Raspberry Pi Pico Uncovered: 17 Expert Tips & Tricks (2025) 🚀

green circuit board on white table

Ever wondered if the Raspberry Pi Pico could do more than just blink LEDs? Spoiler alert: it can—and then some! From running code dynamically in RAM to harnessing its unique Programmable I/O (PIO) capabilities, this tiny microcontroller packs a punch that surprises even seasoned engineers. At Why Pi™, we’ve spent countless hours tinkering, troubleshooting, and pushing the Pico to its limits, and we’re here to share everything we’ve learned.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to get started with your Pico, master both MicroPython and C/C++ programming, optimize your code for speed and memory, and explore inspiring projects that showcase its versatility. Plus, we’ll reveal insider tips on powering your Pico efficiently, debugging like a pro, and integrating it with sensors and IoT devices. Curious about how the Pico stacks up against Arduino and ESP32? We’ve got that covered too. Ready to unlock the full potential of this microcontroller marvel? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Raspberry Pi Pico features a powerful dual-core RP2040 chip with unique PIO capabilities, making it ideal for complex and custom hardware projects.
  • Supports both beginner-friendly MicroPython and high-performance C/C++ programming, offering flexibility for all skill levels.
  • Running code automatically on power-up is as simple as saving your script as main.py, turning your Pico into a standalone device.
  • The Pico W variant adds built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, perfect for IoT projects without external modules.
  • Extensive community support and rich documentation make learning and troubleshooting easier than ever.
  • Powering your Pico safely and efficiently is crucial—use the right voltage and consider low-power modes for battery projects.
  • The Pico competes strongly with Arduino and ESP32, especially in raw performance and flexibility, but lacks built-in connectivity unless you choose the Pico W.

👉 Shop Raspberry Pi Pico and Accessories:

Table of Contents

Here is the body of the article, written according to your specifications.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Jumping into a new piece of tech can feel like diving into the deep end. So, before we get our feet wet, here are some quick, bite-sized facts and tips about the Raspberry Pi Pico to get you oriented. Think of this as your cheat sheet!

Fact/Tip The Lowdown
It’s a Microcontroller, Not a Computer Unlike its bigger Raspberry Pi siblings, the Pico doesn’t run a full operating system. It’s designed to run a single program at a time, making it perfect for specific, embedded tasks.
The Brains of the Operation The Pico is powered by the RP2040, a custom-designed dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor. It’s fast, efficient, and built by Raspberry Pi themselves!
Two Main Languages You can program the Pico using MicroPython (a lean version of Python) or C/C++. We’ll dive into which one might be right for you later.
BOOTSEL Mode is Key To load new firmware, you hold down the BOOTSEL button while plugging it into your computer. It then appears as a USB drive. Easy peasy!
Power and Logic The Pico operates at 3.3V. This is super important! Connecting it to 5V components without a level shifter can damage your board. 😱
What’s PIO? Programmable I/O (PIO) is a unique feature of the RP2040. It lets you create custom hardware interfaces in software, which is mind-blowingly cool for advanced projects.
It’s Incredibly Affordable One of the Pico’s biggest selling points is its low cost, making it accessible for beginners, students, and hobbyists on a budget.

📜 The Evolution and Origins of Raspberry Pi Pico: A Microcontroller Marvel

For years, when you heard “Raspberry Pi,” you thought of a tiny, single-board computer capable of running Linux, browsing the web, and acting as a mini-desktop. We at Why Pi™ have built countless projects with them! But in 2021, the Raspberry Pi Foundation threw us a curveball, a wonderful, powerful curveball named the Raspberry Pi Pico.

This wasn’t just another Pi; it was a whole new ballgame. The Pico marked the foundation’s official entry into the microcontroller space, a domain long dominated by giants like Arduino and Espressif Systems (makers of the ESP8266 and ESP32).

So, why the shift? The Raspberry Pi was designed to make computing accessible. The Pico was designed to make control accessible. It’s for the projects where a full-blown computer is overkill—think blinking lights, reading sensors, driving motors, and creating custom electronic gadgets. It was a brilliant move, covered extensively in Electronics Industry News, and it all started with their own custom silicon: the RP2040 chip. By designing their own chip, they could control the cost, features, and supply chain, delivering a product that is both powerful and incredibly cheap.

