When it comes to developing embedded systems, the choice of platform is paramount in ensuring project success. There are several popular options on the market today and you may be wondering which one rates as “better.” If you’re considering an STM32 or Arduino microcontroller, then this blog post will help point you in the right direction. We’ll explore both platforms side-by-side and discuss their respective advantages and disadvantages so that you can make an informed decision! From ease of use to cost considerations, we have everything covered — so let’s dive right in!
What Is STM32?
STM32 boards are available in different packages ranging from 8 pins to 144 pins and offer 12-bit ADC capability up to 7 ADCs. They have multiple analog features such as comparators, OPAMP and DAC that can be used for signal conditioning applications. The boards are easy to program using popular IDEs like Keil MDK or IAR Embedded Workbench as well as Arduino IDE and are also compatible with a number of development tools.
What Is Arduino?
It’s based around an incredibly small microcontroller board, which can be programmed using a simple programming language called C. Arduino boards are available in many different types and sizes, so it’s easy to find the right one for your project. There are also plenty of libraries, tools and tutorials available online to help you get started with Arduino development. The hardware is open source, meaning anyone can modify or create their own versions. [1]
Pros of STM32
STM32 microcontrollers are known for having a wide range of features and capabilities, which makes them ideal for a variety of applications. One key benefit of the STM32 is its low power consumption, which allows it to be used in battery-powered devices.
Additionally, they feature a large range of peripherals, such as UARTs and I2C buses, that make them compatible with many types of hardware. Their fast clock speeds and 32-bit architecture also mean that they can process data quickly and efficiently.
Finally, their ease of programming makes them suitable for both beginners and experienced developers alike. All these factors add up to make the STM32 an excellent choice for projects requiring high performance.
Furthermore, STM32 microcontrollers are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. This allows for easy development and deployment across multiple platforms.
Overall, the STM32 is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful yet easy to use microcontroller system. Its impressive range of features and low power consumption make it suitable for a wide variety of applications. [2]
Cons of STM32
One of the main drawbacks of the STM32 is its cost. While the parts are not expensive individually, when you need to purchase multiple components for your project, it can quickly add up. Also, if you’re looking for a very specific microcontroller with custom peripherals or firmware support, it may be difficult to find an STM32 model that meets your needs.
Another potential downside of the STM32 system is that it requires extensive knowledge in embedded programming and electronics engineering. Unlike some simpler development boards like Arduino and Raspberry Pi which offer pre-built libraries and projects, creating projects on the STM32 often requires writing code from scratch or modifying existing tutorials to fit your specific application.
Finally, many of the development tools and libraries available for the STM32 are proprietary or not widely supported. This means that finding help with your project may be difficult compared to more popular boards like Arduino.
Overall, while the STM32 system has a lot of features and capabilities, it also comes with a steep learning curve and potential compatibility issues. Those looking for an easy-to-use system should consider alternatives like Arduino or Raspberry Pi.
Pros of Arduino
One of the most significant advantages of Arduino is its open-source nature. This means that anyone can go online and download the source code for any project and modify it to their liking. This also allows users to easily debug their projects, as they have full access to all of the underlying code. Additionally, there are hundreds of tutorials available online which explain how to use the platform in an easy-to-understand fashion, making it a great choice for beginners who are just getting started with electronics.
The hardware is also relatively inexpensive compared to other platforms such as STM32, so it’s a great choice for budget-conscious makers. Furthermore, Arduino provides a wide range of compatible shields and modules which allow you to easily add features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or even LoRaWAN to your project. This makes it a great option for makers who need something that is more powerful than the basic Arduino board.
Finally, Arduino is incredibly easy to set up and use. All you need is an Arduino board and a USB cable to get started. There are also plenty of online resources available which provide detailed instructions on how to get started with the platform. As such, beginners will find this platform much easier to work with than something like STM32 which requires more advanced knowledge of embedded systems programming in order to be used effectively.
Overall, Arduino offers an excellent balance between affordability and functionality, making it a great choice for those looking to get started with embedded systems or for those who need a powerful and reliable platform but don’t have the budget for something like STM32. [3]
Cons of Arduino
Although Arduino offers many advantages, it does have some drawbacks which should be taken into consideration.
The first is that the platform isn’t as powerful or feature-rich as something like STM32. It also lacks support for high-performance tasks such as real-time video streaming or machine learning applications, making it less suitable for more demanding projects. Additionally, the lack of a real operating system means that users will need to write their own custom code if they want to do anything more complicated than basic I/O operations. This can be time consuming and may require significant programming knowledge.
In addition, although there are plenty of tutorials available online, these often focus on basic operations and don’t provide much detail when it comes to more complex tasks. This can make it difficult for users who are new to embedded systems programming and don’t have a solid understanding of the underlying concepts.
Finally, while Arduino is relatively easy to set up, debugging an issue can be quite challenging. This is due to the lack of a debugging environment which makes it difficult to track down any errors in your code. All of these factors should be taken into consideration when deciding whether Arduino or STM32 will be better suited for your project.
