Build a Compact and Portable DIY Bluetooth Speaker

Submitted by Vishnu S on

This DIY Bluetooth Speaker is a budget-friendly project that delivers clear wireless audio using affordable components. With the help of a DIY Bluetooth Speaker amplifier, the Bluetooth module sends the audio signal to the amplifier, which then provides the necessary power to drive the speakers. It can also be used for building a DIY Bluetooth portable speaker. The setup is simple, compact, and powerful for anyone looking to create their own portable speaker without spending a lot. It’s a fun and practical way to learn the basics of electronics.

If you’re interested in this type of project, there are also a few improved versions you can explore. One of them is Simple DIY Wireless Bluetooth Speakers Using an Audio Amplifier, which includes an upgraded amplifier and speaker setup to deliver noticeably better sound performance. Another is the Arduino Bluetooth Speaker with Reactive NeoPixel LEDs, an advanced version that integrates dynamic lighting effects using NeoPixel LEDs for a more interactive experience. These projects are built on the same core concept while adding new features to your DIY Bluetooth Speaker.

DIY Bluetooth Speaker Components Required

Building a DIY Bluetooth Speaker requires only a handful of essential DIY Bluetooth Speaker components. Below is a comprehensive list of everything you'll need for this project:

ComponentsDescription
JDY-62 Bluetooth ModuleBluetooth 4.2 audio module used to receive wireless audio signals.
PAM8403 AmplifierA 5V stereo amplifier that boosts the audio output for the speakers
2-Watt 8Ω SpeakersCompact speakers used to output the left and right audio channels.
WiresUsed for electrical connections between modules.
Soldering IronRequired to solder wire and ensure stable, long-lasting connections.
Essential components for building a DIY Bluetooth speaker including JDY-62 Bluetooth module, PAM8403 amplifier, speakers, and wiring materialsComplete hardware setup showing JDY-62 Bluetooth module, PAM8403 audio amplifier board, and 2-watt 8-ohm speakers for DIY Bluetooth speaker project

Understanding Component Pinouts for Your DIY Bluetooth Speaker

In order to successfully assemble a working DIY Bluetooth Speaker, it is important to have a sound understanding of the pinouts and connections of each component. Connecting a component in a circuit with the wrong polarity can sometimes damage the component or make the circuit unusable. Let’s examine each component in detail:

JDY-62 Bluetooth 4.2 Audio Module

The JDY-62 enables wireless audio streaming from your phone or device. It can be used for building DIY Bluetooth stereo speakers, handling the Bluetooth connection and sending the audio signal to the amplifier for wireless playback. It's ideal for building DIY Bluetooth stereo speakers, handling the Bluetooth connection and transmitting high-quality audio signals to the amplifier for wireless playback. 

JDY-62 Bluetooth 4.2 module pinout diagram showing VCC, GND, L OUT, and R OUT connections for DIY Bluetooth speaker wiring
Pin NameFunctionDescription
VCCPower SupplyConnect to +5V DC
GNDGroundConnect to ground.
L OUTLeft Audio OutputSends the left channel audio signal to the amplifier.
R OUTRight Audio OutputSends the right channel audio signal to the amplifier.

PAM8403 Stereo Audio Amplifier Board

The PAM8403 is a small, efficient audio amplifier that powers the speakers to produce clear sound. It can be used for creating a DIY Bluetooth Speaker amplifier, boosting the audio signal from the Bluetooth module so the speakers deliver crisp, high-quality sound. With its Class-D architecture, the PAM8403 operates efficiently with minimal heat generation, making it ideal for building a DIY Bluetooth portable speaker powered by batteries or USB power banks.

PAM8403 stereo amplifier module pinout showing VCC, GND, L IN, R IN, L OUT, R OUT connections for DIY Bluetooth speaker amplifier setup
Pin NameFunctionDescription
VCCPower SupplyConnect to +5V DC
GNDGroundConnect to ground.
L INLeft Audio InputConnect to the left output from the Bluetooth module.
R INRight Audio InputConnect to the right output from the Bluetooth module.
L OUTLeft Speaker OutputConnect to the left speaker terminals
R OUTRight Speaker OutputConnect to the right speaker terminals.

You can also build your own amplifier circuit. If you need some guidance, you can refer to projects like the Simple Arduino Audio Player and Amplifier with LM386 or the Simple Microphone to Speaker Amplifier Circuit.  These alternatives offer different power levels and features for customising your DIY Bluetooth stereo setup.

DIY Bluetooth Speaker Wiring Diagram and Circuit Connections

The DIY Bluetooth Speaker wiring diagram shows the connection between the JDY-62 Bluetooth 4.2 module, the PAM8403 audio amplifier, and the two 2W/8Ω speakers. Using the right DIY Bluetooth Speaker components, the Bluetooth module and amplifier share the same 5V power supply, while the left and right audio signals are routed directly from the JDY-62 to the corresponding inputs on the PAM8403. Each speaker is connected to the amplifier’s left and right outputs of the amplifier, enabling the stereo audio setup

Complete DIY Bluetooth speaker circuit diagram showing wiring connections between JDY-62 Bluetooth module, PAM8403 amplifier, speakers, and 5V power supply

Wiring Instructions

  • Wiring Power: Connect the 5V power supply positive terminal to the VCC pin on both the JDY-62 and PAM8403. Connect all GND pins to the negative terminal of the power supply.
  • Wiring the Audio Signal: Connect the L OUT on the JDY-62 to the L IN on the PAM8403. Connect the R OUT on the JDY-62 to the R IN on the PAM8403.
  • Wiring the Speakers: Connect the left speaker to the L OUT terminals on the PAM8403 (being sure to observe +/- polarity). Connect the right speaker to the R OUT terminals.
  • Wiring Quality Check: Use 22-24 AWG wire for connecting signals and 18-20 AWG for connecting the speakers. Solder all connections to keep them secure.
  • Optional Wiring: You can add a power switch or switch capable of turning the power off and on between the power supply and VCC, and you also have the possibility to wire a volume potentiometer on the amplifier if you prefer.

Operating Your DIY Bluetooth Speaker System

Once you've completed the wiring according to the DIY Bluetooth Speaker wiring diagram, powering on your device triggers automatic functionality. When powered on, the device instantly reconnects via Bluetooth if it has been paired with that device before. For a new device, you need to pair it manually. Just look for “JDY-62” in the available Bluetooth devices list. The indicator light confirms the connection status, while the speakers deliver clear, high-quality audio that’s ready to play immediately. This easy connection and good sound quality make it a reliable choice for anyone looking to enjoy wireless audio without any hassle. Many builders ask, "How to make a Bluetooth speaker louder DIY" after completing their initial build.

Building a DIY Bluetooth Speaker on a budget is an easy and fun way to enjoy wireless music while learning basic electronics. With simple components, you can create a portable, clear-sounding speaker without spending much, making it a perfect project for beginners and hobbyists.

Future Enhancement Techniques

1. Upgrade to a More Powerful Amplifier:  The PAM8403 is a good product for basic uses, but upgrading to a PAM8610 (10W per channel at 12V) or TDA7297 (15W per channel) will dramatically increase maximum volume. Because the power supply will need to deliver higher current, ensure that your power supply can comply with this. Higher wattage amplifiers require somewhat like 2-3A of power delivery. This is the single best upgrade for anyone asking how to make a Bluetooth speaker louder DIY.  
2. Source a Higher Wattage Speaker: If you replace the 2W speaker with either a 5W or 10W speaker, the amplifier will be able to deliver more acoustic power without distortion. Be sure to match the impedance (4Ω or 8Ω) of your speaker to your amp. Using larger speaker drivers (40mm-100mm diameter) will also provide better bass response and sound projection overall.
3. Make sure to use a proper power supply: Many of the volume problems are simply due to not getting adequate current. Use a supply rated at least 2A for PAM8403 and 3A or greater for any more powerful amp.  For any DIY Bluetooth portable speaker, you can consider a supply like hi-capacity power banks (10,000mAh+) or several 18650 Li-ion cells in series-parallel with charging circuit options.
4. Construct an Effective Enclosure for Speakers: An acoustic enclosure eliminates the issue of sound waves existing in the same space and from cancelling each other out. Enclosures also help to create stronger bass frequencies. An easy solution would be to create just a simple sealed box, which can increase perceived volume and sound quality quite a bit. Whatever the construction, make sure to measure the volume of the enclosure you want to create around your speaker specs. Most small drivers need 0.5-2 litres of enclosure volume, or whatever the manufacturer recommends. For the best results, use a dense material like MDF, plywood, or even solid hardwood.
5. Improve Connections of Components: Use thicker wiring (a reasonable range is 18-20 AWG) on speaker connections, as it acts as resistance to the speaker. Keep all wire runs short and clean, as clean solder joints are also valuable, as bad solder connections create signal loss and distortion. If your amplifier's integrated chip runs hot during long periods of use, add heat sinks.

Frequently Asked Questions on DIY Bluetooth Speaker Amplifier

⇥ 1. How does Bluetooth pairing work?
Once powered on, the JDY-62 module automatically enters pairing mode. It can connect to your smartphone, laptop, or any Bluetooth-enabled device. No additional configuration is required.

⇥ 2. Does it require any app or software to work?
No app is needed. It works as a standard Bluetooth audio device, so any device that supports Bluetooth audio can connect to it.

⇥ 3. Can I use different speakers?
Yes, but make sure the speaker matches the amplifier’s output. Using a higher power speaker without adjusting the circuit may damage the amplifier.

⇥ 4. How can I make my DIY Bluetooth speaker louder?
Use a more powerful amplifier, a larger speaker, provide stable power, and use short, thick wires to reduce signal loss.

In this post, we will build a Raspberry Pi-based Bluetooth Speaker by combining the power of A2DP, Linux, and an audio codec to stream data packets from an audio source to an audio sink wirelessly.

Creating a DIY Bluetooth Speaker is a fun and easy way to experience music wirelessly while learning basic electronic concepts. You can buy the components to make a basic DIY Bluetooth Speaker components less than $6 and build a portable speaker that sounds just as clear as expensive commercial speakers. Whether you make a basic desktop speaker or a more advanced DIY Bluetooth portable speaker that is battery-powered, the principles are the same. Your DIY Bluetooth stereo journey starts here—have fun building and enjoy your wireless music!

This tutorial was created by the CircuitDigest engineering team. Our experts focus on creating practical, hands-on tutorials that help makers and engineers master Raspberry Pi projects, Arduino projects, Electronic circuits and IoT development projects.

Similar DIY Speaker-Based Projects

Previously, we have used different types of speakers to build many interesting projects. If you want to know more about those projects, the links are given below.

How to Build an Amazon Alexa Speaker using Raspberry Pi

How to Build an Amazon Alexa Speaker using Raspberry Pi

In this tutorial, I will show you how to build your own DIY version of the Amazon Alexa by installing Alexa Voice Service (AVS) on a Raspberry Pi 4.

DIY ESP32 Based Audio Player

DIY ESP32-Based Audio Player

Here we use LM386 and a speaker with ESP32 to play music files. The audio output may not be loud, but this application shows the ability of the ESP32 board to play audio files.

ESP32 Based Internet Radio using MAX98357A I2S Amplifier Board

ESP32 Based Internet Radio using MAX98357A I2S Amplifier Board

To build our ESP32 web radio, we have chosen the ESP32 development board (obviously) and the MAX98357A I2S Amplifier board.

Raspberry Pi Bluetooth Speaker: Play Audio wirelessly using Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi Bluetooth Speaker: Play Audio wirelessly using Raspberry Pi

In this post, we will build a Raspberry Pi-based Bluetooth Speaker by fusing the power of A2DP, Linux and an audio codec to stream the data packets from an audio source to an audio sink wirelessly.

Have any question related to this Article?

How to Build a Raspberry Pi Wi-Fi Router with RaspAP

Submitted by Dharagesh on

Over the years, I’ve collected a few Raspberry Pi boards, my trusty Pi 4 and even an older Pi 3 that was gathering dust in a drawer. Instead of letting them sit unused, I decided to give them a new life by turning them into something surprisingly practical: a Raspberry Pi WiFi router with built-in ad-blocking capabilities.

