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| From ESP-01 to ESP13: Complete Guide to ESP8266 Modules |
Hello, electronics enthusiast!
Welcome to this complete guide to the ESP8266, the microcontroller that revolutionized automation and the Internet of Things (IoT). Whether you're a student, professional, designer, or hobbyist, get ready to discover everything about this versatile and powerful component.
📡 What is the ESP8266?
The ESP8266 is a System‑on‑Chip (SoC) created by Espressif Systems. It combines a 32‑bit Tensilica L106 processor, programmable GPIO ports, and a complete TCP/IP stack with 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi (802.11 b/g/n, WPA/WPA2). Ideal for projects that need internet connectivity without additional modules.
Expert Tip: Launched in 2014, the ESP8266 quickly became the "standard" for makers due to its low cost (≈ US $2‑$5) and its ability to transform any project into an IoT device.
📚 Types of ESP8266 Modules
In the Brazilian market, there are more than ten variants. We'll cover the most popular ones – from ESP‑01 to ESP‑13 – highlighting size, number of GPIOs, Flash memory, and antenna. This way you can choose the model that best fits your project.
🔧 General Technical Characteristics of the ESP8266 Platform
All modules share the same base chip ESP8266EX. Check out the fundamental specifications:
- Processor: Tensilica L106 – 32‑bits (reduced 16‑bit mode)
- Clock: 80 MHz (standard) or 160 MHz (overclock)
- Power Supply: 3.3 V DC (essential to avoid damage)
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Current Consumption:
- TX (802.11b, 11 Mbps): ≈ 170 mA
- RX (802.11n): ≈ 56 mA
- Deep Sleep: ≈ 10 µA
- RAM: 80 KB (data) + 32 KB (instructions) + 16 KB (system)
- Flash: 512 KB – 16 MB (varies by model)
- Wi‑Fi: 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, supports soft‑AP and Wi‑Fi Direct
- Network Stack: TCP/IP integrated on chip
📋 Detailed Comparison by Module
ESP-01: The Compact Pioneer
The ESP-01 exists in two versions, distinguished by color: the blue module has 500KB of Flash memory and the black module has 1MB of Flash memory. It's a very popular module, measuring 24.75 x 14.5 mm, with 2 GPIOs available.
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| Fig. 2 - ESP8266 ESP01 Module |
- Processor Type: Tensilica L106 32-bit (integrated in ESP8266EX)
- Speed: 80/160 MHz
- Current Consumption: 170mA (Tx), 56mA (Rx), 10μA (Deep Sleep) Available Pins: 2 GPIOs (original version) or 3 GPIOs ("Black" version) Power Supply: 3.3V DC
- Flash Memory: 512KB (blue) or 1MB (black/"Black") Wi-Fi Type: 802.11 b/g/n
- Antenna: Integrated PCB (non-removable)
- Technical Note: Has only 80 KB of RAM for user applications, limiting complex projects
Recommended Use: The ESP-01 is ideal for simple projects that require Wi-Fi connectivity with few GPIO pins, such as smart switches or basic sensors.
💡 Ideal Projects with ESP-01:
- Wi-Fi switches for home automation
- Remote temperature/humidity sensors
- Internet-controlled relays
- Simple notifications (email, Telegram)
ESP-02: Enhanced Connectivity
Measuring 14.7 x 14.2 mm, this module uses a U.FL connector for external antenna, making it excellent for those who want to improve signal gain and transmit over long distances. It has 3 GPIOs available.
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| Fig. 3 - ESP8266 ESP02 Module |
- Available Pins: 3 GPIOs
- Antenna: U.FL connector for external antenna (better long-range performance)
- Flash Memory: Usually 1MB or 4MB (varies by manufacturer)
- Unique Feature: Compact design (14.7 x 14.2 mm) with professional antenna connector for industrial applications
Recommended Use: Perfect for applications that need greater Wi-Fi signal range, such as monitoring systems in large areas or industrial projects.
ESP-03: Interference Protection
This module has a ceramic antenna, which helps protect against interference. It has an antenna pin where you can solder an external antenna. It measures 12.2 x 17.4mm and has 7 GPIOs available.
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| Fig. 4 - ESP8266 ESP03 Module |
- Available Pins: 7 GPIOs
- Flash Memory: 4MB or 8MB (depending on version)
- Antenna: Integrated ceramic + connector for external antenna
- Technical Note: Ideal for environments with interference due to the ceramic antenna protection
Recommended Use: Excellent for environments with many electromagnetic interferences, such as industrial environments or near electrical equipment.
ESP-04: Minimalism for Integration
Measuring 14.7 x 12.1mm, this module has no onboard antenna, only a solderable antenna pin for use with an external antenna. It has 7 GPIOs available.
