M5Stack

M5Stack is a family of compact, ESP32-based development kits designed by M5Stack Technology for rapid prototyping and deployment of embedded projects. The core idea is a stackable, self-contained module that includes a microcontroller, a display, and input/output elements, enabling developers to build devices with a graphical interface and on-device processing.

At the heart is the ESP32 microcontroller, providing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Most M5Stack variants incorporate a built-in color display, speakers or buzzers, and a set of physical buttons for user interaction. The devices are designed to be stacked with additional modules and components via a common connector system, enabling features such as sensors, radios, or IO expanders.

Software support emphasizes accessibility: developers can program M5Stack devices using Arduino IDE, MicroPython, or the ESP-IDF, and M5Stack provides the UIFlow environment, a block-based programming interface tailored for its hardware. The platform also supports Lua environments historically and a growing library of example projects and tutorials.

Product variants include the original M5Stack Core and Core2, along with other form factors such as M5Stack GO and related compact modules. The ecosystem has associated accessories, sensors, and display modules, enabling a range of applications from dashboards and data loggers to educational kits.

Applications commonly cited include IoT dashboards, portable controllers, educational demonstrations, and rapid-proof-of-concept devices. The M5Stack line has a moderate community presence with online documentation, tutorials, and sample code contributed by users and vendors.