Raspberry Pi 5

A real Linux computer on a single board, fast enough for programming, media, and hardware projects. The 2.4GHz quad-core processor and up to 16GB of RAM handle real workloads, and the PCIe slot and USB 3 ports connect to real peripherals. Building with Raspberry Pi is how kids learn that a computer is a tool they can direct, not just consume.

A great tool for both learning and real utility that lasts well into adulthood. It is what you make of it, and I've personally used this for hobby projects, and real hardware prototypes. Cost will range depending on configurations, memory capacity, and add-ons.