Does Raspberry Pi Pico Have WiFi? 7 Things You Need to Know in 2025 🌐


Video: The new Raspberry Pi Pico W is just $6.








Ever found yourself staring at your Raspberry Pi Pico, wondering, “Hey, does this little powerhouse come with WiFi out of the box?” You’re not alone! The Raspberry Pi Pico has taken the maker community by storm with its affordability and versatility, but when it comes to wireless connectivity, things get a bit tricky. Spoiler alert: the original Pico doesn’t have built-in WiFi, but there’s a twist that might just surprise you.

In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery behind the Pico’s wireless capabilities, explore the game-changing Raspberry Pi Pico W, and dive into how you can add WiFi to your classic Pico with external modules. Whether you’re a beginner itching to build your first IoT project or a seasoned hacker looking to optimize your setup, we’ve got you covered with detailed guides, comparisons, and expert tips from the educators and engineers at Why Pi™. Ready to unlock the full potential of your Pico? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • The original Raspberry Pi Pico does NOT have built-in WiFi, but you can add wireless connectivity using external modules like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing.
  • Raspberry Pi Pico W is the wireless hero of the Pico family, featuring built-in WiFi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) hardware.
  • Adding WiFi to the classic Pico requires pin mapping, wiring, and installing CircuitPython or MicroPython libraries.
  • Choosing the right WiFi module depends on your project needs — consider compatibility, range, and software support.
  • Troubleshooting tips and real-world project ideas will help you get the most out of your WiFi-enabled Pico.

Ready to shop for your WiFi-enabled Raspberry Pi Pico gear?

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts About Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi ⚡

To get started with your Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi projects, it’s essential to understand the basics. As we discussed in our article about Why Are Raspberry Pi So Cheap? Discover 10 Surprising Reasons! 2024 🌟, the affordability of Raspberry Pi devices makes them an excellent choice for various projects. When it comes to WiFi, the Raspberry Pi Pico does not have built-in WiFi, but you can add it using external modules like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor. Here are some key facts to keep in mind:

  • The Raspberry Pi Pico is a microcontroller board that can be used for a wide range of projects, from simple electronics to complex IoT applications.
  • To add WiFi to your Raspberry Pi Pico, you’ll need an external module like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor.
  • The Raspberry Pi Pico W is a version of the board that comes with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) capabilities.

Rating Table for Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi Modules

Here’s a rating table to help you compare the Raspberry Pi Pico with other WiFi modules:

Module Design Functionality Ease of Use Price
Raspberry Pi Pico 8/10 9/10 7/10 –
Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor 9/10 9/10 8/10 –
Raspberry Pi Pico W 9/10 9/10 8/10 –

The Lowdown: Raspberry Pi Pico’s Wireless History and Connectivity Options 📜

fruit cake on white plate

The Raspberry Pi Pico has a rich history, and its wireless connectivity options have evolved over time. According to Electronics Industry News, the Raspberry Pi Pico was first released in 2021, and since then, it has become a popular choice for makers and developers. The board’s wireless connectivity options include:

  • WiFi: The Raspberry Pi Pico can be connected to the internet using an external WiFi module like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor.
  • Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): The Raspberry Pi Pico W comes with built-in BLE capabilities, making it easy to connect to other devices.

Comparison Table for Raspberry Pi Pico and Other IoT Boards

Here’s a comparison table to help you choose the best IoT board for your project:

Board WiFi BLE Price
Raspberry Pi Pico No No –
Raspberry Pi Pico W Yes Yes –
ESP32 Yes Yes –
Arduino Uno No No –

Does Raspberry Pi Pico Have Built-in WiFi? The Straight Answer! 🤔


Video: Connecting To The Internet With The Raspberry Pi Pico W (via WiFi).







The answer is no, the Raspberry Pi Pico does not have built-in WiFi. However, you can add WiFi to your Raspberry Pi Pico using an external module like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor. For more information on Microcontroller Programming, check out our tutorials and guides.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding WiFi to Raspberry Pi Pico

Here’s a step-by-step guide to adding WiFi to your Raspberry Pi Pico:

  1. Choose a WiFi module: Select a WiFi module that is compatible with your Raspberry Pi Pico, such as the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor.
  2. Connect the module: Connect the WiFi module to your Raspberry Pi Pico using a breadboard and jumper wires.
  3. Install the driver: Install the driver for your WiFi module using a library like CircuitPython.
  4. Configure the network: Configure your network settings using a tool like the Raspberry Pi Configuration Tool.

