Top 15 Raspberry Pi in IoT Project Ideas for 2025

Did you know? The Raspberry Pi 5 offers a 2–3× CPU performance boost, significant GPU enhancements, and increased peripheral bandwidth, making it powerful enough for desktop computing, AI projects, and media-rich applications. A 5V/5A USB-C power supply is required to handle this upgraded performance and meet higher energy demands.

To excel in Raspberry Pi IoT projects, you'll need foundational skills in electronics, Python programming, and networking. Top projects for 2025 include Smart Home Automation, Real-Time Weather Stations, IoT-based security Systems, and Energy Monitoring Solutions, each designed to deepen your hands-on experience with the Internet of Things.

These carefully curated project ideas align with evolving industry trends, enabling students, hobbyists, and professionals to develop practical IoT skills while building standout, real-world applications.

This comprehensive guide explores 15 innovative Raspberry Pi IoT projects, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. It is perfect for sharpening your tech edge and building an impressive project portfolio for 2025!

Looking to break into the IoT field with confidence? upGrad’s Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning programs equip you with the skills to design innovative, connected systems. Learn how AI and ML power real-time decision-making in IoT applications from predictive maintenance to autonomous devices.

Top 15 Raspberry Pi IoT Projects

Working on Raspberry Pi IoT projects not only boosts your technical expertise but also helps you stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of IoT. No matter if you're a student looking to break into the tech world or a professional aiming to upgrade your skills, these projects offer invaluable hands-on experience.

If you aim to build a career in the Internet of Things, these curated upGrad courses offer hands-on experience with sensors, networks, and AI-powered automation.

• Generative AI for Business Leaders - IIIT Bangalore
• The U & AI: GenAI Certificate Program from Microsoft
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Here are some exciting IoT projects using Raspberry Pi that can help you explore new horizons in IoT development.

Voice Controlled Air Purifier

This project allows you to control an air purifier through voice commands, combining home automation with health tech. Below are the essential details of this project.

The features of this project include the following.

• Voice-controlled operation
• Real-time air quality monitoring
• Smart home integration

Use Case:
You’re managing indoor environments like homes, offices, or hospital rooms and want to ensure clean, breathable air at all times. By integrating a Raspberry Pi with air quality sensors, you can automatically detect pollutants like CO2, PM2.5, or VOCs. When thresholds are exceeded, the system can trigger ventilation fans, send alerts to your phone, or even adjust smart thermostats to improve circulation.

It’s a practical way to apply IoT to real-time environmental monitoring and automation, while gaining hands-on experience with sensors, data processing, and smart control systems that make indoor spaces healthier and more responsive.

To bring this project to life, consider the challenges and how to overcome them.

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Also Read: Top 10 Raspberry Pi Alternatives Available in 2025

Car Safety System With Airbag Notification

This IoT project uses Raspberry Pi to enhance vehicle safety. It connects sensors to detect car accidents and send immediate notifications about airbag deployment to a mobile device.

Here’s an overview of the key aspects of this project.

Here are the features of this car safety system.

• Real-time impact detection
• Airbag deployment notification
• Mobile alerts and monitoring

Use Case:

You're building a smart vehicle prototype focused on safety and diagnostics. With Raspberry Pi at the core, you can collect real-time data from motion sensors, cameras, and GPS modules to monitor driver behavior, detect fatigue, or analyze route efficiency. 

This setup improves safety and gives you hands-on experience in automotive IoT, sensor fusion, and edge data processing. Applying embedded systems knowledge to real-world transport challenges is a powerful way.

Below are some challenges to consider.

Also Read: Top 9 Machine Learning APIs for Data Science You Need to Know About

IoT Weather Reporting System using Arduino and Raspberry Pi

This weather station uses both Arduino and Raspberry Pi to collect, analyze, and report real-time weather data. Here are the crucial elements of this project.

Below are the features of this weather station.

