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The ESP32-S31 is the Espressif chip that matches the headline: a dual-core RISC-V system-on-chip with 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi 6 and a listed 1000 Mbps Ethernet peripheral. It is a substantial step beyond the small wireless microcontrollers often used for LED and sensor projects, but it is not a finished consumer product, and its current software support is limited to the ESP-IDF master branch (v6.1 and later).
What the ESP32-S31 actually is
Espressif describes the ESP32-S31 as a dual-core, 32-bit RISC-V SoC. Its high-performance core is specified at up to 320 MHz, with 512 KB of RAM and support for 8-bit DDR PSRAM expansion at up to 250 MHz. These are manufacturer specifications from Espressif’s current ESP32-S31 documentation, not independent benchmark results.
The part combines networking, processing and multimedia interfaces in one device. Espressif lists USB OTG 2.0 High Speed, a 16-bit digital video port (DVP), 24-bit RGB, a pixel-processing accelerator (PPA) and a JPEG codec. Those capabilities target connected multimedia and edge devices as well as conventional embedded-control designs.
Wireless and wired networking
| Capability | ESP32-S31 specification |
|---|---|
| Wi‑Fi | 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi 6 |
| Ethernet | 1000 Mbps listed Ethernet peripheral |
| Bluetooth | BLE 5.4 and Bluetooth Classic |
| 802.15.4 protocols | Thread 1.4 and Zigbee 3.0 |
The 2.4 GHz qualification matters. The accessible S31 feature list does not establish 5 GHz Wi‑Fi, so “Wi‑Fi 6” should not be read as dual-band operation. A gigabit-rated Ethernet interface is likewise a hardware capability, not a promise that an application will sustain 1,000 Mbps. Real throughput depends on the board design, PHY and magnetics, drivers, protocol overhead, storage, software workload and network equipment. No independent S31 throughput result is established here.
#1 Best Overall
- 2.4GHz Dual Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Development Board
- Support LWIP protocol, Freertos
- SupportThree Modes: AP, STA, and AP+STA
- Ultra-Low power consumption, Compatible with Arduino IDE
- ESP32 is a safe, reliable, and scalable to a variety of applications
How it compares with other recent ESP32 parts
| Part | Networking and architecture | What distinguishes it |
|---|---|---|
| ESP32-S31 | Dual-core RISC-V; up to 320 MHz high-performance core; 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi 6; listed 1000 Mbps Ethernet; BLE 5.4, Bluetooth Classic, Thread 1.4 and Zigbee 3.0 | Combines high-speed wired networking with USB and display/camera-oriented multimedia interfaces |
| ESP32-C6 | 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi 6, Bluetooth LE and IEEE 802.15.4 | Designed for Wi‑Fi 6 and Thread/Zigbee applications; its product page does not list the S31’s 1000 Mbps Ethernet and multimedia set |
| ESP32-E22 | Separate tri-band Wi‑Fi 6E connectivity co-processor | Announced January 19, 2026; Espressif reported Wi‑Fi 6E certification and an open-source Linux driver on June 12, 2026 |
The C6 is an earlier family comparison, not a replacement specification for the S31; see Espressif’s ESP32-C6 product documentation. The E22 is a radio co-processor rather than an MCU equivalent to the S31. Its announcement is documented by Espressif at the January 19, 2026 release, with the later certification update at the June 12, 2026 announcement.
What developers can build with it
Espressif identifies multimedia devices, edge-AI products, gateways, smart-home hubs, video doorbells and voice-control equipment as application categories. The combination of gigabit Ethernet, Wi‑Fi 6, multiple low-power and mesh protocols, USB and image interfaces makes the S31 suitable for designs that need more than GPIO, simple sensors or status LEDs.
Rank #2
- Dual-Core Performance Up to 240 MHz: Run sensor processing, wireless communication, automation logic and connected-device tasks on a 32-bit dual-core ESP32 platform designed for responsive embedded and IoT projects
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2: Connect to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks or use Bluetooth Classic and BLE for wireless sensors, smart devices, remote controls, home automation and other connected projects
- Flexible Power-Saving Modes: ESP32 power-management features support dynamic clock scaling and low-power operating modes, helping developers reduce energy use in compatible sensing, monitoring and connected-device applications, suitable for battery-powered Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
- USB-C Programming with CP2102: Connect through USB-C for power, sketch uploads and serial monitoring, while GPIO, UART, SPI and I2C interfaces support sensors, displays, motor drivers and other modules (USB-C cable not included)
- Over-the-Air Update Support: Configure OTA functionality through a compatible ESP-32 software framework to update deployed firmware over Wi-Fi without reconnecting the board by USB for every revision
- Gateways and hubs: Ethernet backhaul can coexist with Wi‑Fi, Thread and Zigbee radios.
