Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython: Similarities and Differences

2025-01-20 | By Don Wilcher

Microcontrollers Programmers Arduino Adafruit Feather

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython are powerful and exciting programming language tools for developers, engineers, makers, and hobbyists. Python is at the core of each programming language. While they share common elements like syntax and modularity structure using Object-Oriented programming techniques, each coding language has unique features tailored to specific use cases and applications. Understanding the differences and similarities between these languages is essential for choosing the right one for your project. This tutorial discusses their origins, syntax, and applications to comprehensively overview each language. By the end of this tutorial, you will clearly understand how each language can be leveraged effectively for your project.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences Domain of Accessibility and Ease of Use Programming Languages.

Programming Language Creators

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython creators have unique objectives in creating these three popular coding languages. Guido van Rossum created Python which was first released in 1991. van Rossum built Python to emphasize code readability and simplicity, contributing to its widespread adoption. Python has been adopted in engineering and technology areas like machine learning, robotics, web development, scientific computing, and home/industrial automation. Guido van Rossum’s intention in creating Python was to have a programming language that was easy to learn and use for novices.

MicroPython is a scaled-down programming language version of Python 3 for microcontrollers. The microcontroller programming language was created by Damien P. George in 2014. George built MicroPython to allow makers, engineers, and hobbyists to write code for embedded systems using a user-friendly language. MicroPython works at the “bare metal” or silicon layer of the microcontroller, thereby allowing the programming language to be efficient in the hardware resources of the programmable chip. Bare metal refers to the elimination of operating systems (OS) and focuses on the hardware implementation of the microcontroller. MicroPython is used in robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) projects. MicroPython bridges the embedded systems development gap between high-level programming languages and low-level hardware control.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences MicroPython programming language deployed in robotics applications.

Lastly, CircuitPython, an adaptation of MicroPython designed for beginner-friendly hardware programming, was introduced by Adafruit Industries in 2017. Limor Fried, the founder and lead engineer of Adafruit developed CircuitPython as an educational-friendly version of MicroPython. Fried wanted CircuitPython to be exceptionally accessible to hardware programming but for educators and novices. The creators of these platforms shared a vision of making programming more accessible, but each had a different focus, from general-purpose programming and education to specialized hardware interfacing.

Evolution of the Accessible and User-Friendly Programming Languages

The first initial release of Python occurred on February 20, 1991, starting the beginning of the accessible and user-friendly high-level programming language era. MicroPython debuted on May 3, 2014, 23 years after the kickoff of Python, with an emphasis on microcontroller programming. CircuitPython, launched in July 2017, was built on MicroPython’s foundation but added beginner-focused features like simplified error messages and robust hardware support. Over time, Python expanded into numerous domains like data science, machine learning, and system administration while MicroPython and CircuitPython specialized in embedded systems. Each release marked milestones in empowering users with more user-friendly tools for diverse and creative projects and applications.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences Timeline of Initial Release Dates.

Programming Languages Structure and Syntax

Python’s syntax is designed to be intuitive and readable, using indentation rather than braces to define code blocks. For example, a simple Python “for-loop” program would look like the code shown below. The phrase, “Hello, Python” will be displayed 5 times on a screen or monitor.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences Printing “Hello” to a screen in Python.

MicroPython retains Python’s syntax but introduces hardware-specific modules for direct interaction with microcontrollers. The focus of MicroPython compared to Python is hardware. Therefore, MicroPython will allow accessing General Input Output (GPIO) pins for an ESP32 microcontroller. An example of turning ON an LED wired to an ESP32 microcontroller in MicroPython is illustrated in the following code snippet.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences Accessing GPIO Pin 2 on an ESP32 microcontroller using the MicroPython machine module.

CircuitPython’s programming language approach is based on simplifying hardware interaction. This hardware simplification method is accomplished using built-in support for Adafruit boards like the Metro and Feather. Accessing digital pins for these boards is based on importing board and digital input-out (IO) hardware resources for the Metro, Feather, and other supported platforms.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences Importing board and digital IO hardware support for Adafruit boards.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences Adafruit Feather board.

In these examples, Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython have similar coding styles and structures. The intention behind this programming structure is to ensure the learning curve is kept to a minimum. Therefore, the consistency of the programming structure is maintained across these coding platforms to ensure that Python users can easily transition between them.

Python Use Cases and Applications

Python is a general-purpose language widely used in web development, data analysis, machine learning, and automation arenas. With its extensive standard library and third-party modules, Python is versatile for tasks ranging from web data collection to scientific computing. Python’s popularity in education is based on its simplicity and user-friendly format making it an ideal first coding language for novices. Advanced use cases include developing Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) systems, and Real-Time (RT) applications. Python's adaptability to various engineering and technology applications will ensure it remains relevant across multiple industries and domains.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences IoT Development Webpage using Python.

MicroPython Use Cases and Applications

MicroPython is outstanding as an embedded systems programming tool, thereby offering a Python 3 approach to controlling hardware like sensors, motors, and displays. The embedded systems programming language is widely used in Internet of Things (IoT) projects, where resource constraints require lightweight, efficient code. Developers, makers, engineers, and hobbyists use MicroPython to program devices like ESP32, STM32, and Pyboard microcontrollers for home and industrial automation and data collection.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences The Pyboard can be programmed using MicroPython.

An example use case of home automation is the ESPHome application. ESPHome is an open-source platform that allows the creation of home solutions using the ESP32 microcontroller. The application platform is based on the C++ language but has provisions for using MicroPython. Its ability to execute scripts directly on hardware without a full operating system makes it ideal for low-power and portable applications. MicroPython’s focus on efficiency and hardware interaction makes it a favorite among hobbyists and professionals working on compact, reliable systems.

CircuitPython Use Cases and Applications

CircuitPython simplifies embedded programming, targeting novices and educators with user-friendly tools and workflows. It is heavily utilized in prototyping projects using Adafruit hardware, such as NeoPixel LEDs, Metro, and Feather boards. Adding sensors, and motor drivers, CircuitPython allows novices and educators to build physical computing projects that create interaction and mobility. CircuitPython’s plug-and-play nature will enable developers to edit code directly on connected devices without complex setups. Its popularity in wearable electronics and DIY robotics highlights its ability to produce functional prototypes quickly. CircuitPython promotes creativity and innovation, prioritizing simplicity and accessibility as the focus of the programming language tool.

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython Similarities and Differences CircuitPython powers the Adafruit Metro Board.

Comparing Programming Language Ecosystems

With libraries and frameworks like NumPy, TensorFlow, and Pandas, Python is promoted as a vast development platform ecosystem. MicroPython’s ecosystem is more focused, including modules like “machine” and “network” to enable efficient microcontroller programming. CircuitPython builds upon MicroPython’s ecosystem by adding Adafruit’s specialized libraries, and hardware integration for specific components. While Python thrives in computational algorithmic-heavy tasks, MicroPython and CircuitPython are optimized for resource-limited environments. Choosing the right programming language ecosystem depends on whether your project prioritizes computational power, hardware interaction, or ease of use.

Conclusion

Python, MicroPython, and CircuitPython exemplify the versatility and adaptability of the Python 3 programming language. Each platform provides distinct purposes, from general-purpose programming to embedded systems and novice-friendly hardware projects. These coding languages offer powerful solutions, whether you’re building a data analysis pipeline, programming a robot, or creating an interactive prototype. The door to endless possibilities in programming and hardware development is open by embracing their unique strengths.