Arduino tinkering is often easy to implement, allowing you to quickly realize various technical gadgets and learn a lot in the process. A great hobby, in my opinion. Over a longer period, I experimented with Arduino and ESP32 boards and implemented smaller smart home projects. However, I often missed the compactness I wanted, especially when several modules, displays, and batteries were involved – quickly a tangle of cables appeared and extensive soldering work was necessary. While that's not a problem, when you want to integrate a project into your home, for example a weather display or a smart home display, homemade solutions often look less appealing and elegant.
Recently, I came across the M5Stack. In short, it is a modular plug system with a variety of modules. The best part: you can continue to use your already existing modules and sensors. The big advantage of the M5Stack, however, is that it already includes an ESP32, various sensors, a display, a battery with charging electronics, and more in an extremely compact format.
There are two main versions: the M5Stick and the M5Stack. The Stick is about the size of a USB stick, features a small display, three buttons, some sensors, a USB-C port, and a battery. The bigger brother, the M5Stack, offers a touch display, significantly more GPIO pins, a larger battery, and numerous attachable modules. Prices range between 20 and 50 euros depending on the version and are absolutely fair. Although they are more expensive than a standard ESP32 board, you usually need a display, a battery, and a 3D-printed case anyway – in the end, you quickly end up at the same price, while the M5Stack looks more professional and homemade constructions often look makeshift.
By the way, this is not a product placement. In my tinkering routine, I simply found that I usually get better results with the M5Stack modules and can do without breadboards. With the M5Stick, you can quickly build small pocket-sized devices – from a GPS tracker to a garage door opener – for about 20 euros, battery-powered and visually appealing.
Soon, I will present some projects here on the blog. If you're interested, feel free to subscribe to the newsletter and be notified as soon as there's news!