Product Details
When a compact Wi-Fi project needs more memory or processing headroom, the Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32-S3 gives you a dual-core 240 MHz processor, 8 MB PSRAM and 8 MB Flash. It suits connected displays, wearables and embedded applications where a larger development board would rather spoil the packaging.
Key Highlights
- Dual-core processing: the ESP32-S3R8 uses two Xtensa LX7 cores running up to 240 MHz.
- Memory for larger applications: 8 MB PSRAM alongside 8 MB Flash for code and data.
- Wireless built in: 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE, with an external antenna supplied.
- Battery charging: onboard lithium-battery charge management supports portable builds.
Which XIAO ESP32 should I choose?
- XIAO ESP32-C3: single-core Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE for compact connected projects.
- XIAO ESP32-C6: choose this when your project needs Thread or Zigbee alongside Wi-Fi 6.
- XIAO ESP32-S3: dual-core processing with 8 MB PSRAM and 8 MB Flash for larger applications.
These are programmable development boards, not ready-configured smart-home appliances. Check your chosen firmware and peripherals before buying.
Standard Board or Sense?
This is the standard ESP32-S3 board, SKU 113991114. It does not include the camera, digital microphone or microSD expansion supplied with the XIAO ESP32-S3 Sense. Choose the standard board when you need the processor and memory rather than the Sense sensor package.
Specifications and pin access
- Processor: ESP32-S3R8, dual-core Xtensa LX7, up to 240 MHz
- Memory: 8 MB PSRAM and 8 MB Flash
- Wireless: 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 5.0
- I/O: 11 GPIO with PWM and nine ADC-capable pins; functions share pins
- Interfaces: UART, I²C and SPI
- Controls: Reset and Boot buttons
- Power: USB Type-C or a suitable 3.7 V rechargeable lithium battery wired as documented
What's in the Box
- 1 × XIAO ESP32-S3 development board
- 1 × external antenna
This is not the pre-soldered-header version. A USB-C data cable is needed for programming; plan for soldering if you want to mount the board on pin headers.
Getting Started
Follow Seeed's ESP32-S3 setup guide and pin map for Arduino installation, antenna fitting and battery wiring. Use the instructions for the standard board, not the Sense camera expansion.
Hardware diagrams
Resources
- ESP32-S3 Datasheet
- Getting Started with Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32S3
- XIAO SoM User Manual: The Ultimate Guide to Streamline Product Design, Providing Seamless Experience from Module Selection to Mass Production
Before You Build
Grove peripherals need a compatible expansion board or suitable wiring; the bare XIAO is not a Grove hub. Check the pin assignments before connecting peripherals, and follow the battery polarity markings when soldering.