With the help of RaspAP’s pre-built image, I managed to transform these little boards into wireless routers that not only share the internet but also strip out ads at the network level. That means every device I connect, laptops, phones, even smart TVs, enjoys cleaner, faster browsing. And because a Raspberry Pi can run off a simple power bank, it doubles as a portable travel router, perfect for hotel stays or road trips.

Now, if you prefer the hardcore way with OpenWrt, we’ve already covered how to run it on Raspberry Pi in another guide Turn your Raspberry Pi into a WiFi Router using OpenWrt. And if you’re someone who wants to dive deeper into the world of Raspberry Pi, you’ll find plenty more hands-on Raspberry Pi projects here on CircuitDigest. This guide is just one of many experiments we’ve done, and you can always find new ways to unlock more potential from your Pi. 

Why I Chose RaspAP Over OpenWrt for My Raspberry Pi Wireless Router

OpenWrt is a beast; it’s robust, battle-tested, and used in enterprise-grade routers. But when it comes to Raspberry Pi as router applications, it often feels like putting racing tyres on a bicycle. You can make it work, but you’ll spend hours tweaking.    

Comparison between RaspAP and OpenWrt for Raspberry Pi router setup showing user-friendly interface

RaspAP, on the other hand, feels like it was designed for the Pi. It has a clean, modern web interface, preconfigured settings, and beginner-friendly defaults. In short, OpenWrt is for networking experts, RaspAP is for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts who want results fast. The RaspAP setup process is straightforward, and you can have a functional Raspberry Pi WiFi hotspot with Ethernet connectivity running in under 30 minutes. For additional insights on network configuration, refer to this comprehensive tutorial on configuring a Raspberry Pi to share Wi-Fi through its Ethernet port.

Required Components for Raspberry Pi WiFi Router Project

Before we begin the RaspAP setup, let's gather everything you'll need to successfully turn Raspberry Pi into WiFi router:

Component

Details / Notes

Raspberry Pi

Works with Pi 3, Pi 4, or Pi 5. Pi 4/5 recommended for better performance.

MicroSD Card

Minimum 8GB, Class 10 or higher. Needed for flashing the RaspAP pre-built image.

Power Supply

Official Pi adapter (5V/3A for Pi 4, 5V/5A for Pi 5) to ensure stable operation.

Wi-Fi Adapter

Built-in Wi-Fi = wlan0. For dual setup, add a USB Wi-Fi dongle (wlan1).

Ethernet Cable

Optional if using Wi-Fi adapter but recommended. Provides stable internet input from your home router.

PC or Laptop

Used to download the RaspAP image and flash it to the microSD card.

USB Data Cable / Phone

Optional. Allows USB tethering to share mobile data with the Pi router.

Understanding Raspberry Pi WiFi Connection Interfaces

One thing that often confuses beginners when learning how to connect Raspberry Pi to WiFi router setup is the different network interfaces on the Raspberry Pi. Here’s how RaspAP organises for your Raspberry Pi WiFi router project:

Interface

Purpose

Example Use Case

wlan0

Built-in Wi-Fi adapter

Broadcasts your hotspot (default).

wlan1

External USB Wi-Fi dongle

Connect Pi to an upstream Wi-Fi while wlan0 serves clients.

eth0

Ethernet port

Connect Pi to your home router for internet sharing.

usb0

Smartphone connection via USB

Share your phone’s 4G/5G data with all devices through the Pi.

In my setup, I kept things simple: eth0 as the internet input, wlan0 as the output hotspot. But knowing you can add a second dongle or even tether your phone makes the Pi router far more versatile than I expected. This flexibility allows you to use your Pi as a RaspAP WiFi repeater or even a standalone portable router powered by mobile data.

Ad Blocking Capabilities

Google recently made life harder for traditional ad blockers like uBlock Origin by crippling their features in Chrome, which means YouTube ads sneak through again. But RaspAP blocks ads at the DNS level, meaning the requests for ad servers are killed before they ever reach your browser. This DNS-based approach works across all devices connected to your Raspberry Pi WiFi router, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, without requiring individual ad blocker installations.

⇒ Step 1: Flashing the RaspAP Pre-Built Image

I started by downloading the RaspAP pre-built image from their official GitHub page. It’s based on Raspberry Pi OS Lite but already configured with RaspAP installed. 

Downloading RaspAP pre-built image from GitHub for Raspberry Pi WiFi router setup

Using Raspberry Pi Imager, I selected “Use custom image,” pointed it to the file, and flashed it to a 16GB microSD card. The process took a few minutes, and then I slotted the card into my Pi 4 and powered it up.

Using Raspberry Pi Imager to flash RaspAP image for WiFi router setup

Within a couple of minutes, a new network appeared in my PC’s Wi-Fi scan list called RaspAP. This automatic network creation is one of the major advantages of using the pre-built image; no command line configuration is needed to get started with your Raspberry Pi wireless router.

RaspAP WiFi network appearing in available networks list after first boot

I connected to it using the default password ChangeMe, and just like that, I was connected to my brand-new Pi-powered Wi-Fi hotspot. No complex networking commands or terminal configurations required, this is what makes RaspAP ideal for those learning how to connect Raspberry Pi to WiFi router configuration.

⇒ Step 2: Accessing the RaspAP Dashboard

Once connected to the RaspAP network, I opened my browser and typed:

http://10.3.141.1

This brought up the RaspAP web interface. The default login was:

RaspAP web interface login screen for Raspberry Pi router administration

Username

admin

Password

secret

After logging in to complete the RaspAP setup, I was greeted by a sleek dashboard showing connected clients, bandwidth graphs, and hotspot controls. It honestly felt like I was using the interface of a commercial router, not a $35 single-board computer turned into a Raspberry Pi WiFi router.

RaspAP dashboard overview showing network statistics and connected devices

⇒ Step 3: Customising Your Raspberry Pi WiFi Hotspot Settings

By default, the hotspot is named RaspAP with the password ChangeMe. That’s fine for testing, but not something you’d want to leave running; anyone who knows the defaults could connect to it.

From the Hotspot settings page in the RaspAP dashboard, I made a few important changes for my Raspberry Pi wireless router:

SSID (Wi-Fi name):

I replaced RaspAP with something personal and easy to recognize. You can name it after your Pi, your project, or even just “HomePiRouter.”

WPA2 Password

I created a strong passphrase with at least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols. This is critical because WPA2 is only as secure as the password you set.

Wi-Fi Channel

I scanned for nearby networks and selected a channel with the least interference. Sticking to a less crowded channel improved both speed and reliability.

Country Code

Select the appropriate country code you live in.

Setting country code in RaspAP for regulatory compliance and optimal WiFi performanceCustomizing RaspAP WiFi settings including SSID and password for Raspberry Pi router

After saving the changes, RaspAP prompted me to reboot the hotspot. When the Pi came back online, my customised Wi-Fi network appeared in the scan list with the new name and settings. I reconnected with the new password, and everything worked smoothly. This completes the basic RaspAP setup for your Raspberry Pi WiFi router.

Successfully configured Raspberry Pi WiFi router with custom settings appearing in network list

⇒ Step 4: Setting Up DNS-Based Ad Blocking

One of the best features of RaspAP for your Raspberry Pi WiFi router project is its built-in DNS-based ad blocker. Unlike browser extensions, which only block ads on a single device, this works at the network level, meaning every device that connects to your Raspberry Pi wireless router gets ad-free browsing.

Enabling Network-Wide Ad Blocking

To activate ad blocking on your Raspberry Pi WiFi router, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to the RaspAP dashboard at http://10.3.141.1.
  2. From the left-hand menu, go to Ad Blocking.
  3. Toggle the switch to Enable Blocklists.
  4. Select a DNS blocklist Provider (the default works well, but you can add more if you want stronger filtering).
  5. Save the settings and reboot the Pi.
Enabling DNS-based ad blocking in RaspAP for network-wide advertisement filtering

After the reboot (which takes approximately 30-45 seconds), your Raspberry Pi WiFi router will act as both a router and a network-wide ad filter, blocking advertisements, tracking scripts, and malicious domains before they reach any connected device.

Testing the Ad Blocker

To confirm that the ad blocking is working properly on your Raspberry Pi wireless router, I performed several tests:

Testing ad blocker effectiveness on Raspberry Pi WiFi router with real-world websitesSuccessfully blocked advertisements using DNS filtering on Raspberry Pi router

Real-World Performance Testing: Raspberry Pi WiFi Router Speed Analysis

After completing the RaspAP setup, I wanted to benchmark how fast my Raspberry Pi WiFi router really performed compared to commercial routers. Here’s what I measured:

RaspAP diagnostics showing network speed and performance metricsWiFi speed test results for Raspberry Pi wireless router configurationComprehensive speed analysis of RaspAP-powered Raspberry Pi router

Not blazing fast compared to high-end WiFi 6 routers, but impressive considering this Raspberry Pi wireless router was running on a board the size of a credit card, with built-in ad blocking, and costing a fraction of commercial alternatives.

Advanced Features: Beyond Basic Routing

The more I explored the RaspAP dashboard, the more I realised my Raspberry Pi WiFi router wasn’t just a simple hotspot manager; it had a full set of features you’d normally expect from a commercial router. Here are some of the highlights I tested:

→ VPN Support for Secure Connections: RaspAP integrates with both OpenVPN and WireGuard, letting you route all network traffic through a VPN server. This is useful if you want to secure devices that don’t natively support VPNs, like smart TVs or IoT gadgets. For travel, this feature is especially handy; you can connect your Pi to hotel Wi-Fi and automatically tunnel all your traffic through your home VPN, like smart TVs, gaming consoles, or IoT gadgets, by connecting them to your Raspberry Pi WiFi router.    

WireGuard VPN configuration in RaspAP for secure Raspberry Pi router connections

For travel scenarios, this feature is especially handy: you can connect your Raspberry Pi WiFi hotspot with Ethernet to hotel Wi-Fi and automatically tunnel all your traffic through your home VPN, creating a secure network wherever you go. This transforms your Pi into a true portable RaspAP WiFi repeater with VPN capabilities
→ Bandwidth Monitoring and Traffic Analysis: The dashboard includes real-time traffic graphs and per-device usage statistics. I could instantly see which devices were using the most bandwidth on my Raspberry Pi wireless router, which is useful if your network feels slow and you suspect one device is hogging the connection.
→ Firewall & Port Forwarding Configuration: RaspAP gives you a web interface for firewall rules, making it possible to block certain devices, restrict traffic types, or expose a local service to the outside world. For example, you could configure port forwarding on your Raspberry Pi WiFi router to make your Pi's web server or home automation system accessible remotely while maintaining security.
→ Bridged vs Routed Network Modes: By default, the Pi works in routed mode, acting as a proper NAT router. But switching to bridged mode allows your Raspberry Pi WiFi router to extend an existing network without creating a new subnet. This flexibility means you can choose between a fully independent Pi-based router or a transparent RaspAP WiFi repeater, depending on your specific networking needs.

What impressed me most was how scalable this Raspberry Pi WiFi router project feels. For a small home lab, a travel router, or even a secondary network at home, RaspAP offers enough features to experiment with advanced networking while still being beginner-friendly.

How to Connect Raspberry Pi to WiFi Router via Command Line

While RaspAP provides an excellent web interface, you may occasionally need to connect Raspberry Pi to WiFi command line for troubleshooting or advanced configuration.  These commands are particularly useful when setting up your Raspberry Pi wireless router in headless mode (without monitor/keyboard) or when troubleshooting connectivity issues remotely via SSH.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raspberry Pi WiFi Router Setup & Troubleshooting

⇥ 1. Can I use Raspberry Pi 3 or Raspberry Pi 5 with RaspAP?
Yes. RaspAP works across Pi 3, 4, and 5. The Pi 3 is slower and best for light use, while the Pi 5 delivers speeds close to budget consumer routers.

⇥ 2. What are the default login details for RaspAP?

