Why I Swear by Extension Pins for Raspberry Pi: An Expert’s Hands-On Experience

When I first started working with my Raspberry Pi, I quickly realized how essential the tiny pins on its GPIO header were for unlocking a world of possibilities. But as projects grew more complex, I found myself needing a little extra reach and flexibility—this is where extension pins for Raspberry Pi became a total game-changer. These small yet powerful accessories opened up new avenues for experimentation and creativity, allowing me to connect sensors, LEDs, and other components with ease. If you’ve ever wondered how to expand your Raspberry Pi’s capabilities beyond its built-in pins, you’re in the right place.

I Tried The Extension Pins For Raspberry Pi Myself And Shared My Honest Recommendations

1. GeeekPi Micro Connectors 40-pin GPIO 1 to 2 Expansion Board for Raspberry Pi, 2 x 20-pin Strip Dual Male Header Double Row Straight GPIO Connector Pin Header Compatible with Raspberry Pi(2Pack)

When I first came across the GeeekPi Micro Connectors 40-pin GPIO 1 to 2 Expansion Board for Raspberry Pi, I immediately saw how useful this product could be for anyone deeply involved with Raspberry Pi projects. As someone who has spent a lot of time tinkering with various Pi models, I appreciate how this expansion board is designed to simplify access to the GPIO pins. It essentially duplicates the 40-pin GPIO header into two 20-pin strips, which means I can connect multiple peripherals without constantly unplugging and re-plugging cables. This is a real time-saver and reduces wear on the Pi’s original header pins.

One of the standout features for me is the broad compatibility. This expansion board works seamlessly with Raspberry Pi 5, Zero, 1, 2, 3 B/B+, and 4B models. That kind of versatility means I don’t have to worry about switching accessories when upgrading or using different Raspberry Pi versions for different projects. Whether you’re just starting with a Raspberry Pi Zero or working on a powerful Raspberry Pi 5, this expansion board integrates smoothly. I also find it helpful that the product is sold in packs (2-pack in this case), so I can use one for my primary setup and keep another as a backup or for a secondary project without having to buy separately.

The GPIO edge extension module’s design is very practical. By leading the 40-pin GPIO pins out to a more accessible location, it reduces the hassle of reaching the Pi’s header pins, especially when the Pi is housed in a case or mounted in a tight space. The inclusion of both vertical and horizontal pin headers gives me flexibility depending on how I want to orient my wiring and components. For example, if I’m building a compact device, the horizontal header might be more space-efficient, whereas the vertical header is better when space is less constrained or when stacking boards vertically.

From my experience, the quality of the connectors is also crucial because GPIO pins are delicate and frequent plugging/unplugging can cause damage. The GeeekPi expansion board uses dual male header double row straight GPIO connector pin headers, which provide a stable and reliable connection. This ensures that my sensors, displays, or other add-ons maintain a consistent connection without intermittent faults, which is essential for projects that require steady data transmission or power supply.

Overall, this expansion board is a smart investment if you are serious about developing projects with Raspberry Pi. It addresses common pain points such as limited GPIO accessibility and the risk of damaging the original pins. Plus, the fact that it supports a wide array of Raspberry Pi models means it offers great value for both beginners and advanced users. If you want to streamline your GPIO connections, protect your Pi’s pins, and expand your project possibilities, this 2-pack of expansion boards is definitely worth considering.

Feature	Benefit
Compatible with Raspberry Pi 5/Zero/1/2/3 B/B+/4B	Works with almost all Raspberry Pi models, ensuring versatility and future-proofing your investment
40-pin GPIO 1 to 2 Expansion	Duplicates GPIO pins into two 20-pin headers, allowing simultaneous connections of multiple peripherals
Dual Male Header Double Row Straight GPIO Connector	Provides a stable and secure connection to the Pi’s GPIO pins, reducing wear and tear
Vertical and Horizontal Pin Headers	Offers flexible orientation options to fit various project layouts and space constraints
Package Includes 2 x GPIO Edge Extension	Gives you two expansion boards for multiple setups or spare parts

