BBC micro:bit V2
The BBC micro:bit V2 is a pocket-sized educational microcontroller with a 5x5 LED matrix, built-in speaker, microphone, accelerometer, compass, touch sensor, and BLE 5.0. Used by over 70 million students worldwide, it runs MakeCode (block-based), MicroPython, and JavaScript with an ecosystem designed to make coding and physical computing accessible to children as young as 7.
Best educational microcontroller for children and classrooms, skip if you need WiFi or advanced performance.
Where to Buy
Pros
- Built-in sensors (accelerometer, compass, mic, speaker, touch, light, temperature) — no wiring needed
- MakeCode block editor makes coding accessible to children aged 7+
- Used by 70M+ students — the largest educational computing platform
- Edge connector expands to external components and accessories
- BLE 5.0 for wireless projects and phone app integration
Cons
- No WiFi — BLE only for wireless communication
- 64MHz Cortex-M4 with 128KB SRAM — limited for complex projects
- Micro-USB instead of USB-C
- 512KB flash fills quickly with MicroPython programs
Education First
The micro:bit was created by the BBC to get every 11-year-old in the UK coding. It succeeded — and expanded to 70 million users in 60 countries. The MakeCode editor runs in a browser, uses drag-and-drop blocks (like Scratch), and compiles to the device via USB. No software installation needed.
The built-in sensors mean a student's first project can be interactive in minutes: shake the board to roll dice on the LED matrix, clap to trigger a sound, tilt to control a game. This immediate feedback loop is what makes the micro:bit effective as a teaching tool.
Full Specifications
Processor
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Architecture | ARM Cortex-M4 |
| CPU Cores | 1 |
| Clock Speed | 64 MHz |
Memory
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Flash | 0.512 MB |
| SRAM | 128 KB |
Connectivity
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0 |
I/O & Interfaces
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| imu | LSM303AGR (accelerometer + compass) |
| microphone | MEMS microphone with LED indicator |
| speaker | Built-in speaker |
| Display | 5x5 red LED matrix |
| GPIO Pins | 25 |
| touch_sensor | Touch-sensitive logo |
| buttons | 2 programmable buttons + reset |
| USB | Micro-USB |
Power
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage | 3 V |
| battery_connector | JST PH (2x AAA) |
Physical
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 52 x 42 mm |
| Form Factor | Credit-card sized (with edge connector) |
Who Should Buy This
MakeCode's drag-and-drop blocks are designed for children. The LED matrix shows output immediately. Built-in sensors enable interactive projects without any wiring. 70M students have used it — the curriculum resources are unmatched.
The micro:bit is designed for children. Adults should start with the Raspberry Pi Pico W (MicroPython, more power, WiFi) or Arduino Uno R4 WiFi (broader ecosystem).
Better alternative: Raspberry Pi Pico W
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is the micro:bit for?
Designed for ages 7-14, but used by all ages. MakeCode blocks suit ages 7-11. MicroPython text coding suits ages 11-14+. The hardware is simple enough for young children but capable enough for meaningful projects.
micro:bit vs Arduino for education?
The micro:bit is better for younger students (7-12) due to MakeCode blocks and built-in sensors. Arduino is better for older students (13+) who are ready for text-based coding and external component wiring. Many curricula progress from micro:bit to Arduino.
Can the micro:bit connect to WiFi?
No. The micro:bit has BLE 5.0 only. For WiFi projects, use a Raspberry Pi Pico W or ESP32. The micro:bit focuses on direct physical computing rather than internet connectivity.
What is the edge connector?
The bottom of the micro:bit has a card-edge connector with 25 pins. Breakout boards snap onto it to connect external LEDs, motors, sensors, and displays. Accessories are widely available from multiple manufacturers.
Is the micro:bit still relevant in 2026?
Yes. It remains the most widely deployed educational microcontroller globally. The MakeCode editor, classroom resources, and teacher community are unmatched. For children's coding education, nothing else has this level of ecosystem support.