If you’re looking for a microcontroller to help you with your next electronics project, you may be wondering whether to choose the ESP32 or the ESP8266. Both of these microcontrollers have their pros and cons, so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will compare the two microcontrollers and help you decide which one is best for your needs!
What Is ESP32?
This versatile processor can be found in both dual core variation as well single cores that offer different abilities depending upon your needs! The Tensilica Xtensa LX6 provides this device’s brains meaning it has all the features you need to get things done without any fuss or bother including an FM2+ compatible amplifier module which allows users more options when designing their product. [1]
What Is ESP8266?
The chip first came to the attention of Western makers in August 2014 with the ESP-01 module, made by a third-party company, Ai-Thinker. This small breakout board helped popularize the ESP8266 and started the home automation server craze that continues to this day. [2]
Differences Between ESP32 and ESP8266
Clock Frequency
The ESP32 chip operates at frequencies up to 240 MHz, while the ESP8266 is limited to frequencies up to 160 MHz.
Wi-Fi
The ESP32 supports dual-mode Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), while the ESP8266 only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
Bluetooth
The ESP32 can also connect to Bluetooth devices (including BLE), while the ESP8266 cannot. In addition, the ESP32’s Bluetooth capabilities are unique in that it allows you to use both Classic Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) simultaneously.
RAM
The amount of RAM on the ESP32 is 8 times that of the amount of RAM on the ESP8266 (520 KB vs. 64 KB).
Storage
The ESP32 also has 8 times more Flash memory (4 MB) than the ESP8266 (512 KB).
I/O Pins
The ESP32 has more GPIO pins (34) than the ESP8266 (16). In addition, the ESP32 has several built-in peripherals, including a capacitive touch sensor, Hall effect sensor, low-noise amplifier, SD card interface, Ethernet MAC and LCD controller.
Power Consumption
The power consumption of the ESP32 is very slightly higher than that of the ESP8266.
Price
The price of an ESP32 chip ranges from $5 to $10, while the price of an ESP8266 chip ranges from $2 to $5.
Hall Sensor
The ESP32 has a built-in Hall sensor, while the ESP8266 does not.
Camera Interface
The ESP32 has a camera interface (CAM) that allows it to connect to image sensors and perform various operations, such as accessing the sensor data, controlling the sensor, capturing images, and processing them for various applications. The ESP8266 does not have a dedicated camera interface and thus cannot be used with image sensors.
Touch Sensor
The ESP32 has a built-in touch sensor that can be used to detect touch input. Since the ESP8266 doesn’t have a touch sensor, it can’t be used for applications that rely on touch input. [3]
Security
The ESP32 is more secure than the ESP8266. It supports SSL/TLS encryption, AES and SHA-2 encryption algorithms, and a true random number generator. The ESP8266 only supports SSL/TLS encryption.
RTC
The ESP32 has a built-in real-time clock (RTC) that can be used to track time even when the power is off. The ESP8266 does not have an RTC and thus cannot be used for applications that require time tracking.
Co-Processor
The ESP32 has a co-processor that can be used to offload computationally intensive tasks from the main processor. The ESP8266 does not have a co-processor and thus cannot be used for applications that require heavy computation.
Total GPIO Pins
The ESP32 has more GPIO pins than the ESP8266. It has 34 GPIO pins, while the ESP8266 only has 16 GPIO pins.
USB Interface
The ESP32 has a USB interface that can be used to connect to peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and storage devices. The ESP8266 does not have a USB interface and thus cannot be used with these peripherals.
Crypto
The ESP32 has a crypto engine that can be used to perform cryptographic operations. The ESP8266 does not have a crypto engine and thus cannot be used for applications that require cryptographic operations.
SPI RAM
The ESP32 has built-in SPI RAM that can be used to store data. The ESP8266 does not have built-in SPI RAM and thus needs to use an external SPI RAM chip.
Microcontroller Unit
The ESP32 is a microcontroller unit (MCU), while the ESP8266 is a system-on-chip (SoC). This means that the ESP32 is a complete standalone device, while the ESP8266 requires an external microcontroller to function.
