11 Best Raspberry Pi Pico Projects You Need to Try in 2025

You’ve just gotten your hands on a Raspberry Pi Pico, and now you’re wondering—what next? This powerful little microcontroller is perfect for fun and practical projects. In this post, I have compiled a list of the best Raspberry Pi Pico projects to inspire your next creation.

The Raspberry Pi Pico can carry out various projects, from simple decoration projects like blinking LED lights to complex projects like building a drone or a robot.

If you have never used your Raspberry Pi Pico to carry out any single project, I highly suggest you start by checking out our post on everything you need to know about the Raspberry Pi Pico. Once done, try writing and running your first test program by following our Raspberry Pi Pico beginner’s guide. These two resources will form a good base for many projects listed here.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next Raspberry Pi project, I’ve put together a list of 75+ ideas with full descriptions, difficulty ratings, and links to tutorials. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, there’s something here for you. Grab the list for free here!

1. Learn Program MicroPython

If you’re getting acquainted with the Raspberry Pi Pico, there’s no better way to dive in than by learning MicroPython.

MicroPython is a lightweight implementation of Python 3, designed for microcontrollers and embedded systems.

It is a beginner-friendly programming language that lets you control LEDs, read sensors, and automate simple tasks with just a few lines of code.

To get started with programming MicroPython on your Raspberry Pi Pico, here’s what you’ll need:

• A computer or another Raspberry Pi: This is where you’ll write and upload your MicroPython code to the Pico. A device capable of running a good IDE (Integrated Development Environment) will do the job.
• A USB cable: Make sure it’s a data-capable micro-USB cable (not just for charging). This connects your Pico to your computer for power and code transfer.
• A compatible IDE: Thonny is a popular choice for beginners. It’s simple, lightweight, and has built-in support for MicroPython.

After acquiring all this equipment, you will need something simple to get started.

The first program I always recommend every Raspberry Pi Pico beginner to write is the blinking LED program, which you can find in our Raspberry Pi Pico starter guide. It is a simple MicroPython program that makes an LED blink on your Raspberry Pi Pico.

You will find the steps for writing this program included in the post. You will also learn how to connect your Raspberry Pi Pico to the Thonny IDE. At the end of this simple task, you should have a blinking LED as shown in the image below.

2. Build Simple Weather Station

With the Raspberry Pi Pico, you can measure temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure, while learning to interface with sensors. I always recommend this project to anyone looking to explore sensor integration and data visualization.

Your weather station can display real-time data on a small screen or even log it to your computer for later analysis.

Aside from the Raspberry Pi Pico, here is what you will need for this project:

• DHT11 or DHT22 sensor: These sensors measure temperature and humidity. I highly recommend the DHT22 as I have found it more accurate than others.
• BMP280 or BME280 sensor (optional): These sensors are for added atmospheric pressure readings. While these are useful, they aren’t essential for a basic project and can be omitted. However, If you’re aiming for a more advanced or precise weather station, you can consider getting one, especially the BME280 which provides even more advanced metrics like altitude.
• OLED or LCD: These show the collected data in real time. However, if you have a Raspberry Pico W or Pico WH which includes a wireless functionality, you can decide to display this data on a web browser. I believe that should make the project even more interesting.
• Breadboard and jumper wires: These are for easy wiring and experimentation.
• MicroPython installed on your Pico: This is the programming language you will use to program and control your setup.

To begin this project, install MicroPython on the Raspberry Pi Pico. The setup for this project follows a pretty simple logic.

Connect the DHT11/DHT22 sensor to the Raspberry Pi Pico using jumper wires and a breadboard. These sensors typically have three pins: one for power (VCC), one for ground (GND), and one for data (DATA).

Next, write a simple MicroPython script to read data from the sensor and print it to the serial monitor. Once the basics are working, you can add an OLED or LCD to show the readings in real time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3q807OdvtH0

3. RGB LED Matrix Display

This project lets you create colorful patterns, scrolling text, or even simple animations on a grid of LEDs. It’s an exciting way to explore concepts like controlling multiple LEDs.

An RGB LED matrix is a collection of small LEDs arranged in rows and columns, each capable of displaying any color. With the Pico at the helm, you can turn this grid into a dynamic display for endless creative possibilities.

Here is what you’ll need for this project:

• RGB LED Matrix Panel: This is the main display component of this project. It consists of a grid of LEDs (e.g., 8×8, 16×16) that can light up in any color, controlled by your Raspberry Pi Pico.
  
  Each LED in the matrix has red, green, and blue diodes, allowing you to create millions of colors by varying their intensity. The panel displays patterns, animations, or text, making it a versatile tool for creative projects.
• Power Supply: Most RGB LED matrices require separate power, typically 5V, depending on the panel.
• Jumper Wires and Breadboard: For connecting everything.
• MicroPython: MicroPython comes with pre-written libraries to simplify managing complex wiring and patterns instead of writing everything from scratch.

For this project, you will start by wiring the Pico to the LED matrix following the panel’s datasheet. Install a compatible library (like the pico-RGB-matrix library for MicroPython) to make coding easier.

