> If you already have a computer in your house, then you've > already got a much, much more powerful version of a > raspberry pi. > If you have a friend or family member who is interested in > an introduction to software and hardware engineering, or > electronics, then they'll be MUCH MUCH better off with one > of these: https://www.seeedstudio.com/Shield-Bot-p-1380.html > and an arduino uno.

Biggest win for Pi is IMHO the combination of the two, you get both a linux box and an arduino-like platform with HW pins access and kit hats, all in a small package that can easily be fit anywhere - and at the same time it's cheap and simple enough to allow you to play freely without worries.