• Real-time weather updates
• Remote access to data
• Data visualization

Use Case:

You're working on a smart environment project where real-time weather data is crucial. With this Raspberry Pi setup, you can track temperature, humidity, and pressure and feed this data into prediction models. Whether you're building a smart greenhouse system, automating irrigation, or monitoring air quality, this setup gives you hands-on experience with environmental sensors, data logging, and cloud integration. 

It's practical, scalable, and ideal for developers working on sustainability-focused IoT applications.

Here are some challenges and ways to overcome them.

Wearable Computer With Temperature Distance Sensors

This IoT project uses a Raspberry Pi to create a wearable device that monitors body temperature and distance to nearby objects. The following table highlights the main details of this project.

The features of this wearable computer include the following.

• Real-time temperature monitoring
• Distance sensing for safety
• User alerts for abnormal readings

Use Case: 

You're a healthcare worker or athlete needing constant health checks without interruptions. With this wearable computer, you can track your body temperature in real time and get instant alerts for abnormal readings. The distance sensors help you maintain a safe space from others — ideal in crowded or high-risk areas.

It’s lightweight and efficient, and it gives you hands-on experience in IoT, sensor use, and wearable tech while solving real-world safety and health challenges.

Here are the challenges and solutions to consider.

Also Read: Raspberry Pi Commands: General, Networking, Internet, File & System Information

IoT Water Pollution Monitor RC Boat

This IoT project integrates a Raspberry Pi and sensors to detect pollutants in water bodies, providing a real-time analysis of water quality through a remote-controlled boat.

Here are the highlights that make this project unique.

Here are the key features of this project.

• Real-time water quality monitoring
• Remote-controlled operation
• Pollution detection in water bodies

Use Case:

You're an environmental researcher, student, or civic worker aiming to monitor water quality without relying on bulky lab equipment. With this compact Raspberry Pi-based system, you can deploy real-time sensors that detect pH levels, turbidity, and temperature. Whether you're stationed near a water body or managing multiple test points remotely, the device streams critical data for analysis and alerts you to unsafe conditions.

It’s portable, accurate, and gives you practical experience with environmental IoT systems, sensor integration, and real-world data logging — all while helping solve pressing ecological challenges.

Here are some of the challenges of this project and how to tackle them.

Voice Controlled Air Purifier (Again)

This project focuses on enhanced voice recognition and integration with other IoT devices. Below are the significant components of this project.

Here are some features that will set this project apart.

• Seamless voice integration
• Data-driven air quality updates
• Connectivity with other smart devices

Use Case:
Imagine you're designing a modern smart home system where air quality is a key concern for families with allergies or respiratory conditions. Integrating a Raspberry Pi with air quality sensors lets your system monitor pollutants like PM2.5, CO₂, or VOCs in real time.

When poor air quality is detected, the Pi can trigger an air purifier or notify residents via mobile. This project gives you hands-on experience with environmental sensors, real-time data processing, and smart automation. It is perfect for developers looking to build intelligent home systems that respond to real-world health needs.

To tackle challenges, you might face the following.

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Contactless IoT Doorbell

With Raspberry Pi in IoT projects, you can create a doorbell. It recognizes visitors, records video, and even sends alerts to your mobile device, all without physical contact.

Here are the foundational details of this project.

Here are the features that make this project stand out.

• Face recognition technology
• Video streaming to mobile devices
• Real-time visitor alerts

Use Case:

You’re managing a smart home and want to enhance security by continuously monitoring doors and windows. With this IoT system, you receive instant notifications on your phone whenever an entry point is opened or tampered with. It helps you stay aware and respond quickly to potential intrusions, providing peace of mind whether you’re home or away. 

This project deepens your skills in sensor integration, real-time alerts, and remote monitoring.

Below are some challenges you might face and how to overcome them.

RC Underwater Exploration Drone

Raspberry Pi IoT projects offer an exciting way to explore underwater environments. With the integration of remote control, this underwater exploration drone can dive deep and send back valuable data on water quality, temperature, and aquatic life.

Below are the vital aspects of this project.

Here are the key features of this drone.

