Why the Raspberry Pi 5 is the Best Option to Run a Bitcoin Full Node in 2025

Bitcoin’s decentralized network relies on thousands of full nodes worldwide to verify transactions and secure the blockchain. Yet, there are only about 22,000 reachable Bitcoin nodes globally — a surprisingly low number that underscores the urgent need for more bitcoiners to run their own nodes. If you want to join this exclusive club, the Raspberry Pi 5 is the smartest, most efficient, and cost-effective way to run a Bitcoin full node today.

Why Raspberry Pi 5? Power, Efficiency & Affordability

The Raspberry Pi 5 packs a serious punch for its size and price:

• Powerful CPU: Quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 at 2.4 GHz delivers 2-3x the performance of the Pi 4.

• RAM Options: Available with 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4X RAM.

• NVMe SSD Boot: PCIe 4.0 support allows fast boot and blockchain storage on NVMe SSDs.

• Energy Efficient: Low power consumption (~4W idle), perfect for 24/7 operation.

• Compact & Cool: Cases like the Argon NEO 5 provide active cooling and heatsinks to keep your node humming quietly.

Choosing Between 8GB and 16GB RAM: What’s Right for You?

• 8GB RAM: Ideal if you plan to run only a Bitcoin full node. It’s more than enough to handle Bitcoin Core’s memory needs, sync the blockchain, and run a Lightning node. Also great if you want to keep costs down.

• 16GB RAM: Recommended if you want to run additional services alongside your node, such as:

  • Media center applications (e.g., Plex, Kodi)

  • Multiple Docker containers or virtual machines

  • AI or machine learning workloads (LLMs)

  • Hosting websites or other server apps on the same device

Benchmarks show the 8GB Pi 5 is actually slightly faster in CPU tests than the 16GB version, but the extra RAM gives you more headroom for multitasking and future-proofing.

NVMe SSD: 1TB vs 2TB — How Much Storage Do You Need?

• 1TB NVMe SSD: Sufficient for Bitcoin’s blockchain today and likely good for several years, as the blockchain size is around 600GB and grows slowly. This is a cost-effective choice if you want to start now.

• 2TB NVMe SSD: Better for future-proofing your node, especially if you plan to:

  • Run additional blockchain networks or apps

  • Store Lightning Network channels and transaction history

  • Use the node for other heavy storage tasks

Remember: The microSD card is only used to boot the system and load the OS; all blockchain data should reside on the NVMe SSD for speed and longevity.

Software Options for Your Raspberry Pi 5 Bitcoin Node

• Umbrel: User-friendly, full-featured node OS with Lightning Network support and app store.

• RaspiBlitz: More DIY, highly customizable with strong community support.

• Bitcoin Core + Tor: For privacy-focused users who want to run a pure full node.

• Berry 5 or other Linux distros: Lightweight options for advanced users.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Prepare the Hardware:

   • Raspberry Pi 5 (8GB or 16GB RAM)

   • Argon NEO 5 M.2 NVME PCIe Case with a 1TB or 2TB NVMe SSD installed

   • Official Raspberry Pi 27W power supply

   • 32GB or larger microSD card (for booting)

2. Flash the OS:

   • Download your preferred node OS image (e.g., Umbrel or RaspiBlitz).

   • Use software like Balena Etcher to flash the image onto the microSD card.

3. Assemble the Node:

   • Insert the microSD card into the Pi.

   • Attach the Pi to the Argon NEO 5 case with the NVMe SSD installed.

   • Connect power, Ethernet, and any peripherals.

4. Boot and Configure:

   • Power on the Pi and wait for initial boot.

   • Follow on-screen or web-based setup instructions.

   • Configure Bitcoin Core settings, optionally enable Tor for privacy.

   • Start blockchain synchronization (can take hours to days depending on network and SSD speed).

5. Maintain Your Node:

   • Keep software updated regularly.

   • Monitor disk space and health of your SSD.

   • Optionally open port 8333 on your router to help the network (or use Tor for privacy).

Cost Breakdown

Final Thoughts: Become a Bitcoin Network Hero

With only about 22,000 reachable Bitcoin nodes worldwide as of July 2025, the Bitcoin network is thirsting for more dedicated operators. But surely there are far more serious bitcoiners out there than just 22,000! So here’s a serious question for you: What’s your excuse for not running a node?

Is it hardware? Time? Unsure if it really matters? We genuinely want to know — drop your reason below!

Pro tip: 🛠️ Setting up a home full node with a Raspberry Pi 5 is easier than ever, and it’s the ultimate way to take your Bitcoin sovereignty to the next level.

Remember: You don’t run a full node to earn money — you run it because it’s the most secure, private, and decentralized way to use Bitcoin.

Don’t just HODL Bitcoin — power it. Join the ranks of bitcoiners who don’t just watch the network — they secure it. Run your own node. Protect your Bitcoin. Empower the future.

Ready to power the network? Visit runabitcoinnode.com to get your Raspberry Pi 5 full node kit or detailed guides. Don’t just HODL Bitcoin — own your node and secure the future of money.