Overview of Arduino Pro Mini and Nano
Before diving into the detailed comparison, let’s briefly introduce each board:
Arduino Pro Mini
The Arduino Pro Mini is a small, breadboard-friendly microcontroller board based on the ATmega328P (for 3.3V, 8MHz versions) or ATmega168 (for 5V, 16MHz versions). It offers the same functionality as the larger Arduino boards but in a more compact package, measuring just 33.0 x 17.8mm.
Arduino Nano
The Arduino Nano is another small, complete, and breadboard-friendly board based on either the ATmega328P (for Arduino Nano 3.x) or ATmega168 (for Arduino Nano 2.x). It has a similar form factor to the Pro Mini but includes a mini-USB port for programming and power.
Key Differences between Pro Mini and Nano
Now, let’s explore the main differences between the Arduino Pro Mini and Nano:
Form Factor and Dimensions
One of the most apparent differences between the Pro Mini and Nano is their physical size and layout.
| Board | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Mini | 33.0 x 17.8mm | 2g |
| Nano | 45.0 x 18.0mm | 7g |
The Pro Mini is slightly smaller than the Nano, making it a better choice for projects with extremely limited space. However, the Nano’s slightly larger size accommodates the mini-USB connector, which can be more convenient for programming and powering the board.
Microcontroller and Performance
Both the Pro Mini and Nano use similar microcontrollers, offering comparable performance:
| Board | Microcontroller | Operating Voltage | Clock Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Mini | ATmega328P/168 | 3.3V/5V | 8MHz/16MHz |
| Nano | ATmega328P/168 | 5V | 16MHz |
The main difference lies in the operating voltage and clock speed options. The Pro Mini is available in 3.3V (8MHz) and 5V (16MHz) versions, while the Nano only comes in a 5V (16MHz) version. If your project requires lower power consumption or compatibility with 3.3V components, the Pro Mini 3.3V version may be the better choice.
Connectivity and Pinout
The Pro Mini and Nano have similar pinouts, with a few notable differences:
| Feature | Pro Mini | Nano |
|---|---|---|
| Digital I/O Pins | 14 | 14 |
| PWM Pins | 6 | 6 |
| Analog Input Pins | 6 | 8 |
| UART | 1 | 1 |
| I2C | 1 | 1 |
| SPI | 1 | 1 |
| External Interrupts | 2 | 2 |
| USB Connector | No | Mini-USB |
| Power Jack | No | No |
The Nano offers two additional analog input pins compared to the Pro Mini. However, the most significant difference is the presence of the mini-USB connector on the Nano, which simplifies programming and powering the board. The Pro Mini requires an external USB-to-Serial adapter (like the FTDI breakout board) for programming.
Power Consumption and Management
Power consumption is an essential consideration for battery-powered projects or applications with limited power budgets.
| Board | Operating Voltage | Power Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Mini | 3.3V/5V | ~3mA/~5mA |
| Nano | 5V | ~15mA |
The Pro Mini generally consumes less power than the Nano, especially the 3.3V version. This makes the Pro Mini a better choice for low-power applications or projects running on batteries. However, the Nano’s power consumption is still relatively low and suitable for most projects.
It’s worth noting that neither board includes a built-in Voltage Regulator. You’ll need to provide a regulated 3.3V or 5V power supply, depending on the board version.
Programming and Software Support
Both the Pro Mini and Nano are fully compatible with the Arduino IDE and can be programmed using the same software and libraries. However, there are a few differences in the programming process:
- The Nano can be programmed directly via the mini-USB port, while the Pro Mini requires an external USB-to-Serial adapter.
- The Pro Mini 3.3V version runs at 8MHz, so you’ll need to select the appropriate board settings in the Arduino IDE (e.g., “Arduino Pro or Pro Mini (3.3V, 8MHz) w/ ATmega328P”).
Overall, both boards offer excellent software support and compatibility with the extensive Arduino ecosystem.
Price and Availability
The Arduino Pro Mini and Nano are both widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to larger Arduino boards.
| Board | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pro Mini | $2 – $5 |
| Nano | $3 – $8 |
Prices can vary depending on the vendor and any included accessories (e.g., headers, USB cable). In general, the Pro Mini tends to be slightly less expensive than the Nano, making it a more budget-friendly option for cost-sensitive projects.
Choosing Between the Arduino Pro Mini and Nano
When deciding between the Arduino Pro Mini and Nano, consider the following factors:
- Project size and space constraints
- Power requirements and battery life
- Ease of programming and setup
- Required features and peripherals
- Budget and cost considerations
If your project has strict size limitations or low power requirements, the Pro Mini may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize the convenience of direct USB programming and don’t mind the slightly larger size, the Nano could be a better fit.
FAQ
-
Can I use the same code and libraries on both the Pro Mini and Nano?
Yes, both boards are fully compatible with the Arduino IDE and can use the same code and libraries. Just make sure to select the appropriate board settings in the IDE. -
How do I program the Arduino Pro Mini without a USB port?
To program the Pro Mini, you’ll need an external USB-to-Serial adapter, such as the FTDI breakout board. Connect the adapter to the Pro Mini’s serial pins (TX, RX, GND) and your computer’s USB port, then select the appropriate port in the Arduino IDE. -
Can I power the Arduino Nano directly from the USB port?
Yes, the Nano can be powered via the mini-USB port, which provides a regulated 5V supply. However, if you’re using peripherals that draw significant current, it’s recommended to use an external power supply to avoid overloading the USB port. -
Are there any differences in analog input performance between the Pro Mini and Nano?
Both boards use the same analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and offer similar analog input performance. The main difference is that the Nano has two additional analog input pins compared to the Pro Mini. -
Can I use the Arduino Pro Mini for battery-powered projects?
Yes, the Pro Mini is well-suited for battery-powered projects due to its low power consumption, especially the 3.3V version. However, you’ll need to ensure that your battery can provide a stable and regulated 3.3V or 5V supply, depending on the board version.
Conclusion
The Arduino Pro Mini and Nano are both excellent choices for compact, cost-effective microcontroller projects. While they share many similarities, the key differences lie in their form factor, USB connectivity, power consumption, and available peripherals.
By carefully considering your project requirements and the trade-offs between the two boards, you can select the best option for your specific application. Whether you choose the Pro Mini or Nano, you’ll have access to the extensive Arduino ecosystem and a wide range of resources to help bring your projects to life.