• Real-time underwater data collection
• Remote control with live streaming
• Waterproof design for deep dives

Use Case:

You’re involved in environmental research or industrial water analysis needing continuous, reliable data collection. With this Raspberry Pi setup, you can monitor water quality parameters in real time, detect anomalies early, and send alerts automatically. It’s ideal for remote or harsh environments where constant supervision isn’t feasible, giving you practical experience in IoT deployment, sensor integration, and automated data management.

Here are the challenges to consider and solutions.

Also Read: Difference Between IoT and AI: Which is Better?

IoT Temperature & Mask Scan Entry System

With Raspberry Pi in IoT, you can create a system that checks both temperature and mask compliance before granting access to a building or facility.

Here are the core details of this project.

Here are the core features of this entry system.

• Real-time temperature scanning
• Mask detection with facial recognition
• Automated access control

Use Case:
You manage safety in offices, schools, or healthcare facilities where enforcing social distancing and monitoring health are critical. This system continuously tracks occupancy levels and environmental factors to ensure protocols are followed without manual intervention. It’s ideal for administrators who want real-time alerts and automated compliance to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

Here are some challenges and their solutions.

Thermal Screening Drone

This IoT project uses thermal sensors mounted on a drone to detect elevated body temperatures in crowds. It helps to quickly identify individuals who may need further health screening.

Here are the standout details of this project.

The features of this thermal screening drone include the following.

• High-resolution thermal imaging
• Live data streaming to monitoring systems
• Aerial view for crowd scanning

Use Case:

You’re managing large public gatherings, airports, or outdoor events where crowd health screening is essential. Using this Raspberry Pi IoT setup, you can monitor individuals’ body temperatures remotely and in real time to quickly identify fever cases. This helps maintain safety by enabling early detection and response without disrupting event flow.

Here are some challenges to address.

Also Read: Top Python Automation Projects & Topics For Beginners

IoT Contactless Covid Testing Booth Automation

With the global emphasis on contactless operations, this Raspberry Pi IoT project automates COVID testing booths. It integrates sensors to ensure safety by detecting when an individual is ready for testing and automatically starts the procedure, from sample collection to result reporting.

Below are the essential features that define this project.

The features of this project include the following.

• Touchless operation
• Real-time result reporting
• Automated sample collection

Use Case:

You manage a public space like an airport or shopping mall and need a safe, automated way to conduct COVID-19 tests without direct contact. This system helps minimize exposure by automating the testing process, providing quick results, and reducing the need for medical staff interaction. 

It’s designed to handle high foot traffic efficiently while maintaining safety protocols. This project gives you practical experience in automation, sensor integration, and health tech innovation in IoT.

Challenges and solutions include the following.

Thermal Vision RC Robotic Tank

With IoT projects using Raspberry Pi, this thermal vision robotic tank can navigate autonomously with a thermal camera. It detects heat signatures, which is useful for search and rescue missions or military applications.

Here’s a closer look at the project’s important elements.

Here are the features of this robotic tank.

• Autonomous navigation
• Real-time heat signature detection
• Rugged design for rough terrains

Use Case:
You’re involved in disaster management or security operations where visual access is limited or dangerous. This robotic tank, equipped with thermal vision can navigate hazardous environments, detect heat signatures of people or equipment, and send real-time data back to your control station. It helps you perform critical surveillance, locate survivors, or identify threats without harming yourself.

This project gives you practical experience with robotics, thermal imaging sensors, wireless communication, and remote control. All vital skills for advanced IoT and defense applications.

Here are some of the challenges you may face.

IoT Social Distancing & Monitoring Robot For Queue

This Raspberry Pi-based robot helps ensure social distancing is maintained in public spaces, such as malls or hospitals. It uses cameras and sensors to monitor people’s proximity and sends alerts if the social distancing rules are violated.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the project’s main details.

The features of this robot include the following.