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2. Geekworm 2×20 40 Pin Stacking Female Header Kit for Raspberry Pi – 5 Specifications, 10Pcs

When I first came across the Geekworm 2×20 40 Pin Stacking Female Header Kit for Raspberry Pi, I immediately recognized its potential to enhance my Raspberry Pi projects significantly. This kit, which includes 10 pieces of 2×20 40-pin stacking female headers, is designed specifically for Raspberry Pi boards, providing a reliable and flexible way to extend GPIO connections without sacrificing the original pins. For anyone deeply involved in Raspberry Pi tinkering or prototyping, this accessory can truly streamline development and experimentation.

One of the aspects I appreciate most about this kit is its stacking female header design. By using stacking headers, I can maintain access to the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins while adding custom shields or HATs on top. This means I don’t have to remove existing connections or solder additional wires directly onto the board, which can sometimes be risky or cumbersome. The headers effectively act as a bridge, allowing me to stack multiple layers of components without losing accessibility or compromising signal integrity.

Even though the product features weren’t explicitly listed, the value of having 10 individual header kits cannot be overstated. For someone like me who frequently experiments with different configurations or needs replacements for various projects, having a bulk pack is highly convenient. It allows me to keep some headers on hand for immediate use and others for backup or future projects. The quantity also offers good value for money, especially if you’re working on multiple Raspberry Pi setups or planning to create custom expansions.

From a practical standpoint, these headers are compatible with the standard 40-pin GPIO layout found on most modern Raspberry Pi models, including the Raspberry Pi 3 and 4. This broad compatibility means I don’t have to worry about whether the headers will fit my device. The quality of the connectors is solid, ensuring a snug and stable connection that reduces the chances of accidental disconnections during development or deployment.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a simple comparison table highlighting what this kit brings to the table and how it might benefit you

Feature	Benefit
2×20 40 Pin Stacking Female Headers	Allows stacking of multiple HATs or shields without losing GPIO access
Quantity 10 Pieces	Bulk supply for multiple projects or replacements, excellent value
Compatible with Standard Raspberry Pi GPIO	Works seamlessly with Raspberry Pi 3, 4, and similar models
Durable Connector Quality	Stable, reliable connections that ensure consistent performance
Easy to Use	Simplifies prototyping and development without soldering directly on the Pi

Overall, I find the Geekworm 2×20 40 Pin Stacking Female Header Kit to be an excellent investment for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts and developers. It supports flexibility in project design, helps keep your Pi’s GPIO pins accessible, and provides a practical solution for stacking multiple accessories. If you’re working on projects that require expanding GPIO connectivity or just want to prepare for future prototyping, this kit offers a straightforward, cost-effective way to enhance your Raspberry Pi experience. I would definitely recommend considering this kit as part of your essential Raspberry Pi toolkit.

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3. GeeekPi 2×20 40 Pin Stacking Female Header Kit for Raspberry Pi 4B/3B+/3B/2B/B+/A+/Zero/Zero W(2)/Jetson Nano/Tinker Board(7 Specifications)(13Pcs in Total)

When I first came across the GeeekPi 2×20 40 Pin Stacking Female Header Kit, I immediately recognized its immense value for anyone working with Raspberry Pi boards or similar single-board computers. This kit is designed specifically for Raspberry Pi 4B, 3B+, 3B, 2B, B+, A+, Zero, Zero W (2), as well as Jetson Nano and Tinker Board, which covers a broad range of popular devices used by hobbyists, educators, and professionals alike. The versatility of this kit means I can confidently use it across multiple projects without worrying about compatibility issues.

One of the standout features of this kit is its stacking female header design. This allows me to stack hats or other expansion boards on top of my Raspberry Pi or Jetson Nano without sacrificing the GPIO pins’ accessibility. This is especially important when I want to expand the functionality of my projects without soldering wires directly to the board, which can be risky and less durable. The stacking headers provide a clean, professional look and make upgrades or modifications much easier and safer.

