Who should use what
- Arduino — Best for absolute beginners, basic sensors/relays, science fair projects with simple logic. Madaling i-wire at i-code.
- ESP32 — For IoT (Wi-Fi/BLE), logging to Google Sheets, web dashboards, and more speed than Arduino.
- Raspberry Pi — Mini computer for vision, databases, Python apps, and multi-service projects (camera, Flask, Node-RED).
Budget cue: Arduino (₱) < ESP32 (₱₱) < Raspberry Pi (₱₱₱). Actual prices vary by model and market availability.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Arduino (Uno/Nano) | ESP32 Dev Board | Raspberry Pi (Zero 2 W / 4 / 5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Microcontroller | Microcontroller (dual-core, Wi-Fi/BLE) | Single-board computer (runs Linux) |
| Learning curve | Pinaka-beginner friendly | Medium (IoT/web adds complexity) | Highest (OS, packages, Linux basics) |
| Connectivity | Serial, I2C, SPI (no native Wi-Fi) | Wi-Fi + BLE built-in | Ethernet/Wi-Fi/BT (depends on model) |
| Typical use | Sensors, relays, motors, basic logic | IoT logging, web servers, faster control | Vision, databases, dashboards, Python apps |
| Power | 5V via USB/buck | 5V via USB/buck (more current) | 5V 2–5A (depends on model & load) |
| Best for PH students | First build, science fair | IoT/thesis prototypes | Capstone, CV/AI, lab servers |
Deep-dive: strengths & trade-offs
Arduino (Uno / Nano)
Why students love it: Simplest wiring, tons of example code, and “what you wire is what you get.” Walang OS to manage, so perfect pang-intro.
- Pros: Cheapest, clean beginner path, reliable for sensors/motors, massive community.
- Cons: Walang built-in Wi-Fi/BLE; limited speed and memory vs ESP32/Pi.
Great first buys: Arduino Uno, Arduino Nano, Arduino Starter Kit
ESP32
Why students upgrade: Built-in Wi-Fi/BLE + multi-core speed. Kaya ang web servers, Google Sheets logging, OTA updates, etc.
- Pros: IoT-ready out of the box, much faster than Uno/Nano, low cost for features.
- Cons: Slightly steeper learning curve (web, async, file systems), 3.3V I/O quirks.
Good picks: ESP32 Dev Board, ESP32-WROOM
Raspberry Pi
Why labs love it: Full Linux computer for cameras, databases, dashboards, Python/Node—perfect for CV and capstone projects.
- Pros: Runs Python, OpenCV, Flask/Node-RED, can multitask services; HDMI, USB, camera support.
- Cons: Pricier; availability can fluctuate; needs good 5V PSU (2–5A depending on model).
Student picks: Pi Zero 2 W, Raspberry Pi 4, Raspberry Pi 5, Pi Camera
Student-friendly starter kits (PH)
Arduino Starter (Under ₱1,500)
- Arduino Uno/Nano, breadboard, jumper wires
- LEDs, resistors, buzzer, button, basic sensors
- See kit • Add sensors
ESP32 IoT Kit (Budget: ₱1,500–₱2,500)
Raspberry Pi Vision Kit (Budget: ₱3,500+)
Tip: Watch for student bundles and discounts during science fair season.
Project ideas per platform
Arduino
- Smart Plant Watering (soil + relay + pump)
- Line Follower Robot (TCRT5000 + L9110)
- Temperature Alert (DHT22 + buzzer + OLED)
ESP32
- IoT Data Logger to Google Sheets (Wi-Fi)
- Local Web Dashboard (sensors on a webpage)
- Wireless keypad → receiver (NRF24L01 + ESP32)
Raspberry Pi
- Camera Motion Detect & Timelapse
- Python + Flask dashboard with sensor API
- OpenCV color sorting / object detection (basic)
Power & safety tips (student edition)
- Use a quality 5V supply; avoid cheap 9V blocks for motors.
- Mind logic levels: Arduino (5V), ESP32/Pi GPIO (3.3V).
- Motors/relays = separate supply + common ground + flyback diode.
- Label wires, keep leads short, and add a fuse for pumps/actuators.
Ready to build?
Check out our student bundles and kits at Circuitrocks. Need help choosing? Message us on FB/IG/TikTok — we’ll match your budget, deadline, and school requirements.
FAQ: PH students
Pwede bang 9V battery sa Arduino?
Pwede for simple LED/sensor tests, pero hindi ideal for motors/pumps (mahina at mabilis maubos). Mas okay ang 5V USB power bank o buck converter.
ESP32 or Arduino for science fair?
If wala namang Wi-Fi features, Arduino is simpler. If kailangan Google Sheets / web dashboard, go ESP32.
Raspberry Pi para sa beginners?
Kaya, pero expect steeper learning curve (Linux). For vision/dashboards, sulit. For basic sensors, Arduino/ESP32 is easier.
Saan makakabili ng legit boards sa PH?
Dito mismo: Circuitrocks. We stock boards, sensors, kits, and accessories + student bundles.
