What Is a Raspberry Pi Pico? 7 Key Features You Need to Know (2025) 🚀

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Have you ever wondered how a microcontroller the size of a postage stamp can power everything from DIY robots to smart home gadgets? Enter the Raspberry Pi Pico — a tiny, affordable powerhouse that’s redefining what’s possible in embedded electronics. In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery behind this compact board, explore its standout features, and show you why it’s become a favorite among educators, hobbyists, and engineers alike.

But here’s the kicker: the Pico isn’t just another microcontroller. Its unique programmable I/O (PIO) capability lets you create custom hardware interfaces, opening doors to projects you might never have imagined. Curious how it stacks up against other boards? Or how to get started with your very first Pico project? Stick around — we’ve got all that covered and more!

Key Takeaways

  • The Raspberry Pi Pico is a dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller board designed for embedded projects, offering high performance at an ultra-low price.
  • It features 264 KB SRAM, 2 MB onboard flash, and 26 multifunction GPIO pins, making it versatile for sensors, motors, and displays.
  • The standout Programmable I/O (PIO) allows for custom hardware protocols, a feature rare in this price range.
  • Programming options include MicroPython for beginners and C/C++ for advanced users, supported by a thriving community and rich documentation.
  • While it lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, it pairs well with external modules for IoT and robotics applications.
  • Perfect for educators, makers, and engineers looking for a powerful, affordable, and flexible microcontroller.
  • Ready to start? Check out Raspberry Pi Pico and accessories here:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Pico Primer

Welcome to the world of the Raspberry Pi Pico! If you’re new here, think of the Pico as the tiny but mighty microcontroller sibling in the Raspberry Pi family. Unlike the Raspberry Pi 4 or Zero, which are full-fledged mini computers running Linux, the Pico is a bare-metal microcontroller board designed for embedded projects, IoT, robotics, and hardware hacking. It’s like the Swiss Army knife for electronics tinkerers and educators alike.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to get you started:

Feature Quick Fact
Processor Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ @ 133 MHz
RAM 264 KB SRAM
Flash Storage 2 MB onboard
GPIO Pins 26 multifunction pins
Programming Languages MicroPython, C/C++
USB Support USB 1.1 Host and Device
Power Input 1.8V to 5.5V
Special Features Programmable I/O (PIO), temperature sensor
Price Point Around $4 / £3.60 (affordable!)

✅ Why Pi™ educators love it: It’s affordable, versatile, and beginner-friendly. Plus, it’s backed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation’s massive community and resources.

❌ What to watch out for: It’s not a mini computer — no HDMI, no OS, and no Wi-Fi out of the box. It’s designed for single-task embedded applications.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our full Raspberry Pi Pico guide here and get ready to unleash your creativity! Also, for a hands-on start, the official Raspberry Pi Pico Datasheet is a goldmine.

🕰️ A Brief History of Innovation: The Genesis of Raspberry Pi Pico

Before the Pico, Raspberry Pi was known for its single-board computers (SBCs) like the Raspberry Pi 3 and 4, which run full Linux OSes. But the Foundation wanted to expand into microcontrollers, which are the backbone of embedded systems — think Arduino, ESP32, and others.

In January 2021, Raspberry Pi launched the RP2040 microcontroller chip, their first in-house silicon design, and the Raspberry Pi Pico board built around it. This was a game-changer because it combined high performance, low cost, and flexibility in a way that few microcontrollers had before.

Why is this history cool? Because it means the Pico is not just another microcontroller — it’s a product of Raspberry Pi’s ethos: democratizing computing and making it accessible to everyone, from students to pros.

For more on the story behind RP2040 and the Pico, check out the official announcement on the Raspberry Pi Blog.

✨ Unveiling the Raspberry Pi Pico: Your New Microcontroller Sidekick

So, what exactly is the Raspberry Pi Pico? It’s a compact, breadboard-friendly microcontroller board designed for physical computing projects. Unlike the Raspberry Pi 4, it doesn’t run an operating system — instead, it runs a single program at a time, perfect for embedded control tasks.

Why choose the Pico?