Wi-Fi SSID

RaspAP

Wi-Fi Password

ChangeMe

Web UI Login: Username

admin

Web UI Login: Password

secret

⇥ 3. Why don’t I see the Wi-Fi hotspot (raspi-webgui) after the first boot?
Make sure your Pi’s built-in Wi-Fi is not blocked. On some models, you may need to run:

sudo rfkill unblock wifi

Then reboot. If you’re using a Pi 3, check that the microSD image flashed properly.

⇥ 4. My Pi connects, but I don’t get internet on devices. What’s wrong?
Check the uplink interface (the source of the internet):

eth0

make sure your Ethernet cable is plugged into your home router.

wlan1 or USB tethering

confirm that the Pi itself can access the internet before sharing it.

⇥ 5. How many devices can RaspAP handle at once?
It depends on your Pi model and internet source:

Pi 3

~5 devices max before speed suffers.

Pi 4

10–12 devices comfortably.

Pi 5

15+ devices with good speeds

⇥ 6. Does RaspAP really block YouTube ads?
Yes, but not in the same way as browser extensions. Since ad-blocking happens at the DNS level, it prevents connections to known ad servers. This works on TVs, phones, and tablets too. It won’t block every single YouTube ad (since some are served from the same domains as content), but it cuts out most ads better than today’s crippled browser-based blockers.

⇥ 7. Can I replace my main home router with RaspAP?
Technically, yes, but keep expectations realistic. A Pi 4 or Pi 5 can handle small households, but for gigabit internet and 20+ devices, you’ll want a dedicated router. RaspAP is best as a travel router, learning project, or secondary network.

⇥ 8. I forgot the web dashboard password. How do I reset it?
SSH into your Pi and run:

sudo htpasswd /etc/raspap/raspap.auth admin

Then set a new password for the admin user.

⇥ 9. My Wi-Fi speed is slow compared to my main router. Why?
Remember, the Raspberry Pi’s Wi-Fi hardware is mid-range. For better speeds:
Use a Pi 5 with an external USB Wi-Fi dongle.
Stick to 5 GHz instead of 2.4 GHz if your devices support it.
Keep your Pi in an open space to avoid interference.

⇥ 10. Why not just use OpenWrt instead of RaspAP?
You can, but OpenWrt on Pi requires more manual tweaking and isn’t as beginner-friendly. RaspAP is built specifically for Raspberry Pi, with plug-and-play defaults, a modern dashboard, and extras like built-in ad-blocking.

Conclusion: Breathing New Life Into Your Raspberry Pi

By the end of this project, my Raspberry Pi wifi router project had gone from sitting idle on my desk to running as a mini router with DNS-based ad blocking, and even VPN support. All of this came together with very little effort thanks to the RaspAP pre-built image, which saved me from complicated manual configurations.

OpenWrt indeed remains the heavyweight option for dedicated routers, especially for advanced networking scenarios. But when it comes to Raspberry Pi as router applications, RaspAP delivers the perfect middle ground, powerful enough to give you features like WireGuard, bandwidth monitoring, and ad-blocking, yet simple enough to set up in under an hour.

For me, this Raspberry Pi wireless router project wasn’t just about speed or features; it was about breathing new life into old Pi boards and turning them into something useful again. Whether as a home lab experiment, a portable travel router, or a secondary Wi-Fi network, the RaspAP WiFi repeater makes the Raspberry Pi shine in a whole new role.

If you’re a hobbyist, a student learning networking, or simply someone curious about pushing your Pi further, this Raspberry Pi wifi router project is rewarding, practical, and a great way to explore the potential of open-source tools on affordable hardware 

Projects using Raspberry Pi

Previously, we have used Raspberry Pi to build many interesting projects. If you want to know more about those topics, links are given below.

How to Install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi Devices

How to Install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi Devices

Learn how to install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 and Pi 5. Step-by-step tutorial with WoR setup, UEFI configuration, and performance tips for 2025.

How to Boot Raspberry Pi from USB without SD Card

How to Boot Raspberry Pi from USB without SD Card

Learn how to boot a Raspberry Pi from USB without using an SD card. This step-by-step guide covers Raspberry Pi 3, 4, and 5 models, helping you improve system reliability and performance.

How to Set a Static IP on Raspberry Pi?

How to Set a Static IP on Raspberry Pi?

Learn how to set a static IP on Raspberry Pi using NetworkManager (nmcli) and GUI methods. Complete step-by-step guide for Raspberry Pi OS Bookworm with screenshots and troubleshooting tips.

Have any question related to this Article?

How to Install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi Devices

Submitted by Dharagesh on

If you’ve tinkered with Raspberry Pi boards for a while, you probably know the default choice: Raspberry Pi OS. It’s lightweight, optimised, and works flawlessly for most DIY projects. But what if you could install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi? That's exactly what I accomplished on my Raspberry Pi 4 and later on the Pi 5 and Pi 3.

That’s exactly what I set out to do on my Raspberry Pi 4 and later on other models like the Pi 5 and Pi 3. Spoiler: it’s not as smooth as running Raspberry Pi OS, but it’s an exciting experiment that transforms your Pi into a tiny Windows PC. In this comprehensive guide, I'll share my complete journey of running Windows 11 ARM on Raspberry Pi using the Windows on Raspberry (WoR) project.

You'll learn everything about Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 performance, Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 5 setup, and how Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11 performance compares to older models. Discover a wide range of creative and practical electronics projects on CircuitDigest, including detailed guides for the Raspberry Pi Pico and Raspberry Pi Zero projects and tutorials, perfect for beginners and hobbyists looking to explore embedded systems and IoT applications.

And if you’re someone who wants to dive deeper into the world of Raspberry Pi, whether it’s automation, IoT, robotics, or DIY electronics, you’ll find plenty more hands-on Raspberry Pi tutorials and projects here on Circuit Digest. This Windows 11 installation guide represents just one of many ways to unlock your Pi's potential.

Why Install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi?

At first, I asked myself the same question. Raspberry Pi OS is fast, stable, and built specifically for the hardware, while Windows 11 is known to be a resource-hungry operating system. Why attempt Windows 11 Raspberry Pi installation at all?

Well, after diving into the project, I realised there are several good reasons to give it a try:

  • Familiar Interface: For many of us, Windows feels like home. If you’re used to the Start menu, File Explorer, and the Microsoft ecosystem, running Windows 11 on Pi makes the transition from a traditional PC to a single-board computer much easier.
  • Windows Software Access: While not everything works, some ARM64-native Windows apps do run. I was able to launch Office tools like Word and Excel, browse with Edge, and even test out lightweight developer tools without needing Linux equivalents. 
  • Experimentation & Learning: This was the biggest reason for me. Running Windows on hardware it was never meant for is like solving a fun puzzle. You learn about ARM architecture, UEFI firmware, and how operating systems boot under the hood.
  • Remote Management with Microsoft Tools: If you’re already working in a Windows environment, things like PowerShell, Remote Desktop, and Microsoft’s developer utilities integrate more seamlessly compared to Linux.
  • A Budget-Friendly Testbed: Raspberry Pi is cheap compared to buying an ARM laptop or Surface device. By running Windows 11 on Pi, I could test ARM-based Windows apps in a low-cost environment before moving them to more powerful hardware.
  • Show-Off Factor: Let’s be honest, there’s something cool about pointing at your tiny Raspberry Pi board and saying: “Yep, that’s Windows 11 running right there.” It’s a perfect conversation starter for tech meetups or classroom demos.
  • Expanding Project Possibilities: Some robotics and electronics engineers may prefer working in Windows. Running it on Pi means you can still connect to GPIO, USB devices, and other interfaces while coding or debugging in a familiar environment.

After completing the installation and testing Windows 11 ARM on Raspberry Pi across multiple models, I discovered several compelling reasons:

Benefits of Running Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

BenefitDescriptionBest For
Familiar InterfaceWindows Start menu, File Explorer, and Microsoft ecosystem make transitioning from traditional PCs seamless for users unfamiliar with LinuxWindows users
Windows ARM SoftwareAccess to ARM64-native Windows apps including Office 365, Edge browser, and lightweight development tools without Linux alternativesProductivity tasks
Learning ExperienceDeep dive into ARM architecture, UEFI firmware, and operating system boot processes—perfect for understanding Windows internalsEducation
Remote ManagementPowerShell, Remote Desktop, and Microsoft developer utilities integrate seamlessly for Windows-centric workflowsIT professionals
Budget Testing PlatformTest ARM-based Windows applications in a low-cost environment before investing in expensive ARM laptops or Surface devicesDevelopers
Demonstration ValueImpressive conversation starter for tech meetups, classroom demonstrations, and showcasing technical capabilitiesEducators, makers

Even though Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi isn't officially supported and comes with trade-offs, the learning experience and experimentation possibilities make it worthwhile for curious makers and developers.

What You Need to Install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

Before you begin the Windows 11 Raspberry Pi installation process, gather the necessary hardware and software. Requirements differ slightly between Raspberry Pi 4 and Pi 5 models.

Windows 11 Raspberry Pi Compatibility

Raspberry Pi ModelMinimum RAMRecommended RAMPerformance RatingBest Use Case
Raspberry Pi 31GBN/A (Slow)Testing only
Raspberry Pi 42GB4GB-8GB(Moderate)Light tasks, browsing
Raspberry Pi 54GB8GB(Good)Office apps, development

Hardware Requirements for Raspberry Pi 4 and Pi 3

Components Quantity

Raspberry Pi board (minimum 2GB RAM, but 4GB is better)

1

MicroSD card (32GB or higher, but an SSD via USB is highly recommended)

1

USB keyboard, mouse, and HDMI display

1

Ethernet adapter or USB Cable (Tethering)

1

Windows PC (Flash and prepare everything)

1

Additional Requirements for Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11

However, setting up Windows 11 on a Raspberry Pi 5 board requires two separate storage devices,

ComponentQuantityPurpose
Raspberry Pi 5 board14GB or 8GB RAM for optimal Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11 performance
1GB+ microSD card1To hold UEFI firmware files (separate from Windows storage)
External USB SSD164GB+ for Windows 11 ARM installation (faster than microSD)
Same peripherals as Pi 4Keyboard, mouse, HDMI display, network adapter

Download Windows 11 ARM64 for Raspberry Pi

Unlike installing Windows on a standard PC, you can’t just grab any ISO from Microsoft’s website. For Raspberry Pi, we need the ARM64 build of Windows 11. Instead of the UUP dump, I used the official ESD Image Downloader from the Windows on Raspberry (WoR) project, which makes the process much simpler and more reliable. To install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi, you need the ARM64 build. I used the official ESD Image Downloader from the Windows on Raspberry (WoR) project, which simplifies the process significantly compared to UUP dump methods.
Here’s how I did it:

Step 1:  How to Download Windows 11 ARM for Raspberry Pi

1. Open your browser and go to the WoR ESD download page.

2. In the Version dropdown, select the latest stable release of Windows 11.

Windows 11 ARM64 ESD Image Downloader showing version, build, architecture and edition selection for Raspberry Pi installation

3. In the Build menu, choose the build you want to install. For me I picked the stable build so I could get the reliable features and security patches.
4. Under Architecture, select ARM64. This is very important; if you choose x64 or x86, it won’t run on Raspberry Pi.

Selecting ARM64 architecture in Windows 11 ESD downloader for Raspberry Pi 4 and Pi 5 compatibility

5. Next, pick the Edition you prefer. For example:

  • Client: Windows 11 Home or Pro
  • Education or Enterprise editions, if you want more features

I went with Windows 11 Home (Client)  ARM64 for testing.

Selecting Windows 11 Home Client ARM64 edition for Raspberry Pi installation

6. Finally, choose your Language (I picked English (United States), but you can pick whichever suits you).

7. After making all these selections, click Download. The tool will fetch the official Windows files directly from Microsoft’s servers and create an ESD package for you.

Downloading Windows 11 ARM64 ESD package from Microsoft servers for Raspberry Pi installation

8. Once downloaded, you can add the ESD file to the WoR Imager in the next step.

At the end of this process, I had a clean, ARM64-compatible Windows 11 image sitting on my PC, ready to flash onto the Raspberry Pi.

