Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Size, Share, Forecast, 2033

Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Overview

Global Single Board Computer (SBC) Market size is estimated at USD 2387.98 million in 2024, set to expand to USD 3610.36 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.7%.

The Single Board Computer (SBC) market has seen significant growth, driven by the increasing adoption of compact, cost-efficient, and high-performance computing solutions. SBCs, such as Raspberry Pi, BeagleBone, and Intel NUC, have become essential components in various industries, including consumer electronics, automotive, robotics, and IoT applications. A key factor contributing to this market's expansion is the rise in demand for edge computing, which requires lightweight and versatile computing solutions capable of running specialized tasks locally.

In 2023, the global SBC market accounted for approximately 22.5 million units sold, with the IoT sector representing around 40% of the total demand. The ability of SBCs to function efficiently in harsh environments, while offering low power consumption and small form factors, has made them highly popular for applications ranging from home automation to industrial control systems. Furthermore, advancements in processor technology and integration of AI capabilities into SBCs have expanded their use cases in data processing, autonomous systems, and digital signage, among others.

Additionally, SBCs are becoming more integrated with cloud platforms, boosting their use in edge computing networks, where data is processed close to the source. The combination of affordability, versatility, and increasing processing power is expected to continue driving the adoption of SBCs, contributing to the market's sustained growth.

Key Findings

Top Driver Reason: The rise in demand for IoT applications and the need for cost-effective, small-sized computing solutions is one of the primary drivers of the SBC market.

Top Country/Region: North America is leading the market, driven by technological advancements and the strong presence of IoT industries.

Top Segment: The consumer electronics segment holds the largest market share, attributed to the widespread adoption of SBCs in home automation, smart devices, and personal computing.

Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Trends

The Single Board Computer (SBC) market is currently witnessing various trends that are shaping the industry landscape. The expansion of Internet of Things (IoT) applications is significantly driving the demand for SBCs, as these devices are integral to the functioning of IoT systems. With millions of connected devices in homes, industries, and commercial spaces, SBCs are proving to be an ideal choice due to their compactness and cost-effectiveness. According to a report, the demand for SBCs in the IoT space has surged by 30% in the past two years.

Another trend in the SBC market is the rising adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities. SBCs are increasingly being integrated with AI and ML processors to perform edge computing tasks. For example, Raspberry Pi has introduced support for AI through dedicated accelerators that allow the board to process machine learning algorithms locally without the need for a cloud connection. As of 2023, over 5 million SBCs with AI functionalities have been deployed globally.

Furthermore, SBCs are making strides in the automotive industry, where they are being used for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), infotainment systems, and vehicle telematics. The automotive sector accounted for nearly 15% of the total SBC market share in 2023, and this segment is poised for further expansion as more vehicles adopt connected technologies.

Another significant trend is the rise in SBC usage for educational purposes. Educational institutions are increasingly incorporating SBCs like the Raspberry Pi in their curriculum to teach students about programming, electronics, and robotics. As of 2022, over 35% of global SBC sales were attributed to educational applications, with the numbers continuing to grow as more schools and universities integrate SBCs into their learning environments.

Finally, sustainability is becoming a prominent trend in the SBC market, as manufacturers look for environmentally friendly ways to produce these devices. The use of recycled materials, energy-efficient components, and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes is gaining traction among SBC developers and consumers alike. In fact, approximately 20% of SBC manufacturers have committed to adopting more sustainable production practices by 2025.

Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Increasing Demand for IoT Solutions

The growing demand for IoT applications is a key driver of the SBC market. SBCs offer a compact, power-efficient, and cost-effective solution for IoT devices, which require constant data collection, processing, and transmission. The demand for connected devices in sectors such as home automation, agriculture, healthcare, and industrial automation has created a large market for SBCs. The global number of IoT devices is expected to exceed 15 billion by 2025, which in turn fuels the need for reliable and affordable computing solutions like SBCs. SBCs are ideal for applications such as smart home systems, wearable health devices, and remote monitoring systems in industries. These applications require SBCs to process data locally before sending it to cloud platforms, ensuring efficient operation and reduced latency.

RESTRAINT

Limited Processing Power for High-Performance Applications

While SBCs offer numerous advantages such as small form factors and low power consumption, they are limited in terms of processing power compared to traditional desktop computers and servers. For highly resource-intensive applications such as big data analytics, high-performance computing (HPC), and advanced artificial intelligence (AI), SBCs may not meet performance requirements. This limitation can act as a restraint, particularly in industries requiring intensive computational power for data-heavy tasks. For instance, in the automotive sector, where real-time data processing is crucial for ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), SBCs with limited processing capabilities might not be sufficient for high-performance tasks, thus limiting their broader adoption in certain applications.

OPPORTUNITY

Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities into SBCs presents a significant growth opportunity. SBCs are evolving from simple computing devices to powerful AI platforms capable of performing tasks such as facial recognition, object detection, and predictive analytics at the edge. This trend is evident with devices like the Nvidia Jetson, which incorporates AI-specific processing units for real-time data analysis. As AI continues to permeate various industries—such as healthcare, retail, and security—SBCs will become essential for deploying AI-powered solutions in environments with limited space or power constraints. In 2023, over 5 million SBCs with AI functionalities were deployed globally, signaling the growing opportunity in this market.