🔍 What Makes Raspberry Pi Pico Stand Out? Key Features and Specs

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico 2 Setup: The Beginner’s Guide (2025).

Alright, let’s pop the hood and see what makes this little board tick. The Pico isn’t just another microcontroller; it has some unique features that have made it a favorite in the DIY Electronics community. If you’re looking to get started, we’ve reviewed some of the Top Kits, Tips & Tricks (2025) 🚀 to help you on your way.

Our Why Pi™ Rating

Feature Rating (1-10) Why?
Performance 9/10 The dual-core RP2040 is a beast for its size and cost.
Features 8/10 PIO is a game-changer, but it lacks built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth (the Pico W fixes this!).
Ease of Use 9/10 Drag-and-drop programming and excellent documentation make it very beginner-friendly.
Community & Support 10/10 The Raspberry Pi community is massive, active, and incredibly helpful.
Value for Money 10/10 You get an incredible amount of power for a ridiculously low price.

Core Specifications Table

Specification Details
Microcontroller Raspberry Pi RP2040
Processor Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ @ 133MHz
Memory 264KB of on-chip SRAM, 2MB of on-board QSPI Flash
GPIO 26 multi-function 3.3V GPIO pins
Analog Inputs 3 x 12-bit ADC pins
Peripherals 2 x UART, 2 x I2C, 2 x SPI, 16 x PWM channels
Unique Feature 8 x Programmable I/O (PIO) state machines
Connectivity Micro-USB 1.1 for power and data
Dimensions 21mm x 51mm

The real star here is the RP2040 chip. As the video host in our featured video points out, its dual-core 133MHz processor is a massive leap from the 16MHz single-core processor on an Arduino Nano. “So imagine the speed difference,” he says. This power, combined with the unique Programmable I/O (PIO), allows you to offload timing-critical tasks like controlling NeoPixels or emulating protocols, freeing up the main cores for your application logic. It’s like having tiny, dedicated co-processors you can program yourself!

Video: Top 10 Raspberry Pi Pico Projects.

Ready to make something happen? Let’s go from a Pico in a bag to a blinking LED in just a few steps. This is the “Hello, World!” of the hardware world, and it’s an exciting first step!

What You’ll Need

  • A Raspberry Pi Pico
  • A Micro-USB data cable (✅ a data cable is crucial, a charge-only cable won’t work!)
  • A computer with the Thonny Python IDE installed.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Install Thonny: If you haven’t already, download and install Thonny. It’s a fantastic, beginner-friendly Python editor that has built-in support for the Pico.
  2. Install the MicroPython Firmware:
    • Go to the Raspberry Pi Pico documentation page and download the latest MicroPython UF2 file.
    • Now, for the magic trick: Press and hold the BOOTSEL button on your Pico.
    • While still holding the button, plug the Pico into your computer using the micro-USB cable.
    • Release the button. Your computer should now detect the Pico as a small USB mass storage device, likely named RPI-RP2.
  3. Flash the Firmware: Drag and drop the .uf2 file you downloaded onto the RPI-RP2 drive. The drive will automatically disconnect, and your Pico will reboot with MicroPython installed. That’s it!
  4. Connect with Thonny:
    • Open Thonny.
    • Go to the bottom-right corner of the window and click on the interpreter selection box.
    • Choose “MicroPython (Raspberry Pi Pico)”. If it’s not connecting, you may need to select the specific port. A user on the Raspberry Pi forums rightly calls this the key step: “That button is the key.”
  5. Write Your First Script (Blink!): In the main editor window in Thonny, type the following code: 
    from machine import Pin import time led = Pin("LED", Pin.OUT) while True: led.toggle() time.sleep(0.5)
  6. Run It! Click the green “Run” button in Thonny. Look at your Pico… the onboard LED should be blinking! 🎉 You’ve just taken your first step into the world of Microcontroller Programming!

💻 Programming Your Pico: MicroPython, C/C++, and Beyond

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico 2 | Everything You Need To Know.

One of the best things about the Pico is the choice of programming environments. You’re not locked into one way of doing things. The two main paths are MicroPython and C/C++.

MicroPython: The Fast and Friendly Route

MicroPython is a lean and efficient implementation of the Python 3 programming language, optimized to run on microcontrollers.

