Arduino MKR WAN vs. ESP32

Attribute	Arduino MKR WAN	ESP32
Microcontroller	ATSAMD21 Cortex-M0+ 32bit low power ARM MCU	ESP32-D0WDQ6 Xtensa dual-core 32-bit LX6 MCU
Wireless Connectivity	LoRa WAN	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Operating Voltage	3.3V	3.3V
Flash Memory	2MB	4MB
RAM	32KB	520KB

Introduction

Arduino MKR WAN and ESP32 are two popular development boards used by makers and hobbyists for various projects. Both boards have their own set of features and capabilities, making them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Arduino MKR WAN and ESP32 to help you decide which board is best suited for your project.

Price

When it comes to price, the Arduino MKR WAN is generally more expensive than the ESP32. The Arduino MKR WAN is a premium board that offers additional features such as built-in connectivity options, which justify its higher price tag. On the other hand, the ESP32 is a more budget-friendly option that still provides a wide range of functionalities at a lower cost.

Connectivity

One of the key differences between Arduino MKR WAN and ESP32 is their connectivity options. The Arduino MKR WAN comes with built-in LoRa connectivity, making it ideal for projects that require long-range communication. On the other hand, the ESP32 offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which are more commonly used for short-range communication within a local network.

Processing Power

When it comes to processing power, the ESP32 has a slight edge over the Arduino MKR WAN. The ESP32 is equipped with a dual-core processor that can handle more complex tasks and calculations compared to the single-core processor found in the Arduino MKR WAN. This makes the ESP32 a better choice for projects that require higher computational power.

Size and Form Factor

In terms of size and form factor, the Arduino MKR WAN is more compact and lightweight compared to the ESP32. The smaller size of the Arduino MKR WAN makes it easier to integrate into projects with limited space constraints. On the other hand, the ESP32 is slightly larger and may not be as suitable for projects that require a more compact design.

Programming Language

Both Arduino MKR WAN and ESP32 can be programmed using the Arduino IDE, which is a popular development environment for Arduino boards. The Arduino IDE supports C and C++ programming languages, making it easy for beginners to get started with coding. Additionally, the ESP32 can also be programmed using MicroPython, a high-level programming language that is easier to learn and use compared to C and C++.

Power Consumption

When it comes to power consumption, the Arduino MKR WAN is more energy-efficient compared to the ESP32. The Arduino MKR WAN is designed to operate on low power, making it suitable for battery-powered projects that require long-lasting performance. On the other hand, the ESP32 consumes more power due to its higher processing capabilities, which may not be ideal for projects that prioritize energy efficiency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Arduino MKR WAN and ESP32 have their own strengths and weaknesses that make them suitable for different types of projects. The Arduino MKR WAN is a premium board with built-in LoRa connectivity and low power consumption, making it ideal for long-range communication and battery-powered projects. On the other hand, the ESP32 offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, higher processing power, and support for MicroPython, making it a versatile option for a wide range of applications. Ultimately, the choice between Arduino MKR WAN and ESP32 will depend on the specific requirements of your project and your budget constraints.