# Microcontroller or Microprocessor - Which Do You Need for Your Project?

- Show: [Predictable Designs Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/predictable-designs-podcast)
- Published: 2022-12-14
- Length: 18m
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/predictable-designs-podcast/2022-12-14-microcontroller-or-microprocessor-which-do-you-need-for-your-project

## Summary

John Teel, host of the Predictable Designs Podcast, explains how to choose between a microcontroller (MCU) and a microprocessor (MPU) for electronic products. He argues that 90% of projects should start with an MCU, citing the STM32F469 as a high-performance example that bridges the gap for displays. Specific use cases like 1080p video, USB 3.0, and complex GUIs require an MPU, while battery life and simple control favor an MCU. Teel also contrasts development platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi to guide prototype-to-production decisions.

## Chapters

- [0:00](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/predictable-designs-podcast/2022-12-14-microcontroller-or-microprocessor-which-do-you-need-for-your-project#t=0) Introduction: MCU vs MPU fundamentals

## Topics

- [Microcontrollers & dev platforms](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/microcontrollers-and-platforms)
- [PCB design & layout](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/pcb-design)

## Most relevant to

early-stage companies

## Mentioned

- Arduino (product)
- Raspberry Pi (product)
- STM32F469 (chip)
- ESP32 (chip)

## Related episodes from other shows

- [138: Quit Yer Whining](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2016-02-10-138-quit-yer-whining) (Embedded.fm)
- [The Spark Gap - Episode 16](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2014-10-01-the-spark-gap-episode-16) (The Spark Gap)
- [520: All Sorts of Interesting Facts About Teeth](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2026-02-06-520-all-sorts-of-interesting-facts-about-teeth) (Embedded.fm)
- [Big Arduino Uno changes, STM32 power management, Pi Pico Security, and more!](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-electromaker-show/2023-04-13-big-arduino-uno-changes-stm32-power-management-pi-pico-security-and-more) (The Electromaker Show)
- [The Spark Gap - Episode 1](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2014-06-16-the-spark-gap-episode-1) (The Spark Gap)

## Citing this page

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