Adafruit Matrix Portal S3 CircuitPython Powered Internet Display

The Adafruit Matrix Portal S3 is the next-generation plug-and-play controller for HUB-75 RGB LED matrix panels. Powered by the ESP32-S3 with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth LE, it plugs directly into the back of any compatible matrix — no soldering or wiring required. Just attach power and start coding in CircuitPython or Arduino.

The ESP32-S3's dual cores and dedicated parallel output peripheral handle matrix driving without bitbanging, leaving plenty of processing power for WiFi networking and your application code. With 8 MB of flash and 2 MB of PSRAM, there's room for GIFs, IoT data parsing, and large display buffers.

Key Features

• ESP32-S3 Processor – Dual-core with 8 MB flash, 2 MB PSRAM, WiFi, and Bluetooth LE
• Direct HUB-75 Connection – 2×10 socket plugs into matrix panels (16×32 up to 64×64), plus 2×8 IDC connector for standard cables
• Native USB-C – Power, data, and native USB for HID, MIDI, and drag-and-drop programming
• LIS3DH Accelerometer – For digital sand projects, orientation detection, and tap sensing
• STEMMA QT Port – Plug-and-play I2C for sensors and peripherals
• JST 3-Pin Connector – Analogue input for quick connections
• GPIO Breakout Strip – 6 GPIO including 4 analogue inputs with PWM, SPI, or I2S support
• Two User Buttons – Plus reset button, NeoPixel indicator, and power LEDs
• Address E Jumper – For use with 64×64 matrices (defaults to pin 8)
• Chain and Panelise – Support for long chains or grid configurations of multiple panels

Ideal For

• Internet-connected LED signs and information displays
• Live data dashboards (weather, stocks, social media, transit)
• Animated GIF displays and pixel art
• Large multi-panel LED installations

Package Contents

• 1× Adafruit Matrix Portal S3 (pre-programmed with basic display demo for 32×64 matrices)
• Mounting screws for power cable attachment

Resources

• RGB LED Matrices with CircuitPython Guide
• Protomatter RGB Matrix Arduino Library Guide