C4Labs Zebra Case for Raspberry Pi 3B+ and Pi 3 - Wood Enclosure

In this review the C4Labs Zebra Case for Raspberry Pi 3B+, 3 and Pi 2 is judged on build quality, usability and thermal support. The bottom line: hobbyists and makers who want a compact, attractive wood enclosure with practical cooling and easy GPIO access will appreciate this case. The reviewer found it well made, straightforward to assemble and thoughtfully engineered with included heat sinks and a power cord with an on/off switch, making it a tidy, ready-to-use option for projects that expose the board while keeping it protected.

Key Features

• Compatibility: Fits Raspberry Pi 3B+, Pi 3, Pi 2 and Pi B+ boards so the same case works across several Pi generations.
• Thermal support: Includes three heat sinks sized for the CPU, USB controller and RAM to improve passive cooling and stability under load.
• Power convenience: Ships with a power cord that has an on/off switch so the board can be safely powered down without unplugging cables.
• Board security: The board locks into the middle of the case to prevent the Raspberry Pi from shifting during handling or transport.
• Craftsmanship: Constructed from layered wood and acrylic with stainless-steel screws and included rubber feet for a sturdy, non-slip assembly.

Who It's For

This case is aimed at Raspberry Pi users who care about appearance and durability: hobbyists building a media center, desktop Pi, or small home server will like the wood finish and solid construction. The included heat sinks and vents make it a sensible choice for projects that run for extended periods.

It is less suitable for users who need a completely enclosed, fan-cooled solution for extreme thermal loads or who require IP-rated protection for outdoor use. Also, those who need access to unusual add-on hardware that changes the board footprint should verify fit before purchase.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Attractive wood and acrylic construction that looks better than generic plastic cases.
• Includes three heat sinks and vents to aid passive cooling for typical Pi workloads.
• Power cord with on/off switch and rubber feet make the unit practical and ready to use.
• Stainless-steel screws and a secure center mount keep the board firmly in place.

Cons

• Not designed for active fan cooling or heavy overclocking workloads that need more airflow.
• Wood finish and open vents mean it is not suited for dusty or outdoor environments.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The C4Labs Zebra Case is a well made wood enclosure that balances style and function, making it a good value for Raspberry Pi owners who want a tidy, secure home for their board. With included heat sinks, a switched power cord and quality hardware, it suits most desktop, media and hobby projects where passive cooling and clean presentation matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it fit a Raspberry Pi 3B+?
Yes, the case is specifically compatible with the Raspberry Pi 3B+ and also fits Pi 3, Pi 2 and Pi B+ models.

Are heat sinks included and where do they go?
Yes, three heat sinks are included; they are sized for the CPU, the USB controller and the RAM chip to improve passive cooling.

Is the GPIO header accessible with the case assembled?
Yes, the design retains access to the GPIO pins so common HATs and wiring can be used without removing the board.