Step 2: Install Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi Using WoR Imager

Once I had the Windows 11 ARM64 ESD image ready, the next challenge was to actually get it onto the Raspberry Pi. This is where the WoR Imager tool (Windows on Raspberry Pi Imager) comes in. Think of it as the bridge between the Windows image on your PC and your Raspberry Pi’s storage device.

Here’s exactly how I went through it:

Complete WoR Installation Process

1. First, I downloaded the Windows on Raspberry Pi Imager from the official WoR Project Downloads page.

Downloading Windows on Raspberry Imager tool for installing Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

2. After extracting the ZIP file, I right-clicked on WoR.exe and selected Run as Administrator.

Running WoR Imager as administrator to install Windows 11 ARM on Raspberry Pi

3. The Welcome screen of WoR Imager popped up. I clicked Next to begin.

WoR Imager welcome screen for Windows 11 Raspberry Pi installation setup

4. On the next screen, WoR asked me to select the storage device.

  • For my Raspberry Pi 4, I used a 64GB microSD card.
  • For my Raspberry Pi 5, I chose an external SSD (recommended for speed).

Selecting storage device (microSD or SSD) for Windows 11 installation on Raspberry Pi

5. After picking the storage, I had to select the device type (Raspberry Pi model).

  • If you’re on Pi 4:  Select Raspberry Pi 4/400.

  • If you’re on Pi 5:  Here’s the trick: you actually need to choose the Raspberry Pi 2/3 option. Choosing Pi 4/400 results in an ACPI BIOS error when booting.

Selecting correct Raspberry Pi device type in WoR Imager for Windows 11 ARM installation

6. Next, WoR asked for the Image file. I clicked the (browse) button and pointed it to the Windows 11 ARM64 ESD/ISO I downloaded earlier.
7. The tool then let me pick which edition of Windows 11 I wanted to install (Home, Pro, etc.). I selected Windows 11 Pro ARM64 for additional features.

Selecting Windows 11 Pro edition for Raspberry Pi ARM installation in WoR Imager

8. WoR then displayed an Installation Overview with my selections, device type, storage device, and image file location. After confirming, I clicked Install, and it prepared the storage device by partitioning, copying files, and setting up the UEFI bootloader.

WoR Imager installation overview showing all settings before flashing Windows 11 to Raspberry Pi
9. Depending on your PC and storage speed, this process can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. I let it run, grabbed a coffee, and came back to see the success message.

WoR Imager progress screen showing Windows 11 ARM installation process on Raspberry Pi storageWoR Imager success screen after completing Windows 11 ARM installation on Raspberry Pi
10. When it was finished, I hit Finish and safely ejected the storage device.

At this stage, my Raspberry Pi storage (microSD/SSD) had Windows 11 ARM fully installed on it. For Raspberry Pi 4 users, you can skip ahead to the boot section. But for Raspberry Pi 5 owners, there’s one extra step: setting up UEFI firmware (which I’ll cover in Step 3). Your Raspberry Pi storage now contains a complete Windows 11 ARM installation. 

Step 3: Configure UEFI Firmware for Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11

If you’re using a Raspberry Pi 4 or 3, you can skip this step completely. But when I moved to my Raspberry Pi 5, I quickly discovered that things weren’t as straightforward.

The issue is that the WoR installer doesn’t officially support the Pi 5 yet. If you try to boot Windows directly after flashing it with WoR, you’ll most likely be greeted with an ACPI BIOS error and a frozen boot screen. That’s where the UEFI firmware workaround comes in. When testing Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 5, I encountered a significant obstacle: the WoR installer doesn't officially support Pi 5 yet.

Why Raspberry Pi 5 Needs UEFI Firmware

Here’s how I handled it:

  1. I downloaded the latest Raspberry Pi 5 UEFI firmware package from its official GitHub release page. This is a small collection of boot files that essentially act as a translator, letting the Pi 5 understand how to load Windows 11.
  2. I grabbed a spare microSD card (at least 1GB) and formatted it to FAT32 using Windows’ built-in format tool.
  3. Once the card was ready, I extracted all the UEFI files from the GitHub download and copied them straight onto the root of the microSD card. 
  4. With that done, I inserted the microSD card into the Raspberry Pi 5. This card now acts like a custom BIOS chip, giving the Pi the extra instructions it needs to boot into Windows.
  5. Finally, I connected my external SSD (where I had flashed Windows 11 earlier using WoR) and powered on the Pi 5. This time, instead of the dreaded ACPI error, the UEFI firmware initialised correctly and handed things over to the Windows installer.

The setup is more complex than Pi 4, but it's currently the only way to achieve Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11 performance testing until WoR adds official Pi 5 support.

Technical Note: The microSD card must remain inserted permanently for Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11 installations. 

Before installing Windows 11 on a Raspberry Pi 4, there’s one extra step I highly recommend if you’re using a Raspberry Pi 4 or Raspberry Pi 3. Before installing Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 or Pi 3, I strongly recommend updating the bootloader firmware. Updating the bootloader ensures that your Pi can boot cleanly from microSD cards or even from USB drives without weird glitches.

Bootloader Update Process

Here’s what I did:

1. On my Windows PC, I downloaded and launched the Raspberry Pi Imager and selected the board type.

Selecting Raspberry Pi board model in Raspberry Pi Imager for bootloader update

2. I clicked on Choose OS, then scrolled down to Misc utility images → Bootloader.

Navigating to misc utility images in Raspberry Pi Imager for bootloader selectionSelecting bootloader utility in Raspberry Pi Imager for firmware update

3. From there, I picked the boot mode I wanted:

  • SD card boot: If you plan to run Windows 11 from a microSD card.
  • USB boot: If you’re using an external SSD or USB flash drive (which I recommend for performance).

Selecting SD card boot or USB boot mode for Raspberry Pi bootloader update

4. Then I clicked on Choose Storage and selected my microSD card (just a small one is fine, 1GB+ is enough).
5. Finally, I hit Write to flash the new bootloader to the card.

Flashing bootloader update to microSD card for Raspberry Pi firmware update

6. Once the process finished, I inserted the card into my Pi, plugged in the power, and waited.

  • First, the green ACT LED on the board blinked rapidly.

  • Then, the screen connected to my Pi turned solid green; this is the Pi’s way of telling you the bootloader update was successful.

Raspberry pi Boot loader working demonstration

7. After seeing the green screen, I shut down the Pi, removed the bootloader card, and set it aside. Now my Pi was running the latest boot firmware, ready for Windows 11. Your Raspberry Pi now runs the latest boot firmware optimised for Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 installations.

Step 5: Boot Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

This was the moment I had been waiting for: actually seeing Windows 11 come to life on my Raspberry Pi. After hours of downloading, flashing, and preparing firmware, it was finally time to plug everything in and hit the power button. This is the exciting moment of actually seeing Windows 11 ARM on Raspberry Pi boot for the first time. 

Insert the storage devices 

Raspberry Pi 4/3

I just inserted the microSD card (or SSD if you used one) with Windows 11 flashed WoR.

Raspberry Pi 5

I inserted both: the microSD card with the UEFI firmware and the external SSD containing Windows 11.

First boot screen: When I powered on the Pi, I saw the WoR/UEFI splash screen appear. On the Pi, it took a few extra seconds for the UEFI firmware to initialise, but eventually the Windows installer kicked in.

WoR UEFI splash screen showing during first boot of Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

 

Raspberry Pi booting Windows 11 ARM with Windows logo and loading animation

Region selection: The Windows installer asked me to choose my region. I picked India, but you can select your country/region from the list.

Windows 11 setup on Raspberry Pi showing region selection screen

Keyboard layout: Next, it asked for a keyboard layout. I went with the US Keyboard, but you can add a layout if needed.

Network connection & Microsoft Account sign-in (…or not): Now, here’s where things got interesting. By default, Microsoft really wants you to sign in with a Microsoft account and stay connected to the internet during setup. They’ve been pushing this more and more in Windows 11, and on a Raspberry Pi, where networking is already a bit tricky, it feels like a roadblock designed just to test your patience. However, for Windows 11 Raspberry Pi installations where networking can be tricky, there's a workaround. Once you have network connectivity, you might want to configure a static IP address on your Raspberry Pi for stable remote access and development work. For comparison, see how Android performs on Raspberry Pi using emteria.OS—another alternative operating system experiment worth exploring.

Windows 11 network connection screen during Raspberry Pi setup with bypass option available

At first, I connected my phone for USB tethering and did it the “official” way, just like Microsoft intended. But then I thought: “Wait, this is a Raspberry Pi project… Do we really need to play by Microsoft’s rules?” Turns out, you don’t!

Here’s the fun workaround:

1. When you’re stuck at the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen, press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. This opens a secret Command Prompt window during the setup process. Yes, right in the middle of Windows Setup.

Command Prompt window opened with Shift+F10 during Windows 11 Raspberry Pi setup for bypassing Microsoft account

2. Type the following command and hit Enter:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

3. The system will restart once, and when you’re back, voilà, there’s now an option to create a local account without needing any internet connection.

Windows 11 setup showing local account option after bypassing network requirement on Raspberry Pi

It’s almost like pulling the curtain back on Microsoft’s little magic trick. They try so hard to push you online, but one tiny command lets you skip the whole charade. Honestly, it felt like discovering a cheat code in a video game.

Windows 11 device setup screen after successfully bypassing network requirement on Raspberry Pi

So whether you want to do it the “proper Microsoft way” (sign in with a Microsoft account and sync everything) or take the shortcut to a good old-fashioned local account, the choice is yours. I personally went with the bypass; it just felt more “Raspberry Pi hacker style.”

Privacy and personalisation options: The installer walked me through several toggles: location settings, data sharing, diagnostics, etc. I disabled most of them to save resources. Then it tried to upsell me on Microsoft 365 and Game Pass, and I skipped those, too. I disabled most options to conserve Raspberry Pi resources and improve Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 performance.

Windows 11 privacy settings configuration during Raspberry Pi first-time setup

First reboot: After completing all the setup steps, the Pi restarted once more. This time, instead of the installer, the Windows 11 desktop appeared in all its glory. The system even popped up a message saying it created a temporary paging file, which is normal on ARM devices.

Windows 11 preparing your desktop screen during final setup stage on Raspberry PiWindows 11 desktop successfully running on Raspberry Pi showing Start menu and taskbar

And there it was, Windows 11 running on a Raspberry Pi. Seeing the Start menu open on a tiny single-board computer honestly felt surreal. Sure, it wasn’t blazing fast, but it worked. I was able to launch Edge, browse the web, and even type this article draft from within Windows 11 on my Pi. While Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11 performance isn't blazing fast, it's functional enough for web browsing, Office applications, and light development work.

Reboot Pi Win 11 working demonstration

Limitations of Running Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

While installing Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi is technically possible and educational, it's important to understand the significant limitations before committing time to this project. 

Raspberry Pi running Windows 11 with USB ethernet adapter showing WiFi limitation workaround

Onboard WiFi

The only thing missing was WiFi, since the chip’s OEM never released Windows ARM drivers. I used a USB-Ethernet adapter or phone tethering instead.

GPIO Pins

Don’t expect to run robotics or electronics projects that rely on GPIO. Windows on Raspberry doesn’t expose these like Raspberry Pi OS does.

HDMI Audio

No sound over HDMI. I had to use a 3.5mm audio jack workaround.

PCIe / Fan Control (Pi 5)

Features like the fan header and PCIe slot weren’t recognized. Still waiting on proper drivers.

Performance Hiccups

Heavy apps like Photoshop (ARM test build) or Visual Studio were either sluggish or crashed outright. Stick to lightweight tools.

For projects requiring GPIO functionality, consider these alternatives: Controlling Raspberry Pi GPIO using MQTT Cloud or getting started with Raspberry Pi for full hardware access.

Pi 4 vs Pi 5 - The Real Difference

On the Raspberry Pi 4 (2GB), Windows felt more like a proof-of-concept. It worked, but you constantly hit memory limits, freezing, and slowdowns. Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend using 2GB unless you’re doing this just for fun. A 4GB or 8GB Pi 4 would perform better.

