0 - Introduction
The CrowPanel Esp32 1.28” Round Display is a compact and versatile module aimed at makers, hobbyists, and DIY tech enthusiasts. With built-in touch support and wireless connectivity, it is well suited for custom interfaces, smart home controls and wearable projects. It also supports both Arduino IDE and Micro Python, making it much more accessible.
1 - Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| MCU | Esp32-C3 |
| Interface | USB Type-C |
| Display | SPI, IPS, 1.28 inch, 240x240 |
| Touch Type | Capacitive |
| Buttons | Reset and Boot from the Esp32 + 1x Custom Button |
| Encoder | Rotary Encoder + Button (Pin not included, 0.8x0.8mm) |
| Size | 42x42x9.8mm |
| Weight | 15g |
| IO | CR927 Battery, Vibration Motor, Battery Connector, Buzzer, Buttons, Encoder, USB Type-C |
2 - Contents
3 - The Good
One of the best features of this kit is the size of it. Even while being small, it is not too small. You also have more than one option to code with it, meaning you are not limited to the Arduino IDE and C++, you can also use PlatformIO or even code in Micro Python. LVGL support also makes it a lot easier to use this kit to make good-looking UIs and applications.
4 - The Bad
After using this kit for a while, I have two issues with it. The first one is that there is no way to plug in extra sensors or modules to the Esp32. I feel that a few pads to solder wires to would be great to expand the capabilities of this kit, but I also understand that it would have an impact on its size.
My second issue is the lack of the pin in the encoder out of the box, this basically means that to use the rotary encoder (and its button), you will need to get a pin separately.
5 - Use cases
This kit would be a good fit for any wearables you can DIY, its size is also perfect for something like a watch. Because this kit supports LVGL, you can also make apps to connect to your home assistant, making it great for a thermostat or a status monitor. You can check this video from Taste the Code on YouTube to get an idea on how to display ambient data in your own CrowPanel.
This form factor is also perfect for projects around your car, but the lack of GPIO headers, would mean that you would need another Esp32 to connect to your car’s CAN bus and transmit data to your display wirelessly. On YouTube, MrDIY and Garage Tinkering have great videos about car related projects with Esp32s.
6 - Should you buy it?
Yes, I think you should. The kit is easy to set up and use, and its display is very responsive and things look good on it, the colors are good, and the resolution is also great for its size. Just keep in mind that if you need to get data into it, you might need a second Esp32 to plug the sensors into and send data to the display.
The price is also very competitive compared to other similar boards. You can get your own on Elecrow’s store.
And that’s all, thanks for reading and stay tuned for more tech insights and tutorials. Until next time, and keep exploring the world of tech!