What Is the ESP32-C3? RISC-V Wi-Fi + BLE MCU Uses and Equivalents

The ESP32-C3 is Espressif's single-core RISC-V microcontroller with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 5. It is a more affordable, low-power and modern alternative to the classic ESP32. For the concept, see what is a microcontroller.

What is the ESP32-C3 used for?

Wi-Fi/BLE-connected IoT devices, smart home, sensor nodes and low-cost wireless projects. Its single RISC-V core is a modern option to replace the ESP8266; with BLE 5 support it is superior to the ESP8266.

Specifications

Parameter	Value
Core	32-bit RISC-V (single core)
Wireless	Wi-Fi 4 (2.4 GHz) + Bluetooth LE 5
Supply	3.3 V
Programming	ESP-IDF, Arduino, MicroPython

Watch out

The ESP32-C3 is single-core; for heavy dual-core workloads you need the ESP32 or ESP32-S3. It is 3.3 V; not 5 V tolerant. Its pin/peripheral count differs from the classic ESP32 (Xtensa), so check when porting code.

Equivalents

ESP8266: older, Wi-Fi only.
ESP32: dual-core Xtensa, more powerful.
ESP32-S3: dual-core + AI/USB.

Find it in our catalog

Use the ESP32-C3 search.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ESP32-C3?+

The ESP32-C3 is Espressif's single-core RISC-V microcontroller with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 5. It is more affordable and lower-power than the classic ESP32; it is used for IoT and wireless projects.

What is the difference between the ESP32-C3 and the ESP32?+

The ESP32-C3 is a single-core RISC-V; the classic ESP32 is a dual-core Xtensa and more powerful. The C3 is cheaper and lower-power and supports BLE 5; for heavy workloads the ESP32 is preferred.

Does the ESP32-C3 replace the ESP8266?+

Yes, it is a modern alternative: with a RISC-V core and BLE 5 it is superior to the ESP8266. It can be considered in place of the ESP8266 in new designs.

What voltage is the ESP32-C3?+

It runs on 3.3 V and is not 5 V tolerant. Do not apply 5 V to the GPIOs.