CAN Bus
The ESP32 has a built-in CAN bus controller that can be used to connect to a CAN bus. The ESP8266 does not have a built-in CAN bus controller and thus cannot be used with a CAN bus.
Pricing
The ESP32 is more expensive than the ESP8266. It typically costs around $10, while the ESP8266 typically costs around $5.
Ethernet
The ESP32 has a built-in Ethernet MAC that can be used to connect to an Ethernet network. The ESP8266 does not have a built-in Ethernet MAC and thus cannot be used with an Ethernet network.
Which Are The Applications? How Can You Run It?
If you’re looking for a microcontroller with Wi-Fi capabilities, you might be wondering if you should choose the ESP32 or ESP8266. Both are popular choices, but there are some key differences between the two.
Applications
It’s perfect for IoT projects, and can even be used as a standalone application processor. The ESP8266, on the other hand, is best suited for Wi-Fi applications. It’s not as powerful as the ESP32, but it’s cheaper and easier to use.
How Can You Run It?
The ESP32 can be programmed using the Arduino IDE, but it’s not as easy to use as the ESP8266. Although the ESP8266 can be programmed with the Arduino IDE, it’s not user-friendly like the ESP32. [4]
If you’re looking for a microcontroller that’s easy to use and has Wi-Fi capabilities, the ESP8266 is the better choice. The ESP32 is the better choice if you need a more powerful microcontroller for your project.
Popularity and User-Friendly
The ESP8266 was released in 2014 and quickly became one of the most popular microcontrollers on the market. The ESP32 was released in 2016 and has since become a popular choice for IoT projects.
The ESP8266 is easier to use than the ESP32, but it’s not as powerful. The ESP32 is more versatile and can be used for a wider range of applications, but it’s not as easy to use.
If you’re just getting started with microcontrollers, the ESP8266 is the better choice. If you need a more powerful microcontroller for your project, the ESP32 is the better choice.
Sustainability and Compatibility
When it comes to choosing between the ESP32 and the ESP8266, sustainability and compatibility are two important factors to consider. The ESP32 is a newer platform that is still being developed, while the ESP8266 has been around for a few years now. This means that the ESP32 may have more features and better support in the future, but the ESP8266 is more widely used and compatible with existing devices right now.
Suitable Projects
When it comes to suitable projects, both ESP32 and ESP8266 are versatile. However, the ESP32 is better equipped than the ESP8266. Here are a few examples of projects that would be more suited to the ESP32:
- Home automation
- IoT applications
- Wearables
- Secure communications.
Pros and Cons of ESP32
Here are the main pros and cons of the ESP32:
Pros:
- More processing power
- Can handle more concurrent tasks
- Better at multitasking
- Supports a wider range of protocols
- Has built-in encryption and decryption hardware
- Larger memory capacity
Cons:
- More expensive than ESP8266
Pros and Cons of ESP8266
Here are the main pros and cons of the ESP8266:
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Low power consumption
- Small form factor
Cons:
- Limited processing power
- Limited memory capacity
- Not as good at multitasking as the ESP32.
SoC vs Microcontroller
When it comes to embedded systems, there are two main types of processors: system on a chip (SoC) and microcontroller units (MCU). SoCs are more powerful than MCUs and can run full-fledged operating systems. They’re used in devices like smartphones and tablets. On the other hand, MCUs are designed for simpler applications. They’re often used in sensors, wearables, and other devices that don’t need as much computing power.
How Does an SoC Work?
It includes a processor, memory, and other components needed to run an operating system. Most SoCs are based on the ARM architecture. This means they use the same instruction set as other ARM-based processors. That makes it easy to port software from one device to another. [5]
How Does an MCU Work?
MCUs are designed for simpler applications that don’t need a full-fledged operating system. They typically have a reduced instruction set (RISC) or microcontroller instruction set (CISC). This makes them less powerful than SoCs but also more energy efficient. MCUs often have built-in peripherals, such as timers and analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). This makes them well-suited for applications that need to interact with the physical world.
Things to Consider When Using SoC vs MCU
When deciding whether to use an SoC or MCU, there are a few things to consider:
- What is the application? An SoC is overkill for a simple application like a sensor. On the other hand, an MCU may not have enough power for a more complex application like a smartphone.
