How To Download and Run Kodi on a Raspberry Pi – Guide
The Raspberry Pi 4 is an impressive single-card PC (SBC) that offers up-to-date specs and a powerful setup, making it highly versatile. From running a NAS drive to controlling 3D printers with OctoPrint and replacing an Android TV box, the possibilities are endless. Today we’ll explore one of these uses: turning the Pi 4 into a media player device.
The Raspberry Pi 4 now offers a media player experience that rivals traditional TV, with the ability to stream 4K at 60fps for a fraction of the cost. Kodi, an open source program, is the software that makes it possible.
How to install Kodi on Raspberry Pi using NOOBS
NOOBS, a popular operating system installer for the Raspberry Pi, now offers LibreELEC as an option - a testament to its popularity as a way to get Kodi onto the device.
Installing NOOBS on the Raspberry Pi is easy: simply put it on a microSD card, boot your Pi to the card, and select the OS you want. For more information, read our article on the subject.
Once NOOBS is installed, users will be presented with a list of operating systems, including LibreELEC, which is easily identifiable by its logo at the top of the box.
Users of the Raspberry Pi can install Kodi by selecting either LibreELEC or OSMC.
How to install Kodi on the Raspberry Pi using LibreELEC
You can bypass NOOBS and install LibreELEC directly on your Raspberry Pi, using a method similar to the one used for NOOBS installation.
Download LibreELEC and install it on a micro SD card or USB drive. Initialize the Pi on the card or drive to get started.
Download and open the LibreELEC installer application
Download the LibreELEC USB/SD creator app to your computer with an SD card drive. Select the appropriate download for your device.
Ready to explore? Open the new app – but make sure you have administrator privileges first.
Download the right disk image
The LibreELEC app simplifies the process of creating a bootable USB drive. Just open the creator app and you’ll be guided through four easy steps, each marked by a different color.
To ensure you get the correct version of Raspberry Pi, select it and click “download”. The app will then download the disk image that is compatible with your device. This process is foolproof.
Select your SD card
Choose your SD card or USB drive from the dropdown menu to let the app know about it.
Write to SD card
Simply click the “write” button and watch your work transform.
Eject the SD card from the computer after it has been created.
Put the SD card into the Raspberry Pi and initialize it up
Insert an SD card into your Raspberry Pi and power it on to begin using the device.
You can now enjoy your media center experience – LibreELEC has welcomed you with a pop-up message, signaling that your Raspberry Pi is ready to boot into Kodi.
Final note
This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to download and run Kodi on a Raspberry Pi. If you have any questions, please reach out for help. Don’t forget to share the love by sharing this article with your friends.