  • Low cost: Around $4, making it accessible for classrooms and hobbyists.
  • Powerful chip: The RP2040 offers dual-core processing and plenty of RAM.
  • Flexible I/O: 26 GPIO pins with multiple functions (ADC, PWM, UART, SPI, I2C).
  • Programmable I/O (PIO): Unique feature allowing you to create custom hardware interfaces in software.
  • Easy programming: Supports MicroPython and C/C++ SDKs, with drag-and-drop programming via USB mass storage.

Our Why Pi™ engineers love how the Pico bridges the gap between simple microcontrollers and complex SBCs — it’s the perfect platform for learning electronics, prototyping, and even small production runs.

For a hands-on intro, Pimoroni’s Raspberry Pi Pico product page offers great tutorials and kits.

🚀 7 Key Features That Make Raspberry Pi Pico Shine

Let’s break down the 7 standout features that make the Pico a favorite among makers and educators.

1. The Mighty RP2040 Microcontroller

At the heart of the Pico is the RP2040 chip, Raspberry Pi’s first custom-designed microcontroller silicon. It’s a dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor, running up to 133 MHz, which is blazing fast for this class of device.

  • 264 KB SRAM for fast data handling.
  • 2 MB onboard flash for your programs.
  • Integrated temperature sensor and clock.

This chip is designed for efficiency and flexibility, enabling complex projects without breaking the bank.

2. Dual-Core Powerhouse: Cortex-M0+ Processors

The dual-core setup means you can run two threads or tasks simultaneously — perfect for multitasking in embedded systems.

For example, one core can handle sensor data collection while the other manages communication or display updates.

3. Ample Memory for Your Code: SRAM and Flash

264 KB SRAM is generous for a microcontroller, letting you handle larger buffers and more complex algorithms.

The 2 MB flash storage is non-volatile, so your program stays intact even when power is off.

4. Flexible I/O: GPIO, ADC, PWM, and More!

The Pico sports 26 multifunction GPIO pins that support:

  • Digital input/output
  • Analog input via 3× 12-bit ADC channels
  • 16 controllable PWM channels for motor control or LED dimming
  • Communication protocols: 2× SPI, 2× I2C, 2× UART

This versatility means you can connect sensors, actuators, displays, and more.

5. Programmable I/O (PIO): A Game Changer for Custom Peripherals

PIO is a unique feature that lets you program custom hardware interfaces in software, effectively creating your own peripherals.

Want to interface with a weird sensor or create a custom communication protocol? PIO has your back.

6. Breadboard-Friendly Form Factor and Low Power Consumption

The Pico’s small size (51mm × 21mm) and castellated edges make it perfect for breadboarding or soldering onto custom PCBs.

It also supports low-power sleep modes, ideal for battery-powered projects.

7. Unbeatable Value: Performance Meets Affordability

At around $4, the Pico delivers performance and features that rival microcontrollers costing twice as much.

This makes it a no-brainer for educators, students, and hobbyists looking for power on a budget.

🧠 The Brains of the Operation: Meet the RP2040 Chip

The RP2040 is the star of the show. Designed in-house by Raspberry Pi engineers, it’s a 32-bit dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller that balances performance, power efficiency, and cost.

Key RP2040 specs:

Specification Details
Processor Dual ARM Cortex-M0+ @ up to 133 MHz
SRAM 264 KB
Flash External, typically 2 MB on Pico
GPIO Pins 30 programmable pins
Communication Interfaces 2× SPI, 2× I2C, 2× UART
ADC Channels 3× 12-bit ADC
Programmable I/O (PIO) 8 state machines for custom peripherals
USB USB 1.1 Host and Device support
Power Modes Sleep and dormant for low power

The RP2040’s programmable I/O (PIO) is a standout, enabling hardware-level customization without extra chips.

For a deep dive, grab the official RP2040 Datasheet.

🔢 Cracking the Code: What Does ‘2040’ Mean Anyway?

Ever wondered why the chip is called RP2040? It’s not just a random number!

