Teensy 4.0 vs. Teensy 4.1

Attribute	Teensy 4.0	Teensy 4.1
Processor	IMXRT1062	IMXRT1062
Speed	600 MHz	600 MHz
RAM	1024 KB	1024 KB
Flash Memory	4096 KB	8192 KB
USB Ports	1	1
Microcontroller	ARM Cortex-M7	ARM Cortex-M7

Introduction

Teensy microcontrollers have gained popularity among hobbyists, makers, and professionals for their powerful performance and compact size. The Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 are two of the latest offerings from PJRC, each with its own set of features and capabilities. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 to help you decide which one is best suited for your project.

Processor

One of the key differences between Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 lies in their processors. The Teensy 4.0 is powered by a 600 MHz ARM Cortex-M7 processor, while the Teensy 4.1 boasts a faster 600 MHz ARM Cortex-M7 processor with a floating-point unit. This means that the Teensy 4.1 is better equipped to handle complex mathematical calculations and tasks that require floating-point operations.

Memory

When it comes to memory, both Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 offer generous amounts of RAM and flash memory. The Teensy 4.0 comes with 1024 KB of RAM and 2048 KB of flash memory, while the Teensy 4.1 doubles the RAM to 2048 KB and flash memory to 4096 KB. This extra memory on the Teensy 4.1 allows for more complex programs and larger data sets to be stored and processed.

Connectivity

Both Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 come equipped with a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, I2C, SPI, UART, and CAN bus interfaces. However, the Teensy 4.1 offers additional features such as an Ethernet port and a microSD card slot, which are not present on the Teensy 4.0. These additional connectivity options make the Teensy 4.1 more versatile for projects that require network connectivity or external storage.

Compatibility

One important factor to consider when choosing between Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 is compatibility with existing projects and libraries. Both microcontrollers are compatible with the Arduino IDE and support a wide range of libraries and shields. However, due to the differences in processor and memory, some libraries and projects may require modifications to work with the Teensy 4.1. It is important to check the compatibility of your existing code before making a decision.

Price

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing between microcontrollers, and the Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 are no exception. The Teensy 4.0 is generally priced lower than the Teensy 4.1, making it a more budget-friendly option for projects with less demanding requirements. On the other hand, the Teensy 4.1 offers additional features and capabilities that justify its higher price tag for projects that require advanced functionality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 are powerful microcontrollers with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Teensy 4.0 is a great choice for projects that require a balance of performance and affordability, while the Teensy 4.1 is better suited for projects that demand higher processing power and additional connectivity options. Ultimately, the choice between Teensy 4.0 and Teensy 4.1 will depend on your specific project requirements and budget constraints.