ESP8266 (ESP-12E/12F) with single-core 32-bit processor at 80/160MHz
In stock
Esp Boards
NodeMCU ESP8266 (CP2102)
Budget WiFi microcontroller board based on the ESP8266, widely used for simple IoT and home automation projects.
₹279 + 18% GST
SKU: BOTBIT-DEV-12 · Best for: Simple WiFi home automation: relay control, smart switches and lights
Overview
About NodeMCU ESP8266 (CP2102).
The NodeMCU ESP8266 is a budget WiFi microcontroller board built around Espressif's ESP8266 (ESP-12E/12F module). This version uses the CP2102 USB-to-serial bridge, making it easy to program directly over USB from the Arduino IDE, Lua/NodeMCU firmware or MicroPython. It remains one of the cheapest ways to add WiFi to a project.
The ESP8266 runs a single-core Tensilica L106 32-bit processor at 80MHz (boostable to 160MHz) with integrated 2.4GHz WiFi. The NodeMCU board adds a USB port, 3.3V regulator, reset/flash buttons and a breadboard-friendly layout, so beginners can start building connected projects immediately without external programmers.
For India buyers, the NodeMCU is the classic starting point for simple IoT and home-automation projects: turning relays on and off over WiFi, reading a sensor and posting it online, or building a small web server. It is single-core and WiFi-only (no Bluetooth), so for heavier or Bluetooth work the ESP32 is the natural step up.
Key features
Why it stands out.
Integrated 2.4GHz WiFi (802.11 b/g/n)
CP2102 USB-to-serial bridge for direct USB programming
Onboard 3.3V regulator, reset and flash buttons, breadboard-friendly
Programmable via Arduino IDE, NodeMCU/Lua firmware or MicroPython
Around 4MB flash and multiple GPIO with I2C, SPI, UART and one ADC
Specifications
Selection facts.
| Chip / module | ESP8266 (ESP-12E / ESP-12F) |
|---|---|
| CPU | Tensilica L106 32-bit, 80MHz (up to 160MHz) |
| Flash memory | 4MB (typical) |
| Wireless | 2.4GHz WiFi 802.11 b/g/n (no Bluetooth) |
| USB bridge | CP2102 USB-to-UART |
| Digital I/O | Up to 11 usable GPIO (labelled D0-D10) |
| Analog input | 1x 10-bit ADC (A0, 0-1.0V range) |
| Interfaces | I2C, SPI, UART, PWM |
| Operating voltage | 3.3V logic; powered by 5V micro-USB |
| Form factor | Breadboard-friendly, ~48 x 26mm |
Applications
Where it is used.
- Simple WiFi home automation: relay control, smart switches and lights
- Sending sensor readings to the cloud, MQTT brokers or Google Sheets
- Small embedded web servers and captive-portal configuration pages
- Blynk / IFTTT / Home Assistant connected DIY gadgets
- WiFi-controlled LEDs and low-cost notification devices
- Learning IoT programming on a tight budget
Buying guide
How to choose.
Choose the NodeMCU ESP8266 when your project only needs WiFi and a handful of I/O pins, and you want the lowest possible cost. If you need Bluetooth, more GPIO, more ADC channels or dual-core performance, choose an ESP32 instead.
This version uses the CP2102 USB chip, which is reliable and widely driver-supported; a data-capable micro-USB cable is required. Remember it has only one analog input (A0) and its GPIO run at 3.3V, so plan I/O accordingly and use level shifters for 5V devices.
Pair it with a relay module, DHT11/DHT22 sensor, an SSD1306 OLED or a small power supply to build a complete home-automation node. A breadboard and jumper wires round out a good beginner IoT kit.
FAQ
Common questions.
How do I program the NodeMCU?
Add the ESP8266 board package to the Arduino IDE, select 'NodeMCU 1.0 (ESP-12E Module)', pick the COM port and upload over USB. You can also flash NodeMCU/Lua or MicroPython firmware. The CP2102 handles auto-reset so no manual button pressing is usually needed.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No. The ESP8266 supports WiFi only. If you need Bluetooth or BLE, choose an ESP32-based board such as the ESP32 DevKit V1.
How many analog inputs does it have?
Just one 10-bit ADC (pin A0), and on the NodeMCU it reads roughly 0-3.3V via an onboard divider. For multiple analog channels use an external ADC like the ADS1115 or move to an ESP32.
Do I need a driver for the CP2102 version?
You may need the Silicon Labs CP2102 driver on some systems for the COM port to appear. Many modern operating systems install it automatically.
Is it available in India and is it 5V tolerant?
It is one of the most widely stocked boards in India. Its GPIO are 3.3V and not reliably 5V tolerant, so use a level shifter for 5V signals.
What comes in the box?
Typically just the NodeMCU board, usually with headers pre-soldered. A USB cable is generally not included unless the listing says so.
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