  • Pros: ✅
    • Beginner-Friendly: The syntax is simple and easy to learn, especially if you have any Python experience.
    • Interactive: You can use the REPL (Read-Eval-Print Loop) in Thonny to type commands and see immediate results, which is fantastic for testing and debugging.
    • Rapid Prototyping: It’s incredibly fast to get a project up and running.
  • Cons: ❌
    • Slower Performance: Being an interpreted language, it’s not as fast as code compiled in C/C++. For most projects, this doesn’t matter, but for high-speed signal processing, it might.
    • Less Memory Control: You have less direct control over memory management.

C/C++: For Maximum Power and Control

Programming the Pico in C/C++ gives you “bare metal” access, letting you squeeze every last drop of performance out of the RP2040.

  • Pros: ✅
    • Maximum Speed: Your code is compiled directly into machine code, making it run as fast as possible.
    • Full Control: You have precise control over hardware and memory. This is essential for complex, performance-critical applications.
    • Extensive Libraries: You can leverage a vast ecosystem of existing C/C++ libraries.
  • Cons: ❌
    • Steeper Learning Curve: C/C++ is more complex than Python, with manual memory management and more verbose syntax.
    • Longer Development Cycle: The compile-upload-test cycle is slower than the interactive nature of MicroPython.

So, which should you choose? Our advice at Why Pi™ is simple: Start with MicroPython. It’s the path of least resistance and will get you building cool stuff faster. If and when your project hits a performance wall, you can then explore the C/C++ SDK.

🚀 How to Run Code on Raspberry Pi Pico: From Power-On to Execution

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico.

You’ve written your blinking LED script, and it runs when you click the button in Thonny. Awesome! But what if you want it to run automatically whenever you plug the Pico into a power bank? This is a common point of confusion, but the solution is wonderfully simple.

The secret lies in a special filename: main.py.

When a MicroPython-powered Pico boots up, it looks for a file named boot.py first (for configuration) and then for a file named main.py. If it finds main.py, it executes it automatically.

How to Save Your Script to Run on Boot

This process tripped up many new users, leading to detailed explanations on the official forums. The key is to understand that BOOTSEL mode is only for flashing firmware, not for saving your code files.

Here’s the correct way to do it, using Thonny:

  1. Connect your Pico to your computer (without holding BOOTSEL) and ensure Thonny is connected to it.
  2. Open or write your script in the Thonny editor.
  3. Go to File > Save As…
  4. A dialog box will pop up asking where you want to save the file. Choose “Raspberry Pi Pico”.
  5. When prompted for the filename, type exactly main.py and click OK.

That’s it! Now, unplug your Pico from your computer and plug it into any USB power source. Your script will start running instantly. To stop it, you can reconnect to Thonny and click the “Stop” button. This simple trick turns your Pico from a development board into a standalone, deployable device.

📦 10 Must-Have Accessories and Add-Ons for Raspberry Pi Pico

Video: The Raspberry Pi Pico WAS Overrated! But that changed!

The Pico is amazing on its own, but its true power is unleashed when you start connecting it to other things. Here’s our curated list of essential accessories to take your projects to the next level.

  1. Solderless Breadboard: An absolute must-have for prototyping. It lets you build and test circuits without any soldering. The MB-102 breadboard is a classic choice.
  2. Jumper Wires: You’ll need these to connect your Pico to the breadboard and other components. Get a pack with a variety of male-to-male, male-to-female, and female-to-female connectors.
  3. Pico with Pre-soldered Headers: Unless you love soldering, we highly recommend buying a Pico with headers already attached. It makes it breadboard-friendly right out of the box.
  4. LEDs and Resistors Kit: For blinking, indicating status, and learning the basics. A simple kit will give you various colors and the necessary resistors to prevent them from burning out.
  5. Sensors Kit: The fun really begins when your Pico can sense the world! A starter kit like the ones from SunFounder or ELEGOO often includes temperature, humidity, ultrasonic, and light sensors.
  6. OLED Display: A small I2C OLED screen, like the popular SSD1306, is perfect for displaying data, text, or simple graphics from your Pico.
  7. Potentiometers and Buttons: Essential for user input. Use potentiometers to get analog readings and buttons for simple digital on/off signals.
  8. Pico W: If your project needs to connect to the internet, don’t mess with external modules. Just get the Raspberry Pi Pico W, which has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
  9. USB Power Bank: To make your projects portable and run them without being tethered to a computer. Any standard power bank will do.
  10. Logic Analyzer: For more advanced debugging, a cheap USB logic analyzer like the AZ-Delivery Logic Analyzer is invaluable for “seeing” the digital signals on the GPIO pins.

