There are many reasons to get a Raspberry Pi, but if you haven't already, you should consider getting a Raspberry Pi 2 instead. Though the newer version of the RPi still has several limitations and drawbacks, it comes with more RAM and a faster CPU -- which means more possibilities.

Unfortunately, it still doesn't come with a case. The RPi can be used without one, but there are a few reasons why you should invest in one, even if it means building one from scratch:

  • Protection: Dust is a big problem for open circuit boards. Not only is it conductive (which can cause shorts between chip pins), but it can also hold moisture (which can cause corrosion). Also, when carrying your RPi around, physical damage is a real concern.
  • Convenience: The RPi is a relatively jagged device. Things can get caught on it, it can snag on things, and because of the aforementioned protection issues, you have to be ginger with it when handling and transporting. A case allows you to be a little more care-free.
  • Aesthetics: Some cases are designed purely for function, but many cases simply look awesome. If you're going to use an RPi for something like a home media center, wouldn't you want it to add a bit of style?

Now that you're convinced that you need one, here are some of the best RPi 2 cases currently available on the Web.

1. Official Raspberry Pi 2 Case

If you want something safe and reliable, you really can't go wrong with the case that comes from the Raspberry Pi Foundation itself. It doesn't look very interesting or unique, but that's exactly how it's meant to be -- a generic design with widespread appeal.

That being said, it doesn't look bad at all. The top lid is removable for access to the camera and display ports, the side panels are removable for access to the GPIO port, and the RPi fits inside snugly enough. And at $13, it's neither cheap nor expensive.

2. Modular Case by ModMyPi

This case by ModMyPi is for RPi enthusiasts. With its black stealth design and integrated LED status lights, it looks sharp and fits in well with most computer cases, peripherals, and home media devices... but the real selling point is its modularity.

awesome-raspberry-pi-2-case-modmypi

The case itself is £6 plus tax, but there are a handful of add-on options for customization: £1 MicroSD card covers, £2 stackable spacers for more headroom, £1 USB & HDMI covers, and £3 VESA support mounts. It can be as cheap or expensive as you need it to be.

3. Stylish Aluminum Case by FLIRC

In order to save on costs, most RPi cases are made out of materials that can feel cheap, like plastic. This case by FLIRC, which has an aluminum frame sandwiched between two pieces of plastic on top and bottom, does not feel or look cheap -- and only costs $15.

In addition, it has a built-in heatsink (with thermal pad included) that helps to redirect excess heat if you live in a high-temperature environment or want to overclock your RPi. At this price point, you likely won't find another case that feels as solid as this one.

4. Pibow Coupe Case by Pimoroni

This Pimoroni case has a "super-slimline profile", which basically means it's as thin as it gets. Cases can tend to get bulky, so if you need to minimize the amount of space taken up by your RPi, this case is worth looking into.

The transparent design is polarizing in a "love it or hate it" sort of way, and that alone may turn you away.

awesome-raspberry-pi-2-case-pibow-coupe

All ports are easily accesible with this acrylic case, and it comes in five different colors. The default is red, but you can also choose from Tangerine (orange), Ninja (black), Flotilla (blue), and Royale (purple). The £8.50 price tag is pretty good, too.

5. Compact Slim Case by GeauxRobot

Like the Pibow Coupe above, this case by GeauxRobot is slim and compact, making it take up as little space as possible. In fact, it's very much the same case, except this one doesn't have any color.

Unfortunately, this one is also fully transparent, so if that aspect turned you away from the Pibow Coupe, it will also turn you away here and you'll have to keep looking elsewhere. Not much else to say except that all ports are available and the construction is quite stable.

6. 2-Layer Stack Case by GeauxRobot

Here's another case from GeauxRobot, except this one serves a completely different purpose. Instead of minimizing space used, it lets you stack two different RPis on top of each other and leaves both open for improved air circulation.

If you don't have two RPis, you can still use this case in a modified way: mount the RPi to the bottom and take out the middle divider, effectively giving your RPi extra room for a shield on top (or whatever other ideas you might have).

7. Zebra Black Ice Case by C4Labs [No Longer Available]

The Zebra case from C4Labs is simple but effective. The RPi locks firmly into the case so that it doesn't rattle around and risk damage, and it has heatsinks for the CPU, RAM, and USB controller, plus vents for better air circulation.

awesome-raspberry-pi-2-case-zebra

This case also comes in three wooden flavors if the black aesthetic is too sharp for you: Zebra Wood, Zebra Walnut, and Zebra Maple. Black and Wood are available for $14.50, while Walnut and Maple are slightly more expensive at $15.75.

8. LEGO-Compatible Case by Smarticase

It's common to see DIY cases made out of LEGO pieces in the RPi community, but this consumer case from Smarticase takes it to the next level. It's mostly a regular case made of plastic, except that it has LEGO-compatible panels that you can use however you want.

What's nice is that the case uses the LEGO panels as a way to stack with itself, so if you have multiple RPis that you want to combine in a way that isn't permanent, this is a viable solution. The case has built-in wall-hanging eyelets and is even compatible with GoPro mounts.

9. 3D Printed Case by 0110-M-P

If you want to go the DIY route, 3D-printed cases are more popular -- and more practical -- than LEGO-made cases. Of course you'll need a 3D printer in order to make of these for yourself, but the good news is that there are several cheap 3D printers available right now.

awesome-raspberry-pi-2-case-3dprint

This particular case comes from /u/turbocharged110 on Reddit, also known as 0110-M-P on Thingiverse (a community for 3D printing blueprints). The design looks awesome enough to be sold as a real product, but fortunately you can download the blueprint for free.

10. Sleek & Cheap Case by Geek World

Lastly, we have a simple case that's sold by Geek World on AliExpress. Shipping will probably take several weeks, especially if you live in the U.S. or the U.K., but for less than $4, you really can't complain -- plus, you're getting more than just a case.

awesome-raspberry-pi-2-case-aliexpress

Not only does it look sleek and modern, but this case comes with a fan that helps dissipate extra heat. (Great for overclockers!) The default color is black, but you can make note in your order whether you'd like the white or clear variants. Value-wise, you can't ask for better.

Which Case Is Your Favorite?

Once you've learned the fundamentals of operating your RPi, be sure to fit it with one of the awesome cases listed above. If the RPi 2 seems a bit overkill for your needs, consider checking out the $5 Raspberry Pi Zero or an Arduino micro-controller instead.

Now you tell us: which of the cases above do you like the best? Are there any other notable RPi 2 cases that we missed? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!