Choosing the right Arduino board for your project can significantly impact its success. The Arduino Micro and Arduino Nano are two popular choices, each with its distinct features and advantages. This article provides a detailed comparison of the Arduino Micro and Arduino Nano to help you make an informed decision.
Overview
Arduino Micro: The Arduino Micro is a compact board designed for projects where USB communication is essential. It features the ATmega32U4 microcontroller, which supports native USB connectivity, allowing it to emulate USB devices like keyboards and mice directly.
Arduino Nano: The Arduino Nano is known for its small size and versatility. It uses the ATmega328 microcontroller and is well-suited for projects requiring a compact footprint. It lacks native USB support but remains compatible with a broad range of Arduino shields and accessories.
Detailed Comparison
1. Microcontroller
- Arduino Micro:
- Processor: ATmega32U4
- Flash Memory: 32 KB
- SRAM: 2.5 KB
- EEPROM: 1 KB
- Key Feature: Supports native USB communication, allowing the board to act as a USB device.
- Arduino Nano:
- Processor: ATmega328
- Flash Memory: 32 KB
- SRAM: 1 KB
- EEPROM: 0.5 KB
- Key Feature: Does not support native USB communication; requires an external USB-to-serial adapter for programming and communication.
2. Input/Output Pins
- Arduino Micro:
- Digital I/O Pins: 20
- Analog Inputs: 12
- PWM Outputs: 7
- Other Features: Includes 7 PWM-capable pins and 12 analog inputs, providing a wide range of connectivity options for sensors and actuators.
- Arduino Nano:
- Digital I/O Pins: 22
- Analog Inputs: 8
- PWM Outputs: 6
- Other Features: Offers 22 digital I/O pins, including 6 PWM-capable pins and 8 analog inputs, useful for a variety of applications.
3. Power Supply
- Arduino Micro:
- Power Source: USB or external DC jack
- Power Requirements: Typically powered through the USB port, but can also be powered via an external 5V source connected to the DC jack.
- Arduino Nano:
- Power Source: USB only
- Power Requirements: Powered exclusively through the mini USB port, which can be a limitation if a dedicated power supply is needed.
4. Communication Protocols
- Arduino Micro:
- Protocol: AVR109 for bootloading
- USB Emulation: Directly supports USB communication, enabling it to emulate USB devices.
- Arduino Nano:
- Protocol: STK500 for bootloading
- USB Communication: Requires an external USB-to-serial adapter for communication, as it lacks native USB support.
5. Size and Form Factor
- Arduino Micro:
- Dimensions: 48 mm x 18 mm
- Size Advantage: Slightly larger than the Nano but still compact enough for most small-scale projects.
- Arduino Nano:
- Dimensions: 45 mm x 18 mm
- Size Advantage: Smaller and more compact than the Micro, making it suitable for projects with very tight space constraints.
6. Additional Features
- Arduino Micro:
- USB Connectivity: Can emulate USB devices such as keyboards and mice.
- Power Jack: Includes a DC power jack for external power sources.
- Arduino Nano:
- Compact Design: Smaller size makes it ideal for embedding in tight spaces.
- No Power Jack: Power is supplied solely through the USB connection.
7. Price
- Arduino Micro: Generally less expensive due to its simpler design and fewer features.
- Arduino Nano: Slightly more expensive, partly due to its advanced microcontroller and additional features.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Arduino Micro | Arduino Nano |
|---|---|---|
| Microcontroller | ATmega32U4 | ATmega328 |
| Flash Memory | 32 KB | 32 KB |
| SRAM | 2.5 KB | 1 KB |
| EEPROM | 1 KB | 0.5 KB |
| Digital I/O Pins | 20 | 22 |
| Analog Inputs | 12 | 8 |
| PWM Outputs | 7 | 6 |
| Dimensions (L x W) | 48 mm x 18 mm | 45 mm x 18 mm |
| Power Source | USB or DC jack | USB only |
| USB Emulation | Yes | No |
| Communication Protocol | AVR109 | STK500 |
| Price | Generally lower | Generally higher |
Conclusion
Both the Arduino Micro and Arduino Nano offer unique benefits tailored to different project needs. The Arduino Micro excels with its native USB capabilities and flexibility with power sources, making it ideal for projects requiring USB device emulation. In contrast, the Arduino Nano’s compact size and simplicity make it a strong choice for space-constrained applications and projects that do not require USB emulation.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on the specific requirements of your project, including the need for USB communication, space constraints, and power supply preferences. Both boards provide excellent performance and compatibility with the Arduino ecosystem, making them valuable tools for a variety of electronic projects.
