Web3 Pi: Recommended Hardware
In a dual-device setup, the workload of running an Ethereum node is split between two Raspberry Pi devices. One device runs the Execution Layer (EL) client (like Geth), which requires significant storage, while the other runs the Consensus Layer (CL) client (like Nimbus or Lighthouse), which has much lower storage needs but still benefits from fast access.
This setup requires two complete Raspberry Pi systems, each with its own Pi, power supply, storage, SD card, and cooling/enclosure.
Supported combinations include:
- Two Raspberry Pi 5
- Two Raspberry Pi 4
- One Raspberry Pi 5 and one Raspberry Pi 4
- Any combination including Compute Module 4/5
Raspberry Pi Models
You will need two Raspberry Pi devices. The following models are supported:
- Raspberry Pi 5: Recommended for best performance, especially for the EL client.
- Raspberry Pi 4 Model B: A viable option, particularly suitable for the CL client or if cost is a major factor. Can also run the EL client, though sync times may be longer than Pi 5.
- Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4): Requires a compatible carrier board with necessary ports (Ethernet, USB, potentially PCIe/M.2) and a cooling solution.
RAM Requirement
Regardless of the model chosen, both Raspberry Pi devices must have at least 8GB of RAM.
Refer to the hardware checklists for specific model links:
SSD Drive Requirements
- Execution Client (EL) Device: Needs a 2 TB or larger fast SSD (NVMe or USB 3.0) to store the growing Ethereum blockchain state data.
- Consensus Client (CL) Device: Needs a 256 GB or larger fast SSD. While 256GB is sufficient currently, a 512GB drive offers more headroom for future growth and potentially better longevity/performance. NVMe or a reliable USB 3.0 SSD is recommended.
Connection Options
-
Raspberry Pi 5:
- External USB 3.0 SSD drive.
- M.2 NVMe drive with an NVMe HAT (connects via PCIe).
- M.2 NVMe drive with a USB 3.0 to M.2 adapter.
-
Raspberry Pi 4 / CM4 (with appropriate carrier board):
- External USB 3.0 SSD drive.
- M.2 NVMe drive with a USB 3.0 to M.2 adapter.
- (Some CM4 carrier boards may offer direct M.2 slots).
Use USB 3.0 Ports
If using USB-connected storage, always use the blue USB 3.0 ports on the Raspberry Pi for maximum speed.
Recommendations for Execution Client SSD (2TB+)
This device requires a large, fast drive. The recommendations are the same as for the single-device mode.
*Sample links result from a quick Google search mainly for the reader's convenience & quick price reference; we invite you to do your own research and find local hardware providers.
USB Drive (EL)
| Brand | Storage | Model | Link* | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung | 2 TB | T7 2TB USB 3.2 | https://tweakers.net/pricewatch/1560668/samsung-portable-ssd-t7-2tb-grijs/specificaties/ | Recommended for most users. Compatible with Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 |
Tip: Some external disks consume more power than Raspberry Pi can deliver via USB. For Raspberry Pi 5, the max power output of the USB ports is 600mA if you're using a 3A supply, and 1600mA if you're using a 5A supply. You can edit /boot/firmware/config.txt and add usb_max_current_enable=1 to disable the current limit. Please read the documentation:
https://www.raspberrypi.com/documentation/computers/raspberry-pi.html
NVMe Drive (EL)
These drives need adapters (HAT or USB). See below.
| Brand/Model | Controller | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Micron M.2 2230 2TB | Silicon Motion SM2269XT | Product page More Info |
| Sabrent Rocket Q4 2230 2 TB | Phison PS5021-E21T | Product page More Info |
| Sabrent Rocket 2280 2TB | Phison PS5012-E12S-32 | Product page More Info |
| Samsung 980 Pro 2TB | Samsung Elpis (S4LV003) | Product page More Info |
| Kingston KC3000 2TB | Phison PS5018-E18-41 | Product page More Info |
| Crucial P5 Plus 2TB | Micron DM02A1 |
Product page More Info |
| Crucial P3 2TB | Phison PS5021-E21T | Product page More Info |
| Kingston NV2 2TB | Silicon Motion SM2267XT |
Product page More Info |
| Teamgroup MP44S 2230 2TB | Phison PS5021-E21 | Product page More Info |
Note: Double-sided NVMe M.2 memory modules may not fit all adapters/enclosures.
