What Programming Languages Can I Use with Raspberry Pi? Top 10 in 2025 🐍💻


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Have you ever unboxed a shiny Raspberry Pi and wondered, “Which programming language should I actually use to unlock its magic?” You’re not alone! At Why Pi™, we’ve guided thousands of curious makers, educators, and engineers through this very question. The truth is, Raspberry Pi supports a dazzling array of programming languages — from the beginner-friendly Scratch to the powerhouse duo of C and C++, and even niche gems like Erlang and MicroPython.

Here’s a fun fact to whet your appetite: Python, the Pi’s crown jewel, is so popular that it’s pre-installed on every Raspberry Pi OS image, empowering millions of projects worldwide — from smart gardens to AI assistants! But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In this article, we reveal the top 10 programming languages you can use with Raspberry Pi in 2025, breaking down their strengths, quirks, and ideal use cases. Whether you’re a coding newbie or a seasoned pro, by the end, you’ll know exactly which language fits your next Pi adventure like a glove. Ready to dive in? 🚀

Key Takeaways

  • Python dominates Raspberry Pi programming thanks to its simplicity, versatility, and vast hardware libraries.
  • Scratch is perfect for kids and absolute beginners who want to learn coding visually.
  • C and C++ offer unmatched speed and control for performance-critical and hardware-intensive projects.
  • JavaScript with Node.js brings web and IoT capabilities, while HTML/CSS enable web interfaces hosted on your Pi.
  • MicroPython and CircuitPython are ideal for programming Raspberry Pi Pico microcontrollers.
  • Choosing the right language depends on your project goals, experience, and performance needs.

Ready to start coding? Check out these Raspberry Pi essentials and accessories to kick off your journey:

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Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts ⚡

Welcome to the ultimate guide on what programming languages you can use with Raspberry Pi! Whether you’re a newbie just unboxing your Pi or a seasoned maker looking to expand your coding arsenal, we’ve got you covered. At Why Pi™, we’ve seen countless learners and engineers dive into Raspberry Pi projects, and here’s the quick scoop to get you started:

  • ✅ Python is the go-to language for Raspberry Pi — beginner-friendly, versatile, and packed with libraries for hardware control.
  • ✅ Scratch is perfect for kids and absolute beginners who want to learn programming visually.
  • ✅ C and C++ offer raw power and speed for performance-critical projects.
  • ✅ JavaScript and Node.js bring web magic and IoT capabilities to your Pi.
  • ✅ HTML/CSS are essential if you want to build web interfaces or host websites on your Pi.
  • ✅ Perl and Erlang cater to niche use cases like system scripting and telecom-grade applications.
  • ✅ MicroPython and CircuitPython are tailored for Raspberry Pi Pico microcontrollers.

Fun fact: The Raspberry Pi OS comes pre-loaded with Python, Scratch, and C/C++ — so you can start coding right out of the box! (Source: Raspberry Pi Foundation)

Ready to deep dive? Let’s explore each language and how it fits into the Raspberry Pi universe. 🚀

The Evolution of Programming Languages on Raspberry Pi 🕰️


Video: Programming Languages for the Raspberry Pi | Lonneke Dikmans.








Raspberry Pi’s journey since 2012 has been nothing short of revolutionary. Initially designed to promote computer science education, it quickly became a playground for hobbyists, educators, and professionals alike.

From Scratch to Python and Beyond

  • Scratch was the first language bundled with Raspberry Pi OS, aimed at teaching kids the basics of programming logic through drag-and-drop blocks.
  • Python soon took center stage, thanks to its simplicity and extensive support for hardware interfaces like GPIO pins.
  • Over time, C/C++ gained traction for projects demanding speed and low-level hardware control.
  • The rise of IoT brought JavaScript, Node.js, and web technologies like HTML/CSS into the mix.
  • Meanwhile, niche languages like Perl and Erlang found their place in specialized applications.