👉 Shop Raspberry Pi Pico and Accessories on:

⚡️ Powering Your Pico: USB, Batteries, and Energy Efficiency Tips

Video: Top 25 Raspberry Pi Projects of 2024 🤯!

Powering your Pico is straightforward, but there are a few things to know to do it safely and efficiently.

Power Input Pins

You have a few options for getting power into the Pico:

  • Micro-USB: The simplest way. Just plug it in. This provides 5V, which is then regulated down to 3.3V by the onboard circuitry.
  • VSYS (Pin 39): This pin lets you provide a voltage source ranging from 1.8V to 5.5V. This is the ideal way to power your Pico with batteries, for example, using 3 AA batteries or a single-cell LiPo.
  • VBUS (Pin 40): This is connected directly to the micro-USB port’s 5V line. You can use this to power the Pico with a 5V source if you’re not using USB.

⚠️ Important Safety Tip: Do not connect power sources to both the USB port and VBUS/VSYS at the same time without a Schottky diode for protection, as you could damage your computer or power supply.

Power Output Pins

  • 3V3 (Pin 36): This provides a regulated 3.3V output to power your sensors and other components.
  • VBUS (Pin 40): If the Pico is powered by USB, this pin will output 5V.

Energy Efficiency

The RP2040 has excellent low-power modes. You can put the chip into a deep sleep mode where it consumes very little current, making it great for battery-powered projects. You can then wake it up with an external trigger, like a button press on a GPIO pin.

🔧 Debugging and Troubleshooting Raspberry Pi Pico Projects Like a Pro

Video: 3 Easy @raspberrypi Pico Projects that ANYONE can tackle!

Even the best of us hit roadblocks. When your Pico project isn’t behaving, here are some common culprits and how to fix them. This is where we put on our engineering hats!

The Dreaded “No Serial Device” Issue

One of the most common frustrations, especially for C/C++ developers, is when the Pico just won’t show up as a serial port. A user on the Raspberry Pi forums described it perfectly: “When I press the BOOTSEL button while pluggin in the Pico I get a storage device… After it reboots… I never see a USB serial device.”

This often happens when compiling from source. The cause is frequently a build environment issue. A key finding from the community was that the build system might “silently ignore USB support” if a crucial component is missing.

The Fix:

  • Check for tinyusb: When setting up the C/C++ SDK, make sure you’ve correctly cloned the submodules, especially tinyusb. A warning like “skipping tinyusb” during the cmake process is a huge red flag.
  • Enable USB in CMakeLists.txt: Make sure your project’s CMakeLists.txt file includes the line pico_enable_stdio_usb(your_project_name 1) to explicitly enable the USB serial output.
  • Use pico-setup.sh: The official setup script is designed to prevent these issues by installing all necessary components correctly.

General Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check Your Wiring: This is the #1 cause of problems. A loose jumper wire or a component plugged in backward can cause hours of headaches.
  • Power Problems: Are you providing enough power? Is your 3.3V rail sagging? Use a multimeter to check your voltages.
  • Use print() Statements: Your best friend in debugging. Sprinkle print() statements throughout your MicroPython code to see what your program is doing and what values your variables hold.
  • Isolate the Problem: If you have a complex circuit, disconnect everything and test one component at a time. Does the sensor work on its own? Does the display?

🎮 Top 7 Raspberry Pi Pico Projects to Inspire Your Next Build

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico – 10 Cool Project Ideas!

Need some inspiration? Here are some fantastic projects that showcase the Pico’s versatility.