On the Raspberry Pi 5, the experience was dramatically better. Faster boot, smoother browsing, and fewer hangs. Still not “daily driver” level, but at least usable. With 4GB or 8GB RAM, Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 becomes moderately usable.

Windows 11 Raspberry Pi Performance: Pi 4 vs Pi 5 Comparison

After testing Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 and Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 5, the performance differences are substantial. Here's my real-world comparison based on extensive hands-on testing. Raspberry Pi 5 Windows 11 performance represents a significant leap forward. The Pi 5's improved CPU, faster memory, and better I/O make Windows 11 genuinely usable for everyday tasks.

MetricRaspberry Pi 4 (2GB)Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB)Raspberry Pi 5 (8GB)
Boot Time (Cold Start)5-6 minutes4-5 minutes1.5-2 minutes
Desktop Responsiveness(Laggy)(Moderate) (Smooth)
Microsoft Edge Launch15-20 seconds10-12 seconds5-7 seconds
Web Browsing (3-5 tabs)Frequent freezingUsable, occasional lagGenerally smooth
Office Apps (Word/Excel)Not recommendedLight documents onlyWorks well
Video Playback (720p)StutteringPlayable with dropsSmooth
Multitasking CapabilityVery limited2-3 apps max5-6 apps comfortably
Overall UsabilityProof-of-concept onlyLight tasks acceptableActually usable

Frequently Asked Questions About Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

⇥ 1. Can I run Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 3?
Yes, but it’s painfully slow. A Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 with at least 4GB RAM is highly recommended for usable performance.

⇥ 2. Do I really need to update the bootloader?
Not always, but if you’re on Pi 3 or Pi 4 and your board refuses to boot Windows, updating the bootloader with Raspberry Pi Imager usually fixes it.

⇥ 3. Why doesn’t WiFi work on Windows 11 for Raspberry Pi?
Because the WiFi chip manufacturer never released Windows ARM drivers. Without those, Windows simply can’t talk to the onboard WiFi hardware. Use a USB-Ethernet adapter or phone tethering instead.

⇥ 4. My Pi 5 shows an ACPI BIOS error when booting. What should I do?
That happens if you select the wrong device type in WoR. For Pi 5, always select Raspberry Pi 2/3 in WoR Imager and use the UEFI firmware microSD workaround.

⇥ 5. Can I create a local account instead of using a Microsoft account?
Yes! When stuck at the “Connect to network” screen, press Shift + F10, then type on CMD:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

Hit Enter, and Windows will restart with the option to create a local account, no Microsoft account required.

⇥ 6. Why does my Pi take so long to boot Windows 11?
That’s normal. Windows 11 is heavy compared to Raspberry Pi OS. Expect around 4-5 minutes on Pi 4 and under 2 minutes on Pi 5.

⇥ 7. Can I use GPIO pins or other Pi hardware in Windows 11?
Not really. Windows doesn’t have drivers or APIs for Raspberry Pi GPIO. If GPIO access is critical, stick with Raspberry Pi OS or Linux.

⇥ 8. Which storage is best: microSD or SSD?
Windows 11 runs much faster from an SSD connected via USB 3. A microSD will work, but expect slower performance and longer boot times. 

Final Thoughts

Running Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 is like strapping a jet engine onto a bicycle. It works, but it’s clunky, quirky, and not officially supported. Still, it’s one of the most satisfying Pi experiments I’ve done. It’s not the smoothest ride, but if you’re a tinkerer like me, the process itself is worth it. The WoR team has made the impossible possible, and now you can show off Windows 11 running on a credit-card-sized board. To learn how to set up and configure your device, explore this comprehensive tutorial on installing Windows 10 IoT Core on Raspberry Pi.

I tested Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi 5 for a long period of time. Here are my humble thoughts: it's an interesting way to "experiment" and learn about things like ARM architecture, operating systems, and hardware restrictions; however, it's not intended to be a daily driver replacement for Raspberry Pi OS.

This tutorial was created by the Circuit Digest engineering team. Our experts focus on creating practical, hands-on tutorials that help makers and engineers master Raspberry Pi  Projects, Arduino projects, and IoT development projects.

I hope you liked this article and learned something new from it. Share your Windows 11 Raspberry Pi journey in the comments below or use our Circuit Digest forum for a detailed discussion.

Would I use this daily? Probably not. But as a weekend project? Absolutely.

If you try this out, let me know how it went for you. I’d love to hear if you hit the same quirks or discovered new workarounds. 

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How to Use Height Hold Mode in LiteWing ESP32 Drone?

Flying a drone manually requires constant attention to throttle control. One moment of distraction and your drone either crashes into the ground or flies away into the ceiling. If you're building your LiteWing from scratch, check out our detailed step-by-step LiteWing assembly guide to get started with your build.  This is where Drone height hold mode becomes a game-changer for drone pilots of all skill levels. Height hold drone automatically maintains your drone at a specific height, letting you focus on horizontal movement while the flight controller handles the vertical stability.

LiteWing drone demonstrating height hold mode with automatic altitude control and hovering stability

The LiteWing drone, an open-source ESP32-powered drone that evolved from our popular DIY WiFi-controlled drone project, makes implementing altitude hold mode drone surprisingly straightforward. Unlike expensive commercial drones that come with this feature built in, height hold mode in LiteWing allows you to understand and build this functionality yourself. In this tutorial, we'll walk you through adding height hold capability to your LiteWing using the VL53L1X Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor using both the cfclient software and our updated LiteWing mobile App. The LiteWing includes dedicated solder pads on the bottom side of the PCB frame to attach the off-the-shelf VL53L1X module directly.

LiteWing VL53L1X Solder pad GIF

This laser-ranging sensor provides millimetre-accurate distance measurements up to 4 meters, making it perfect for indoor flight applications and precise altitude control drone operations. The VL53L1X communicates over I2C and integrates seamlessly with LiteWing's existing flight control firmware. Once connected, the sensor continuously measures the distance to the ground, and the flight controller uses this data to adjust motor speeds and maintain your desired height automatically.

Comparison chart showing manual drone control vs automated height hold mode with altitude stabilisation

 

Manual Control vs Height Hold Mode

FeatureManual ControlHeight Hold Mode
Throttle ManagementConstant pilot input requiredAutomatic altitude maintenance
Skill Level RequiredIntermediate to advancedBeginner-friendly
StabilityDepends on pilot skillConsistent hovering height
Battery EfficiencyVariable (pilot-dependent)Optimized for longer flight time
Best Use CaseAcrobatic flying, racingAerial photography, surveying, learning

What is Height Hold Mode in Drones?

Height hold mode will convert your drone from being operated manually on your behalf to an autonomous height-holding platform. This mode uses multiple sensors along with advanced algorithms to hold a set height without input from the user, which is necessary for reliable operations.

The Significance of Height Hold:

  • Hands-free hover: Can maintain an altitude and gives the operator the ability to concentrate on video capture or avoiding obstacles.
  • Decreased workload: Relieves the pilot from frequent throttle control, particularly important for less experienced pilots.
  • More time in the air: Allows for optimal performance of the motors to gain more time in the air by not using unnecessary power to gain or lose height.
  • Increased safety: Prevents unintended loss of controlled altitude that could cause a crash or fly-away.
  • Better Aerial Photography: A stable platform allows for smoother video and pictures, and will produce higher quality.
  • Increased accuracy: A must for indoor pilots and for inspection work and confined spaces.

How Height Hold Mode Works

Height hold in drone mode transforms your drone from a manually controlled aircraft into an autonomous hovering platform. This advanced altitude control drone uses multiple sensors and sophisticated algorithms to maintain a constant height without pilot intervention.

Drone's height hold operates as a closed-loop feedback control system that continuously compares the drone's actual height with a predetermined target height. When you activate height hold mode, the flight controller captures the current height as the reference point and works to maintain this position regardless of external disturbances.

The height hold in drone systems consists of several interconnected components working in perfect harmony:

  • Sensor Array: Multiple height measurement devices provide redundant height data
  • Flight Controller: The central processing unit that interprets sensor data and makes control decisions
  • PID Controller: A mathematical algorithm that calculates precise motor adjustments
  • Motor Control System: Electronic speed controllers that modify rotor speeds based on flight controller commands
  • Feedback Loop: Continuous sensor readings create a responsive system that adapts to changing conditions
Flowchart diagram showing drone height hold control loop with sensor input, PID controller, and motor output for altitude maintenance

Types of Sensors Used for Altitude Control in Drones

Modern altitude hold mode drone systems employ various sensor technologies for height measurement, each with distinct advantages and limitations. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right sensor for your specific altitude control drone application.

Sensor TypeRangeAccuracyBest ForLimitations
Barometric PressureUnlimited altitude±1-3 metersOutdoor high-altitude flightWeather-dependent, measures altitude not ground distance
Ultrasonic0-8 meters±2-5 cmLow-cost indoor applicationsAffected by soft surfaces, wind interference
ToF Laser (VL53L1X)0-4 meters±1 mmPrecision indoor hoveringLimited range, bright sunlight interference
GPS + BarometerUnlimited±2-5 metersOutdoor navigation, waypointsNo indoor functionality, GPS dependency

Barometric Pressure Sensors for Height Hold

Barometric Pressure Sensors measure atmospheric pressure changes to determine altitude. These sensors work well for maintaining height over large areas, but can be affected by weather changes and air currents. They're particularly useful for outdoor flight at higher altitudes where pressure differences are more pronounced. 

Technically, this is altitude hold rather than height hold, since barometric sensors measure altitude above sea level (absolute altitude) rather than distance from the ground below (relative height). A drone using only barometric sensors will maintain the same pressure altitude even if flying over terrain that rises or falls, potentially resulting in varying distances from the ground. For this reason, barometric sensors are often combined with ground-relative sensors like ToF or ultrasonic for comprehensive altitude control drone systems.

LiteWing drone adjusting altitude in real-time using barometric pressure sensor for altitude hold mode

Ultrasonic Sensors for Height Hold

Ultrasonic Sensors emit sound waves and measure the time for echoes to return from the ground. While cost-effective and reliable at close range (typically under 8 meters), they can struggle with soft surfaces like grass or carpet that absorb sound waves. Wind can also deflect the sound waves, causing inaccurate readings and affecting drone height hold performance.

Ultrasonic sensor emitting sound waves for measuring ground distance in drone height hold system

Time-of-Flight (ToF) Laser Sensors for Precision Height Hold

Time-of-Flight (ToF) Laser Sensors use infrared laser pulses to measure distance with high precision. These sensors offer excellent accuracy across various surface types and lighting conditions, making them ideal for indoor flight and precise hovering applications. ToF sensors are the preferred choice for height hold mode in LiteWing and similar DIY drone projects.

ToF sensor calculating and displaying precise drone height measurement for altitude control

PID Controller: The Brain Behind Height Hold Mode

The heart of height hold in drone functionality lies in the PID controller algorithm, just as with other flight controller functionalities that utilise PID. This mathematical system doesn't just react to height errors—it predicts and prevents them. The PID controller continuously adjusts motor speeds dozens of times per second to maintain the desired height.

VL53L1X ToF Sensor for Implementing Drone Height Hold

The VL53L1X Time-of-Flight sensor represents cutting-edge technology specifically designed for precise distance measurement in drone measurement in drone height hold applications. This laser-ranging sensor provides the accuracy and reliability essential for effective altitude hold mode drone functionality. The VL53L1X operates using Class 1 laser safety standards, emitting infrared light at a 940nm wavelength.

VL53L1X Time-of-Flight sensor chip for precise altitude measurement in drone height hold systems

VL53L1X Technical Specifications for Height Hold

Measurement Range:4cm to 4 meters with high accuracy
Update Rate: Up to 50Hz for real-time altitude feedback
Accuracy: ±3% at 1 meter distance under optimal conditions
Field of View: Narrow 27° cone for precise ground targeting
Supply Voltage: 2.6V to 3.5V operation
Interface: I2C communication protocol
Current Consumption: 20mA active, 5μA standby

VL53L1x Sensor Working Principle
The VL53L1X uses Direct Time-of-Flight measurement, where the sensor emits short infrared laser pulses and measures the precise time required for light to travel to the target and return. Unlike indirect ToF methods that measure phase differences, direct ToF provides absolute distance measurements independent of surface reflectivity variations.