This evolution reflects the Pi’s versatility — from education to industrial applications. Curious how these languages stack up today? Keep reading! (More on Pi history at Why Pi™ Pi History)

1. Python: The Raspberry Pi’s Crown Jewel 🐍


Video: Beginner's Python Coding on Raspberry Pi : Episode 1 Hello World.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Ease of Learning 10
Community Support 10
Hardware Control 9
Versatility 10
Performance 7

Why Python Rocks on Raspberry Pi

Python is the undisputed champion of Raspberry Pi programming languages. Why? Because it’s easy to learn, yet powerful enough to handle everything from simple scripts to complex AI projects.

  • Beginner-friendly syntax: No confusing braces or semicolons — just clean, readable code.
  • Extensive libraries: From RPi.GPIO for pin control to picamera for camera modules, Python has you covered.
  • Pre-installed: Comes with Raspberry Pi OS, plus the Thonny IDE for beginners.
  • Versatile: Use it for web servers, automation, robotics, data analysis, and more.

Real-World Anecdote

One of our Why Pi™ educators, Sarah, recalls a student who built a smart garden watering system using Python and a moisture sensor — all programmed on a Raspberry Pi 4. The project was a hit because Python made hardware interaction straightforward.

Downsides?

  • Python can be slower than compiled languages like C/C++.
  • Not ideal for front-end web development (that’s where HTML/CSS and JavaScript shine).

Resources to Learn Python on Pi

2. Scratch: Visual Coding for Beginners and Kids 🎨


Video: Introduction to Programming with Scratch | Trailer | Learn Scratch For Free.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Ease of Learning 10
Suitability for Kids 10
Hardware Control 5
Project Complexity 4

Why Scratch is Perfect for Starters

Scratch is a block-based visual programming language designed to introduce programming concepts without typing a single line of code. It’s included in Raspberry Pi OS and ideal for kids aged 8-16 or anyone new to coding.

  • Drag-and-drop interface: Build games, animations, and interactive stories.
  • Immediate feedback: See your code come alive instantly.
  • Great stepping stone: Prepares learners to transition into text-based languages like Python.

Limitations

  • Not suitable for complex or performance-heavy projects.
  • Limited hardware control compared to Python or C.

Fun Fact

Scratch was developed by MIT and has a vibrant online community where users share projects — a great place to get inspiration!

Learn Scratch on Pi

3. C and C++: Power and Performance on Pi ⚙️


Video: Raspberry Pi Programming in C as a way to reinforce foreign language skills.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Performance 10
Hardware Control 10
Learning Curve 6
Community Support 8

The Power Duo for Hardware Control

If you want maximum control and speed, C and C++ are your best friends. Raspberry Pi’s Linux kernel itself is mostly written in C, so these languages are deeply integrated with the system.

  • C is procedural and great for low-level programming.
  • C++ adds object-oriented features, ideal for complex software like games or operating systems.
  • Compiled languages: Run faster than interpreted languages like Python.

Challenges

  • Steeper learning curve — manual memory management and pointer arithmetic can trip beginners.
  • Setup requires compilers like gcc or g++, but Raspberry Pi OS includes these by default.

Why Use C/C++ on Pi?

  • Real-time applications like robotics or embedded systems.
  • Projects where performance is critical.
  • Learning transferable skills for other platforms like Arduino or ESP32.

4. Java and JVM Languages: Write Once, Run Anywhere on Pi ☕


Video: C++ vs Java vs Python benchmark on raspberry pi simple file process.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Cross-Platform 9
Community Support 9
Ease of Learning 7
Hardware Control 6

Java’s Versatility on Raspberry Pi

Java’s “write once, run anywhere” philosophy fits well with Raspberry Pi’s diverse hardware lineup. It’s widely used in enterprise, Android development, and increasingly in IoT.

  • Runs on the JVM, which is available for Raspberry Pi OS.
  • Supports GUI development with libraries like JavaFX.
  • Good for cross-platform apps and server-side projects.

Drawbacks

  • Higher memory footprint compared to Python or C.
  • Less direct hardware control — often requires JNI or external libraries.

JVM Alternatives on Pi

  • Kotlin and Scala also run on JVM and can be used on Raspberry Pi.
  • Useful if you prefer modern JVM languages.

Learning Resources

5. JavaScript and Node.js: Web and IoT Magic on Raspberry Pi 🌐


Video: 79. JAVASCRIPT : Javascript in IOT ( Node.js & Raspberry Pi ).








