Home automation system build 2025
i want to setup home assistance for a home automation system. my question is about computer performance. I have a intel i5 hp computer, its basic with 4 gigs of ram. would i be better off just purchasing a new raspberry pi 5 with 8 gigs of ram. Im talking about performance of the system, the intel based computer with it’s basic pci bus or the new PI5
Let’s break down the performance aspects of your Intel i5-based computer versus a Raspberry Pi 5 with 8 GB of RAM for running Home Assistant.
1. Processing Power
- Intel i5 HP Computer (Basic Setup):
- Even a basic i5 CPU is typically more powerful than the ARM processor in the Raspberry Pi 5 for most general-purpose computing tasks.
- Depending on the generation of your i5, it will handle higher computational loads better (e.g., running add-ons, integrations, or machine learning tasks like facial recognition).
- Raspberry Pi 5 (8 GB RAM):
- The new Pi 5 has significant performance improvements over previous versions, but it’s still a lower-power ARM chip compared to the i5.
- It’s optimized for energy efficiency and performs well for lightweight tasks, but intensive workloads might strain it.
2. Memory
- 4 GB RAM (Intel i5):
- If you’re not running a memory-heavy operating system (like Windows), 4 GB is sufficient for Home Assistant Core or Home Assistant OS with moderate integrations.
- However, if you plan to use many add-ons (e.g., Node-RED, InfluxDB, or motion detection with cameras), you might hit the limit.
- 8 GB RAM (Raspberry Pi 5):
- More RAM allows for better multitasking and smoother operation, especially with add-ons.
- For a dedicated Home Assistant setup, 8 GB on the Pi 5 offers plenty of headroom.
3. Storage
- Intel i5 Computer:
- Likely has a traditional HDD or SSD, which is faster and more reliable than an SD card or eMMC storage often used in Raspberry Pi setups.
- You can expand storage easily and have more options (e.g., full SSD setups).
- Raspberry Pi 5:
- Supports faster storage (e.g., NVMe via an optional carrier board or USB 3.0 SSD).
- If set up correctly, the storage speed difference between the two systems can be negligible.
4. Power Efficiency
- Intel i5 Computer:
- Consumes significantly more power than a Raspberry Pi. This is important for a system that will run 24/7.
- Expect ~50–70W usage versus ~5–10W for the Pi.
- Raspberry Pi 5:
- Extremely power-efficient, making it ideal for always-on applications.
5. Compatibility and Flexibility
- Intel i5 Computer:
- Offers more flexibility to run other tasks alongside Home Assistant (e.g., Plex, Docker containers).
- Native x86 architecture ensures better compatibility with certain add-ons or software that might not have ARM versions.
- Raspberry Pi 5:
- ARM-based architecture might limit compatibility with certain software, although most Home Assistant add-ons support ARM.
- Easier to set up as a dedicated Home Assistant device.
6. Cost
- Intel i5 Computer:
- You already own it, so the initial cost is zero. However, consider any upgrades (e.g., SSD or additional RAM).
- Raspberry Pi 5:
- Costs can add up: the Pi 5, power supply, case, cooling, and optional NVMe adapter can bring the price close to or above $100–150.
Recommendation
- If you want better performance: Stick with your Intel i5 computer. You could upgrade it to 8 GB of RAM or add an SSD for improved speed and multitasking. It has the power to handle intensive integrations, and it’s already available.
- If you value energy efficiency and simplicity: Go for the Raspberry Pi 5. It’s sufficient for most Home Assistant setups, and its power efficiency makes it ideal for 24/7 operation.
Conclusion: Unless power consumption or ARM architecture is a priority, the i5 computer (with slight upgrades if needed) will outperform the Raspberry Pi 5 for Home Assistant.