Full compatibility list for Ethereum node Full compatibility list for Pimoroni adapter
NVMe Hat (Pi 5) (EL)
| Brand | Link* |
|---|---|
| Pimoroni | NVMe Base for Raspberry Pi 5 |
| Raspberry Pi m.2 Hat | https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/m2-hat-plus |
| Pineboards HatDrive: Bottom | https://pineberrypi.com/products/hatdrive-bottom-2230-2242-2280-for-rpi5 |
| Pineboards HatDrive: Top | https://pineboards.io/products/hat-top-2230-2240-for-rpi5 |
| Waveshare 26583 | https://www.waveshare.com/pcie-to-m.2-hat-plus.htm |
USB to NVMe adapters (EL)
Suitable for Pi 4, Pi 5, and CM4 (with USB ports).
| Brand | Link* |
|---|---|
| ZenWire | https://zenwire.eu/pl/p/Adapter-SSD-M2-NVMESATA-kieszen-na-dysk-obudowa-M.2-USB-C-10-GBs-Zenwire/289 |
| RIITOP | https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B0B1HVGBZ3?ref_=pe_28126711_487767311_302_E_DDE_dt_1 |
| QOLTEC | https://www.tme.eu/en/details/qoltec-50311/hdd-ssd-accessories/qoltec/50311 |
| Orico / Ugreen / Sabrent | (Search for reputable USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 M.2 NVMe enclosures from these brands) |
Recommendations for Consensus Client SSD (256GB+)
This device requires a smaller, but still fast and reliable drive.
*Sample links result from a quick Google search mainly for the reader's convenience & quick price reference; we invite you to do your own research and find local hardware providers.
USB Drive (CL)
| Brand | Storage | Model | Link* | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung | 500 GB | T7 500GB USB 3.2 | https://tweakers.net/pricewatch/1560664/samsung-portable-ssd-t7-500gb-grijs.html | Reliable option, good balance of price/performance. |
| Crucial | 500 GB | X8 Portable SSD | https://www.crucial.com/ssd/x8/ct500x8ssd9 | Another solid choice for USB SSD. |
| Sandisk | 500 GB | Extreme Portable | https://www.westerndigital.com/products/portable-ssd/sandisk-extreme-portable-ssd-v2 | Often well-regarded, ensure it's the V2 or newer model for best performance. |
NVMe Drive (CL)
These drives need adapters (HAT or USB). Choose a reputable brand. 256GB or 512GB are suitable sizes.
| Brand/Model | Storage | Link* (Example Size) | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung 970 EVO Plus | 250GB / 500GB | 500GB Link | Widely available, proven reliability. |
| Crucial P3 / P3 Plus | 500GB | P3 500GB Link | Good value NVMe drives. P3 Plus is PCIe 4.0 but works fine in PCIe 3.0 slots/adapters. |
| WD Blue SN570/SN580 | 250GB / 500GB | SN580 500GB Link | Reliable mainstream NVMe options. |
| Kingston NV2 | 250GB / 500GB | 500GB Link | Budget-friendly option, performance may vary slightly depending on components used in manufacturing. |
NVMe Hat (Pi 5) (CL)
Same HATs as recommended for the EL client can be used here with a smaller NVMe drive. See NVMe Hat (Pi 5) (EL) section above.
USB to NVMe adapters (CL)
Same adapters as recommended for the EL client can be used here with a smaller NVMe drive. See USB to NVMe adapters (EL) section above.
SD Card Reader and Writer
You only need one SD card reader/writer to flash the operating system onto both microSD cards.
- Recommendation: Ugreen 2-in-1 USB 3 SD/TF or similar USB 3.0 reader.
MicroSD Cards
You will need two microSD cards, one for each Raspberry Pi.
- Requirement: 32GB minimum capacity, Class 10 / U1 / A1 rating or better. Faster cards (U3/A2) can improve boot times.
- Recommendations: (Refer to the list in the Single Mode Recommendations) - purchase two cards.
Power Supplies
You will need two power supplies, one appropriate for each Raspberry Pi model you are using.
- Raspberry Pi 5: Official Raspberry Pi 27W USB-C Power Supply (5.1V/5A) is strongly recommended.
- Raspberry Pi 4: Official Raspberry Pi 15.3W USB-C Power Supply (5.1V/3A) is strongly recommended.
- CM4: Depends on the carrier board requirements. Check the carrier board documentation.
Using the official power supplies ensures stability, especially when powering connected peripherals like SSDs.
Enclosures and Active Cooling
Active cooling is mandatory for both Raspberry Pi devices in a dual-node setup to prevent thermal throttling and ensure stability. You will need two enclosures with active cooling.
- For Raspberry Pi 5: Choose one of the recommended cases with integrated fan/heatsink. (Refer to Single Mode Recommendations).
- For Raspberry Pi 4: Choose one of the recommended cases with integrated fan/heatsink. (Refer to Single Mode Recommendations).
- For CM4: Ensure your chosen carrier board has a suitable active cooling solution attached or available.
Optional: LCD Display
You can add an optional LCD display to either or both Raspberry Pi devices for at-a-glance monitoring.
- Refer to the LCD Monitoring Guide for hardware and setup details.
Networking
- You will need two Ethernet cables (Cat5e or better).
- Ensure your router or network switch has at least two available Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- Refer to the main Prerequisites Guide for internet speed requirements.
Choosing the right hardware ensures a stable and performant dual-device node setup. Remember to clearly label your devices during assembly to avoid confusion!