
If you’re new to Arduino, microcontrollers, electronics, or programming you may be wondering something like Arduino vs microcontroller – what’s the difference? Just for clarity, we’re referring to a naked or stand-alone microcontroller, such as the one that powers the Arduino Uno.
I’ve written about this in the past in Getting Naked: Working With Naked Microcontrollers vs Trainers Like Arduino so I won’t rehash everything here.
However, I’ve been getting more into video production lately and decided to make a short video on this topic.
In the video, you’ll hear me refer to the Arduino and other boards such as the Raspberry Pi as trainers. Since the popularity of these boards has exploded in recent years, many other boards or trainers have also recently emerged.
There are also literally a ton of microcontrollers out there. They range from simple 4-bit or 8-bit units to way more complex 32-bit ones.
When comparing Arduino vs microcontrollers you’ll find they both have their pros and cons, just like everything else in life. You’ll see what some of those are in the video.
Other trainers or boards like the RPi get some mention, but for simplicity’s sake we’re going to focus on comparing the Arduino Uno to the “brains” behind it – the ATMega328p.
Ever dreamed of being Iron Man, having the ability to build anything, anytime? Try Academy for Arduino!
If you’re deciding to get into Arduino, microcontrollers, electronics, or programming congratulations to you.
The world of electronics and microcontrollers is a fascinating one where these days the sky truly is the limit for the maker. Almost anything is possible with today’s powerful trainers and MCUs, the IoT, and technology in general.
One more thing. This is the first in a series of video tutorials I’ll be making on Arduino. To get the latest, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel.
So without further ado here it is. Enjoy!
Arduino vs Microcontroller – The Video
Leave a comment and tell us what your go-to board or microcontroller is.
Ever dreamed of being Iron Man, having the ability to build anything, anytime? Try Academy for Arduino!

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