Prepare your device
Install MicroPython firmware and libraries to your development board.
Install firmwareProgram your ESP32 and RP2040 boards in Micropython using intuitive text or block coding.
Launch ESP IDE 2
Build programs by stacking blocks – learn the basics of programming in a fun and error-free way.
Just click and go – no compilation needed, your code runs directly from the browser.
Built specifically for the most popular microcontrollers – fast, stable, and ready for your projects.
When blocks are not enough, switch to text mode and use the full power of MicroPython.
Install MicroPython and ESP IDE libraries before you start.
Install MicroPython firmware and libraries to your development board.
Install firmware
Open ESP IDE and connect your device.
Launch ESP IDE
ESP IDE is an open-source development environment for teaching programming.
It is designed for ESP32 and RP2040 microcontrollers and uses MicroPython.
ESP IDE was created by Milan Špaček in 2019 as a response to Arduino being too complex for beginners. The goal was to create a simpler, faster, and more fun environment for learning programming.
ESP IDE supports programming with blocks and MicroPython and offers:
A wide range of peripherals is supported, including DHT sensors, ultrasonic and laser distance sensors, IMU, color sensors, Neopixel LEDs, servos, DC motors, and ESP-NOW communication.
ESP IDE is an open-source project released under the GNU Affero General Public License v3.0 (AGPL-3.0).
Copyright (c) 2019–2026 Milan Špaček
Full license text:
AGPL-3.0
ESP IDE is built on the principles of sharing, collaboration, and open education.
The project grows only when new ideas and improvements are shared back with the community.
ESP IDE is not meant for exploitation - it is meant for collaboration.
The code is open. If you improve it, contribute your changes back.
ESP IDE is actively developed and grows together with the community. Our mission is to make programming accessible, understandable, and fun for everyone.
| Feature / Property | ESP IDE | Arduino IDE | MakeCode (Micro:bit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Designed for children and beginners | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Czech localization | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ Partial |
| Programming language | MicroPython | C/C++ | Blocks / JavaScript / Python |
| Graphical programming (Blockly) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Text-based programming | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Compilation speed | ✅ No compilation required | ❌ Tens of seconds | ✅ Fast |
| Direct code upload from browser | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Plugin system / extensibility | ✅ Open | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Offline usage | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Open source | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Multiple board support | ✅ ESP32, RP2040 | ✅ Wide support | ❌ Micro:bit only |
| Display and graphics support | ✅ Built-in OLED support | ❌ Via libraries | ⚠️ Limited |
| Advanced sensor handling | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Cross-platform | ✅ Web | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Teaching advanced concepts | ✅ Python, algorithms… | ✅ But complex | ❌ Limited |
| Value for schools | ✅ High | ⚠️ Demanding | ✅ Good for beginners |