Microcontroller Comparison
This page will go over the differences and similarities of the idea shops main micro controllers. The idea shops main controllers are the Esp 8266, Arduino Uno, and Raspberry Pi 4. The page will first explain each board separately; then, compare each board. By the end of this page, the reader will be able to successfully choose a micro controller for their project. Note: in general, each board can be designed to do anything; however, some boards excel over others in some tasks.
Esp 8266
The ESP 8266 has a L106 32-bit processor running at 80MHz. This board contains a PCB traced antenna that can connect to wifi or other radio controlled modules. This board makes a great IOT device for that reason. There are many IDEs out there for this board; however, the most popular IDE is the Arduino IDE. There is less support and examples on this board compared to the Arduino and Raspberry Pi.
Arduino Uno
The Arduino Uno uses the ATmega328P 8 bit processor at 32MHz. This micro controller is good for simple tasks, generally speaking. The main coding language on this controller is an augmented version of C++. The augmented version of this language can be found on the Arduino website and has a very easy to use IDE(Integrated development environment). This allows the users to rapidly generate and test code on the Arduino board, perfect for development. The Arduino website also has countless examples and documentation on how to use the board.
Raspberry Pi 4
The Raspberry Pi 4 uses a Quad core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz. The Raspberry Pi is a full computer in one package where the main coding language is python. The Raspberry Pi 4 also has Wifi and Bluetooth capabilities, making it a great choice when creating an IOT (internet of things) project. The Raspberry Pi can preform complex calculations and tasks with easy to use tools and packages. The Raspberry Pi has a large community page that hosts projects, troubleshooting, etc.
| Microcontroller Comparison Chart | ||
| Raspberry Pi 4 | Arduino Uno | ESP 8266 |
| Price >= $35 The Raspberry pi comes in three different RAM sizes which change the price. (1GB, 2GB, 4GB) |
Price <= $23 Because the Arduino is open source, there are many offbrands of the arduino that can be cheaper than $23. |
Price = $6.95 |
| Large Community Has online tutorials and classes on how to get started. |
Large Community Has online tutorials and a large troubleshooting forum. |
Smaller Community |
| Most Powerful Full on computer |
Least Powerful | Powerful |
| Has built in wireless capabilities Can be used for IOT |
No built in wireless capabilities Modules can be purchased to add wireless capabilities. |
Has built in wireless capabilities Can be used for IOT |
| Main Language: Python Because the raspberry Pi is a full computer, almost every language can be used. |
Main Language: C++ Yet C++ is the main language, IDE's are out there that allow for other languages. |
Main Language: C++ |
| User Friendliness: High Because the Raspberry Pi is a Full on computer, it can get a bit complicated |
User Friendliness: Highest Very easy to use, just download the IDE and follow the getting started Tutorial. |
User Friendliness: Medium The ESP8266 has a few extra steps when using and setting it up. |
