What Is the ESP32-S3? Dual-Core MCU with AI/USB
The ESP32-S3 is Espressif's dual-core Xtensa LX7 microcontroller with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 5. With AI vector instructions and native USB it is one of the most capable ESP32-family members; ideal for camera, edge AI (TinyML) and USB projects. Camera/AI needs a PSRAM version. It is 3.3 V.
The ESP32-S3 is Espressif's dual-core Xtensa LX7 microcontroller with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 5. With vector instructions for AI/machine learning and native USB support it is one of the most capable members of the ESP32 family. For the concept, see what is a microcontroller.
What is the ESP32-S3 used for?
Camera/image processing, edge AI (TinyML), voice assistants, USB HID devices and high-performance IoT. With its dual cores and AI-acceleration instructions it is far more powerful than the ESP32-C3.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Core | Dual-core Xtensa LX7 (32-bit) |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 4 (2.4 GHz) + Bluetooth LE 5 |
| Highlight | AI vector instructions, native USB OTG |
| Supply | 3.3 V |
Watch out
ESP32-S3 modules come with different flash/PSRAM sizes; camera/AI projects need a version with PSRAM. It is 3.3 V, not 5 V tolerant. Pin compatibility with the classic ESP32 is not one-to-one; check the board selection.
Equivalents
- ESP32: classic dual-core (no AI/USB).
- ESP32-C3: single-core RISC-V, low cost.
- RP2040: dual-core but no wireless (except Pico W).
Find it in our catalog
Use the ESP32-S3 search.