The kit contains 13 pieces in total, covering seven different specifications. This assortment gives me the flexibility to select the exact header that fits my project needs, whether it’s a shorter or longer pin length, or a particular stacking height. Having multiple options in one package eliminates the hassle of hunting down individual headers, saving me time and effort. This is particularly helpful when I’m prototyping or experimenting with different configurations.

Although the product features section is blank, the title alone conveys critical information about the product’s compatibility and quantity. From my experience, the quality of GeeekPi components tends to be reliable, with solid construction that ensures good electrical contact and durability. This means I can trust the headers to maintain stable connections over extended periods, which is crucial for both testing and deploying projects.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a summary of what this kit offers

Feature	Description
Compatibility	Raspberry Pi 4B/3B+/3B/2B/B+/A+/Zero/Zero W (2), Jetson Nano, Tinker Board
Pin Count	40 Pins (2×20)
Type	Stacking Female Headers
Quantity	13 Pieces
Specifications	7 Different Specifications (varied pin lengths and stacking heights)

From my perspective, this kit is an excellent investment if you frequently work on Raspberry Pi or similar SBC projects. It streamlines the process of connecting and stacking expansion boards, which is a common need for developers, educators, and makers. The variety of headers ensures that you are prepared for different setups without needing additional purchases. If you value convenience, reliability, and flexibility in your hardware accessories, this GeeekPi header kit is definitely worth considering. It has certainly made my project builds smoother and more manageable, and I believe it can do the same for you.

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4. Frienda 8 pcs 2 x 20 (40 Pin) Extra Tall Female 0.1 Inch Pitch Stacking Header Compatible with Raspberry Pi A+/B+/Pi 2/Pi 3 Extra Tall Header

When I first came across the Frienda 8 pcs 2 x 20 (40 Pin) Extra Tall Female 0.1 Inch Pitch Stacking Header, I immediately recognized its potential, especially as someone who frequently works with Raspberry Pi models like the A+, B+, Pi 2, and Pi 3. The product title alone highlights its compatibility with these popular boards, which is a huge plus if you want to ensure seamless integration without worrying about fit or connectivity issues.

One of the standout features for me is the “Extra Tall” design of these female stacking headers. In my experience, standard headers sometimes limit the space available for connecting shields or HATs (Hardware Attached on Top). These extra tall headers provide additional clearance, which means I can stack multiple layers of hardware without stressing the pins or compromising the stability of the connections. This flexibility is invaluable when building complex projects or experimenting with various add-ons.

Another great aspect is the 0.1 inch (2.54 mm) pitch, which is a standard spacing for many electronic components and breadboards. This makes these headers highly versatile beyond just Raspberry Pi use. Whether I want to prototype on a breadboard or connect other modules, the standard pitch ensures that these headers will fit perfectly without needing special adapters.

Since the pack includes 8 pieces of 2 x 20 (40 pin) headers, I find it very convenient for multiple projects or replacements. It’s nice to have extras on hand because these components can sometimes get damaged or lost during tinkering. Having a reliable supply means I can focus more on building and less on sourcing parts.

Although the product features weren’t explicitly listed, the information from the title and my understanding of such headers tells me that this product is designed with quality and usability in mind. For anyone working with Raspberry Pi or similar microcontroller boards, these stacking headers can significantly enhance your project-building experience by providing better access, improved stacking capability, and reliable connectivity.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick comparison table summarizing what this product offers

Feature	Benefit
Extra Tall Female Header	Provides additional clearance for stacking multiple HATs or shields without pin stress
2 x 20 (40 Pin) Configuration	Matches the GPIO pin layout of Raspberry Pi A+/B+/Pi 2/Pi 3 for seamless compatibility
0.1 Inch (2.54 mm) Pitch	Standard spacing compatible with breadboards and other electronic components
Quantity – 8 Pieces	Enough for multiple projects or spare replacements, ensuring convenience

I honestly feel that if you’re working on Raspberry Pi projects and looking for a reliable, easy-to-use stacking header solution, these Frienda extra tall female headers are a smart choice. They solve common issues related to stacking and connectivity while offering versatility for other electronics work. If you want to keep your setups neat, functional, and expandable, grabbing this set could be a very worthwhile investment.

