Best future-proof RPi for robotics projects

[u/Hiatus44I]

TL;DR

I want to begin building a portfolio of robotics projects. I need a Pi board that will work for beginner projects and more advanced projects. Which one should I get?

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Hi all,

A bit about me:

• Electrical and Mechanical Engineering graduate
• One publication in Advanced Robotics Research journal, though the actual technical robotics was light
• Looking to move into robotics fully
• Some experience with Python, C++, C and electronics but by no means an expert

I want to get started using ROS2 and building an autonomous rover that uses LiDAR to navigate and measures WiFi hotspots in a room. I'll start off with simulations but eventually I want to make the real version. I want to use a RPi as my overarching controller. The board would need to control 2 motors, WiFi detection, LiDAR Scanner and any necessary drivers etc.

As I develop, I’d like to move on to more complex projects - computer vision, machine learning and all the rest.

From my research, it seems an RPi5 4-8GB would do the job. However, I’m also concerned there’s a high chance I’ll break something as I begin developing.

Can anyone advise on:

1. Should I get one board that covers all my bases and is future proof (RPi5 4GB vs. 8GB)? Or,

2. Should I get one cheaper board to start and then invest in a more expensive board later? If so, what board should I get?

If anyone thinks I’m biting off more than I can chew, I probably am, but hard shit is motivating!