• Social distancing detection
• Real-time alerts to users
• Autonomous navigation

You’re managing a crowded public area where maintaining safe distances is critical. This robot autonomously monitors queues, detects if people are too close, and alerts them to maintain proper spacing. It helps enforce health protocols efficiently without needing constant human supervision.

This project involves working with distance sensors, real-time data processing, and autonomous alert systems. It is perfect for gaining hands-on experience in IoT applications that address public safety.

Here’s a quick look at some of the challenges.

Also Read: Future Scope of IoT: Applications of IoT in Top Industries

AI Bartender Cocktail Maker Machine

Combining AI with IoT, this Raspberry Pi project uses voice commands and sensors to create and serve cocktails automatically. It analyzes ingredients, measures quantities, and mixes drinks just like a bartender.

Here’s an overview of this project.

Here are the features of this project.

• Voice command-enabled
• Ingredient recognition and measurement
• Automatic mixing and serving

Use Case:
This project is perfect for bars, parties, or homes looking for a unique cocktail-making experience. It allows you to automate drink preparation and serve custom cocktails with precision and flair, enhancing guest engagement and making entertaining effortless.

Challenges and solutions include the following.

IoT Doggy Daycare Robot

With Raspberry Pi, this IoT project involves creating a robotic system that takes care of pets in a daycare setting. It can feed, monitor, and even interact with pets remotely, all controlled via a mobile app.

Here are the details of this project.

Here are the key features.

• Remote pet monitoring
• Automated feeding and playtime
• Mobile app control

Use Case:
You manage a pet daycare center or care for pets at home and want an automated way to monitor their activities and well-being. This project helps you track pet movement, feeding times, or environmental conditions like temperature and humidity in real time, allowing you to respond quickly to any issues. It offers practical experience with IoT devices, sensor integration, and real-time monitoring while ensuring pets stay safe and comfortable.

To tackle the challenges, consider these.

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How to Set up a Raspberry Pi in IoT Projects 

Setting up Raspberry Pi for IoT projects is a rewarding experience that opens up endless possibilities for innovation. Here's a brief guide to setting up Raspberry Pi for your next IoT project.

• Get the Right Hardware: Choose a Raspberry Pi model that suits your IoT project needs. Raspberry Pi 4 or Raspberry Pi Zero W are ideal for most IoT applications, offering good processing power and wireless capabilities.
• Install the Operating System: Download and install Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian) on your microSD card. This operating system is optimized for IoT projects using Raspberry Pi.
• Connect Peripherals: Attach a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to set up your Raspberry Pi. If you’re working remotely, use SSH or VNC for headless setup.
• Configure Network: Connect your Raspberry Pi to a Wi-Fi network or use an Ethernet cable to enable communication for your IoT projects using Raspberry Pi.
• Install IoT Software: Install any necessary libraries, like Python, MQTT, or Node-RED, which are commonly used in IoT projects using Raspberry Pi for device communication and automation.
• Test and Run Your IoT Project: Once everything is set up, test your Raspberry Pi in IoT projects. Monitor sensor data, connect to cloud computing services, or control devices remotely to ensure everything works seamlessly.

Also Read: Top 15 IoT Examples in Real-Life You Should Know

How to Choose the Ideal Raspberry Pi in IoT Projects? 

Choosing the right model can significantly affect performance, cost, and efficiency when working on Raspberry Pi IoT projects. Different Raspberry Pi models cater to various needs, from basic sensor tasks to advanced processing for AI and media applications. Here’s a quick guide to help you select the most suitable option for your project.

Raspberry Pi 400

A compact, all-in-one keyboard computer with robust processing capabilities.

• Built-in keyboard makes it ideal for space-constrained setups.
• Powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 processor with 4 GB RAM.
• Offers strong connectivity: dual HDMI, USB 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0.

Best suited for: IoT projects that need portability and computing power, especially where a screen and keyboard are frequently used.

Example: As a portable monitoring station for smart agriculture, farmers can carry it to different locations, plug it into a screen, and monitor sensor data (like soil moisture or temperature) in real time without needing an additional keyboard or desktop setup.

