The ESP32 series by Espressif Systems is one of the most popular microcontrollers on the market, offering integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Its versatility has led to the creation of multiple development boards and modules tailored for various projects, including IoT devices, smart homes, and automation systems. In this article, we’ll compare popular ESP32 models to help you choose the best one for your needs.
1. ESP32-DevKitC
Overview:
The ESP32-DevKitC is a simple, widely available development board featuring the standard ESP32-WROOM module. It is designed for general-purpose use and is ideal for prototyping.
Key Features:
- Processor: Dual-core Xtensa 32-bit LX6 CPU (240 MHz)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.2 (BLE)
- GPIO: 30-36 pins (varies based on the module)
- USB: Built-in USB-to-serial for programming
- Size: Compact (around 25.4 x 50.8 mm)
Best For:
General-purpose projects, prototyping, and development.
2. ESP32-CAM
Overview:
The ESP32-CAM is a small and cost-effective board that comes with a camera module, making it perfect for image capture, video streaming, and machine vision applications.
Key Features:
- Processor: ESP32-S module with dual-core CPU
- Camera: OV2640 (2 MP resolution)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth
- GPIO: 9-11 usable pins
- Storage: MicroSD card slot for data storage
- Size: Ultra-compact (27 x 40.5 mm)
Best For:
Projects involving image recognition, video streaming, and security cameras.
3. ESP32-WROVER
Overview:
The ESP32-WROVER is designed for projects requiring more memory and performance, thanks to its integrated PSRAM (pseudo-static RAM).
Key Features:
- Processor: Dual-core Xtensa CPU (240 MHz)
- Memory: 4-8 MB PSRAM (in addition to built-in SRAM)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
- GPIO: Standard ESP32 pinout
- USB: Typically includes USB-to-serial for programming
Best For:
Projects involving machine learning, video processing, or memory-intensive applications.
4. ESP32-S2
Overview:
The ESP32-S2 is a single-core version of the ESP32, designed with lower power consumption and improved security features.
Key Features:
- Processor: Single-core Xtensa LX7 CPU (240 MHz)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (no Bluetooth support)
- GPIO: Up to 43 pins
- Low Power: Designed for battery-powered applications
- Security: Hardware encryption, secure boot
Best For:
Low-power IoT devices, battery-operated sensors, and secure applications.
5. ESP32-S3
Overview:
The ESP32-S3 is an upgraded version of the ESP32-S2, adding AI acceleration and Bluetooth 5.0 support.
Key Features:
- Processor: Dual-core Xtensa LX7 CPU (240 MHz)
- AI: Vector instructions for AI acceleration
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth 5.0 (BLE)
- GPIO: Up to 45 pins
- Memory: Supports external PSRAM up to 16 MB
Best For:
AI projects, edge computing, and next-gen IoT solutions requiring Bluetooth 5.0.
6. ESP32-C3
Overview:
The ESP32-C3 features a RISC-V core, making it a cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative.
Key Features:
- Processor: Single-core RISC-V CPU (160 MHz)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth 5.0
- GPIO: 22 pins
- Security: Secure boot, hardware encryption
- Low Power: Optimized for battery usage
Best For:
Affordable IoT projects, simple sensors, and energy-efficient devices.
Comparison Table
| Model | Processor | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth | Memory | Special Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESP32-DevKitC | Dual-core Xtensa | Yes | BLE 4.2 | Standard SRAM | General-purpose board | Prototyping and development |
| ESP32-CAM | Dual-core Xtensa | Yes | BLE 4.2 | Low SRAM | Camera and MicroSD slot | Video streaming and surveillance |
| ESP32-WROVER | Dual-core Xtensa | Yes | BLE 4.2 | 4-8 MB PSRAM | High-memory module | ML, video processing, large projects |
| ESP32-S2 | Single-core Xtensa | Yes | No | Standard SRAM | Low power, security features | Low-power IoT devices |
| ESP32-S3 | Dual-core Xtensa | Yes | BLE 5.0 | PSRAM support | AI acceleration and Bluetooth 5.0 | AI, edge computing, IoT |
| ESP32-C3 | Single-core RISC-V | Yes | BLE 5.0 | Standard SRAM | Low cost, low power | Simple, affordable IoT devices |
Conclusion: Which ESP32 Should You Choose?
- For general projects and prototyping, the ESP32-DevKitC is the best all-around option.
- For camera-based applications, choose the ESP32-CAM.
- For AI and memory-intensive projects, go with the ESP32-WROVER or the advanced ESP32-S3.
- For low-power devices, the ESP32-S2 or ESP32-C3 will optimize battery life.
By selecting the right ESP32 model for your project, you’ll achieve the best performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.