Raspberry Pi Pico W: The Wireless Revolution in the Pico Family 🌐


Video: Raspberry Pi Pico W (Wireless with WiFi): Overview, Features & Specs.








The Raspberry Pi Pico W is a version of the Raspberry Pi Pico that comes with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) capabilities. This board is perfect for IoT projects that require wireless connectivity. For more information on Electronic Component Reviews, check out our reviews and tutorials.

Features and Benefits of Raspberry Pi Pico W

Here are some features and benefits of the Raspberry Pi Pico W:

  • Built-in WiFi and BLE capabilities
  • Compatible with a wide range of libraries and frameworks
  • Perfect for IoT projects that require wireless connectivity
  • Affordable and easy to use

How to Add WiFi to Your Raspberry Pi Pico: External Modules and Shields 🔌


Video: Raspberry Pi Pico Wifi Module – how to add Wifi to your Pico Projects.








To add WiFi to your Raspberry Pi Pico, you’ll need an external module or shield. Here are some options:

  • Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor: This is a popular WiFi module that is compatible with the Raspberry Pi Pico.
  • Raspberry Pi Pico W: This is a version of the Raspberry Pi Pico that comes with built-in WiFi and BLE capabilities.

Comparison Table for WiFi Modules

Here’s a comparison table to help you choose the best WiFi module for your project:

Module WiFi BLE Price
Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor Yes No –
Raspberry Pi Pico W Yes Yes –
ESP32 WiFi Module Yes Yes –

Pin Mapping and Wiring Your Raspberry Pi Pico for WiFi Connectivity 🔧


Video: Raspberry Pi Pico W Getting Started Tutorial || Wireless Wi-Fi Connectivity to RP2040 Board.








To connect your Raspberry Pi Pico to a WiFi module, you’ll need to map the pins correctly. Here’s a pin mapping table to help you get started:

Raspberry Pi Pico WiFi Module
VSYS USB
GND GND
GPIO 10 SCK
GPIO 11 MOSI
GPIO 12 MISO
GPIO 13 ESPCS
GPIO 14 ESPBUSY
GPIO 15 ESPRST

Step-by-Step Guide to Wiring Your Raspberry Pi Pico

Here’s a step-by-step guide to wiring your Raspberry Pi Pico:

  1. Connect the VSYS pin to the USB pin on the WiFi module.
  2. Connect the GND pin to the GND pin on the WiFi module.
  3. Connect the GPIO 10 pin to the SCK pin on the WiFi module.
  4. Connect the GPIO 11 pin to the MOSI pin on the WiFi module.
  5. Connect the GPIO 12 pin to the MISO pin on the WiFi module.
  6. Connect the GPIO 13 pin to the ESPCS pin on the WiFi module.
  7. Connect the GPIO 14 pin to the ESPBUSY pin on the WiFi module.
  8. Connect the GPIO 15 pin to the ESPRST pin on the WiFi module.

Installing CircuitPython and MicroPython for WiFi Projects on Raspberry Pi Pico 🐍


Video: CircuitPython WiFi support on the Raspberry Pi Pico W – part deux.








To use your Raspberry Pi Pico with WiFi, you’ll need to install a library like CircuitPython or MicroPython. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing CircuitPython:

  1. Download the latest version of CircuitPython for the Raspberry Pi Pico.
  2. Connect your Raspberry Pi Pico to your computer using a USB cable.
  3. Hold down the BOOTSEL button on the Raspberry Pi Pico and press the reset button.
  4. Release the reset button and then release the BOOTSEL button.
  5. The Raspberry Pi Pico will appear as a USB drive on your computer.
  6. Copy the CircuitPython UF2 file to the USB drive.
  7. The Raspberry Pi Pico will automatically install the CircuitPython library.

Comparison Table for CircuitPython and MicroPython

Here’s a comparison table to help you choose the best library for your project:

Library WiFi Support BLE Support Ease of Use
CircuitPython Yes Yes Easy
MicroPython Yes Yes Medium

Creating Your WiFi Secrets File: Securely Storing Credentials on Pico 🔐


Video: Simon's Things on Thursdays: Wifi Setup with Raspberry Pi Pico W.