The sensor incorporates a Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) array and a Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) detector array. This combination enables the detection of individual photons, allowing measurements even from surfaces with low reflectivity. For optimal flight time with height hold enabled, selecting the right battery is essential, learn more in our comprehensive guide on how to choose the right battery for your LiteWing drone.

Limitations of VL53L1x ToF Sensor

While highly effective, the VL53L1X has operational limitations:

  • Bright Light Interference: Intense sunlight or bright artificial lighting can saturate the photon detector, reducing accuracy
  • Maximum Range: A 4-meter limit requires alternative sensors for higher altitude operations
  • Power Consumption: Active laser operation draws more current than passive sensors
  • Reflective Surfaces: Highly reflective surfaces may cause measurement errors due to specular reflection

VL53L1X Module

VL53L1x Module

For ease of use, we have used an off-the-shelf VL53L1x module with the LiteWing. We have connected it to the LiteWing drone using SMD male pin headers. Keep in mind that there are different modules with different boards and pin layouts in the market. So, choose the one that looks similar to the one shown in the above picture if you are planning to attach it to the bottom pads of the LiteWing.

VL53L1X Module Parts Marking

The image below shows the typical component arrangement in a VL53L1x module. As you can see, the module has a bare minimum of components. Apart from the VL53L1x sensor itself, the module has a 3.3V regulator along with level-shifting circuitry and some bypass capacitors. The inbuilt voltage regulator and the level-shifting circuit ensure that the module can be used with either 5V or 3.3V circuits.

Height Hold Sensor Parts Marking VL53L1x module

VL53L1X Module Pinout and Connections

Standard breakout modules feature the following pin configuration:

VL53L1x Module Pinout

 VIN  - Positive Voltage Input Pin.

 GND  - Ground Voltage Input Pin.

 SCL  - I2C Serial Clock Pin.

 SDA  - I2C Serial Data Pin.

 GPIO1  - Interrupt output.

 XSHU  - Shutdown Pin, Active Low.

The VIN pin is used to supply power to the module. It typically accepts a regulated input voltage such as 3.3V or 5V, depending on the board design. The GND pin serves as the electrical ground, providing a common reference point for the power supply and signal levels. Communication with the module is achieved via the I2C interface, which uses two pins: SCL for synchronising data transfer, and SDA for sending and receiving data between the sensor and the microcontroller. In addition to these, the module includes a GPIO1 pin, which can be configured as an interrupt output to notify the host system when new ranging data is available or when a specific condition is met. Lastly, the XSHUT pin functions as a hardware shutdown control. It is an active low input, meaning the module enters a low power state when this pin is pulled to ground, and resumes normal operation when driven high.

Installing VL53L1X Sensor for Height Hold Mode in LiteWing

In the LiteWing platform, the VL53L1X connects to the flight controller via the secondary I2C interface, since the primary I2C in LiteWing is used to connect with the IMU onboard. The sensor mounts on the drone's underside with the laser aperture facing downward. You can either use the dedicated pads on the bottom side of the LiteWing or the SDA1 and SCL1 pins available on the GPIO header to interface the VL53L1x sensor module with LiteWing, streamlining the drone height hold setup process.

.

VL53L1X ToF sensor properly mounted on LiteWing drone bottom for height hold altitude control

Flying LiteWing in Height Hold Mode

Now that we are familiar with how the drone height hold works, let's look at how to use it. Flying the LiteWing drone is pretty easy. For that, make sure to attach the VL531X sensor module securely to the LiteWing drone. Once done, all you have to do is first install the latest version of the LiteWing App from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. To know more details about configuring and using the LiteWing app, please check out our LiteWing app tutorial( hyperlink). Once the app is configured properly, open the app and connect to the drone. Once it's connected, click on the height hold button. Flying the LiteWing with height hold mode in LiteWing activated transforms your piloting experience, making stable hovering as simple as pressing a button.

LiteWing App with Height Hold Button

Now, when the set target height option is shown, set your desired height for the drone and click on the start button.

LiteWing App Target Height Settings

The drone will count down to three and take off on its own. Once the set height is reached, the LiteWing will automatically hold the height and hover at that. Now you can start flying the LiteWing drone by simply using the roll and pitch controls.

Using cfClient Software for Advanced Height Hold Control

To use the height hold in drone in cfClient, make sure to install and configure the cfClient following the instructions in the How to use Crazyflie cfClient with Litewing tutorial. One thing to keep in mind that to don’t forget to configure the assist control button in the input device configuration. You can also find detailed instructions to do that in the previously linked tutorial. Once everything is configured correctly, turn on the LiteWing drone with the ToF sensor installed and connect to its WiFi. Once the WiFi is connected, connect to the LiteWing using the connect button in the cfClient. Once connected, you can see that the height hold mode in the Assist mode menu is now active.

LiteWing mobile app interface showing height hold button for altitude hold mode activation

Now, to use the height hold mode, make sure to select the height hold mode in the Assist mode dropdown menu. You can set your preferred height at which the LiteWing drone needs to be hovering in the gamepad input menu. You can see the default value is around 0.4 meters. Make sure this value is between 0.1 and 3meters for the best result.

LiteWing app target height settings screen for configuring drone altitude hold parameters

Once the desired height is set, press and hold the assist control button in the controller. The drone will automatically take off and hover at the set height. To keep flying the drone, you must keep pressing the assist control button, and to land, just release the button; the drone will reduce the motor speed and land. Here is a demo showcasing the height hold functionality of the LiteWing drone.

LiteWing Take off Height Hold Demo

 

FAQ - Height Hold Mode in LiteWing

⇥ 1. Why does the height hold not work with the LiteWing drone?
Make sure to attach the VL53L1X sensor module to the drone.

⇥ 2. Even after connecting the ToF sensor, the height hold mode is not working with the LiteWing.
Make sure all the connections are correct. And you can check if the sensor is detected or not in the boot log.

⇥ 3. The height hold is working fine indoors, but not outdoors. Why?
Since the Vl53L1X sensor is an optical sensor, bright light can affect its functionality. If the outdoors is too sunny, it can affect the sensor. We would recommend using the height hold mode indoors.

⇥ 4. Height hold is working fine with the app, but not with cfclient. Why?
In the cfClient, the assist mode must be set to height hold. Also, you should use the assist control button for takeoff.

Other LiteWing Related Projects & Tutorials

Ready to take your LiteWing drone to the next level? Check out these related projects and tutorials that expand your drone's capabilities with gesture control, mobile apps, and advanced flight features.

DIY Gesture Control Drone using Python with LiteWing and ESP32

DIY Gesture Control Drone using Python with LiteWing and ESP32

In this article, we are going to show you how you can build a gesture control drone using the ESP32 dev module along with an MPU-6050.

LiteWing-ESP32 Drone gets New Mobile App

LiteWing-ESP32 Drone gets New Mobile App

Fly your LiteWing ESP32 drone with the new mobile app. Enjoy height hold, battery alerts, smooth landing, and easy controls on both Android and iOS 

 How to Program LiteWing Drone using Python with Crazyflie Cflib Python SDK

How to Program LiteWing Drone using Python with Crazyflie Cflib Python SDK

In this article, we will focus only on Cflib, which is a Python SDK from Crazyflie that allows you to write your own Python code to control your LiteWing drone. If you are not a fan of Python programming, you can also program your LiteWing using Arduino and directly reflash your ESP32, but that is for a different tutorial.

Have any question related to this Article?

Kevin Hess on Mouser’s Global Marketing Strategy and India’s Growing Role

Submitted by Abhishek on

During electronica India and productronica India 2025, CircuitDigest sat down with Kevin Hess, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Mouser. The discussion covered his 35-year career at Mouser, shifts in electronics marketing, and the company’s outlook for India. The veteran reflected on the days of catalog-based sales and how he witnessed it transform into the current digital era.

Power Integrations’ Switcher ICs Let Engineers Pick between GaN, SiC, or Silicon - electronica India 2025

Submitted by Abhishek on

Power Integrations displayed a wide array of new tech for applications including EVs, railways, industrial power supplies, and renewable energy systems at electronica 2025. In their booth, we met with Andrew Smith, their Director of Technical Outreach and Director of Training, who walked us through some of the key highlights. The company showcased its range of switch technologies featuring integrated switcher ICs with voltage ratings of 750 V, 900 V, 1250 V, and 1700 V. Smith underscored, "This makes our integrated switcher ICs very good for the Indian environment."

The company uses three semiconductor materials in their switches: silicon, gallium nitride (referred to as "PowiGaN"), and silicon carbide. The GaN tech is their in-house replacement for traditional MOSFETs in their flyback switcher ICs. Engineers can use the same converter IC with different switch tech on the inside, making it far less of a challenge to select the best tech for their needs. "Our aim is to make it very easy for the engineer to use whichever of those technologies they would like to explore by using the same converter IC with a different switch inside," said Smith.

He pointed out to us a 70-watt design of a bridge switch inverter driver board that was accompanied by support software. The software served as a virtual oscilloscope and offered performance monitoring by capturing characteristics of a motor. The demo used a single-output motor. He emphasized the minimal power consumption quality of the company’s bridge switch technology in standby mode. A 150-watt motor on display used as little as 8 milliwatts.

The company also showcased LLC half-bridge designs for EV and tool chargers, featuring a 720-watt design with programmable current charging for applications including two-wheeler chargers, using their HiperLCS-2 family and Power Factor Controller ICs. Additionally, they demonstrated their gate driver technology portfolio, including fully integrated three-level gate driver architectures and dedicated gate driver boards for power modules across alternative energy, thermal, and automotive applications.

From the company’s press release, the RDK-85SLR is their reference design kit for solar-powered race cars targeted at student teams to compete in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. The kit features the InnoSwitch3-AQ flyback power supply IC, which uses the company’s PowiGaN switch tech. With no need for a heatsink, the kit includes all you will need to build a 46-watt power supply that can briefly deliver up to 80 watts. The kit takes inspiration from a design created by Power Integrations' PowerPros engineers in collaboration with ETH Zurich's aCentauri team. The team’s #85 ‘Silvretta’ challenger-class car uses the design to improve auxiliary power supply efficiency. 

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Getting Started with ESP32-S3-BOX-3: AIoT Development Board

Finding the right ESP32-S3 development kit often means compromising between functionality and deployment readiness. With so many ESP32-S3 dev kits out there, we have been searching for a ready-to-deploy module that doesn’t require extra work like designing enclosures or 3D printing cases. These things can significantly increase the deployment time. One such kit we found is Espressif’s ESP32-S3-BOX-3.

CircuitDigest presents the Smart Home & Wearables Project Contest 2025! Win exciting prizes worth up to ₹7,00,000 and receive free development boards through our partnership with DigiKey. For registration, dive into contest details. 

This isn't just another development board thrown into a generic case. The ESP32-S3-BOX-3 development board is a modern kit designed for AIoT, Edge AI, and industrial IoT projects. The ESP32-S3-BOX-3 runs on the ESP32-S3 chip technology, and it is housed in an attractive, pre-assembled case to ensure you can get started without any extra work. You also have plenty of options to expand to easily customise for different project scenarios. It is compatible with Espressif’s software platform choices, such as ESP-BOX, ESP-SR, ESP-Rainmaker, and ESP-Matter, enabling everything from quick prototypes up to full-featured IoT applications. With such a clean design and flexible features, this modern kit is certainly a worthy addition to the development board category.

With all these features, it makes a perfect choice for our upcoming Smart Home and Wearable Project Challenge, where you can win prizes of up to Rs. 7,00,000. You can also win a development board and some cool goodies just by sharing your project ideas. So don’t forget to check out the Smart Home and Wearable Project Challenge for more details.

Let’s take a closer look at the ESP32-S3-BOX-3.

What's Included in the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Development Board Package?