  1. Custom Mechanical Keyboard (Macro Pad): Use the Pico to build a custom keypad with programmable macros for gaming or productivity.
  2. Weather Station: Combine a Pico W with a BME280 sensor to create a web-connected weather station that logs temperature, humidity, and pressure.
  3. Retro Game Emulator: The RP2040 is powerful enough to emulate classic 8-bit consoles. Check out the PicoSystem by Pimoroni for inspiration.
  4. Robotic Arm Controller: Use the Pico’s PWM channels to precisely control multiple servo motors for a small robotic arm.
  5. MIDI Controller: Create a custom music controller with buttons, knobs, and sliders that sends MIDI signals over USB to your favorite music software.
  6. Digital Oscilloscope: With its fast ADCs, the Pico can be turned into a basic but surprisingly useful oscilloscope for analyzing digital signals.
  7. NeoPixel Light Show: The Pico’s PIO makes it the perfect brain for controlling large strings of addressable RGB LEDs like Adafruit NeoPixels without bogging down the main processor.

🧠 Understanding Raspberry Pi Pico’s RP2040 Chip: Architecture and Performance

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico – SSD1306 OLED Micro Python Library and Setup.

The RP2040 is what truly sets the Pico apart. Let’s geek out for a minute and look at what’s inside this custom silicon.

  • Dual-Core Cortex-M0+: Most microcontrollers in this class are single-core. The RP2040 has two processor cores. This means you can dedicate one core to a highly demanding, time-sensitive task (like motor control) while the other core handles everything else (like user input and communication).
  • Massive RAM: 264KB of SRAM is a huge amount for a microcontroller. This allows for more complex applications and larger data buffers.
  • Flexible Clock: The chip can run up to 133MHz, providing plenty of processing power for demanding tasks.
  • Programmable I/O (PIO): This is the secret sauce. PIO is a set of eight state machines that can be programmed to handle I/O tasks independently of the main cores. Think of them as tiny, super-fast processors dedicated to bit-banging protocols. This allows the Pico to support interfaces that aren’t built into the hardware, like DVI video output or controlling weird legacy peripherals.

One fascinating demonstration of the RP2040’s power comes from a developer who explored running code dynamically from RAM. They successfully compiled a function, loaded its machine code into a dynamically allocated memory block, and then executed it using a function pointer. This advanced technique, reminiscent of highly optimized code generation from the 90s, showcases the raw flexibility and power available to those who dig deep into the chip’s architecture. It’s a testament to the “bare metal” capabilities that the C/C++ SDK unlocks.

🔄 Updating Firmware and Bootloader on Raspberry Pi Pico: Step-by-Step

Video: Ultimate GPS Tracker Project 18: Logging GPS Data on Your Raspberry Pi Pico GPS Tracker.

Keeping your Pico’s firmware up-to-date is good practice, as new versions often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. The process is identical to how you first installed MicroPython.

  1. Find the Latest Firmware: Go to the official MicroPython for Pico page to find the latest stable .uf2 file.
  2. Enter BOOTSEL Mode: Unplug your Pico. Press and hold the BOOTSEL button, and while holding it, plug the Pico back into your computer.
  3. Copy the File: The RPI-RP2 drive will appear. Drag and drop the new .uf2 firmware file onto it.
  4. Reboot: The Pico will automatically eject and reboot with the new firmware.

That’s all there is to it! Your main.py and any other files you saved on the Pico’s filesystem will remain untouched.

💡 Tips for Optimizing Raspberry Pi Pico Code for Speed and Memory

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico Full Guide 🔥 | Beginner to Pro Tutorial.

While the Pico is powerful, you’re still working in a constrained environment compared to a desktop computer. Here are some tips to make your code lean and mean.

For MicroPython Users

  • Use const(): Declare constants using const(). This saves memory and can improve performance.
  • Avoid Global Variables: Local variables are faster to access.
  • Pre-allocate Buffers: If you’re working with data streams, create your bytearray buffer once and reuse it instead of creating new ones in a loop.
  • Use .mpy Files: You can pre-compile your Python scripts into .mpy bytecode files, which load faster and use less RAM.
  • Use the ustruct Module: For packing and unpacking binary data, ustruct is much more efficient than manual manipulation.

For C/C++ Users

  • Choose the Right Data Types: Don’t use a 32-bit int when an 8-bit uint8_t will do.
  • Leverage Both Cores: Use the second core for parallel processing to nearly double your performance for certain tasks.
  • Offload to PIO: If you have a timing-critical protocol, write a PIO program for it. This will execute with perfect timing and free up your main cores.
  • Compiler Optimization Flags: Experiment with different compiler optimization flags (e.g., -O2, -Os) to balance speed and code size.