Raspberry Pi 4

A powerful and versatile board suitable for more demanding IoT applications.

Available in multiple memory configurations, including 2 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB RAM.

It is equipped with dual micro HDMI for 4K output, USB 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth 5.0. It delivers high performance, making it ideal for integrating complex IoT devices and handling data-intensive tasks.

Best suited for: IoT projects that require strong processing capabilities and advanced connectivity, such as industrial automation or AI-based systems.

Example: Used in a real-time industrial monitoring system, it collects sensor data from machines, processes it locally using AI models, and sends alerts or reports to a central dashboard, ensuring fast, reliable decision-making on the factory floor.

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

A reliable, cost-effective board that offers a good balance between performance and efficiency. A quad-core processor with 1 GB of RAM provides enough power for most general-purpose IoT applications. Comes with essential connectivity: 4 USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11n, and Bluetooth 4.2.

Best suited for: IoT projects that require stable performance without intensive computation, especially for tasks that run continuously in the background.

Example: A smart home automation system controls lighting, manages security cameras, and gathers data from motion or temperature sensors—all operating smoothly without needing high-end processing.

Also Read: IoT Essential Components & Layers Explained: How They Improve Our Life?

Raspberry Pi 2 Model B

 An older but capable board for basic IoT applications. Powered by a quad-core CPU with 1 GB of RAM. Includes USB 2.0 ports, Ethernet, and HDMI but lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Best suited for: Simple automation setups, educational projects, or offline sensor applications that don’t require wireless connectivity.
 Example: Ethernet is used in a basic home automation system, where sensors connect via Ethernet to monitor temperature and lighting without relying on Wi-Fi.

Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+

 Designed for basic and cost-conscious IoT implementations, it is equipped with 512 MB RAM, 4 USB ports, Ethernet, and HDMI. However, it does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
 Best suited for: Entry-level IoT learning projects, low-power control systems, or wired sensor nodes.
 Example: Ideal for classroom experiments that teach students IoT fundamentals by connecting wired sensors and actuators.

Raspberry Pi 1 Model A+

This minimalistic board is ideal for low-resource environments. It has a compact design, 512 MB RAM, and a single USB port. However, it lacks Ethernet and wireless capabilities.

Best suited for: Battery-operated sensor nodes, simple control units, or IoT projects in tight spaces.

Example: Perfect for remote weather stations that run on battery power and transmit data through basic wired connections.

Raspberry Pi Zero

The smallest and most power-efficient Raspberry Pi available. Ultra-compact with 512 MB RAM and minimal ports. No built-in wireless, though Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be added with external adapters.
 Best suited for: Wearable devices, remote environmental sensors, or low-power portable gadgets where size and energy efficiency are crucial.
 Example: Used in a wearable health monitor that tracks vital signs and transmits data intermittently to conserve battery life.

Also Read: Blockchain in IoT: Examples, Challenges & Real World Applications

How Can upGrad Help You in Your Next Raspberry Pi IoT Projects?

If you’re new to IoT with Raspberry Pi, start with simple projects like a smart temperature sensor or basic home automation to learn sensor integration, data logging, and core programming skills. These will build your confidence and technical foundation.

As you gain experience, explore advanced ideas like AI-powered cameras or industrial monitors that involve real-time data, cloud connectivity, and automation. These are perfect for developing core IoT skills in 2025.

 If you're ready to deepen your IoT expertise and start building intelligent, connected systems, here are some additional upGrad courses that can help you upskill and apply these technologies in real-world projects.

• Advanced Prompt Engineering Course with ChatGPT
• Advanced Generative AI Certification Course
• Artificial Intelligence in the Real World
• Executive Diploma in Machine Learning and AI

If you're ready to take the next step in your career, connect with upGrad’s career counseling for personalized guidance. You can also visit a nearby upGrad center for hands-on training to enhance your generative AI skills and open up new career opportunities!

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References:

• https://datasheets.raspberrypi.com/rpi5/raspberry-pi-5-product-brief.pdf