What Is the ST7789? Specs and Uses (Color IPS TFT Controller)

The ST7789 is a controller that drives color TFT (usually IPS) displays. It is common in vivid 1.3"–2.0" modules at 240×240 and 240×320; it connects over SPI. For the concept, see what is a TFT display.

What is the ST7789 used for?

Color dashboards, clock/weather interfaces and small game/animation screens. Compared with the ST7735 it offers higher resolution and usually IPS (wide viewing angle). It is driven with Adafruit ST7789 / TFT_eSPI.

Connection (SPI)

VCC, GND, SCK, SDA(MOSI), RES, DC, CS (some modules have no CS — dedicated to that screen). 3.3 V logic.

Specifications

Parameter	Value
Type	Color TFT (IPS) controller
Resolution	240×240 / 240×320
Interface	SPI
Supply	3.3 V

Equivalents

ST7735: smaller/lower resolution.
ILI9341: 240×320, often with touch.
GC9A01: a round TFT controller.

Find it in our catalog

Use the ST7789 search.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ST7789?+

The ST7789 is a controller that drives color TFT (usually IPS) displays. It is common in 1.3"–2.0" modules at 240×240 and 240×320 and connects over SPI.

What is the difference between the ST7789 and the ST7735?+

The ST7789 offers higher resolution (240×240/240×320) and usually an IPS panel; the ST7735 is smaller and lower resolution (128×160).

How is the ST7789 wired?+

Over SPI: VCC, GND, SCK, SDA(MOSI), RES, DC, CS (some modules have no CS). 3.3 V logic; it is driven with Adafruit ST7789/TFT_eSPI.

What is an equivalent to the ST7789?+

The small ST7735; the larger/touch ILI9341; the GC9A01 for a round screen.