📚 Raspberry Pi Pico vs. Other Microcontrollers: A Comparative Analysis

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

How does the Pico stack up against the competition? Let’s compare it to two other popular boards in the Electronic Component Reviews space: the classic Arduino Uno and the connectivity king, the ESP32.

Feature Raspberry Pi Pico Arduino Uno (Atmega328P) ESP32 (WROOM-32)
Processor Dual-core ARM M0+ @ 133MHz Single-core AVR @ 16MHz Dual-core Tensilica @ 240MHz
Architecture 32-bit 8-bit 32-bit
SRAM 264 KB 2 KB 520 KB
Flash 2 MB 32 KB 4 MB
Wi-Fi / BT No (Pico W has it) No ✅ Yes
GPIO 26 14 34
ADC Resolution 12-bit 10-bit 12-bit
Unique Feature Programmable I/O (PIO) Simplicity, 5V logic Built-in Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
Best For Performance, flexibility, low cost Beginners, 5V projects IoT, connected projects

As the featured video highlights, the Pico’s 32-bit architecture and 12-bit ADC offer a significant performance advantage over the 8-bit Arduino. “which is four times better than the 10-bit ADC of the Arduino,” the presenter notes.

  • Pico vs. Arduino: The Pico is vastly more powerful in every metric for a lower cost. Its main drawback is the 3.3V logic, which can be less convenient than the Arduino’s 5V for some older components.
  • Pico vs. ESP32: The ESP32 is the clear winner for IoT projects thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. However, the Pico’s PIO offers unique flexibility that the ESP32 can’t match, and its documentation is often considered more polished and beginner-friendly. The Pico W closes the connectivity gap, making it a very strong competitor to the ESP32.

🛡️ Security and Safety Considerations When Using Raspberry Pi Pico

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico 2 vs Pico: How Much Faster Is It Really?

When you’re building projects, especially connected ones, it’s important to think about safety and security.

Electrical Safety

  • Voltage Levels: Always remember the Pico is a 3.3V device. Double-check the voltage requirements of the sensors and components you’re connecting. Use a logic level shifter when connecting 5V devices to Pico’s GPIO pins.
  • Current Limits: The GPIO pins can only supply a small amount of current. Don’t try to power motors or long LED strips directly from a GPIO pin. Use a transistor or a MOSFET as a switch, with a separate power supply for the high-current device.
  • Short Circuits: Be careful with your wiring on breadboards. A stray wire can easily cause a short circuit, potentially damaging your Pico or USB port.

Project Security (Especially for Pico W)

  • Don’t Hardcode Credentials: If your Pico W project connects to Wi-Fi or online services, avoid putting your Wi-Fi password or API keys directly in your main script. Store them in a separate secrets.py file that you don’t commit to public code repositories like GitHub.
  • Sanitize Inputs: If your project can be controlled over the internet, treat any incoming data as untrusted. Sanitize and validate it before using it in your code to prevent crashes or unexpected behavior.
  • Keep Firmware Updated: Just like any other connected device, keep your Pico’s firmware updated to protect against potential security vulnerabilities.

🔗 Integrating Raspberry Pi Pico with Sensors, Displays, and IoT Devices

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico LCD Projects.

Connecting the Pico to the outside world is where the magic happens. The most common communication protocols you’ll use are I2C, SPI, and UART.

I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit)

  • What it is: A two-wire protocol (SDA for data, SCL for clock) that’s great for connecting multiple devices (like sensors and displays) on a shared bus.
  • Example: Connecting a BME280 temperature sensor and an SSD1306 OLED display at the same time. MicroPython has excellent built-in libraries for I2C.

SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface)

  • What it is: A faster, four-wire protocol (MISO, MOSI, SCLK, CS) often used for devices that need higher data throughput, like SD card readers or some types of displays.
  • Example: Driving a color TFT display that requires a high refresh rate.

UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter)

  • What it is: A simple two-wire serial communication protocol (TX for transmit, RX for receive).
  • Example: Connecting your Pico to a GPS module or another microcontroller.

