an OpenMediaVault NAS build for my home theater, and there was no issue fitting everything inside, even with the Pi M.2 Hat.
In comparison, my first case—the Vilros Raspberry Pi 5-8GB Starter Kit (Turbo Cooled Edition)—didn’t have space for the SSD Pi Hat, which was a letdown. GeeekPi’s case solved that issue with ease.
Easy Access: No Fumbling Required
One of the best parts? You won’t have to fight with the case when accessing the SD card. It’s a breeze to insert and remove, which might sound trivial, but it makes a difference if you frequently swap SD cards for different projects.
Versatility with PCIe Peripheral Boards
This case is compatible with the X1000, X1001, X1003, N04, and N05 PCIe peripheral boards for those diving into more advanced projects. This feature makes it a solid choice for expanding the capabilities of your Raspberry Pi 5, especially if you’re into experimental setups or more intensive applications.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for Your Raspberry Pi 5
The GeeekPi Aluminum Case for Raspberry Pi 5 is a winner for beginners and veteran Pi builders. It provides solid protection, keeps your Pi 5 cool with its active cooler, and has enough space for an SSD Pi Hat—something other cases may lack. If you’re working on a project and want a reliable case for your Raspberry Pi 5, this one is worth every penny.
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