- What is the budget? SoCs are typically more expensive than MCUs. This is because they’re more complex and powerful.
- What are the power requirements? SoCs can require more power than MCUs. This is due to their increased complexity.
- What is the development team’s expertise? If the team is already familiar with ARM architecture, then using an SoC may be the best option. If not, then an MCU may be a better choice.
So, which one should you choose? It depends on the application and the development team’s expertise. In general, SoCs are more powerful but also more expensive. MCUs are less powerful but often more energy efficient.
Advantages of SoCs
These components typically include a central processing unit (CPU), memory, input/output (I/O) interfaces and often a radio frequency (RF) transceiver. SoCs are very common in the mobile phone industry because they allow manufacturers to pack all the necessary components for a complete phone onto a single chip. This saves space and highly increases the efficiency of mass production.
Some advantages of SoCs compared to using separate chips for each component include:
- Smaller size: All the components are on one chip so the overall footprint is much smaller. This can be important in applications where space is limited, such as in wearable devices.
- Reduced power consumption: SoCs can be designed to draw very little power, which can extend battery life in portable applications.
- Increased reliability: Since there are fewer components and connections, there are fewer opportunities for something to go wrong.
- Easier to produce: All the components are on one chip so they can all be produced at the same time on the same production line. This greatly reduces manufacturing costs compared to using separate chips for each component.
Advantages of the Microcontrollers
They are designed to be used in embedded systems, which are electronics that are built into larger devices or products. Some examples of embedded systems include car engine control units, washing machine controllers, and microwave ovens.
Microcontrollers have many of the same components as a regular CPU, such as a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output (I/O) interfaces. However, they also usually include additional features such as on-chip programming ROM, RAM, and I/O ports. These extra features make microcontrollers well suited for use in embedded systems where space is limited and cost is a concern.
Some advantages of microcontrollers compared to regular CPUs include:
- Lower cost: Microcontrollers are typically much less expensive than CPUs. This is due to their smaller size and simpler design.
- Lower power consumption: Microcontrollers consume less power than CPUs, which is important in portable devices or other applications where power conservation is a concern.
- Flexibility: The extra features found on microcontrollers (such as on-chip ROM, RAM, and I/O ports) make them more flexible than CPUs for many embedded applications.
Disadvantages of the SoCs
These components can include a CPU, memory, I/O ports, and more.
SoCs are often used in embedded systems where space is limited and cost is a concern. However, there are some disadvantages compared to microcontrollers:
- Higher cost: SoCs are typically more expensive than microcontrollers due to their more complex design.
- Higher power consumption: SoCs consume more power than microcontrollers, which can be an issue in portable devices or other applications where power conservation is a concern.
- Less flexibility: The extra features found on microcontrollers (such as on-chip ROM, RAM, and I/O ports) make them more flexible than SoCs for many embedded applications.
Disadvantages of the Microcontrollers
Despite the advantages of microcontrollers, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Less powerful: Microcontrollers are not as powerful as CPUs. They have slower clock speeds and less memory. This can be a disadvantage in applications where high performance is required. [6]
- Less flexible: The extra features found on microcontrollers can also be a disadvantage. These features can make the microcontroller more difficult to use for some applications.
- More complex: The extra features on microcontrollers also make them more complex than CPUs. This complexity can make development and debugging more difficult and time-consuming.
In general, CPUs are better suited for applications that require high performance, while microcontrollers are better suited for applications that require low cost and low power consumption. However, there are many applications where either type of device could be used. The choice between a CPU and a microcontroller depends on the specific requirements of the application.
How to Secure a Microcontroller?
Despite their small size, microcontrollers are quite powerful. They can store and execute complex instructions, and they often have built-in memory and peripherals (like sensors and input/output ports).
However, this power also comes with some security risks. Microcontrollers are often connected to sensitive data and systems, so they can be attractive targets for hackers.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to secure your microcontroller-based system:
- Use strong cryptography
- Implement security features at the hardware level
- Develop a secure bootloader
- Use security-minded development practices
We’ll discuss each of these in more detail below.
Use Strong Cryptography
One way to protect data and systems is to use strong cryptography. This can be used to encrypt data at rest (like in storage) or in transit (like when it’s being transmitted over a network).
