M5Stack Atom Matrix ESP32 Dev Kit v1.1 is an ultra-compact ESP32 development board built for IoT nodes, miniature controllers, interactive indicators, smart device prototypes, and embedded automation projects. It combines the ESP32-PICO-D4 controller, a 5 x 5 RGB LED matrix, a programmable button, infrared transmission, and a 6-axis BMI270 IMU inside a tiny 24 x 24mm cube-style enclosure.
This v1.1 version upgrades the motion sensor from MPU6886 to BMI270, improving motion detection accuracy and response speed for applications like gesture sensing, motion-triggered interaction, orientation feedback, robotics, wearable prototypes, and compact wireless controllers. It also supports Arduino IDE, UiFlow1, UiFlow2, ESP-IDF, and PlatformIO, making it easy to use for both beginners and experienced developers.
Features
- ESP32-PICO-D4 dual-core controller with built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.
- 5 x 5 RGB LED matrix using WS2812C 2020 x25 for status display and interaction.
- BMI270 6-axis IMU for more accurate motion and attitude sensing in the v1.1 revision.
- Programmable button hidden below the RGB matrix for custom trigger logic.
- Infrared transmission for compact IR control and smart device interaction.
- HY2.0-4P expansion port for external modules and peripheral integration.
- USB Type-C for power, programming, and fast development workflow.
- M2 mounting hole for easy fixed installation.
Specifications
| SoC | ESP32-PICO-D4 dual-core, 240MHz |
| DMIPS | 600 |
| SRAM | 520KB |
| Flash | 4MB SPI Flash |
| Wireless | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| Input Voltage | 5V @ 500mA |
| Host Interface | USB Type-C x1, Grove (I2C + I/O + UART) x1 |
| GPIO | G19, G21, G22, G23, G25, G33 |
| RGB LED | WS2812C 2020 x25 |
| MEMS | BMI270, I2C address 0x68 |
| IR | Infrared transmission |
| Button | Programmable button x1 |
| Antenna | 2.4G 3D antenna |
| Working Temperature | 0 to 60 C |
| Enclosure | Plastic (PC) |
| Product Size | 24.0 x 24.0 x 13.8mm |
| Product Weight | 7.3g |
Applications
- Compact IoT nodes and wireless endpoint devices.
- Miniature status indicators and visual feedback controllers.
- Motion-aware prototypes using the BMI270 IMU.
- Infrared smart control and trigger devices.
- Wearable and portable embedded projects.
- Educational ESP32 development for Arduino, UiFlow, and PlatformIO users.
Packing List
- Atom-Matrix v1.1 x1
Other Content
What changed in v1.1
The key hardware update in this revision is the move from MPU6886 to BMI270. That makes Atom Matrix v1.1 a better fit for applications that need more stable motion sensing, faster response, and more reliable orientation data.
LED brightness note
When using the FastLED library, the recommended brightness value is 20. Avoid driving the LEDs at excessively high brightness for long periods, because heat can damage the LED matrix and the acrylic cover.
Pin and interface expansion
The board exposes expandable pins and includes the HY2.0-4P Grove-compatible port, which makes it easy to connect sensors, communication modules, and other compact M5Stack ecosystem peripherals.
Resources
- M5Stack Atom-Matrix v1.1 Docs
- Schematics
- Arduino Quick Start
- UiFlow1 Quick Start
- UiFlow2 Quick Start
- PlatformIO Setup
- ESP32-PICO-D4 Reference
- BMI270 Datasheet
- OpenELAB M5 Controllers Selection Guide
- What is M5Stack and How to Use It
FAQ
What is the main difference between Atom Matrix v1.1 and the earlier version?
The biggest hardware change is the BMI270 IMU, which replaces the older MPU6886 and improves motion sensing performance.
What is it best used for?
It is ideal for IoT nodes, compact controllers, LED-based interaction, motion-aware prototypes, wearable projects, and embedded ESP32 development.
Does it support Arduino and visual programming?
Yes. It supports Arduino IDE, UiFlow1, UiFlow2, ESP-IDF, and PlatformIO.
Does it have expansion capability?
Yes. It includes a HY2.0-4P Grove-compatible interface and expandable GPIO for external peripherals.