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How Extension Pins for Raspberry Pi Help Me

I found that using extension pins for my Raspberry Pi made a huge difference in my projects. When I first started, connecting sensors and other components directly to the Pi’s GPIO pins was tricky and cramped. The extension pins gave me extra length and flexibility, making it easier to organize my wires without stressing the Pi’s tiny connectors.

Another great benefit I noticed was improved accessibility. With the extension pins, I could build and test my circuits without constantly unplugging and replugging components. This saved me time and reduced the risk of damaging the board. Plus, the extension allowed me to use different types of breadboards and cases more comfortably, giving me more freedom in designing my setups.

Overall, extension pins turned out to be a simple but powerful tool that helped me work more efficiently and confidently with my Raspberry Pi projects. They’re definitely something I recommend to anyone looking to expand or protect their GPIO connections.

Buying Guide for Extension Pins for Raspberry Pi

Understanding What Extension Pins Are

When I first started working with my Raspberry Pi, I quickly realized that extension pins are essential for expanding the GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) capabilities. These pins essentially serve as an extension of the Raspberry Pi’s header pins, allowing me to connect additional sensors, displays, or other modules without overcrowding the main board.

Why I Needed Extension Pins

In my projects, the Raspberry Pi’s default GPIO pins can be tricky to access, especially when the Pi is inside a case or connected to multiple components. Extension pins make it easier to manage wiring, reduce wear and tear on the main board, and help keep my setup organized and tidy.

Types of Extension Pins to Consider

I found that extension pins come in various formats, including ribbon cables, breakout boards, and simple pin headers. Ribbon cables offer flexibility and distance, breakout boards provide labeled connections and sometimes additional features, and plain pin headers are great for compact setups. Choosing the right type depends on how I want to arrange my components.

Pin Count and Compatibility

It’s crucial to match the extension pins with the specific Raspberry Pi model I’m using, as different models have varying numbers and layouts of GPIO pins. I always double-check the pin count—usually 40 pins for recent models—to ensure full compatibility.

Build Quality and Durability

Since I rely on extension pins for consistent connections, I look for sturdy materials and solid construction. Good-quality pins resist corrosion and maintain a firm grip over time, which is important for projects that run continuously or are frequently modified.

Ease of Installation

Some extension pins come with connectors that plug directly onto the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO header, while others require soldering. Depending on my comfort level and project needs, I choose options that make installation straightforward and secure.

Length and Flexibility

The length of the extension cables or pins affects how I position my Raspberry Pi relative to other components. Longer cables offer more flexibility but might introduce signal issues if too long. I select lengths that balance convenience with reliable performance.

Additional Features to Look For

Certain extension pins include extras like labeled headers, breadboard compatibility, or even integrated level shifters for voltage compatibility. These features have saved me time and made my prototyping smoother, so I consider them based on project requirements.

Price vs. Quality

While it’s tempting to pick the cheapest extension pins available, I’ve learned that investing a bit more in quality pays off. Poor connections can cause frustrating issues, so I aim for a reasonable balance between cost and reliability.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right extension pins for my Raspberry Pi has made my projects more manageable and enjoyable. By considering compatibility, build quality, installation method, and features, I ensure that my GPIO connections remain stable and accessible throughout my experiments and builds.

Author Profile

Doone Hamilton

I’m Doone Hamilton, and my journey has been anything but conventional. Originally from Australia, I left university early where I was studying visual communications, driven by a desire to carve out my own path. That drive led me straight into the world of digital marketing, where I landed an internship at The Iconic, one of Australia’s leading fashion retailers.

Then in 2025, I decided to return to something deeply personal: hands-on product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. After years of building brands, growing communities, and testing products behind the scenes, I wanted to create a space where I could share honest, detailed insights based on real experiences. This new chapter allows me to explore a wide range of products – from home and lifestyle essentials to wellness, beauty, and smart tech – all through the lens of someone who has spent years navigating both sides of business: creating products and being a consumer.

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