The Raspberry Pi Foundation explained the naming as a clever code:

  • 2: Number of processor cores (dual-core)
  • 0: ARM Cortex-M0+ processor type
  • 4: Represents the RAM size (264 KB rounded/logarithmically)
  • 0: Represents the non-volatile storage size (2 MB flash, scaled/logarithmically)

This naming scheme reflects the chip’s architecture and memory configuration in a neat package.

🛠️ Deep Dive into Raspberry Pi Pico Specifications: What’s Under the Hood?

Let’s get technical! Here’s a detailed specs table for the Raspberry Pi Pico:

Feature Specification
Microcontroller RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ @ 133 MHz
RAM 264 KB SRAM
Flash Memory 2 MB onboard QSPI flash
GPIO Pins 26 multifunction pins
ADC Channels 3 × 12-bit ADC
PWM Channels 16 controllable PWM outputs
Communication Interfaces 2 × SPI, 2 × I2C, 2 × UART
USB USB 1.1 Host and Device
Power Input 1.8V to 5.5V
Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
Dimensions 51mm × 21mm × 3.9mm
Weight ~3 grams
Special Features Programmable I/O (PIO), temperature sensor
Programming Languages MicroPython, C/C++

This compact powerhouse is designed for embedded control, sensor interfacing, and physical computing.

💻 Programming Your Pico: MicroPython vs. C/C++ and Beyond

One of the Pico’s biggest draws is its flexible programming environment.

MicroPython: The Beginner’s Best Friend

  • Easy to learn, especially if you know Python.
  • Interactive REPL console for quick testing.
  • Supported by the official Thonny IDE.
  • Great for rapid prototyping and education.

C/C++ SDK: Power and Performance

  • Official Raspberry Pi C/C++ SDK supports full hardware access.
  • More control over timing and peripherals.
  • Ideal for performance-critical applications.
  • Supported by Visual Studio Code with debugging.

Other Languages and Tools

  • Arduino IDE support via third-party cores.
  • Rust and CircuitPython ports exist for enthusiasts.
  • TensorFlow Lite Micro for AI/ML on the edge.

Our Why Pi™ engineers recommend starting with MicroPython if you’re new, then graduating to C/C++ as you get comfortable.

For tutorials, check out the Microcontroller Programming category on Why Pi™.

💡 Endless Possibilities: Real-World Applications and Project Ideas for Your Pico

The Pico’s versatility means the sky’s the limit. Here are some inspiring projects we’ve seen and built:

  • IoT Sensors: Environmental monitoring with temperature, humidity, and light sensors.
  • Robotics: Motor control and sensor integration for small robots.
  • Wearables: Low-power data logging for fitness or health devices.
  • Custom Keyboards: Using PIO to handle complex input protocols.
  • LED Art: Driving NeoPixels with PWM and PIO for stunning light shows.
  • Machine Learning: Running TensorFlow Lite Micro models for simple AI tasks.
  • Home Automation: Controlling relays, switches, and sensors around the house.

Want to see more? Our DIY Electronics category is packed with project ideas and step-by-step guides.

🆚 Pico vs. The World: How Does it Stack Up Against Other Microcontrollers?

Let’s compare the Raspberry Pi Pico with some popular microcontrollers:

Feature Raspberry Pi Pico Arduino Uno (ATmega328P) ESP32
Processor Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ @133 MHz Single-core AVR @16 MHz Dual-core Xtensa @240 MHz
RAM 264 KB SRAM 2 KB SRAM 520 KB SRAM
Flash 2 MB onboard 32 KB Flash 4 MB Flash (external)
GPIO Pins 26 multifunction 14 digital + 6 analog 34 GPIO
ADC Channels 3 × 12-bit 6 × 10-bit 18 × 12-bit
USB Support USB 1.1 Host/Device No USB OTG
Programmable I/O (PIO) Yes No No
Price ~$4 ~$20 ~$8–$12

Why choose Pico?

  • More RAM and flash than Arduino Uno.
  • Unique PIO feature.
  • Lower cost than ESP32.
  • Great for beginners and advanced users alike.

For more comparisons, see our Electronic Component Reviews section.