STM32 vs Arduino: Which is better?
STM32 devices offer more powerful hardware capabilities than Arduinos. They feature advanced processors with higher clock speed, support for multiple peripherals, and larger memory capacities. This makes them ideal for projects that require fast performance or need to connect to external hardware such as I/O devices. They also allow developers to access lower level system functions that may be inaccessible on an Arduino board.
However, the learning curve for using STM32 is generally higher than Arduino. The development environment may be difficult to set up and you’ll need a strong understanding of electronics and programming in order to get the most out of it. Furthermore, these boards are typically more expensive than Arduinos due to their greater capabilities.
Arduino devices have a much simpler learning curve compared to STM32. They use an easy-to-use, open source development language that makes coding simpler, even for beginners. Additionally, some versions of Arduino offer powerful hardware capabilities that can rival those of STM32 devices. The low cost and ease of use make them great for hobbyists or students just getting started with microcontroller programming. [4]
Where to Use STM32?
STM32 is a powerful microcontroller which is ideal for a wide range of applications. It has an ARM Cortex-M3 core, making it more suitable for higher-end tasks and projects. Its real-time performance capabilities make it great for automated systems, while its low cost makes it attractive to hobbyists and makers. STM32 can be used in robotics, automation, control systems, data logging, 3D printing, and other projects requiring high speed or accuracy.
Unlike Arduino boards with 8-bit AVR controllers that are limited to specific functions, STM32 provides flexibility as users can create their own code and implement custom algorithms. This means that the user has full control over the system’s behavior and performance. Additionally, STM32 can be used for more complex tasks such as running machine learning tools or other advanced algorithms.
In terms of connectivity, STM32 offers various communication protocols, including USB, I2C, SPI and CAN bus. This makes it easy to connect multiple devices together and control them with a single microcontroller board. Plus, its peripherals are highly configurable so you can customize them according to the project’s requirements.
Where to Use Arduino?
Arduino is a great choice for projects that require easy-to-use programming, prototyping, and testing. Its open source framework makes it ideal for hobbyists and beginners to get creative with their designs quickly and easily. Arduino boards are also widely available and have an active community providing support in the form of tutorials, documentation, example code, etc. Arduino is perfect for simple digital control systems or devices that need to be programmed without having to learn complex programming languages like C/C++. [5]
How to Use STM32?
Using STM32 microcontrollers is a simple process. First, users need to install the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment). Once the IDE is installed, developers can select an STM32 board from the list of available boards in the Arduino Board Manager.
Once the board is selected, users can program and debug their code using familiar Arduino commands. The free open source library for STM32 allows developers to use dozens of ready-to-use libraries and drivers with no additional configuration needed. It also provides access to a wide range of peripherals including I2C, UART, SPI, USB Host and many more. Moreover, several web-based tools provide easy ways to interface with external hardware.
Finally, developers can easily deploy their applications to the STM32 board by pressing the Reset button or deploying via a USB port. With the powerful combination of Arduino IDE and STM32, users can quickly bring projects to life with ease.
In conclusion, STM32 microcontrollers offer an easy way for developers to get up and running quickly while giving them access to advanced peripherals. If you are looking for an affordable yet high-performing solution for your project, then STM32 is definitely worth considering.
How to Use an Arduino?
Arduino is a popular microcontroller platform that enables users to create electronic circuits and devices with relative ease. The simplicity of using Arduino makes it an appealing option for many hobbyists and professionals alike who are looking to develop their own electronic projects.
Arduino can be used in a variety of applications, ranging from simple home automation systems to complex robots or digital musical instruments. To use the Arduino platform effectively, you should have some knowledge of programming, electronics, and engineering principles. Below we discuss how you can get started with your Arduino project.
First off, you need to choose whether you want to use the Arduino Uno board or any other type of compatible board such as the Mega 2560 or Nano boards. Each of these boards comes with its own set of features and functions, so choose wisely based on the specific project you’re looking to undertake.
Once you have chosen your board, you can then start writing code for your project. Arduino uses a special programming language called C++ to write sketches, which are essentially programs that interact with the hardware components. You may also need to download and install additional libraries in order to get access to certain features or functions.
Another important step in using Arduino is connecting it up to whatever electronic devices or components you will be using with it. This involves understanding schematics and diagrams as well as knowing how to connect wires and other principles related to basic electrical engineering. Once all the connections are made between the board and components, you can then upload your code to the board and test out your project!
Using Arduino is a great way to design and build custom electronic projects. With some knowledge of programming, electronics, and engineering principles, anyone can get started with their Arduino projects. Just remember to always follow safety protocols when dealing with electricity and other potentially hazardous materials. [6]
Which Is Better?
When it comes to choosing an embedded system for a project, the decision between STM32 and Arduino is not always easy. Both of these platforms offer unique features and performance capabilities that make them suitable for different applications.