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Web Development 10
IoT Integration 8
Ease of Learning 7
Community Support 8

Why JavaScript is More Than Just Web Browsers

JavaScript, especially with Node.js, lets you run server-side code on your Raspberry Pi. This opens doors to:

  • Hosting web servers with Express.js.
  • Controlling GPIO pins using libraries like onoff or pigpio.
  • Building IoT dashboards and real-time applications.

Challenges

  • Not as beginner-friendly for hardware projects compared to Python.
  • Smaller Raspberry Pi community compared to Python.

Use Cases

  • Web interfaces for your Pi projects.
  • Real-time data visualization.
  • Backend services for IoT devices.

Learning Resources

6. HTML, CSS, and Web Development on Raspberry Pi 📱


Video: Raspberry Pi versus AWS // How to host your website on the RPi4.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Web Design 10
Ease of Learning 8
Hardware Control 3

Building Web Interfaces and Hosting on Pi

HTML and CSS are the building blocks of the web. On Raspberry Pi, you can:

  • Host websites using Apache or Nginx.
  • Serve web apps for IoT projects.
  • Use with Raspberry Pi Pico W to create Wi-Fi-enabled devices serving web pages.

Tips for Beginners

  • Pair HTML/CSS with JavaScript for interactivity.
  • Use lightweight web servers to keep your Pi responsive.

Resources

7. Perl and Scripting Languages: The Swiss Army Knives of Pi 🛠️


Video: Raspberry Pi – Writing Your First Script.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Scripting Power 8
Community Support 5
Ease of Learning 6

Why Perl Still Has a Place

Perl is a powerful scripting language historically used for system administration, text processing, and web development.

  • Comes pre-installed on many Linux distros, including Raspberry Pi OS.
  • Great for quick automation scripts and log parsing.
  • Less popular today, but still useful in legacy systems.

Drawbacks

  • Smaller community and fewer new libraries.
  • Syntax can be cryptic for beginners.

Alternatives

  • Bash scripting for shell automation.
  • Python is often preferred for new projects.

8. Erlang and Functional Programming: Robust Systems on Pi 🔄


Video: Erlang Programming Language – Computerphile.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Reliability 9
Ease of Learning 5
Use in Industry 8

Erlang’s Niche on Raspberry Pi

Erlang is designed for highly reliable, concurrent systems — think telecom switches, banking, and e-commerce.

  • Supports fault-tolerant applications.
  • Runs on Raspberry Pi for experimental or industrial-grade projects.
  • Functional programming paradigm offers a different way to think about coding.

Challenges

  • Steeper learning curve.
  • Smaller community on Raspberry Pi compared to Python or C.

When to Use Erlang?

  • Building scalable, distributed systems.
  • Learning functional programming concepts.

9. Ruby and Other Niche Languages: Exploring the Pi’s Diversity 💎


Video: Languages and Applications for Raspberry Pi.








Aspect Rating (1-10)
Community Support 6
Ease of Learning 7
Versatility 7

Ruby and Friends on Raspberry Pi

Ruby is a dynamic, object-oriented language popular for web development (think Ruby on Rails).

  • Runs smoothly on Raspberry Pi.
  • Great for scripting and web apps.
  • Other niche languages like Go, Rust, and Lua also have growing support on Pi.

Why Explore These?

  • To find the best fit for your project style.
  • To leverage specific language features like concurrency (Go) or safety (Rust).

10. MicroPython and CircuitPython: Python for Microcontrollers on Pi Pico ⚡


Video: Getting Started with Raspberry Pi Pico W and CircuitPython #raspberrypi #microcontroller.







Aspect Rating (1-10)
Ease of Use 9
Hardware Control 9
Community Support 8

Python’s Lightweight Cousins for Pi Pico

The Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller runs MicroPython and CircuitPython, stripped-down versions of Python optimized for embedded systems.

  • Ideal for controlling sensors, motors, and LEDs.
  • Simple syntax with real-time hardware interaction.
  • Supported by Adafruit (CircuitPython) and Raspberry Pi Foundation (MicroPython).

Why Use Them?

  • Perfect for beginners in embedded programming.
  • Great for low-power, real-time projects.