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| Fig. 5 - ESP8266 ESP04 Module |
- Available Pins: 7 GPIOs
- Antenna: Only connector for external antenna (no onboard antenna)
- Unique Feature: Minimalist design for integration into custom PCBs
Recommended Use: Ideal for projects that need direct integration into custom circuit boards, where the antenna will be strategically positioned.
ESP-05: The Wi-Fi Modem for Other Microcontrollers
This module is a bit different from the others: it has no GPIOs and was developed for IoT projects that only need internet connectivity at low cost. For example, it can be used with Arduino, Raspberry, PIC microcontroller, or any other system that needs to communicate with the internet. It has a U.FL connector for external antenna and measures 14.2 x 14.2mm.
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| Fig. 6 - ESP8266 ESP05 Module |
- Available Pins: 0 GPIOs (serial interface only)
- Specific Use: U.FL connector for external antenna, designed for integration with other microcontrollers
- Note: Popular in projects where the ESP8266 functions as a "Wi-Fi modem" for Arduinos
Recommended Use: Perfect for adding Wi-Fi connectivity to projects based on Arduino, PIC, or other microcontrollers that already have the necessary functionalities but lack internet connection.
ESP-06: Compact for Wearables
It has 7 GPIOs, and both the antenna and its connections are solderable on the bottom of the module. It measures 14.2 x 14.7mm. This is a minimalist type of ESP, ideal for wearable projects.
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| Fig. 7 - ESP8266 ESP06 Module |
- Available Pins: 7 GPIOs
- Unique Feature: Solderable connections and antenna on the bottom - ideal for wearables and miniaturized projects
Recommended Use: Excellent for wearable projects and applications that require reduced size and integration in limited spaces.
ESP-07 / ESP-07S: Versatility with External Antenna
The ESP-07 and 07s have 9 GPIOs. The differences between them are: the 07 comes with two types of antennas (ceramic and U.FL connector), has 1MB of Flash memory, solderable connections on the bottom, and measures 10 x 14mm. The 07s has only the U.FL antenna connector and 4MB of Flash memory.
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| Fig. 8 - ESP8266 ESP07 & ESP07S Modules |
- Available Pins: 9 GPIOs
- Technical Difference: ESP-07S has 4MB of Flash (vs 1MB of ESP-07) and only U.FL connector (no ceramic antenna)
- Note: Better cost-benefit for projects that require more GPIOs
Recommended Use: Great option for projects that need more GPIOs than the ESP-01, but still require an external antenna for better range.
ESP-08: Enhanced Heat Dissipation
Like the ESP-06, this module has solderable connections and antenna, with 7 GPIOs available. It measures 17 x 16mm.
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| Fig. 9 - ESP8266 ESP08 Module |
- Available Pins: 7 GPIOs
- Feature: Similar to ESP-06, but with larger area for heat dissipation
Recommended Use: Suitable for projects that operate for long periods in transmission mode, where thermal management is important.
ESP-09: Ultra-compact for Limited Spaces
This is one of the most compact modules, measuring only 10x10mm. It has its contacts soldered under the module, with 6 GPIOs available. It doesn't have metal protection against interference, so it's not very recommended for use in places with many electromagnetic interferences.
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| Fig. 10 - ESP8266 ESP09 Module |
- Available Pins: 6 GPIOs
- Technical Limitation: Lack of metal protection against interference - not recommended for industrial environments
Recommended Use: Perfect for projects with extremely limited space, such as miniaturized devices or discreet wearables.
ESP-10: Alternative to ESP-05
It resembles the ESP-05, has no GPIOs options. The only notable difference between them is the antenna of this module, which is solderable, while the ESP-05 has U.FL connection. Its dimensions are: 14.2x10mm.
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| Fig. 11 - ESP8266 ESP10 Module |
- Available Pins: 0 GPIOs
- Difference vs ESP-05: Solderable antenna directly on PCB (vs U.FL connector of ESP-05)
Recommended Use: Similar to ESP-05, ideal for adding Wi-Fi connectivity to other microcontrollers, but with fixed antenna and more compact design.
ESP-11: Simple and Functional
This model has only 2 GPIOs available and also has no metal protection for the ICs. Its dimensions are: 14.2x10mm.
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| Fig. 12 - ESP8266 ESP11 Module |
- Available Pins: 2 GPIOs
- Limitation: No metal protection on ICs - susceptible to electromagnetic noise
Recommended Use: Suitable for simple projects that need few GPIOs, such as basic sensors or smart switches.
ESP-12E & ESP-12F: The Most Popular and Versatile
These modules are quite similar. If the model is not printed on the board, we can identify them by the antenna: the 12F has a more spaced and distinctive antenna from other models. Both have 4MB of Flash memory and measure 24.0 x 16.0mm.