When selecting a platform, it is important to consider both the technical specifications as well as your development goals. In general, many people view STM32 as more advanced than Arduino due to its large selection of high-performance microcontrollers and 32-bit architecture. STM32 also offers access to libraries and other resources that can help developers create powerful applications with robust security features.
However, some users may find Arduino easier to use for their projects due its simplified programming approach, open source environment, and wide range of compatible shields. Arduino also supports a variety of programming languages and provides excellent documentation for beginners who may not have experience with embedded system development.
Ultimately, the choice between STM32 and Arduino depends on your project needs. While STM32 might be better suited for more complex applications, Arduino is great for simple projects that don’t require high-performance capabilities or intricate security features. By comparing and contrasting the features of both platforms, you can decide which one is best for your specific application. [7]
FAQ
Which is better, STM32 or Arduino?
The answer to this question depends on the application and what features are most important.
For applications that require more advanced algorithms or higher performance, a STM32 would typically be the better choice. For simpler projects that don’t need as much processing power, an Arduino might be a better option due to its lower cost and simpler setup. Ultimately it comes down to personal preference and the intended use case of the project.
What is the difference between a STM32 and an Arduino?
STM32 microcontrollers are generally considered higher performing than Arduino boards, as they are typically powered by an ARM Cortex processor. This means that STM32 microcontrollers can provide more processing power and memory, allowing them to handle complex tasks. Arduino boards usually run on an 8-bit AVR processor which is simpler, but less powerful. In addition, Arduinos offer compatibility with a number of shields and libraries that simplify the programming process for many users.
Is one platform easier to use than the other?
Arduino boards offer a simple learning curve due to their accessible programming language and broad availability of shields and libraries. For those who are new to microcontroller programming and development, the Arduino might be easier to use at first. However, with more experience in coding and understanding of embedded systems, the STM32 can offer more powerful capabilities.
Can the two platforms be used together?
Yes, they can. It is possible to use both an Arduino and a STM32 in the same project with some additional hardware and coding considerations. This would allow users to take advantage of the simpler setup of the Arduino while also benefiting from the processing power offered by a STM32 microcontroller.
Why is STM32 used in industry?
STM32 is a controller developed by STMicroelectronics and is commonly used in industrial applications. This type of microcontroller has several advantages that make it well-suited for use in industry, including its wide range of capabilities, reliability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. One of the main benefits of using an STM32 microcontroller is its wide range of capabilities. The various available models feature powerful processors that can handle a large variety of tasks with ease. The processor can be configured to suit virtually any application and has enough onboard memory for all necessary operations. Additionally, there are plenty of input/output options, making it easy to connect sensors or other external devices without having to purchase extra hardware.
Does STM32 use C or C++?
Yes, STM32 can be programmed using either the C or C++ programming languages. The choice of language typically depends on the application and what type of coding is necessary. Generally speaking, C is preferred for more basic applications while C++ is better suited for larger, more complex projects. Additionally, many third-party libraries are available that make it easier to utilize certain features when programming with either language. Ultimately, STM32 microcontrollers offer a lot of flexibility when it comes to programming and allow developers to customize their solutions based on individual needs.
What are the pros and cons of Arduino?
Arduino is a popular open-source platform for designing and programming microcontrollers. It has become increasingly popular among hobbyists and professionals alike due to its relative ease of use when compared to other microcontroller platforms, such as STM32. However, it is important to consider the pros and cons of Arduino before deciding if it is right for your project or application. The main benefits of Arduino include: low cost (compared to other microcontroller systems), wide range of compatible hardware, large selection of digital libraries, user-friendly development environment with free community support, ability to interface with various types of sensors, and simple code structure. These features make it an attractive option for beginner projects and small scale applications.
Useful Video: RaspberryPi PICO vs Arduino NANO vs STM32 Blue Pill vs ESP32 vs STM32 Black Pill | Comparison
Conclusion
The STM32 and Arduino are two of the most popular microcontroller platforms available today. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but deciding which one is better ultimately depends on the user’s needs. If you need a platform that is more powerful, with more memory and faster speeds, then the STM32 may be the better option for you. However, if you’re looking for a simpler platform that is easier to set up and program, then an Arduino might be the best choice. Ultimately, it’s important to consider your project requirements and determine which platform will meet those expectations in order to get the most out of your development experience. Whichever route you choose, both platforms offer amazing opportunities for learning and creating projects that can bring value to your life.
Good luck on your journey!
References
- https://www.orientdisplay.com/stm32-vs-arduino/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/embedded/comments/efol7z/stm32_vs_arduino_learning_embedded_dev_at_home/
- https://www.tutorialspoint.com/arduino-uno-vs-stm32duino-blue-pill
- https://predictabledesigns.com/migrating-from-arduino-to-stm32-microcontrollers/
- https://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/607380/why-stm32-is-more-popular-at-industrial-devices
- https://forum.arduino.cc/t/is-stm32-worth-it/610364
- https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Comparison-Between-the-Performance-of-STM32-and-Arduino-Systems_fig5_340058412