Freenove ESP32-WROOM Board (2 Pack), Dual-core 32-bit 240 MHz Microcontroller, Onboard Wireless, Python C Code, Example Projects Tutorial

I picked up the Freenove ESP32-WROOM Board 2-pack for some IoT projects, and they’re excellent value. Setup was quick—just plug in via USB, and you’re ready to code in Python or C. The boards are fast, with dual-core 240 MHz chips, and have reliable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless projects.The included tutorials and example codes are a huge plus, making it easy to get started with blinking LEDs, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi features. Great for both beginners and anyone looking to experiment with smart devices

Versatile upgrade from my Arduino relics! Good thing is, it uses the Arduino programmer interface.

Ideal for experiments using these adaptable devices

I spent as long troubleshooting as it took being delivered. Neither could be programmed using an example sketch obtained by following the links. I tried loads of different USB to USB -C cables, different ports on my computer and each time there was a communication error.The great thing about Amazon is the Returns policy- I declared the boards as faulty and a return was immediately authorised and I dropped the package off the next day.

This is exactly the sort of thing that should be semi-standardised, but FREENOVE have gone for a proprietary design and pin out. Be well aware of this before buying their stuff.Features:Lots of GPIO. On-board Power light (green), Tx light (amber), Rx light(amber), one GPIO light (blue) and one I2C RGB light.USB-C (Thank you!) works great, on-board reset and boot buttons are super handy. This is almost a complete development environment.Coupled with the supplied tutorials and example code, this is an excellent educational aid.Compatibility:40 pins with wider spacing than other esp32 boards and a different pinout make these only compatible with FREENOVE breakout boards.Being aware of that, this does pair beautifully with their breakout dev board. This is not a review for that board, but I will mention that the 5V rails require an external power supply and cannot run from the ESP, despite it having onboard 5V.Design:The sticky-out wifi antenna is. point of contention. Yes it’s an efficient use of space, yes it improves radiation efficiency, yes that makes it a good thing. But it’s thinner PCB material than the main board so can be delicate. There’s also no connection for an external antenna, so break it and you’re out of luck. That and, you’re just as likely to rip the whole µ off the board.Setup:OOTB it runs a simple RGB chase making it easy to identify an unprogrammed board. Download the support material, choose a language and follow the tutorial to get all set up.Alternatively, I use ESPHome with Home Assistant and it sets it all up automatically and perfectly. Sixty seconds and you’ve got wifi programming ready to go.Versatility:There’s less GPIO pins than you think, as ground and power are double (or quadrupled-up). It’s also not made exceptionally clear which pins should and should not be used for user inputs/outputs. Documentation could be improved here.Finally it’s worth noting that the included USB-C cables (two) both support power and data (yay!)