Resources

Choosing the Right Programming Language for Your Raspberry Pi Project 🎯


Video: Raspberry pi programming Raspberry pi can run all most any programming language.








Factors to Consider

  • Project Complexity: Simple automation? Go Python or Scratch. Complex hardware? C/C++ or MicroPython.
  • Your Experience Level: Beginners thrive with Python and Scratch. Experienced devs might prefer C++ or Erlang.
  • Community and Resources: Python dominates here, but niche languages have their own strongholds.
  • Performance Needs: For speed and efficiency, C/C++ is king.
  • Project Type: Web projects? HTML, CSS, JavaScript. IoT? Python, Node.js, MicroPython.

Quick Decision Table

Project Type Recommended Language(s)
Beginner Learning Scratch, Python
Hardware Control Python, C, C++, MicroPython
Web Development HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node.js
IoT & Embedded Systems Python, MicroPython, CircuitPython
High Performance Apps C, C++
Automation & Scripting Python, Perl, Bash

Tips for Setting Up Your Raspberry Pi Development Environment 🛠️


Video: Raspberry Pi – How to Begin Coding Python on Raspberry Pi.








Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Install Raspberry Pi OS: Comes with Python, Scratch, and C/C++ pre-installed.
  2. Update your system: 
    sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
  3. Install IDEs:
    • Python: Thonny (pre-installed) or VS Code
    • C/C++: gcc, g++ (pre-installed)
    • Java: OpenJDK (sudo apt install default-jdk)
    • Node.js: Install via NodeSource or sudo apt install nodejs npm
  4. Enable GPIO access: Use raspi-config to enable interfaces.
  5. Install libraries: Use pip for Python, npm for Node.js, etc.
  6. Test your setup: Run a simple “Hello World” or blink an LED.

Pro Tips from Why Pi™ Engineers

  • Use VS Code with the Remote SSH plugin to code on Pi remotely.
  • For hardware projects, always double-check GPIO pinouts (Pinout.xyz).
  • Keep your Pi updated to avoid compatibility issues.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them on Raspberry Pi Coding 🚧


Video: Machine Learning on Raspberry Pi: A Setup Guide.








Challenge 1: Performance Limitations

  • Pi’s hardware is modest compared to desktops.
  • Solution: Use compiled languages (C/C++) for heavy lifting; optimize Python code; offload tasks to cloud when possible.

Challenge 2: Hardware Compatibility

Challenge 3: Learning Curve

  • Jumping into C++ or Erlang can be intimidating.
  • Solution: Start with Python or Scratch; use online tutorials and courses.

Challenge 4: Debugging Hardware Issues

  • Sometimes the code is fine, but wiring or power supply causes problems.
  • Solution: Use multimeters, breadboards, and double-check connections.

Community Resources and Learning Platforms for Raspberry Pi Programmers 🌍


Video: STOP Learning These Programming Languages (for Beginners).







Top Places to Learn and Share

Books and Magazines

  • The MagPi Magazine: Official Raspberry Pi magazine with tutorials and projects.
  • “Programming the Raspberry Pi” by Simon Monk: A classic for beginners.
  • “Mastering Python on Raspberry Pi” by Steven F. Lott: For intermediate to advanced users.

Conclusion: Unlocking the Full Potential of Raspberry Pi Programming 🔓

books on brown wooden shelf

After our deep dive into the vast ocean of programming languages compatible with Raspberry Pi, one thing is crystal clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all language. Your choice depends on your project goals, experience level, and the hardware you’re working with.

The Positives ✅

  • Python reigns supreme for its ease, versatility, and massive community support — perfect for beginners and pros alike.
  • Scratch is a fantastic gateway for kids and absolute beginners to grasp programming fundamentals visually.
  • C and C++ offer unmatched performance and hardware control, essential for robotics and embedded systems.
  • JavaScript and Node.js bring web and IoT capabilities, making your Pi a powerful server or smart device.
  • MicroPython and CircuitPython unlock microcontroller programming on the Raspberry Pi Pico with simplicity.
  • Niche languages like Perl and Erlang serve specialized needs, from scripting to fault-tolerant systems.

The Challenges ❌

  • Some languages have steeper learning curves (C++, Erlang).
  • Hardware control varies — Python is easier but slower; C/C++ is faster but complex.
  • Community support and resources differ widely; Python leads by a mile.