- Video and imaging devices: DVP, RGB and JPEG support provide interfaces for camera or display pipelines, subject to the complete board and software design.
- Connected controllers: BLE, Bluetooth Classic and Wi‑Fi cover local commissioning and network links.
- Edge processing: The high-performance RISC-V core, RAM and PSRAM expansion support leave more headroom for protocol handling and local workloads than basic microcontroller projects.
Software support is the main caveat
Espressif’s documentation states: “ESP32-S31 supports only on the ESP-IDF master branch (v6.1 and later).” That means developers should plan around the current master-based toolchain rather than assume that an established stable ESP-IDF release already supports the chip. Check the S31 documentation and the exact branch status before committing a production firmware workflow.
This support status also affects library compatibility, examples, debugging tools and continuous-integration images. Early evaluation should therefore include the complete build, flash, networking and peripheral workflow your product needs, not just a compile test.
Rank #3
- Powerful ESP-32 Board: Unlock the world of Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced electronics with the heart of this kit: the ESP-32 board. It features a powerful dual-core processor, integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2, making it perfect for building connected, smart devices that communicate with your phone or the cloud. It's fully compatible with the Arduino IDE for easy programming.
- Super Starter Kit: This kit contains over 35 different modules and electronic components, including sensors, displays, motors, and input devices. From LEDs and buttons to an OLED screen, servo motor, and keypad, you have everything needed to explore a vast range of projects in one box.
- Step by Step Online Tutorial: Jump right in with our detailed, beginner-friendly tutorial. Access 30+ projects with complete code, clear circuit diagrams, and step-by-step instructions. Learn the fundamentals of electronics, coding, and how to utilize the ESP-32's unique capabilities without any prior experience.
- Hands-on Learning for All Skill Levels: Perfect for students, makers, engineers, and hobbyists. Start with basic circuits and coding, then progress to intermediate and advanced IoT applications. Build practical projects like weather stations, smart home controllers, remote-controlled devices, and interactive gadgets. The skills you learn are the foundation for real-world innovation.
- Quality & Great Support: Elegoo is committed to quality. We provide a clear, detailed tutorial guide, refined code, and a well-organized component kit. All modules are carefully selected for reliability and ease of use. Our dedicated technical support team and active online community are ready to help you succeed in your learning journey.
Board, module or bare chip?
Development board
For first evaluation, use a development board. Espressif describes these boards as complete PCBs with power and download circuitry for testing, debugging and firmware flashing. A board lets you validate the software stack and expose interfaces without designing the power, boot and physical connectors first.
Module
A module generally reduces integration work by packaging items such as flash, PSRAM and antenna circuitry. It can shorten the RF layout path, although the final product still needs appropriate regulatory and antenna review.
Rank #4
- 2.4GHz Dual Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Development Board
- Support LWIP protocol, Freertos;ESP32 is a safe, reliable, and scalable to a variety of applications
- SupportThree Modes: AP, STA, and AP+STA
- Ultra-Low power consumption, Compatible with Arduino IDE
- 1PCS 30Pin ESP32 Development Board 2.4GHz WiFi Dual Cores Microcontroller Integrated with Antenna RF Low Noise Amplifiers Filters
Bare SoC
The chip alone provides maximum board-design control but requires external startup and power circuitry, memory decisions, high-speed signal routing and RF implementation. It is the least convenient starting point unless you already have the hardware and certification expertise.
Recommended Free Tools
- Start with an S31 development board and the ESP-IDF master branch v6.1 or later.
- Verify boot, flashing, Wi‑Fi, Ethernet and the specific USB, camera or display interface your design requires.
- Measure application-level throughput and latency on your own network; do not substitute the 1000 Mbps peripheral rating for a benchmark.
- Move to a module when reducing RF and memory integration work is more valuable than a fully custom layout.
- Use the bare chip only after the supporting circuitry, antenna design and certification plan are defined.
What is not yet established
The available documentation does not establish an official launch date, price, mass-production status, retail inventory, a named S31 development-board model or independent performance benchmarks. Those details should be confirmed from a current distributor or Espressif release before purchasing or planning volume production.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 2.4GHz Dual Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Development Board
- Ultra-Low power consumption, works perfectly with the Arduino IDE
- Support LWIP protocol, Freertos
- SupportThree Modes: AP, STA, and AP+STA
- ESP32 is a safe, reliable, and scalable to a variety of applications
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