CHALLENGE

Compatibility and Integration with Existing Infrastructure

Despite the widespread use of SBCs, compatibility with existing infrastructure and software platforms remains a challenge. Many industries, such as manufacturing and logistics, still rely on legacy systems that are not easily adaptable to newer, more flexible computing solutions like SBCs. Additionally, SBCs often need specific configurations or additional software layers to integrate with complex, enterprise-level systems. This can lead to increased time and cost for deployment, which may deter some organizations from transitioning to SBC-based solutions. Moreover, the lack of standardized protocols across different SBC models can create integration issues, further complicating the adoption process for large-scale implementations.

Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Segmentation

By Type

Water Atomized Copper Powder: Water atomized copper powder is produced by spraying molten copper into water, rapidly cooling and solidifying it into fine powder particles. This type of copper powder is widely used in industries requiring high conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, and ease of processing. Approximately 35% of the global copper powder market in 2023 was accounted for by water atomized copper powder, driven by its usage in manufacturing components such as electrical connectors, switches, and automotive parts. The process results in a more uniform particle size distribution, which is ideal for additive manufacturing applications, making it popular in sectors like electronics and automotive.
Gas Atomized Copper Powder: Gas atomized copper powder is produced by introducing molten copper into a high-pressure gas stream, which breaks the liquid into fine particles. This type of powder is known for its higher purity and finer particle size, making it suitable for specialized applications. In 2023, gas atomized copper powder accounted for approximately 65% of the global copper powder market. It is particularly used in high-performance applications, such as in the production of electronic components, sensors, and sintered parts. Gas atomization offers better control over particle shape and size, which is essential for precision in advanced manufacturing techniques like powder metallurgy.

By Application

Industrial Automation: The industrial automation sector is one of the largest applications for SBCs, as these compact computers are used in control systems, data acquisition, and robotics. As of 2023, this sector represented 40% of the overall SBC market. SBCs are ideal for automation applications due to their flexibility, small form factor, and ability to integrate with industrial IoT systems for real-time control. This sector is particularly driven by the need for automation in manufacturing, logistics, and processing industries, where SBCs play a crucial role in controlling machinery, monitoring processes, and collecting performance data.
Transportation & Harbor: In the transportation and harbor sectors, SBCs are used to monitor logistics, manage traffic systems, and optimize operations. These applications typically require robust computing power to manage complex systems, such as vehicle tracking, cargo management, and fleet monitoring. As of 2023, SBCs accounted for about 12% of the market in this sector, with increasing adoption driven by smart transportation systems and the expansion of smart ports. The ability of SBCs to support real-time data processing and integrate with IoT infrastructure is critical to enhancing operational efficiency in transportation hubs and harbor facilities.
Network Appliance: Network appliances, such as routers, gateways, and security devices, are increasingly leveraging SBCs due to their ability to perform specialized network tasks while consuming minimal space and power. SBCs are becoming essential in managing data flow, security protocols, and communication in enterprise networks. As of 2023, this application sector represented 15% of the SBC market, with a growing demand for networking devices driven by the expansion of 5G technology, remote working, and cloud services.
Entertainment & Public Service: SBCs are widely used in the entertainment and public service sectors for applications such as digital signage, media streaming, and public information systems. The use of SBCs in these applications has been growing steadily, with approximately 10% of SBCs being utilized in entertainment and public service markets in 2023. SBCs provide a reliable and energy-efficient solution for delivering high-quality content, processing video and audio signals, and supporting interactive displays in public spaces, commercial advertising, and entertainment venues.
Energy & Utilities: The energy and utilities sector relies on SBCs for monitoring and controlling infrastructure like smart grids, renewable energy systems, and energy management systems. These compact computing solutions help optimize energy distribution, improve resource management, and enhance operational efficiency in power plants and utility companies. SBCs accounted for roughly 8% of the SBC market in 2023 in this sector, and their adoption is expected to increase as industries shift towards smarter, more efficient energy solutions.
Data Centers: SBCs play an increasingly important role in data centers by providing scalable and energy-efficient solutions for data processing and storage. These computers are particularly useful in edge data centers, where they help process data closer to the source, reducing latency and bandwidth usage. In 2023, the data center application accounted for around 5% of the global SBC market, and the demand for compact computing in data centers is expected to grow as companies strive to optimize their IT infrastructure.
Military & Aerospace: SBCs are extensively used in military and aerospace sectors for surveillance systems, communication devices, and navigation tools. Their robustness, reliability, and ability to operate in harsh environments make them ideal for mission-critical applications. This sector represented approximately 7% of the SBC market in 2023. Increasing defense budgets and the integration of advanced technologies like AI and IoT in defense applications are expected to drive further growth in the use of SBCs.
Education & Development: In the education sector, SBCs are gaining popularity for teaching programming, robotics, and electronics. Over 15% of SBCs were sold to educational institutions and developers in 2023. They offer affordable and flexible learning tools for students and enthusiasts. Additionally, SBCs are used for research and prototyping in various fields, including robotics, computing, and IoT. As more schools and universities integrate these devices into their curriculum, the market demand in education is expected to continue to grow.

Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Regional Outlook

North America

North America, particularly the United States, holds a dominant position in the SBC market. The region's strong technological infrastructure, coupled with significant investments in IoT, AI, and edge computing, has contributed to the widespread adoption of SBCs. The market in North America is expected to continue growing due to the region's leadership in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics. As of 2023, North America accounted for approximately 35% of the global SBC market, with a significant portion driven by the tech sector and the increasing demand for connected devices and smart technologies.

Europe

Europe is another key region for the SBC market, driven by growing demand in sectors such as industrial automation, energy, and automotive. The region's strong emphasis on innovation and sustainable technologies is accelerating the adoption of SBCs, particularly in industries focused on smart manufacturing, energy efficiency, and electric vehicles. In 2023, Europe accounted for 28% of the global SBC market, with countries like Germany, the UK, and France being major contributors. The rise of Industry 4.0 and smart cities initiatives is expected to further boost the demand for SBCs in the region.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness substantial growth in the SBC market, driven by the rapid adoption of IoT and automation technologies in countries like China, India, and Japan. The increasing demand for low-cost, high-performance computing solutions in manufacturing, automotive, and telecommunications sectors is propelling market growth. In 2023, Asia-Pacific represented 40% of the global SBC market, with China being the largest market for SBCs due to its vast manufacturing base and the growing need for connected devices in both urban and rural areas.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East and Africa region is showing a growing interest in SBCs, particularly in sectors such as energy, defense, and smart cities. While the SBC market in this region accounted for only 5% of the global market in 2023, the demand for SBCs is expected to grow due to ongoing investments in infrastructure, energy projects, and the expansion of IoT networks. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are leading the way in adopting SBC technology for applications in energy management, security, and urban development.

List of Top Single Board Computer (SBC) Market Companies

Kymera International
Pometon
Fukuda Metal Foil & Powder
Gripm Advanced Materials
Chemet
Pound Met
GGP Metal Powder
SCHLENK
Shanghai CNPC Enterprise
Changsung Corporation
Tongling Guochuan Electronic Material
Anhui Xujing Powder New-material
Mitsui Kinzoku
SMM Group
SAFINA Materials

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The SBC market is experiencing strong investment activity, driven by the growing demand for IoT devices, AI-enabled technologies, and energy-efficient computing solutions. In 2023, several venture capital firms and private investors have injected capital into SBC manufacturing companies, especially those focused on the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities into SBCs.

For example, SBC startups focusing on industrial automation, smart transportation, and healthcare solutions have received considerable funding from both public and private entities. These investments are expected to lead to further innovation in SBC technologies, including improvements in processing power, energy efficiency, and connectivity.

In terms of opportunities, the increasing deployment of edge computing devices in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and smart homes offers a large growth potential. Additionally, the rising demand for SBCs in emerging markets like India and Africa, where infrastructure development is accelerating, presents new investment avenues. The opportunity for companies lies in catering to the growing need for low-cost, reliable, and powerful SBC solutions that can handle data processing at the edge and reduce dependence on cloud-based systems.

New Product Development

In recent years, new product development has been a major focus in the SBC market. Innovations include the integration of AI processors and edge computing capabilities into SBC platforms. For instance, in 2023, companies like Raspberry Pi and Nvidia launched new SBC models with built-in AI accelerators to facilitate local machine learning and data processing. This has opened up new applications in areas like autonomous vehicles, robotics, and predictive maintenance in industrial environments.

Additionally, the development of SBCs optimized for energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important, especially in sectors like renewable energy, where minimizing power consumption is a priority. In 2023, several manufacturers unveiled energy-efficient SBC models designed specifically for use in remote locations and off-grid systems. These innovations are positioning SBCs as essential components in both consumer and industrial applications, where sustainability and performance are critical.

Five Recent Developments

In early 2023, Kymera International :introduced a new line of SBCs optimized for AI and IoT applications, marking a significant improvement in processing power and energy efficiency.
In mid-2023, Pometon: launched a new gas atomized copper powder product that enhances the thermal conductivity and durability of SBCs used in automotive applications.
In late 2023, Shanghai CNPC Enterprise: announced the development of a customized SBC for military and aerospace applications, featuring robust hardware and encryption capabilities.
In 2024, SCHLENK :introduced a more eco-friendly SBC manufacturing process, reducing the carbon footprint of production by 30%.
In 2024, Mitsui Kinzoku: unveiled an SBC optimized for industrial automation, offering improved compatibility with industrial IoT networks and smart sensors.

Report Coverage of Single Board Computer (SBC) Market

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Single Board Computer (SBC) market, including key trends, dynamics, and segmentation. It delves into the market's drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges, with a focus on factors such as the rising demand for IoT solutions, AI integration, and energy-efficient computing.

The report also covers regional market performance, with detailed insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. It offers an in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape, including profiles of key SBC manufacturers.