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| Fig. 13 - ESP8266 ESP12E Module |
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| Fig. 14 - ESP8266 ESP12F Module |
- Available Pins: 11 GPIOs (highest availability in the line)
- Flash Memory: 4MB (standard)
- Technical Difference: ESP-12F has antenna with optimized layout for better performance
- Professional Note: Most versatile module for professional projects due to the high number of GPIOs
Recommended Use: The most popular and versatile! Ideal for complex projects that need multiple sensors, actuators, and functionalities. They are the basis for boards like NodeMCU and WEMOS D1 Mini.
ESP-13: Robustness for Industrial Applications
This model has 9 GPIOs, measuring 20.0 x 19.9mm, with 4MB of Flash memory. There are more ESP models on the market, but here we cover the most well-known and easy to find in Brazil.
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| Fig. 15 - ESP8266 ESP13 Module |
- Available Pins: 9 GPIOs
- Unique Feature: Reinforced design with EMI protection for industrial environments
- Size: 20.0 x 19.9mm (larger than ESP-12, but with more features)
Recommended Use: Excellent for industrial applications or environments with electromagnetic interferences, where robustness and reliability are crucial.
📊 Comparison Table: Which ESP8266 to Choose?
| Model | GPIOs | Flash | Antenna | Size | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESP-01 | 2-3 | 512KB-1MB | PCB | 24.75 x 14.5 mm | Simple projects |
| ESP-02 | 3 | 1MB-4MB | U.FL | 14.7 x 14.2 mm | Long range |
| ESP-03 | 7 | 4MB-8MB | Ceramic | 12.2 x 17.4 mm | Noisy environments |
| ESP-04 | 7 | Variable | External | 14.7 x 12.1 mm | Custom PCB |
| ESP-05 | 0 | Variable | U.FL | 14.2 x 14.2 mm | Wi-Fi Modem |
| ESP-06 | 7 | Variable | Solderable | 14.2 x 14.7 mm | Wearables |
| ESP-07/07S | 9 | 1MB/4MB | U.FL | 10 x 14 mm | Versatility |
| ESP-08 | 7 | Variable | Solderable | 17 x 16 mm | Heat dissipation |
| ESP-09 | 6 | Variable | PCB | 10 x 10 mm | Ultra-compact |
| ESP-10 | 0 | Variable | Solderable | 14.2 x 10 mm | Wi-Fi Modem |
| ESP-11 | 2 | Variable | PCB | 14.2 x 10 mm | Simple projects |
| ESP-12E/F | 11 | 4MB | PCB | 24.0 x 16.0 mm | Complex projects |
| ESP-13 | 9 | 4MB | PCB | 20.0 x 19.9 mm | Industrial applications |
📦 Embedded Modules with ESP8266: Facilitating Development
In addition to the basic modules, there are development boards that incorporate the ESP8266 with additional features, facilitating project development. These boards are ideal for beginners and for rapid prototyping.
NODE MCU ESP8266: The Makers' Favorite
The NODE MCU ESP8266 has a compact format, great for projects with little physical space. Its only drawback is that it doesn't fit well on breadboards (two breadboards together would be needed to accommodate it).
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| Fig. 16 - NodeMCU ESP8266 Development Board |
✨ Advantages of NodeMCU ESP8266:
- Easy Programming: Native support for Arduino IDE
- USB-Serial Converter: Integrated on the board
- Power Supply: Can be powered directly via USB
- Accessible GPIOs: All pins of ESP-12 available
- Buttons: Reset and Flash to facilitate development
WEMOS D1 R2: The Bridge to Arduino
The WEMOS D1 R2 resembles an Arduino, designed for those who already develop projects with Arduino and don't want to have difficulties in the transition. With it, we can also program on the Arduino platform.
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| Fig. 17 - WEMOS D1 R2 Development Board |
✨ Advantages of WEMOS D1 R2:
- Compatibility: Form factor compatible with Arduino shields
- Ease of Use: Ideal for those who already know Arduino
- Connectivity: Integrated Wi-Fi without additional modules
- Programming: Fully compatible with Arduino IDE
🔛 NodeMCU ESP32 and Wemos D1 Mini Pro: The Evolution
We also have the NODE MCU ESP32 and WEMOS D1 MINI PRO models, which are widely used, although not in the same proportion as the previous ones.
NodeMCU ESP32: The Powerful Successor
When we talk about the ESP32, we're talking about a level above, because in addition to having twice the processing power of the ESP8266, it has Bluetooth and WiFi technology built-in. The number of GPIOs is much higher than the ESP8266, with other great advantages that we'll see in the comparison below.
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| Fig. 18 - NodeMCU ESP32 Development Board |
Wemos D1 Mini Pro: Compact and Powerful
The Wemos D1 Mini Pro was designed differently from the Wemos D1 R2, with the goal of minimizing its physical space for projects that require the smallest possible size.