The unboxing is a little interesting as we get a lot of usable accessories with the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 kit. Below you can see the unboxing image.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 AIoT kit package contents including development board and accessories

This dev kit comes with the following accessories,

ESP32-S3-BOX-3:The main unit that can work on its own
ESP32-S3-BOX-3-DOCK:A functional accessory serving as a stand for the main box
ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR:A functional accessory showcasing sensor applications
ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BRACKET:An adapter accessory for mounting the main box to other devices
ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BREAD:An adapter accessory for easy connection of the main box to a standard breadboard
A USB-C:Power cable
RGB LED Module and Dupont Wires:For testing

We received all this in a little big box. Inside were foam moulds holding all the accessories in place. It’s nicely packed. It might be tricky to perfectly place all the components back in the same spot again. Sometimes it gets confusing to repeat, as all the accessories are tightly packed. So, remember the positions of components while taking them out.

Next, let’s look at the feature that makes us more excited about this dev kit.

Key Features of the Espressif ESP32-S3-BOX-3

To make this development kit outstanding and usable for AI and IoT applications, it comes packed with a rich set of features.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Quick Reference

ESP32-S3 Dual-Core Microcontroller –Powerful dual-core Xtensa 32bit LX7 processor running up to 240 MHz with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
Generous Memory Configuration –512 KB SRAM and 384 KB ROM for robust application development, plus 16 MB Octal SPI PSRAM and 16 MB Quad SPI External Flash for extensive storage.
Advanced AI Capabilities –Built-in neural network processing, acoustic algorithms, and computing acceleration for vector operations, complex numbers, and FFT calculations.
2.4-inch Colour LCD Display –Crisp 240 x 320 pixel resolution display with SPI interface running at 40 MHz, driven by ILI9342C controller for vibrant visuals.
10-Point Capacitive Touch Screen –Multi-touch support for intuitive user interaction and gesture recognition.
Wireless Connectivity –2.4 GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi with Bluetooth 5 LE and Bluetooth mesh support for versatile IoT applications.
High-Quality Audio System – Dual microphone setup with EST2210 ADC model, mute support, 8 Ohm 1W speaker with NS4150 PA model, and ES8311 codec for crystal-clear audio processing.
Advanced Motion Sensing –3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis accelerometer (ICM-42607-P sensor model) for motion detection and orientation tracking.
Versatile Interface Options –USB Type-C port for power, USB download/JTAG debug, and general USB device functions, plus Goldfinger connector for I/O expansion.
User-Friendly Controls –Onboard Reset, Boot, and Mute buttons with Power LED and Mute LED indicators for easy operation and status monitoring.
Experimental High-Speed PSRAM – 120 MHz PSRAM speed capability for demanding real-time applications.
Compact and Lightweight Design –Measuring just 61 x 66 x 16.6 mm and weighing only 292g, perfect for portable projects.
Flexible Power Options –USB-C power input (5V - 2.0A) with no battery dependency for continuous operation.
Professional Development Support –Ships with FreeRTOS and supports ESP-IDF SDK for professional embedded development.

On the software side, it can be programmed with ESP-IDF or Arduino IDE, and it supports various AI frameworks for machine learning applications. The combination of powerful processing capabilities and rich sensor integration makes it ideal for voice recognition, image processing, and intelligent IoT projects.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Applications and Use Cases

Let me add some of the possible applications of this ESP32-S3-Box-3 development board, which will give you a better idea.

  1. Smart Home Control: Voice commands, touch interface for lights, appliances, and security systems
  2. Voice Assistants: Custom wake word detection, speech recognition, and audio response systems
  3. Industrial HMI: Machine control panels, process monitoring, and operator interfaces
  4. AI Edge Computing: Real-time object detection, facial recognition, and predictive analytics
  5. Interactive Displays: Digital signage, information kiosks, and customer engagement systems
  6. Healthcare Monitoring: Patient vitals tracking, medication reminders, and wellness applications
  7. Educational Projects: IoT learning platforms, STEM demonstrations, and programming tutorials
  8. Motion Control: Gesture recognition, orientation sensing, and movement-based interfaces
  9. Audio Processing: Sound analysis, noise monitoring, and acoustic pattern recognition
  10. Wireless IoT: Remote monitoring, data collection, and cloud-connected applications
  11. Prototyping Platform: Rapid development of AI-powered devices and smart solutions
  12. Environmental Sensing: Climate monitoring, air quality tracking, and automated responses

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Development Board: Physical Overview

Now that we know all the features, let’s move to the physical overview. Since the Espressif Systems esp32 s3 box 3 aiot kit comes with multiple accessories, we'll look at each part, starting with the main unit.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Main Unit

The main highlight of the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 is its compact form factor with a boxy design.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 development board orthographic view showing display buttons and USB-C port

Above, you can see all the peripherals marked in the orthographic view.

It has some unique built-in peripherals like a small 2.4” LCD with capacitive touch support, a pair of microphones at the top of the front screen, a customizable touch button (marked as O) below the display, a speaker on the right, a boot mode selection button, a reset button, and a USB Type-C port on the left side. On the top, you’ll find a mute button, power and mute LED indicators, and finally, a beautiful PCIe X1 connector where all the accessories can be attached.

And now, let’s look in detail at each component and some of the internals.

Microcontroller

  • Chipset: ESP32-S3
  • CPU: Dual-Core Xtensa® 32-bit LX7, up to 240 MHz
  • SRAM: 512 KB
  • ROM: 384 KB
  • PSRAM: 16 MB (Octal SPI, 120 MHz experimental)
  • External Flash: 16 MB (Quad SPI)

Memory & AI Features

  • AI Support: Neural Network, Acoustic algorithm support
  • Acceleration: Vector, Complex number, FFT, etc.

Wireless

  • Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz, IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth® 5 LE, Bluetooth® mesh

Display

  • Type: 2.4-inch TFT LCD
  • Resolution: 320 × 240 pixels
  • Driver IC: ILI9342C
  • Interface: SPI, up to 40 MHz
  • Touch: Capacitive, 10-point

GPIO Connections:

  • DC → GPIO4
  • CS → GPIO5
  • SDA → GPIO6
  • SCK → GPIO7
  • RST → GPIO48
  • CTRL → GPIO47

Audio Input

  • Microphone: Dual mic
  • ADC: ES7210 (High-performance 4-channel audio ADC)
  • Interface:
    • Config via I²C (0x40)
    • Audio via I²S

GPIO Connections:

  • I²S_MCLK → GPIO2
  • I²S_SCLK → GPIO17
  • I²S_LRCK → GPIO45
  • I²C_SCL → GPIO18
  • I²C_SDA → GPIO8

Audio Output

  • Codec: ES8311 (Low-power mono audio codec)
  • Amplifier: NS4150B (3W mono Class-D audio amp)
  • Speaker: 8 Ω, 1 W (driven via NS4150B)
  • Interfaces:
    • Config via I²C
    • Audio via I²S

GPIO Connections:

  • I²C_SDA → GPIO8
  • I²C_SCL → GPIO18
  • I²S_MCLK → GPIO2
  • I²S_SCLK → GPIO17
  • I²S_LRCK → GPIO45
  • I²S_CODEC_DSDIN → GPIO15
  • PA_CTRL → GPIO46

Controls & Indicators

  • Mute Button: Hardware switch (buffer + D flip-flop to cut ADC line & power)
  • Status Pin: GPIO1 (MUTE_STATUS_L)
  • Onboard Buttons: Reset, Boot, Mute
  • Onboard LEDs: Power LED, Mute LED

Security

  • Chip: ATECC608A (Crypto chip)
  • Features: Hardware encryption, TLS acceleration, secure cloud authentication
  • GPIO Connections:
    • I²C_SCL → GPIO18
    • I²C_SDA → GPIO8

Sensors

  • Type: 6-axis motion sensor (3-axis gyro + 3-axis accelerometer)
  • Model: ICM-42607-P
  • Interface: I²C (0x68)
  • GPIO Connections:
    • I²C_SCL → GPIO18
    • I²C_SDA → GPIO8

Interfaces

  • USB Type-C: Power, USB download, JTAG debug, general USB device functions
  • Goldfinger (PCIe x1 style): Provides GPIO & power I/O expansion
  • OS / SDK
  • OS: FreeRTOS
  • SDK: ESP-IDF

Power

  • USB-C Input: 5 V, 2.0 A
  • Battery: Not available

Outline

  • Dimensions: 61 × 66 × 16.6 mm
  • Weight: 292 g

That’s all packed inside the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 itself. Now, let’s move on to the kit accessories.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Accessories Comparison

AccessoryPrimary FunctionBest Use Case
DOCKStand with Pmod headers, USB-A portDesktop projects, USB peripherals
SENSORTemp/Humidity, Radar, IR, BatteryEnvironmental monitoring, portable apps
BRACKETMounting adapterRetrofitting existing devices
BREADBreadboard adapterPrototyping and testing

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-DOCK Expansion Module

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-DOCK is designed to serve as a stand for the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 via its gold fingers and offers versatile expandability. It features two Pmod™ compatible headers, allowing users to connect additional peripheral modules. These headers provide 16 programmable GPIOs and can supply 3.3 V power to peripherals. There is one USB Type-A port for connecting devices such as USB cameras (up to 720p resolution), USB drives, and other HID devices. Another USB Type-C port is dedicated to 5 V input power only.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-DOCK expansion module with Pmod headers USB-A and USB-C ports

Here’s the orthographic view of the dock. It looks simple, but it actually has four different connectors. Let’s dive into their technical details.

Connectivity Interfaces

  • 12-pin Female Headers (2x)
    • I/O Count: 8 I/O per header
    • Compatibility: Pmod™ Compatible
    • Power Output: 3.3V
    • Supported Protocols: GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART, RMT, LEDC, etc.
  • USB Type-A Port (1x)
    • Power Output: 5V
    • Functionality: USB Host capability
    • Compatible Devices: USB cameras, USB storage devices, HID devices
    • Usage: Connect diverse USB peripherals
  • USB Type-C Port (1x)
    • Power Input: 5V
    • Functionality: Power input only
    • Usage: Dedicated power supply for the dock

Expansion Slots

  • PCIe Connector (1x)
    • Type: 36-pin, 1.00mm (0.0394") pitch
    • Card Compatibility: Accepts 0.062" (1.60mm) thick cards
    • Mounting: Vertical mounting goldfinger connector
    • Usage: Hardware expansion and custom modules

Next is the pinout diagram of the dock. There’s also a label on the dock itself for quick reference.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Accessories Comparison  Accessory  Primary Function  Best Use Case  DOCK  Stand with Pmod headers, USB-A port  Desktop projects, USB peripherals  SENSOR  Temp/Humidity, Radar, IR, Battery  Environmental monitoring, portable apps  BRACKET  Mounting adapter  Retrofitting existing devices  BREAD  Breadboard adapter  Prototyping and testing

Next, let’s look at the ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR is a versatile accessory integrating a Temp & Humidity sensor, IR emitter and receiver, radar sensor, 18650 rechargeable battery slot, and MicroSD card slot. It enables users to create a wide range of innovative projects easily. You can integrate multiple sensors for detection and control, use the rechargeable battery for portability, and expand storage with a MicroSD card (up to 32 GB).