To connect your Raspberry Pi Pico to a WiFi network, you’ll need to create a secrets file that stores your network credentials. Here’s an example of a secrets file:

secrets = {
    'ssid': 'your_network_name',
    'password': 'your_network_password',
    'timezone': 'your_timezone'
}

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Secrets File

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a secrets file:

  1. Open a text editor on your computer.
  2. Create a new file called secrets.py.
  3. Add your network credentials to the file using the format above.
  4. Save the file to the root directory of your Raspberry Pi Pico.

Writing and Running WiFi Code on Raspberry Pi Pico: Step-by-Step Guide 💻


Video: How to Setup a Raspberry Pi Pico and Code with Thonny.








To write and run WiFi code on your Raspberry Pi Pico, you’ll need to use a library like CircuitPython. Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing and running WiFi code:

  1. Open a text editor on your computer.
  2. Create a new file called code.py.
  3. Import the necessary libraries, including the WiFi library.
  4. Connect to your WiFi network using the connect_AP function.
  5. Send and receive data using the socket library.

Example Code for Connecting to WiFi

Here’s an example of code for connecting to WiFi:

import wifi

# Connect to WiFi
wifi.connect_AP('your_network_name', 'your_network_password')

# Send and receive data
socket = wifi.socket()
socket.connect('your_server_ip', 80)
socket.send(b'Hello, world!')
data = socket.recv(1024)
print(data)

Top 5 WiFi Modules Compatible with Raspberry Pi Pico: Pros and Cons 📶


Video: Interfacing ESP8266-01 Wi-Fi module with Raspberry Pi Pico using MicroPython.








Here are the top 5 WiFi modules compatible with Raspberry Pi Pico, along with their pros and cons:

  1. Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor: This module is easy to use and has a wide range of libraries and frameworks available.
    • Pros: Easy to use, wide range of libraries and frameworks available.
    • Cons: Limited range and speed.
  2. Raspberry Pi Pico W: This module comes with built-in WiFi and BLE capabilities, making it perfect for IoT projects.
    • Pros: Built-in WiFi and BLE capabilities, perfect for IoT projects.
    • Cons: Limited range and speed.
  3. ESP32 WiFi Module: This module has a wide range of libraries and frameworks available and is easy to use.
    • Pros: Wide range of libraries and frameworks available, easy to use.
    • Cons: Limited speed.
  4. WiFi Shield for Raspberry Pi Pico: This module is easy to use and has a wide range of libraries and frameworks available.
    • Pros: Easy to use, wide range of libraries and frameworks available.
    • Cons: Limited range and speed.
  5. Microchip WiFi Module: This module has a wide range of libraries and frameworks available and is easy to use.
    • Pros: Wide range of libraries and frameworks available, easy to use.
    • Cons: Limited speed.

Comparison Table for WiFi Modules

Here’s a comparison table to help you choose the best WiFi module for your project:

Module WiFi BLE Range Speed
Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor Yes No Limited Limited
Raspberry Pi Pico W Yes Yes Limited Limited
ESP32 WiFi Module Yes Yes Wide Fast
WiFi Shield for Raspberry Pi Pico Yes No Limited Limited
Microchip WiFi Module Yes Yes Wide Fast

Troubleshooting WiFi Connectivity Issues on Raspberry Pi Pico: Tips and Tricks 🛠️

Here are some tips and tricks for troubleshooting WiFi connectivity issues on Raspberry Pi Pico:

  • Check your network credentials: Make sure your network credentials are correct and match the ones in your secrets file.
  • Check your WiFi module: Make sure your WiFi module is properly connected to your Raspberry Pi Pico and is configured correctly.
  • Check your network: Make sure your network is working properly and is not down.

Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting WiFi Connectivity Issues

Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting WiFi connectivity issues:

  1. Check your network credentials: Open your secrets file and make sure your network credentials are correct.
  2. Check your WiFi module: Make sure your WiFi module is properly connected to your Raspberry Pi Pico and is configured correctly.
  3. Check your network: Make sure your network is working properly and is not down.
  4. Restart your Raspberry Pi Pico: Restart your Raspberry Pi Pico and try connecting to your WiFi network again.

Real-World Projects: What Can You Build with WiFi-Enabled Raspberry Pi Pico? 🚀


Video: WiFi Enabled Pico for only $6! – Raspberry Pi Pico W overview.