Our Confident Recommendation

If you’re just starting or want the broadest support, start with Python. It’s the Swiss Army knife of Raspberry Pi programming — powerful, flexible, and beginner-friendly. For kids or absolute beginners, Scratch is your best bet. If your project demands speed and low-level hardware access, dive into C or C++. And if you’re building web or IoT applications, JavaScript with Node.js is a strong contender.

Remember, the Raspberry Pi ecosystem is rich and welcoming. Experiment, learn, and don’t hesitate to switch languages as your projects evolve. Your Pi is your playground — and the programming languages are your toys. Ready to play? 🎉

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Raspberry Pi Programming ❓

black steel letter b wall decor

The most popular languages are Python, Scratch, C, and C++. Python leads due to its simplicity and extensive hardware libraries. Scratch is favored for education and beginners, while C/C++ are preferred for performance-critical projects. JavaScript and Java also have growing communities for web and IoT applications.

Read more about “Why Raspberry Pi Pico Outshines Arduino: 10 Key Reasons! 🚀”

Can I use Python with Raspberry Pi, and if so, what libraries are available?

Absolutely! Python is the default language on Raspberry Pi OS. Libraries like:

  • RPi.GPIO and gpiozero for GPIO pin control.
  • picamera for camera modules.
  • pygame for game development.
  • Flask and Django for web apps.

These libraries make Python a versatile choice for everything from hardware projects to web servers.

How do I get started with Java programming on Raspberry Pi?

To start with Java:

  • Install OpenJDK: 
    sudo apt install default-jdk
  • Use IDEs like Eclipse or IntelliJ IDEA (lightweight versions recommended).
  • Explore JavaFX for GUI apps.
  • Run your Java programs via the terminal or IDE.

Java is great for cross-platform apps but has a higher memory footprint than Python or C.

Read more about “Is Raspberry Pi Linux or Python? Unraveling the Mystery! 🐍”

Are there any kid-friendly programming languages for Raspberry Pi, suitable for beginners?

Yes! Scratch is the top choice for kids and beginners. It uses a visual block-based interface that teaches programming logic without typing code. It’s fun, interactive, and perfect for ages 8 and up.

What is the best programming language to use for Raspberry Pi robotics projects?

Python and C/C++ are the best choices. Python’s simplicity and libraries like gpiozero make it ideal for rapid prototyping, while C/C++ offer the speed and control needed for real-time robotics applications.

Read more about “What is a Raspberry Pi and What Can It Do? Discover 20 Amazing Uses! 🖥️”

Can I use C++ with Raspberry Pi, and what are the benefits of doing so?

Yes, C++ is fully supported. Benefits include:

  • High performance and efficient memory use.
  • Object-oriented programming for complex projects.
  • Direct hardware access and control.
  • Transferable skills for embedded systems and game development.

However, it requires more programming experience than Python.

How does Scratch differ from other programming languages used with Raspberry Pi?

Scratch is a visual programming language that uses drag-and-drop blocks instead of text code. It’s designed for beginners and kids to learn programming concepts easily. Unlike Python or C, Scratch is limited in complexity and hardware control but excels at teaching logic and creativity.

Read more about “What Operating Systems Can I Run on a Raspberry Pi? Discover 20 Exciting Options! 🚀”

What programming languages are best for IoT projects on Raspberry Pi?

For IoT, Python, JavaScript (Node.js), and MicroPython are excellent. Python offers extensive libraries for sensors and networking, Node.js enables real-time web servers, and MicroPython is perfect for microcontroller-based IoT devices like the Raspberry Pi Pico.

Read more about “10 Exciting Raspberry Pi Projects You Must Try in 2025! 🚀”

Can I use web development languages like HTML and CSS on Raspberry Pi?

Definitely! Raspberry Pi can host web servers using Apache or Nginx, allowing you to serve HTML, CSS, and JavaScript websites or dashboards. This is especially useful for IoT projects with web interfaces.

Thanks for joining us on this programming language adventure with Raspberry Pi! Keep experimenting, keep learning, and most importantly — keep having fun with your Pi projects. 🎉

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