Official Raspberry Pi Pico Board vs STM32F103C8T6 ARM STM32 Minimum System Development Board 2PCS

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the Official Raspberry Pi Pico Board and the STM32F103C8T6 ARM STM32 Minimum System Development Board. The Raspberry Pi Pico is priced at C$12.16, while the STM32F103C8T6 is slightly higher at C$12.99. Both boards cater to different applications and user needs, making it essential to understand their distinctive features and functionalities.

Design and Build Quality

The Raspberry Pi Pico features a compact design with dimensions of 21 mm × 51 mm, making it suitable for various compact applications. Its design allows for easy integration into projects, from IoT devices to simple DIY projects. On the other hand, the STM32F103C8T6 has a slightly larger form factor, measuring 5.3 cm x 2.2 cm. This board is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a mini USB interface for power and communication. While both boards are built for functionality, the Raspberry Pi Pico offers a more versatile design for space-constrained projects.

Processing Power

The processing capabilities of the two boards differ significantly. The Raspberry Pi Pico is equipped with a dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ processor, operating at 133 MHz. This powerful CPU allows for efficient handling of multiple tasks simultaneously. In contrast, the STM32F103C8T6 features a single-core ARM 32 Cortex-M3 CPU with a maximum frequency of 72 MHz. While both processors are capable, the Raspberry Pi Pico offers a notable advantage in speed and multitasking capabilities due to its dual-core architecture.

Memory and Storage

When it comes to memory, the Raspberry Pi Pico boasts 264KB of on-chip SRAM and 2MB of on-board QSPI Flash, providing ample space for complex applications. In comparison, the STM32F103C8T6 has 64KB of flash memory and 20KB of SRAM. The memory advantages of the Raspberry Pi Pico allow it to handle more extensive data sets and more complicated programs, making it a better choice for advanced users or projects requiring significant memory.

Input and Output Options

Both boards offer a variety of input and output options, but the Raspberry Pi Pico excels in this area. It features 26 GPIO pins, including three analogue inputs, which provide great flexibility for interfacing with various sensors and peripherals. The STM32F103C8T6, while also facilitating multiple I/O connections, does not specify the number of GPIO pins and has a more basic connectivity setup. The advanced I/O capabilities of the Raspberry Pi Pico make it more suitable for complex projects requiring multiple connections.

Programming and Development Support

The Raspberry Pi Pico offers user-friendly programming options, allowing users to code in both C and MicroPython. This flexibility makes it accessible for beginners while still being powerful enough for advanced users. The Pico also supports drag-and-drop programming via USB, simplifying the development process. Conversely, the STM32F103C8T6 requires a more traditional setup for programming and debugging via an SWD interface. While both boards can be used for development, the ease of use and programming flexibility of the Raspberry Pi Pico make it a more attractive option for many users.

Power Supply and Operating Conditions

The Raspberry Pi Pico operates within a power supply range of 1.8V to 5.5V DC, making it versatile in terms of power requirements. It can handle a wide range of operating conditions, with a temperature range from -20°C to +85°C. The STM32F103C8T6 operates at a narrower range of 2.0V to 3.6V, which may limit its applications in certain environments. Additionally, both boards feature low-power modes, but the Raspberry Pi Pico's broader voltage tolerance and wider temperature range provide greater adaptability for various projects.

Price Comparison

The price point is a crucial factor for many users when choosing between these two boards. The Raspberry Pi Pico is priced at C$12.16, which is slightly lower than the STM32F103C8T6, priced at C$12.99. While the difference of C$0.83 may seem minor, it can influence budget-conscious buyers, especially when purchasing in bulk or for educational purposes. The additional features and capabilities of the Raspberry Pi Pico may justify its cost for users looking for a robust development board.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Official Raspberry Pi Pico Board and the STM32F103C8T6, it’s clear that the Raspberry Pi Pico offers superior processing power, memory, and flexibility for a marginally lower price. Its ease of programming and extensive I/O options make it more suitable for a wider range of applications, particularly for beginners and advanced users alike. However, if you require a more straightforward setup for basic tasks and prefer the STM32 architecture, the STM32F103C8T6 remains a viable option. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your specific project requirements and your level of expertise.