There are many different cryptographic algorithms available, so you’ll need to choose one that’s appropriate for your needs. Some common criteria to consider include:
- Speed: How fast does the algorithm need to be? Faster algorithms can be more convenient for users, but they may also be more vulnerable to attacks.
- Security: How secure does the algorithm need to be? Some algorithms are more resistant to attacks than others.
- Cost: What is the cost of using the algorithm? Faster and more secure algorithms may require more processing power, which can increase costs.
Implement Security Features at the Hardware Level
Another way to improve security is to implement security features at the hardware level. This can include features like tamper-resistant packaging, physically secure memory, and hardware-based cryptography.
Some microcontrollers come with built-in security features, while others require external components. Either way, adding security at the hardware level can make it more difficult for attackers to access data and systems.
Develop a Secure Bootloader
A bootloader is a program that runs when a microcontroller is first powered on. Its job is to initialize the microcontroller and load the main application program.
A secure bootloader can help to prevent unauthorized code from running on a microcontroller. It can verify the integrity of the application program before loading it, and it can encrypt or decrypt data as needed.
Use Security-Minded Development Practices
In addition to the technical measures described above, there are also some development practices that can help to improve security. For example:
- Review code for security vulnerabilities
- Use static analysis tools to find potential issues
- Perform regular penetration testing
- Keep software up to date with security patches
By following these best practices, you can help to ensure that your microcontroller-based system is as secure as possible.
Alternatives to ESP32 and ESP8266
When it comes to low-cost, low-power consumption chips, there are a few alternatives to ESP32 and ESP8266. The most popular ones include the CC3200 from Texas Instruments and the Nordic nRF52840.
The CC3200 is a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo chip that is supported by the SimpleLink™ SDK. It offers developers more flexibility with the types of applications they can develop. The chip also includes an on-chip security encryption module. [7]
The chip is built around a 32-bit Arm® Cortex™-M4F CPU.
Other popular chips include the ATmega328P (Arduino Uno) and the ATSAM3X8E (Arduino Due).
When it comes to development boards, the ESP32-DevKitC from Espressif and the NodeMCU are two of the most popular ones. The ESP32-DevKitC is a low-cost, low-power system on a chip that integrates multiple peripherals and Wi-Fi & Bluetooth capabilities. The NodeMCU is an open source development board based on the ESP8266 12E module.
So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your project requirements and preferences. If you need Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, then ESP32 is a good choice. If you need low power consumption, then nRF52840 is a good choice. If you need flexibility, then CC3200 is a good choice.
FAQ
Can I use ESP8266 instead of ESP32?
ESP8266 and ESP32 are both popular choices for IoT projects, but there are some important differences to take into account when deciding which one to use. ESP8266 is a cheaper and less powerful option, with limited storage and processing capabilities. ESP32 is a more expensive and powerful option, with more RAM and ROM, as well as support for Bluetooth and WiFi.
What are the main differences between ESP8266 and ESP32?
The main difference between ESP8266 and ESP32 is that ESP8266 is a cheaper and less powerful option, while ESP32 is more expensive and more powerful. Other differences include the following:-ESP8266 has less RAM than ESP32 (80 kB vs. 520 kB)-ESP8266 has less ROM than ESP32 (256 kB vs. 4 MB)-ESP8266 does not support Bluetooth, while ESP32 does-ESP8266 has a smaller pin count than ESP32 (17 vs. 34)
What are the advantages of ESP32 over ESP8266?
The main advantage of ESP32 over ESP8266 is its increased power and functionality. Other advantages include the following:
- More RAM (520 kB vs. 80 kB)
- More ROM (4 MB vs. 256 kB)
- Bluetooth support
- WiFi support
- Higher pin count (34 vs. 17)
- Greater processing power and speed
ESP8266 and ESP32 are both popular choices for IoT projects, but there are some important differences to take into account when deciding which one to use. ESP8266 is a cheaper and less powerful option, with limited storage and processing capabilities. ESP32 is a more expensive and powerful option, with more RAM and ROM, as well as support for Bluetooth and WiFi.
What is the difference between ESP32 and NodeMcu?
