Performance Evaluation of YOLOv8 and RetinaFace for Real-Time Face Detection on Edge Devices

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.68307/18xagk59

Keywords:

YOLOv8, RetinaFace, Face Detection, Edge Computing, Raspberry Pi 4, RealTime Processing, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Lightweight Neural Networks, Performance Evaluation

Abstract

The demand for efficient and accurate face detection in real-time applications has increased significantly with the rise of Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded vision systems. Deploying deep learning models on low-power edge devices such as the Raspberry Pi 4 presents challenges related to limited memory, computation capability, and energy consumption. This study evaluates the performance of two modern deep learning architectures—YOLOv8 and RetinaFace—for real-time face detection on the Raspberry Pi 4 platform. Both models were tested using the WIDER FACE and FDDB datasets under identical hardware and software configurations. Performance metrics including detection accuracy, latency, frames per second (FPS), and power usage were analyzed to assess suitability for edge deployment. Experimental results indicate that YOLOv8 achieves higher inference speed with acceptable accuracy, whereas RetinaFace provides superior detection precision at the cost of increased latency. The comparative analysis highlights the trade-off between real-time responsiveness and detection accuracy, providing insights into selecting an optimal model for resource-constrained environments. The findings can guide researchers and developers in implementing lightweight, efficient, and reliable face detection systems for next-generation edge-AI applications.

Author Biographies

  • Ms. Divya Thakre, Maharaja Jitendra Narayan Medical College and Hospital, Lakshmi Narain College of Technology

    Divya Thakre is currently a research scholar pursuing her Master of Technology (M.Tech.) at Lakshmi Narain College of Technology (LNCT). She is carrying out her research under the guidance of Khushbu Rai. Her academic interests include research and emerging technologies in the field of engineering and technology.

  • Dr. Khushbu Rai, Lakshmi Narain College of Technology

    Khushbu Rai is an academician and research guide at Lakshmi Narain College of Technology (LNCT). She is currently guiding Divya Thakre in her M.Tech. research work. Her academic contributions include mentoring postgraduate scholars and supporting research and development activities in engineering and emerging technologies.

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Published

2026-09-26

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Original Research Articles

How to Cite

Performance Evaluation of YOLOv8 and RetinaFace for Real-Time Face Detection on Edge Devices. (2026). IJAICET - International Journal of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies, 1(2), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.68307/18xagk59