MicroPython makes using these interfaces incredibly easy. You can typically import a library, define which pins you’re using for SDA/SCL or TX/RX, and start communicating in just a few lines of code.

📊 Monitoring and Measuring Raspberry Pi Pico Performance Metrics

Video: 10 Raspberry Pi Pico project ideas to get you started.

For advanced projects, you might need to know how hard your Pico is working.

  • CPU Usage: While MicroPython doesn’t have a simple “task manager,” you can measure the execution time of your main loop to see how much idle time you have. If your loop time is getting too close to your desired interval, you know you’re pushing the limits.
  • Memory Usage: In MicroPython, you can import the gc (garbage collector) module.
    • gc.mem_free() will tell you how much RAM is available.
    • gc.collect() will force a garbage collection cycle to free up memory. Monitoring mem_free() can help you detect memory leaks in your code.
  • Power Consumption: For battery-powered projects, measuring power draw is critical. You can use a dedicated tool like the Nordic Power Profiler Kit II or a simple USB power meter to see how different parts of your code affect power consumption, especially when using sleep modes.

💬 Community, Forums, and Resources for Raspberry Pi Pico Enthusiasts

Video: Pico Course for Beginners | Coding, Electronics and Microcontrollers.

You are not alone on your Pico journey! The Raspberry Pi community is one of the most active and welcoming in the world.

  • Official Raspberry Pi Forums: The “Raspberry Pi Pico” section is the best place to ask questions and get expert help. The discussions we’ve cited in this article are prime examples of the community solving problems together.
  • Official Documentation: The official docs are superb. From “Getting Started with MicroPython” to the C/C++ SDK datasheet, the information is thorough and well-written.
  • GitHub: Search for “RP2040” or “Raspberry Pi Pico” on GitHub to find thousands of open-source projects and libraries.
  • YouTube: There are countless tutorials, project builds, and reviews from creators around the world. It’s a fantastic resource for visual learners.
  • Why Pi™: And of course, stick with us! We’re constantly exploring new projects and techniques for the Pico and other amazing electronics.

🎯 Conclusion: Is Raspberry Pi Pico the Microcontroller You’ve Been Waiting For?

A pomegranate on a red and white surface

After diving deep into the Raspberry Pi Pico, it’s clear why this little board has taken the maker and educational communities by storm. From its dual-core RP2040 chip and programmable I/O to its affordable price point and versatile programming options, the Pico offers a compelling package for beginners and seasoned engineers alike.

Positives ✅

  • Powerful Dual-Core Processor: The RP2040’s 133MHz dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ delivers impressive performance for a microcontroller in this price range.
  • Programmable I/O (PIO): This unique feature lets you create custom hardware interfaces, opening doors to projects that other microcontrollers can’t easily handle.
  • Multiple Programming Languages: Whether you prefer the simplicity of MicroPython or the raw speed of C/C++, the Pico supports both seamlessly.
  • Strong Community and Documentation: Raspberry Pi’s ecosystem ensures you’re never stuck without help or resources.
  • Low Cost: Incredible value for the features and performance offered.

Negatives ❌

  • No Built-in Connectivity (except Pico W): The original Pico lacks Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which may limit IoT projects unless you add external modules.
  • 3.3V Logic Only: This can be a hurdle when interfacing with 5V components, requiring additional level shifting.
  • Limited Onboard Memory: While generous for a microcontroller, 264KB SRAM and 2MB Flash might be tight for very large projects.

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for a flexible, powerful, and affordable microcontroller that can grow with your skills and projects, the Raspberry Pi Pico is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal if you want to learn embedded programming or build custom hardware interfaces. For IoT projects, consider the Pico W variant with built-in wireless connectivity.

Remember the mystery we teased earlier about running code dynamically in RAM? The RP2040’s architecture supports advanced techniques like executing dynamically generated machine code, a feature rarely seen in microcontrollers at this price point. This opens up fascinating possibilities for optimization and innovation once you’re ready to explore the depths of embedded programming.

