Olimex has recently launched the ESP32-C5-DevKit-Lipo, a compact open-source hardware development board designed for makers, hobbyists and IoT projects. It’s built around the ESP32‑C5‑WROOM‑N8R4 module from Espressif Systems, and it packs in a lot of connectivity and features for its size. It has isolated inputs like the ESP32-C5-EVB board, which we have previously covered.
Core specifications and connectivity:
- The ESP32-C5 chip, which has a 240 MHz RISC-V architecture 32-bit processor, is the basis of this board.
- It has dual-band WiFi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with WiFi 6 (802.11ax).
- It also supports Zigbee and Thread (IEEE 802.15.4) standards for mesh and smart-home networks, as well as Bluetooth 5 LE.
- 8MB SPI flash and 4MB PSRAM make up the on-board memory.
ESP32-C5 Development Board features:
- Two USB-C ports: one for a CH340x USB-serial adapter (for programming/serial) and one for native USB (power + JTAG debug).
- A UEXT connector (so you can add various modules)
- User/boot button, reset button, and user LED. Two extension headers break out all GPIOs, breadboard-friendly header spacing (0.9″ or 22.86 mm), so you can plug into a breadboard easily.
- Li-Po battery UPS system included: Li-Po charger, battery measurement and power-sense options.
- Compact size: 53 x 25 mm, with two mounting holes.
Why it matters and what you can do with it:
In case you are developing a smart-home device, a sensor node or a project that requires the use of modern wireless connectivity, this board provides a lot of power in a compact size. Since it has both WiFi 6 and mesh capability (Zigbee/Thread), you can choose your plans in advance. Li-Po backup power provides an opportunity to make portable or battery-powered devices. It would be very useful in prototyping since it has a breadboard-friendly design and access to all the GPIO.
Some things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need to handle battery charging safely since it has Li-Po support (good but requires care).
- Though a lot is exposed, you still need to check which pins map where before hooking up sensors or modules.
- While it’s feature-rich, if you only need basic WiFi and Bluetooth, perhaps a simpler board could suffice.
Working with ESP-IDF, Arduino IDE, and MicroPython as well, the ESP32-C5-DevKit-Lipo makes it simple to create with only a starter or an expert. It has integrated USB-JTAG and UART, which are easy to program and debug. It supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 LE, Zigbee, Thread and Matter, making it perfect in the connected IoT and smart-home applications of the present day. The KiCad design files and user manual are available on GitHub.
Currently at the official Olimex store, the ESP32-C5-DevKit-Lipo is €12.95. Pre-orders are available; shipping is expected to begin about mid-November 2025. There is no local stock in India confirmed yet, but you can get it brought in directly from Olimex or through international sellers. Just keep in mind that you might have to pay extra for shipping and customs.. Based on similar Olimex boards, the expected Indian retail price would be around ₹1,200 to ₹1,400 on Digikey, depending on availability and import charges.
Sayantan Nandy