✅ Getting Started with Raspberry Pi Pico: Your First Steps into Embedded Electronics

Ready to get your hands dirty? Here’s a step-by-step starter guide:

  1. Unbox your Pico: You’ll find the board, a micro USB cable, and some documentation.
  2. Install Thonny IDE: Available on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Raspberry Pi OS.
  3. Download MicroPython UF2: From the official Raspberry Pi Pico MicroPython page.
  4. Put Pico into Bootloader Mode: Hold the BOOTSEL button while plugging into USB.
  5. Drag and drop the MicroPython UF2 file: The Pico will reboot into MicroPython mode.
  6. Open Thonny and select the Pico interpreter.
  7. Write your first program: Try blinking the onboard LED with this code snippet:
import machine
import time

led = machine.Pin(25, machine.Pin.OUT)

while True:
    led.toggle()
    time.sleep(0.5)
  1. Run and watch the magic!

For detailed tutorials, visit our Raspberry Pi Pico beginner’s guide.

🤝 The Thriving Raspberry Pi Pico Community and Ecosystem

One of the best parts about the Pico is the vibrant community behind it. From forums to GitHub repos, you’ll find tons of support:

  • Raspberry Pi Forums: Official discussions and troubleshooting.
  • GitHub: Open-source libraries and example projects.
  • Reddit r/raspberrypipico: Active user projects and Q&A.
  • Hackster.io and Instructables: Thousands of Pico projects and tutorials.
  • YouTube Channels: Like ExplainingComputers and The Raspberry Pi Guy.

Community-driven libraries like Pico SDK, CircuitPython, and TinyUSB make development smoother.

➕ Essential Accessories and Add-ons for Your Pico Projects

To get the most out of your Pico, consider these accessories:

Accessory Purpose Recommended Brand/Source
Micro USB Cable Power and programming Any quality USB A to Micro B cable
Breadboard and Jumper Wires Prototyping circuits Elegoo, Adafruit
Sensor Modules Temperature, humidity, motion sensors Adafruit, SparkFun
OLED Displays Small screens for output Adafruit SSD1306 OLED
NeoPixel LED Strips RGB lighting projects Adafruit NeoPixels
Debug Probe (SWD) Hardware debugging Segger J-Link, CMSIS-DAP
Pico Baseboards Easy soldering and expansion Pimoroni Pico Base, Adafruit Pico Explorer

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

👍👎 Raspberry Pi Pico: The Pros and Cons from Our Experience

After extensive use in classrooms and workshops, here’s our balanced take:

Aspect Pros ✅ Cons ❌
Design Compact, breadboard-friendly, well-labelled No onboard Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Performance Fast dual-core processor, ample RAM Limited flash compared to some competitors
Programming Supports MicroPython and C/C++ Steeper learning curve for C/C++ beginners
Features Unique PIO, USB host/device support No built-in display or audio output
Community Large, active, tons of tutorials and libraries Some niche features less documented
Price Extremely affordable Requires external components for full projects

Our educators love the Pico for teaching embedded concepts, and engineers appreciate its flexibility and power at a low cost.

🎉 Conclusion: Why the Raspberry Pi Pico is a Game-Changer

After our deep dive into the Raspberry Pi Pico, it’s clear this little board packs a serious punch in the microcontroller world. From its dual-core RP2040 processor and ample memory to the innovative programmable I/O (PIO) and breadboard-friendly design, the Pico offers a unique blend of power, flexibility, and affordability that’s hard to beat.

Positives:

  • Affordable price point that makes it accessible for education and hobbyists.
  • Robust performance with dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ at 133 MHz.
  • Versatile I/O options including ADC, PWM, UART, SPI, and I2C.
  • Innovative PIO feature enabling custom hardware interfaces.
  • Strong community and official support with extensive documentation and tutorials.
  • Easy programming via MicroPython and C/C++.

Negatives:

  • No built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth).
  • Limited onboard flash compared to some competitors.
  • Steeper learning curve for beginners wanting to program in C/C++.
  • Requires external components for full-fledged projects (displays, sensors, etc.).

Our confident recommendation: If you’re looking for a powerful, affordable, and versatile microcontroller for learning, prototyping, or embedded projects, the Raspberry Pi Pico is a top-tier choice. It strikes the perfect balance between beginner-friendliness and advanced capabilities, making it ideal for educators, makers, and engineers alike.

