ESP32-CAM Development Board

ESP32 board with OV2640 camera and microSD slot for low-cost WiFi image capture and video streaming projects.

₹499 + 18% GST

SKU: BOTBIT-DEV-11 · Best for: DIY WiFi security cameras and video doorbells

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Overview

About ESP32-CAM Development Board.

The ESP32-CAM is a compact, low-cost development board from Ai-Thinker that pairs an ESP32-S module with an OV2640 2-megapixel camera and a microSD card slot. It makes WiFi image capture, video streaming and simple computer-vision projects possible for the price of a single sensor module, which is why it is hugely popular for DIY monitoring cameras, doorbells and time-lapse cameras.

It is built on the ESP32 dual-core processor with integrated 2.4GHz WiFi and Bluetooth, backed by 4MB of PSRAM that provides the extra memory needed to buffer camera frames. The bundled OV2640 supports resolutions up to 1600x1200 (UXGA), and the onboard microSD slot lets you record images and video locally. An onboard LED flash is included for low-light capture.

For India buyers, the ESP32-CAM is the cheapest practical way to add a WiFi camera to a project. Note that it has no onboard USB port, so you program it using a separate USB-to-TTL (FTDI/CP2102) adapter or the matching ESP32-CAM-MB programmer, which is an important thing to plan for.

Key features

Why it stands out.

ESP32 dual-core processor with 2.4GHz WiFi and Bluetooth

OV2640 2MP camera, up to 1600x1200 (UXGA) resolution

4MB external PSRAM for camera frame buffering

Onboard microSD card slot (up to 4GB officially) for local storage

Built-in LED flash and standard camera connector (also supports OV7670)

Deep-sleep support for battery-powered remote camera nodes

Specifications

Selection facts.

Module	Ai-Thinker ESP32-CAM (ESP32-S based)
CPU	ESP32 dual-core, up to 240MHz
Camera	OV2640, 2MP, up to 1600x1200 (UXGA)
PSRAM	4MB external (for frame buffer)
Flash memory	4MB SPI flash
Wireless	2.4GHz WiFi 802.11 b/g/n + Bluetooth
Storage	microSD card slot (up to 4GB officially supported)
Onboard extras	LED flash, reset button
Programming	External USB-to-TTL adapter required (no onboard USB)
Operating voltage	5V supply recommended; 3.3V logic

Applications

Where it is used.

DIY WiFi security cameras and video doorbells
Live MJPEG video streaming over a local network or the internet
Time-lapse and motion-triggered photo capture to microSD
Face detection and basic computer-vision experiments
Remote monitoring nodes for wildlife, plants or workshops
Robotics FPV (first-person view) camera on rovers and drones

Buying guide

How to choose.

Buy the ESP32-CAM when you need a very cheap WiFi camera for streaming or capture and can accept a modest 2MP sensor. If you want an easier out-of-the-box experience with a built-in USB port and screen, consider higher-end camera boards, but they cost significantly more.

Because there is no USB port on the board, you must pair it with a USB-to-TTL serial adapter (FTDI or CP2102) or, much more conveniently, the ESP32-CAM-MB programmer shield that plugs straight into a PC. Buying the MB programmer version is strongly recommended for beginners.

The camera is sensitive to power quality: use a solid 5V supply, as brownouts cause reboots and camera-init errors. Pair it with a good microSD card (4GB or as your firmware supports), a stable 5V source, and jumper wires or the MB board for flashing.

FAQ

Common questions.

How do I upload code to the ESP32-CAM?

It has no USB port. Connect a USB-to-TTL adapter to the U0T/U0R and GND/5V pins, tie GPIO0 to GND to enter flash mode, then upload from the Arduino IDE (select 'AI Thinker ESP32-CAM'). The ESP32-CAM-MB programmer shield does this automatically.

What camera does it use and what resolution?

It ships with an OV2640 2-megapixel sensor capable of up to 1600x1200 (UXGA). For smooth live streaming most users run lower resolutions like VGA or SVGA.

Why does it keep resetting or show a 'brownout' error?

The camera draws current in bursts, so a weak USB port or thin wires cause voltage dips. Power it from a stable 5V source with adequate current and short, thick wires to fix most reboot and camera-init problems.

How large a microSD card can I use?

Ai-Thinker officially specifies up to 4GB, though many users report larger FAT32-formatted cards working. Format the card as FAT32 for best compatibility.

Is it available in India and does it need a separate programmer?

Yes, it is widely stocked in India. Since it has no onboard USB, buy it together with a USB-to-TTL adapter or, preferably, the ESP32-CAM-MB base board for easy flashing.

What is in the box?

Usually the ESP32-CAM board with the OV2640 camera module and ribbon cable. The USB-to-TTL adapter or MB programmer is separate unless the listing bundles it.