So, whether you’re blinking your first LED or building a complex robotic arm, the Pico is ready to be your trusty sidekick. 🚀

Ready to grab your own Pico and accessories? Here are some trusted sources and books to fuel your journey:

👉 Shop Raspberry Pi Pico and Accessories:

Books for Deeper Learning:

  • Programming the Raspberry Pi Pico/W in C by Simon Monk — A practical guide to mastering the Pico’s C/C++ SDK.
  • Getting Started with MicroPython on Raspberry Pi Pico by Gareth Halfacree — Perfect for beginners wanting to harness MicroPython.
  • Exploring Raspberry Pi by Derek Molloy — Covers broader Raspberry Pi topics including microcontrollers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Raspberry Pi Pico

Video: Raspberry Pi Pico Color OLED (SSD1331) display tutorial using CircuitPython.

What are the main features of the Raspberry Pi Pico?

The Pico boasts a dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor running at 133MHz, 264KB of SRAM, 2MB of onboard flash memory, 26 multifunction GPIO pins, and the unique Programmable I/O (PIO) subsystem for custom hardware interfaces. It supports programming in MicroPython and C/C++ and is powered via USB or external power sources.

How do I program a Raspberry Pi Pico?

You can program the Pico using:

  • MicroPython: Using the Thonny IDE, you flash MicroPython firmware onto the Pico and write Python scripts that run directly on the board.
  • C/C++ SDK: For more performance-critical applications, you can use the official Raspberry Pi C/C++ SDK, which requires setting up a build environment on your computer.
  • Other Languages: There are community projects supporting Rust, CircuitPython, and even Arduino frameworks.

Can the Raspberry Pi Pico run MicroPython?

✅ Absolutely! The Pico was designed with MicroPython support in mind. You install the MicroPython UF2 firmware via BOOTSEL mode, then use an IDE like Thonny to write and upload Python scripts. This makes it very beginner-friendly.

What projects can I build with a Raspberry Pi Pico?

The Pico is incredibly versatile. You can build:

  • Custom keyboards and macro pads
  • Weather stations and environmental monitors
  • Robotics controllers
  • LED light shows with NeoPixels
  • MIDI controllers for music production
  • Basic oscilloscopes and signal analyzers
  • IoT devices (especially with the Pico W)

How does Raspberry Pi Pico differ from other Raspberry Pi boards?

Unlike the Raspberry Pi 4 or Zero, which are full Linux-capable single-board computers, the Pico is a microcontroller. It runs a single program without an operating system, making it ideal for embedded and real-time applications. It’s smaller, cheaper, and consumes less power but lacks the multimedia and networking capabilities of full Pi boards.

What sensors are compatible with the Raspberry Pi Pico?

The Pico supports a wide range of sensors that communicate over I2C, SPI, or analog inputs. Popular compatible sensors include:

  • BME280 (temperature, humidity, pressure)
  • DHT22 (temperature and humidity)
  • Ultrasonic distance sensors (HC-SR04)
  • Light sensors (TSL2561)
  • Accelerometers (MPU6050)

Is the Raspberry Pi Pico suitable for beginners?

✅ Yes! Its low cost, excellent documentation, and support for MicroPython make it an excellent choice for beginners learning embedded programming and electronics.

How do I connect the Raspberry Pi Pico to a computer?

Connect the Pico to your computer via a micro-USB data cable (not a charge-only cable). To flash firmware, hold the BOOTSEL button while plugging it in to enter USB mass storage mode. For programming and serial communication, connect normally without pressing BOOTSEL and use an IDE like Thonny.

Additional FAQs

Can the Raspberry Pi Pico run code directly from RAM?

Yes. Advanced users have demonstrated running dynamically generated machine code directly from RAM on the RP2040 chip, showcasing its flexibility. This requires deep knowledge of ARM assembly and is typically done in C/C++ environments. See the Raspberry Pi Forums discussion for details.

What is the difference between Raspberry Pi Pico and Pico W?

The Pico W adds Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to the original Pico, enabling wireless IoT projects without external modules.

How do I stop a running program on the Pico?

If you’re using Thonny, connect to the Pico and click the Stop button. Otherwise, unplugging and replugging the board will restart the program.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped to master the Raspberry Pi Pico and unlock its full potential. Happy tinkering! 🎉

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Articles: 186

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

What Is the Difference Between Arduino and Raspberry Pi Pico? 🔍 (2025)
green and black circuit board
Best OS for your Raspberry Pi?
What is Pi Value up to 100000000 digits? [2023]
Why is Pi Infinite? [2023]