Arduino Esplora

The Arduino Esplora is a game controller-shaped microcontroller board derived from the Arduino Leonardo. It comes with a rich set of built-in sensors and inputs already onboard, so you can start building interactive projects without any wiring or breadboard setup.

The Esplora uses an ATmega32U4 microcontroller with built-in USB, so it can appear to your computer as a mouse, keyboard, or serial device — perfect for creating game controllers, interactive installations, and rapid prototyping. Includes a 1.5m micro-USB cable.

Built-In Sensors & Controls

• Analogue Joystick – Two-axis thumb joystick with centre push button
• Linear Slider – Potentiometer for smooth variable input
• Accelerometer – 3-axis motion and tilt sensing
• Temperature Sensor – Ambient temperature reading
• Light Sensor – Ambient light level detection
• Microphone – Sound level input
• Push Buttons – Multiple tactile buttons

Built-In Outputs

• RGB LED – Full-colour status indicator
• Piezo Buzzer – Sound and tone output

Key Features

• ATmega32U4 Microcontroller – 16MHz with native USB (mouse/keyboard emulation)
• No Wiring Required – All sensors built in for immediate use
• TinkerKit Connectors – 2 input and 2 output expansion ports
• TFT LCD Socket – Supports optional colour display add-on
• USB Cable Included – 1.5m micro-USB cable

Ideal For

• Beginners learning Arduino without electronics wiring
• Custom game controllers and interactive devices
• USB HID projects (mouse/keyboard emulation)
• Rapid sensor-based prototyping

Package Contents

• 1× Arduino Esplora board
• 1× Micro-USB cable (1.5m)

Resources

• Getting Started with Arduino Esplora