Below you can see the Orthographic View of the ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR accessory with temperature humidity radar IR sensors and battery slot

Sensing Capabilities

Radar Sensor - MS58-3909S68U4 (1x)

  • Operating Frequency: 5.8 GHz
  • Power Consumption: 40 μA (ultra-low power)
  • Detection Range: Approximately 2 meters
  • Application: Human presence detection
  • Technology: Microwave radar sensing
  • RI_SDA - IO41, RI_SCL -IO40, RI_OUT - IO21

Infrared Sensor Array (2x)

  • Emitter: IRM-H638T IR emitter tube [GPIO39]
  • Receiver: IR67-21C/TR8 receiver tube [GPIO38]
  • Range: Up to 4 meters effective distance
  • Application: Infrared control and remote sensing
  • Configuration: Paired emitter-receiver setup

Temperature & Humidity Sensor - AHT30 (1x)

  • Temperature Range: -40°C to +120°C
  • Temperature Accuracy: ±0.5°C
  • Humidity Range: 0% to 100% RH
  • Humidity Accuracy: ±3% RH (at 25°C)
  • Application: Environmental monitoring and climate control
  • AHT21_SCL - IO40, AHT21_SDA - IO41

Storage & Power Management

  • External Storage (1x)
  • Type: MicroSD card slot
  • Maximum Capacity: 32GB
  • Usage: Data logging, firmware storage, media files
  • SD_DAT0-IO9, SD_DAT1 - IO13, SD_DAT2-IO42,SD_DAT3-IO12,SD_CMD-IO14,SD_CLK-IO11 

Battery System (1x)

  • Type: 18650 rechargeable lithium battery slot
  • Voltage: 3.7V nominal
  • Usage: Portable operation and backup power
  • BAT_MEAS_ADC-IO10

Power Control Switch (1x)

  • Type: 2-speed toggle switch
  • Function: Battery charging and discharging protection
  • Safety: Prevents 18650 battery damage from over-discharge

Status & Interface

  • Charging Indicator LED (1x)
  • Red State: Battery charging in progress
  • Green State: Battery fully charged
  • Usage: Visual battery status monitoring

USB Type-C Port (1x)

  • Power Input: 5V
  • Functions: Power supply, USB data transfer, JTAG debugging
  • Compatibility: Standard USB device functions

PCIe Connector (1x)

  • Type: 36-pin, 1.00mm (0.0394") pitch
  • Card Compatibility: 0.062" (1.60mm) thickness
  • Mounting: Vertical goldfinger connector

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BRACKET

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BRACKET helps mount the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 to other devices, unlocking many possibilities for turning non-smart devices into smart ones. Installation is straightforward; just prepare two mounting holes and a slot using the provided template. By leveraging its two Pmod™ compatible headers, you can add wireless connectivity, voice control, and screen control features. The bracket allows you to maximise the potential of your non-smart devices.

Below is the orthogonal view of ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BRACKET,

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BRACKET mounting adapter for device integration and installation

Connectivity

  • 12-pin Female Headers (2x)
  • I/O Count: 8 I/O per header
  • Compatibility: Pmod™ Compatible
  • Power Output: 3.3V
  • Protocols: GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART, RMT, LEDC, etc.

USB Type-C Port (1x)

  • Input Voltage: 5V
  • Functions: Power supply, USB download, JTAG debug
  • Usage: Development and general USB device functions

PCIe Connector (1x)

  • Specifications: 36-pin, 1.00mm (0.0394") pitch
  • Card Support: 0.062" (1.60mm) thickness cards
  • Type: Vertical mounting goldfinger

Mounting Hardware

  • M3 Mounting Bolts (2x)
  • Bolt Size: M3 threading
  • Includes: Bolt, nut, and washer per set
  • Purpose: Secure mounting and component assembly
  • Usage: Attach materials and fasten components together

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BREAD

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BREAD is an adapter that lets you easily connect the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 to a standard breadboard. It’s ideal for makers and DIY projects, using a high-density PCIe connector and two rows of 2.54 mm pitch pins to expose the ESP32-S3’s 16 programmable GPIOs.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BREAD breadboard adapter with male pin headers for prototyping

Interface Headers

  • 12-pin Male Headers (2x)
  • I/O Configuration: 8 I/O pins per header
  • Power Specifications: 3.3V output, 5V input capability
  • Protocol Support: GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART, RMT, LEDC, etc.
  • Design: Male connector for breadboard compatibility

Development Interface

  • USB Type-C Port (1x)
  • Input Power: 5V
  • Functionality: Power input, USB download, JTAG debugging
  • Usage: Development programming and general USB device operations

Expansion

  • PCIe Connector (1x)
  • Format: 36-pin, 1.00mm (0.0394") pitch
  • Card Thickness: Accepts 0.062" (1.60mm) cards
  • Mount Type: Vertical goldfinger connector
  • Application: Hardware expansion and prototyping

Key Differences from Other Variants

  • Male Headers: Unlike other variants with female headers, this uses male pins for direct breadboard insertion
  • Dual Voltage: Headers support both 3.3V output and 5V input
  • Prototyping Focus: Designed specifically for breadboard-based development and experimentation

ESP32-S3-BOX-3-BREAD pinout diagram for breadboard prototyping connections

With this, you should now have a solid understanding of the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 and its accessories, along with the pinouts and used IOs.

ESP32-S3 Development Board Schematic and Technical Documentation

Espressif has provided plenty of documents for the esp32-s3-box-3 development board. If you are new to development or programming and want to learn more, the documents are worth reviewing. There is a "docs" section in their GitHub repo that contains a “docs” section with everything from a hardware overview to PCB and schematic files.

Keep in mind, the native support is for ESP-IDF.

Through Espressif's official repo, you can access the complete schematic for the ESP32-S3 development board, PCB design files, a bill of materials (BOM), and details about hardware documents.  Still, if you know the pins and have some basic knowledge, you can use the Arduino IDE to program the ESP32 S3 Box 3.

Getting Started: ESP32-S3-BOX-3 Tutorial [Factory Default Firmware]

The ESP32-S3-BOX-3 comes with ready-to-use firmware that supports offline voice wake-up and speech recognition in both Chinese and English. With the ESP-BOX mobile app, you can set up AI voice interactions and create custom commands to control your smart devices. The firmware also includes several sensor demos and supports IR learning, so the box can even act as a controller for your home air conditioners. This ESP32-S3-BOX-3 tutorial will guide you through every step.

Initial Setup and Power-On

⇒ Step 1: Powering the Device

Power on your device using the USB-C cable. Once powered, within a few seconds, you will see the Boot Screen Animation.

⇒ Step 2: Learning the Basics

After the first successful boot, you will see a quick guide provided by the device, like the four screens shown below.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 user interface showing sensor monitor device control and media player options

The first two pages of the quick guide give an overview of the buttons on your ESP32 S3 box 3. Press the Next button to proceed to the next page.
The following pages explain how to use AI voice control. Tap OK, Let’s Go to access the menu.

⇒ Step 3: Main Menu Exploration

The menu has six options: Sensor Monitor, Device Control, Network, Media Player, Help, and About Us. You can navigate between these options by swiping left or right.

For example, to access the Device Control screen, tap on Light to toggle the light on or off. After that, return to the menu, go to the Media Player screen, and either play music or adjust the system volume.

ESP32 S3 BOX 3 UI

 

Testing Factory Firmware

⇒ Step 4: Quick Testing

Device control and voice commands are a quick way to test the Espressif ESP32-S3-Box-3. To continue, you need to connect the provided RGB Light to the dock’s header pins.

Connections are shown in the image below:

RGB LED wiring diagram for ESP32-S3-BOX-3 tutorial testing with DOCK accessory

Now, in the UI, go to Device Control. By pressing the Light button, you can turn the light on or off.

You can also use voice commands like,

"Turn on the light"
"Switch off the light"
"Turn Red"
"Turn Green"
"Turn Blue"
The LED will respond. Don’t forget to say the wake word before giving commands.

Connecting to ESP-BOX Mobile App

⇒ Step 5: Advanced Feature Testing

So far, all features have been tested offline. Now, let’s move online with a few simple steps.

First, download the ESP-BOX app to your phone. It’s simple: go to Network, and in the top-right corner, click the button to install the app. You will see a QR code to download it.

ESP-BOX mobile app download QR code for ESP32-S3-BOX-3 network setup

After installing the app, sign in with your ESP-BOX account. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone, tap + at the bottom of the screen, and scan the QR code on your device to set up the network.

ESP-BOX app welcome screen and QR scanning function for device pairing

After adding the device, you will see prompts like these in the image below.

ESP-BOX app device connected confirmation screen

Remember:

  • Do not exit the QR code page during network setup.
  • Connect the device to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, not 5 GHz, and enter the correct password.
  • An incorrect password will trigger "Wi-Fi Authentication Failed."
  • Long-press the Boot button (Function button) for 5 seconds to clear network information and restore factory settings. If the QR code or Bluetooth does not work after resetting, restart your device using the Reset button.

After successfully adding the device, select it in the app. You can control the device here as well. Unlike the first time, it uses ESP RainMaker for communication.

Tap on the icon to access the Config Menu. Here, you can configure pins directly.

ESP-BOX app configuration menu showing GPIO pin settings and customization options

In Voice Command, you can add custom commands. Enter the text and its action, for example, set "Good Morning" to turn on the light. Click Save to return to the previous screen, then click Save again.

ESP-BOX app voice command input interface for custom command creation

In the Control tab, you can directly configure the LED from the app, adjusting colour, brightness, and saturation.

ESP-BOX app LED color control interface showing brightness and saturation settings

Working with Sensor Accessories

⇒ Step 6: Testing the Given Accessory

Among the accessories provided, the sensor module is the most unique, as it includes multiple sensors to work with, while the others mainly extend connectors for breadboard use. Additionally, it supports different orientations and mounting options.

The ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR is a versatile accessory that integrates a Temperature & Humidity sensor, a pair of IR Emitters and Receivers, and a Radar sensor. It allows users to easily create sensor networks and other sensor-based applications. The built-in firmware provides a real-time display of temperature and humidity, demonstrates human presence monitoring through a 2.4 GHz radar, and includes an IR learning interface. This lets you use the ESP32-S3-BOX for IR learning of your air conditioner, enabling remote control. The learning feature also works with other in-home IR controllers, such as fans, TVs, and projectors, making the experience interactive and engaging.

  • Temperature and Humidity Sensor

Go to the Sensor Monitor. The interface will prompt you to insert the sensor accessory.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 sensor monitor interface prompting accessory insertion

After mounting the accessory, you will be able to see the temperature and humidity readings on the screen.

  • Radar Feature

To use the radar, enter the Sensor Monitor screen and tap the ON/OFF button to enable or disable radar monitoring. When the radar switch is ON, a red body icon will appear if a person is detected in front of the device. The icon will turn gray if no one is detected within two minutes.

ESP32-S3-BOX-3 radar sensor ON and OFF states showing presence detection

  • IR Learning

Below the temperature, humidity, and radar functions is the infrared learning module. Currently, this module can only learn the ON/OFF function of a remote controller. Follow the interface instructions to iteratively learn the ON/OFF command of your remote a total of four times. After successful learning, the interface will confirm it.

 IR Learning Interface UI

Perform an ON/OFF test on your air conditioner by pointing the ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR toward it. If the air conditioner’s ON/OFF behaviour is opposite to what you expect, click the Reversal button to correct it. You can also click Relearn to learn commands from other remote controllers.

Reversal and Relearn IR UI

Remember

  • When the ESP32-S3-BOX-3 is not mounted to the ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR dock, the entire Sensor Monitor function will not work.

  • While using the built-in firmware with the ESP32-S3-BOX-3-DOCK, avoid hot-plugging the dock or switching to the Sensor Accessory, as this may cause the accessory to be unrecognised. Simply power the ESP32-S3-BOX-3-SENSOR again to restore normal operation.

  • Due to the power limitations of the infrared emitter and differences among air conditioner brands, the effective range for IR learning has been tested to be between 1 and 1.5 meters.

The features of the Box are not limited to the factory firmware; it’s mainly for demonstration purposes. To truly unleash the power of this device, you need to use ESP-IDF. I wouldn’t recommend the Arduino IDE, as many components supported in ESP-IDF don’t have full support in the Arduino IDE. To access all features, it’s best to stick with ESP-IDF.

There are up to 10 example programs available in Espressif’s official ESP-BOX Git repository,

  1. chatgpt_demo
  2. esp_joystick
  3. factory_demo
  4. image_display
  5. lv_demos
  6. matter_switch
  7. mp3_demo
  8. usb_camera_lcd_display
  9. usb_headset
  10. watering_demo

These samples illustrate different aspects of what the board is capable of, and provide useful ideas to get you started with your own projects. 
This development board offers plenty of functionality within a compact, ready-to-use board.  Regardless, if you are prototyping or building larger applications, it's worth analysing what each application provides. For now, take some time to work through the examples to see how they relate to your own project ideas.

So, enjoy exploring this dev board! With it, you can do a lot and really learn while having fun.

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