Here are some real-world projects you can build with a WiFi-enabled Raspberry Pi Pico:

  • Home Automation System: Build a home automation system that can control your lights, thermostat, and security cameras using your Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi.
  • Weather Station: Build a weather station that can collect data on temperature, humidity, and pressure using your Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi.
  • Security Camera: Build a security camera that can stream video to your phone or computer using your Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi.

Example Code for Home Automation System

Here’s an example of code for a home automation system:

import wifi

# Connect to WiFi
wifi.connect_AP('your_network_name', 'your_network_password')

# Control your lights
def turn_on_lights():
    # Send a signal to your lights to turn them on
    socket = wifi.socket()
    socket.connect('your_lights_ip', 80)
    socket.send(b'turn_on')

def turn_off_lights():
    # Send a signal to your lights to turn them off
    socket = wifi.socket()
    socket.connect('your_lights_ip', 80)
    socket.send(b'turn_off')

# Control your thermostat
def set_temperature(temperature):
    # Send a signal to your thermostat to set the temperature
    socket = wifi.socket()
    socket.connect('your_thermostat_ip', 80)
    socket.send(b'set_temperature ' + str(temperature))

Comparing Raspberry Pi Pico W vs. Other IoT Boards with WiFi: Which One Wins? 🥇


Video: Raspberry Pi Pico W vs Pico: Whats The Difference?








Here’s a comparison of the Raspberry Pi Pico W with other IoT boards with WiFi:

  • Raspberry Pi Pico W: This board comes with built-in WiFi and BLE capabilities, making it perfect for IoT projects.
  • ESP32: This board has a wide range of libraries and frameworks available and is easy to use.
  • Arduino Uno: This board is easy to use and has a wide range of libraries and frameworks available.

Comparison Table for IoT Boards

Here’s a comparison table to help you choose the best IoT board for your project:

Board WiFi BLE Price
Raspberry Pi Pico W Yes Yes –
ESP32 Yes Yes –
Arduino Uno No No –

Quick Tips for Optimizing WiFi Performance on Raspberry Pi Pico 📈


Video: Build Your Own Network Bonding Router: Raspberry Pi with Speedify for Faster Internet.








Here are some quick tips for optimizing WiFi performance on Raspberry Pi Pico:

  • Use a strong WiFi signal: Make sure your WiFi signal is strong and stable to ensure optimal performance.
  • Use a WiFi module with a good range: Choose a WiFi module with a good range to ensure optimal performance.
  • Optimize your code: Optimize your code to reduce latency and improve performance.

Example Code for Optimizing WiFi Performance

Here’s an example of code for optimizing WiFi performance:

import wifi

# Connect to WiFi
wifi.connect_AP('your_network_name', 'your_network_password')

# Optimize your code
def optimize_code():
    # Reduce latency by using a faster WiFi module
    socket = wifi.socket()
    socket.connect('your_server_ip', 80)
    socket.send(b'hello')
    data = socket.recv(1024)
    print(data)

Conclusion: Is Raspberry Pi Pico Your Go-To for WiFi Projects? 🎯

mindfulness printed paper near window

After diving deep into the world of Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi connectivity, here’s the scoop from the educators and engineers at Why Pi™:

Positives:

  • Raspberry Pi Pico W brings built-in WiFi and BLE capabilities, making it a game-changer for wireless IoT projects without the hassle of external modules.
  • The classic Raspberry Pi Pico is a versatile, affordable microcontroller with a thriving ecosystem, perfect for learning and prototyping.
  • Adding WiFi via modules like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing Co-Processor offers flexibility and compatibility with existing Pico boards.
  • Excellent software support via CircuitPython and MicroPython makes coding and connectivity accessible even for beginners.
  • The RP2040 chip inside the Pico family is powerful, efficient, and well-supported, ensuring smooth performance.

Negatives:

  • The original Raspberry Pi Pico lacks built-in WiFi, requiring additional hardware and wiring, which can be a hurdle for beginners.
  • External WiFi modules add complexity, cost, and sometimes bulk to your projects.
  • BLE support on the Pico W is still in development, so if Bluetooth is critical, you might need to look elsewhere for now.
  • WiFi range and speed on the Pico W and Featherwing modules are good but not comparable to high-end IoT boards like the ESP32.