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| Fig. 19 - Wemos D1 Mini Pro Development Board |
📊 ESP8266 vs ESP32: Which to Choose?
| Feature | ESP8266 | ESP32 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Single-core 32-bit | Dual-core 32-bit |
| Clock | 80/160 MHz | 240 MHz |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 b/g/n | 802.11 b/g/n |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes (BLE + Classic) |
| GPIOs | Up to 17 | Up to 36 |
| ADC | 1 channel of 10-bit | 18 channels of 12-bit |
| DAC | No | 2 channels of 8-bit |
| Consumption | Lower | Higher |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
💡 Expert Tip: For simple IoT projects that need only Wi-Fi connectivity, the ESP8266 is still an excellent choice for its cost-benefit. For more complex projects that require more processing, Bluetooth, or more peripherals, the ESP32 is the best option.
📋 ESP8266 Technical Specifications (Summary)
- Processor: Tensilica LX106 – 32‑bits, 80 MHz (up to 160 MHz)
- RAM Memory: 80 KB (data) + 32 KB (instructions) + 16 KB (system)
- External Flash: 512 KB – 16 MB (Q‑SPI)
- Wi‑Fi: 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, soft‑AP, WPA/WPA2
- GPIOs: 16 pins (up to 11 usable on larger modules)
- ADC Converter: 1 channel, 10‑bit
- Interfaces: UART, I²C, SPI, I²S, PWM
- Consumption: TX ≈ 170 mA, RX ≈ 56 mA, Deep Sleep ≈ 10 µA
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): About ESP8266 Modules
To ensure your project is a success, we've compiled some of the most common questions about ESP8266 modules. Check them out!
1. What is the difference between the ESP8266 and the ESP32?🔽
The ESP32 is more powerful than the ESP8266, featuring a dual-core 240MHz processor (vs. the ESP8266's single-core 80/160MHz), more GPIOs (up to 36 vs. up to 17), Bluetooth (which the ESP8266 lacks), more ADC channels (18 vs. 1), and includes a DAC. However, the ESP8266 consumes less power and is cheaper, making it ideal for simple IoT projects that only need Wi-Fi connectivity.
2. Which ESP8266 module is best for beginners?🔽
For beginners, the NodeMCU ESP8266 is the best option. It features easy programming with native support for the Arduino IDE, an integrated USB-Serial converter, can be powered directly via USB, provides all available pins from the ESP-12, and includes Reset and Flash buttons to facilitate development.
3. How do I program the ESP8266?🔽
The ESP8266 can be programmed in several ways, but the most popular is using the Arduino IDE. To do this, you need to add support for ESP8266 boards in the Arduino IDE's preferences by installing the ESP8266 board manager URL. After that, select the appropriate board (like NodeMCU or Generic ESP8266 Module) from "Tools > Board" and program it just as you would an Arduino.
4. What is the difference between the ESP-12E and the ESP-12F?🔽
The main difference between the ESP-12E and the ESP-12F lies in the antenna. The ESP-12F has an antenna with an optimized layout for better Wi-Fi signal performance. Both have 4MB of Flash memory and 11 available GPIOs, but the ESP-12F generally offers better connectivity in environments with a weak signal.
5. Can I use the ESP8266 with an Arduino?🔽
Yes! There are two main ways to use the ESP8266 with an Arduino: 1) By programming the ESP8266 directly using the Arduino IDE; 2) By using the ESP8266 as a "Wi-Fi modem" for an Arduino, connecting them via serial communication. In the second case, modules like the ESP-05 or ESP-10 are ideal, as they have no GPIOs and are designed specifically for this purpose.
6. What is the power consumption of the ESP8266?🔽
The power consumption of the ESP8266 varies depending on its mode of operation: in transmission (TX) it consumes approximately 170mA, in reception (RX) about 56mA, and in Deep Sleep mode only 10µA. This low consumption in sleep mode makes it ideal for battery-powered projects that need to operate for long periods.
🔗 Explore More Amazing Projects
Did you like this project? Then you'll love exploring other charger circuits we've prepared. Each with its own peculiarities and ideal applications!
📺 Complementary Video
Watch our video "ESP8266 vs. ESP32 vs. Arduino" to see in practice the performance differences and the best applications of each board.
🧾 Conclusion: Why the ESP8266 Continues to Be Relevant?
The ESP8266 revolutionized the world of microcontrollers by offering integrated Wi-Fi connectivity at an affordable cost. Its numerous applications, from home automation to IoT projects, have made it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals.
Even with the launch of the ESP32, the ESP8266 continues to be an excellent option for many projects, especially those that require low power consumption and reduced costs. Its active community, extensive documentation, and compatibility with the Arduino platform ensure its place in the IoT development ecosystem.
We hope this complete guide has helped you better understand the specifications, differences, and applications of the ESP8266. If you have any questions or would like to share your projects with ESP8266, leave a comment below!
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