NodeMCU is a development board based on ESP8266. It has more GPIOs, ADCs, and communications interfaces. However, it lacks the processing power and RAM of the ESP32.ESP32 is a better choice for projects that require more processing power and memory, while NodeMCU is a better choice for projects that are less complex and do not require as much resources.
Why is ESP8266 so popular?
ESP8266 is popular because it is a very cheap way to add WiFi capabilities to a project. It is also relatively easy to use, thanks to its wide range of development boards and libraries.
Why are ESP32 so cheap?
The ESP8266 was very popular because it only cost a few dollars and allowed anyone to program an inexpensive microcontroller with Wi-Fi capabilities. The ESP32 is even cheaper than the ESP8266, but its capabilities are much greater. The ESP32 has many more GPIOs than the ESP8266, and more analog pins as well. It also has two cores so that you can have one core handle Wi-Fi while the other core handles your application logic. This is especially useful if you need to do some heavy lifting with your microcontroller. The ESP32 also supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), something that the ESP8266 does not support. This means that you can use the ESP32 for applications that require both Wi-Fi and BLE.
What are the disadvantages of ESP32?
The main disadvantage of the ESP32 is that it is not compatible with all Arduino libraries. Some of the popular libraries, such as the WiFi and Ethernet libraries, are not compatible with the ESP32. This means that you will have to find alternatives to these libraries or use different hardware if you want to use these libraries with your ESP32. Another downside of the ESP32 is its power consumption. The ESP32 consumes more power than the ESP8266, which can be a problem if you are using batteries to power your project.
Is ESP32 used professionally?
Yes, the ESP32 is used in professional applications. One example is the Espressif IoT Development Framework (ESP-IDF), which is used by companies like Sony and Microsoft for developing products that use the ESP32. The ESP-IDF is a set of libraries and tools that allow you to develop applications for the ESP32.
What are some examples of ESP32 projects?
There are many different types of ESP32 projects. Some examples include:
- Home automation
- IoT devices
- Wearables
- Security systems
- Industrial control systems
- Robotics
- WiFi repeaters
- Mesh networks
Can ESP32 work without Arduino?
Yes, the ESP32 can be used without Arduino. The ESP32 is a stand-alone microcontroller and does not require any additional components or development boards. However, if you want to use the ESP32 with Arduino, you will need to install the Arduino core for the ESP32.
How much does an ESP32 cost?
The ESP32 typically costs around $5. This makes it one of the most affordable microcontrollers on the market.
Can I use ESP32 without Wi-Fi?
Yes, the ESP32 can be used without Wi-Fi. The ESP32 is a versatile microcontroller that can be used for a wide range of applications. However, if you want to use the ESP32 for Wi-Fi applications, you will need to connect it to a Wi-Fi network.
How far can ESP8266 transmit?
This range can be increased by using an external antenna.
What is the maximum range of ESP32?
The ESP32 has a maximum range of approximately 300 meters. This range can be increased by using an external antenna.
Can ESP8266 work as a router?
Yes, the ESP8266 can be used as a router. The ESP8266 has a built-in Wi-Fi module that allows it to connect to Wi-Fi networks. Once connected, the ESP8266 can be used to route traffic between devices on the network.
Useful Video: ESP32 #60: ESP32 vs ESP8266 Speed Comparison and Arduino Dual Core Speed
Conclusion
So, which one should you choose? The ESP32 or the ESP8266?
The answer to this question depends on your needs. If you need a powerful device that can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, then the ESP32 is the way to go. If you need something that’s cheaper and doesn’t require as much power, then the ESP8266 is a good choice.
If you’re not sure which one to choose, we recommend starting with the ESP32. It’s a great all-around device that will give you the most flexibility for your project.
References
- https://www.espressif.com/en/products/socs/esp32
- https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=20867993
- https://randomnerdtutorials.com/esp32-touch-pins-arduino-ide/
- https://circuitdigest.com/microcontroller-projects/programming-esp32-with-arduino-ide
- https://www.checkpoint.com/cyber-hub/threat-prevention/what-is-soc/
- https://www.totalphase.com/blog/2019/12/microcontroller-vs-microprocessor-what-are-the-differences/
- https://www.ti.com/lit/gpn/cc3200