Our Confident Recommendation:

If you want plug-and-play WiFi with minimal fuss, the Raspberry Pi Pico W is your best bet. It’s affordable, well-supported, and perfect for wireless projects right out of the box. However, if you already own a classic Pico or want to experiment with different WiFi modules, the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing is a solid choice with great community backing.

Whichever path you choose, the Raspberry Pi Pico ecosystem offers an exciting playground for wireless projects — from home automation to weather stations and beyond. So, grab your board, get coding, and let your IoT creativity soar! 🚀

Ready to gear up? Check out these trusted sources and products to get started:

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Raspberry Pi Pico and WiFi Answered! ❓

Mountain peak peeking through low clouds and sky.

Does Raspberry Pi Pico have Bluetooth connectivity?

Short answer:
❌ The original Raspberry Pi Pico does not have Bluetooth. The Raspberry Pi Pico W includes hardware for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), but as of now, BLE support is still under development and not fully available in software.

More detail:
The Pico W’s wireless chip (Infineon CYW43439) supports both WiFi and BLE at the hardware level. However, Raspberry Pi Foundation and community developers are still working on stable BLE drivers and MicroPython/CircuitPython support. If Bluetooth is a must-have today, consider boards like the ESP32, which have mature BLE support.

Read more about “What Are Raspberry Pi Pico W Good For? 10 Creative Projects to Ignite Your Imagination! 🚀”

How do I connect my Raspberry Pi Pico to the internet?

Short answer:

  • For Raspberry Pi Pico W: Use the built-in WiFi capabilities with MicroPython or CircuitPython libraries.
  • For the classic Pico: Add an external WiFi module like the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing and wire it up via SPI.

More detail:
Connecting involves installing the right firmware (CircuitPython or MicroPython), creating a secrets file with your WiFi credentials, and writing code to connect to your network. For the Pico W, this is straightforward since WiFi hardware is onboard. For the classic Pico, you’ll need to solder headers, wire the WiFi module, and install additional drivers.

Read more about “How to Set Up a Raspberry Pi for the First Time: 6 Easy Steps! 🖥️”

What are the wireless connectivity options for Raspberry Pi Pico?

  • Raspberry Pi Pico (original): No built-in wireless; requires external WiFi modules or shields.
  • Raspberry Pi Pico W: Built-in 2.4 GHz WiFi (802.11n) and hardware BLE (software support pending).
  • External modules: Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing, ESP32 modules (used as WiFi co-processors), and other SPI-based WiFi shields.

Read more about “Why Raspberry Pi Pico Outshines Arduino: 10 Key Reasons! 🚀”

Can I add WiFi to my Raspberry Pi Pico board?

✅ Absolutely! The classic Raspberry Pi Pico can be paired with external WiFi modules such as the Adafruit Airlift WiFi Featherwing. This requires soldering, wiring, and installing appropriate libraries but unlocks WiFi capabilities.

Read more about “Mastering the Raspberry Pi Pico Schematic: 10 Essential Insights! 🛠️ …”

Are there any Raspberry Pi Pico kits that include WiFi modules?

Yes! Some kits bundle the Raspberry Pi Pico with WiFi add-ons like the Adafruit Airlift Featherwing or ESP32 modules. These kits often include jumper wires, breadboards, and tutorials to help beginners get started quickly.

How do I choose the right WiFi module for my Raspberry Pi Pico project?

Consider these factors:

  • Compatibility: Ensure the module supports SPI communication with the Pico.
  • Software support: Modules with CircuitPython or MicroPython libraries (like Adafruit Airlift) are easier to use.
  • Range and speed: Depending on your project needs, choose modules with adequate range and data throughput.
  • Power consumption: For battery-powered projects, low power modules are preferable.
  • Community support: Popular modules have more tutorials and troubleshooting help.

Does the Raspberry Pi Pico W have WiFi and how does it differ from the standard Pico?

Yes! The Pico W includes built-in 2.4 GHz WiFi (802.11n) and hardware for BLE, while the original Pico has no wireless features. The Pico W retains the same RP2040 microcontroller and pinout but adds a wireless chip and antenna, making it a more versatile choice for IoT projects.

At Why Pi™, we believe understanding your tools is the first step to creating amazing projects. Whether you’re adding WiFi to your classic Pico or jumping straight into the Pico W, the possibilities are endless. Happy hacking! 🎉

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