Remember that the Pico is not a mini computer but a microcontroller designed for single-task embedded applications. If you want Wi-Fi or multimedia capabilities, consider pairing it with other boards or exploring the Raspberry Pi SBC lineup.

By now, you’ve got the tools and knowledge to start your Pico adventure — so grab your board, plug in your USB cable, and let your creativity run wild!

Ready to shop or learn more? Here are some curated links to get you started with Raspberry Pi Pico and accessories:

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Raspberry Pi Pico Questions Answered

What are the main differences between Raspberry Pi Pico and other microcontroller boards?

The Raspberry Pi Pico stands out due to its dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor, 264 KB SRAM, and 2 MB onboard flash, which is more memory than many entry-level microcontrollers like the Arduino Uno. Its programmable I/O (PIO) feature is unique, allowing users to create custom hardware interfaces in software, something not commonly found in other boards.

Unlike boards like the ESP32, the Pico does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, focusing instead on raw processing power and flexibility. It’s also extremely affordable, making it accessible for education and prototyping.

How does the Raspberry Pi Pico compare to the Arduino in terms of performance and price?

The Pico offers significantly higher performance with a 133 MHz dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor versus Arduino Uno’s 16 MHz single-core AVR. It also has more RAM (264 KB vs. 2 KB) and more flash memory (2 MB vs. 32 KB).

Price-wise, the Pico is more affordable or similarly priced, making it a great value for the performance. However, Arduino has a more mature ecosystem with many shields and libraries, which can be an advantage for beginners.

What programming languages are supported by the Raspberry Pi Pico and how do I get started?

The Pico supports MicroPython and C/C++ officially. MicroPython is great for beginners because of its simplicity and interactive REPL environment. You can start programming with MicroPython using the Thonny IDE, which is easy to install on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Raspberry Pi OS.

For more advanced users, the C/C++ SDK offers full hardware control and better performance. Visual Studio Code is a popular IDE for Pico C/C++ development.

There are also community-supported languages like Arduino IDE, CircuitPython, and even Rust.

Can I use the Raspberry Pi Pico for robotics and IoT projects, and what are some examples?

Absolutely! The Pico’s PWM outputs, ADC inputs, and communication interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART) make it ideal for robotics and IoT.

Examples include:

  • Robotics: Controlling motors, reading sensors, and managing communication with other devices.
  • IoT: Environmental sensors for temperature, humidity, and air quality; data logging; and wireless communication via external modules.
  • Wearables: Low-power data acquisition and processing.

You can pair the Pico with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth modules (like ESP8266 or HC-05) for wireless IoT projects.

What are some of the best projects to build with a Raspberry Pi Pico for beginners?

Great beginner projects include:

  • Blinking LEDs and controlling brightness with PWM.
  • Reading analog sensors like potentiometers or temperature sensors.
  • Simple data logging to an SD card.
  • Basic robotics with motor control.
  • NeoPixel LED light shows using the PIO feature.
  • Custom keyboards or input devices.

These projects teach core concepts of embedded programming and hardware interfacing.

How do I connect sensors and peripherals to the Raspberry Pi Pico and what are the limitations?

You connect sensors via the GPIO pins using protocols like I2C, SPI, UART, or analog inputs through the ADC pins. The Pico supports up to 26 GPIO pins, which is ample for many projects.

Limitations include:

  • No built-in wireless connectivity — you’ll need external modules.
  • Limited number of ADC channels (3), so analog sensor inputs are somewhat limited.
  • Power supply constraints — careful design is needed for high-current peripherals.

What are the possibilities for using the Raspberry Pi Pico in home automation and smart home systems?

The Pico can serve as a controller for sensors, relays, and actuators in home automation setups. For example:

  • Monitoring temperature and humidity.
  • Controlling lights and fans via relays.
  • Interfacing with smart sensors.
  • Acting as a bridge between wired sensors and wireless modules.

While it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, you can integrate it with ESP8266/ESP32 modules or Zigbee radios for network connectivity.

For more insights and tutorials, visit Why Pi™’s Raspberry Pi Pico category and dive into the world of embedded electronics!

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