Begin with simple patterns like lighting up individual LEDs or rows, then progress to creating animations or displaying scrolling text.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1DxovtleYA

4. Setup a Pico-based Web Server

This project allows you to serve web pages, display sensor data, or control devices through a browser.

By connecting the Pico to your local Wi-Fi network, you can host a small web interface accessible from any device on the same network. You might not be able to develop a complex web server as we did when setting up LAMP server on a Raspberry Pi but it is enough to control LEDs or showcase live data from the sensors.

What you will need:

• Raspberry Pi Pico: I recommend using the Raspberry Pi Pico W or Raspberry Pi Pico WH for this project. The “W” version includes built-in Wi-Fi, making it ideal for web server projects.
  
  If you have a regular Pico, you’ll need an external ESP8266/ESP32 module for Wi-Fi.
• MicroPython firmware: MicroPython comes with pre-installed libraries that simplify networking tasks, making it perfect for projects like setting up a web server.
• A Computer or a Raspberry Pi: For coding and testing your web server.
• Sensors or LEDs (optional): Instead of displaying a static HTML page, you can add temperature/humidity sensors like the DHT22 to make the project even more interesting.

Install the MicroPython firmware on your Pico W and set up its Wi-Fi connection using the “network” module. Write a simple script to host a basic HTML page that displays “Hello, World!” in a browser.

Below is a simple program to display a static HTML page that you can view on your computer browser.

import network
import socket
import time

# Connect to Wi-Fi
ssid = 'Your_WiFi_Name'
password = 'Your_WiFi_Password'

wlan = network.WLAN(network.STA_IF)
wlan.active(True)
wlan.connect(ssid, password)

# Wait for connection
print("Connecting to Wi-Fi...")
while not wlan.isconnected():
    time.sleep(1)

print("Connected to Wi-Fi!")
print("IP Address:", wlan.ifconfig()[0])

# HTML content for the webpage
html = """<!DOCTYPE html>
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
    <title>Pico Web Server</title>
</head>
<body style="background-color: #f0f8ff; color: #333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-align: center; padding: 20px;">
    <h1 style="color: #4CAF50;">Hello, World!</h1>
    <p style="font-size: 18px;">Welcome to your Raspberry Pi Pico W web server.</p>
    <p style="font-style: italic; color: #555;">This page is served directly from your Pico W!</p>
</body>
</html>
"""

# Set up the socket server
addr = socket.getaddrinfo('0.0.0.0', 80)[0][-1]
server = socket.socket()
server.bind(addr)
server.listen(1)
print("Listening on", addr)

# Serve the webpage
while True:
    conn, addr = server.accept()
    print('Client connected from', addr)
    request = conn.recv(1024)
    conn.send('HTTP/1.0 200 OK\r\nContent-type: text/html\r\n\r\n')
    conn.send(html)
    conn.close()

Tip: The Raspberry Pi Pico and the device you use to access this HTML page should be on the same network.

5. Build a Simple Line Following Robot

This is my favorite project. I have built a line-following robot with the Raspberry Pi 4B and it worked great. With the Raspberry Pi Pico, I know it would be much better as it would be less bulky.

This project combines electronics, coding, and robotics, making it a fun and hands-on way to learn about sensors and motor control. The robot uses sensors to detect and follow a line on the ground, typically black on a white surface or vice versa.

A line-following robot is an autonomous robot designed to follow a pre-defined path, typically marked as a dark line on a lighter surface or a light line on a darker surface with the help of sensors (IR or optical).

Aside from the Raspberry Pi Pico, here is what you will need for the project.

• Motor driver module (e.g., L298N): To control the robot’s motors.
• DC motors with wheels: These are used for movement.
• Line sensors (e.g., IR sensors): To detect the line on the ground. Normally, you will use a white background with black lines.
• Chassis: This will be used to hold everything together. Since every model differs, I recommend building your chassis from materials like cardboard or plywood.
• Battery pack: To power the motors and sensors.
• Jumper wires and breadboard: For wiring the components.

This project can be challenging for beginners since it requires careful attention to multiple components, but the underlying logic is easy to grasp.

Begin by assembling the robot on a chassis, mounting the motors and line sensors, and connecting everything to the Raspberry Pi Pico through a motor driver. Write a simple MicroPython script to read sensor input and adjust motor speeds to follow the line.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shGqoE7YatM

6. Build a Pico-Powered Smart Door Lock

Have you seen those security doors that you have to open using biometric authentication (fingerprint or iris) or maybe a keypad where you put a unique pin, well you can develop such a lock with the Raspberry Pi Pico.

This project involves creating an electronic lock that can be controlled using a keypad, RFID card, fingerprint sensor, or smartphone app. The Pico acts as the central controller, processing input and managing the locking mechanism.

Aside from the Raspberry Pi Pico, here is what you will need for the project:

• Solenoid lock or servo motor: To physically lock and unlock the door.
• Input device: Determines how you interact with the system to lock and unlock your door. Depending on your needs and skill level, you can choose from the following options:
  • Keypad (4×4 matrix)
  • RFID module (e.g., RC522)
  • Fingerprint sensor
• Power supply: A reliable source for the lock and Pico, often a battery pack or a wall adapter.
• Jumper wires and breadboard: For wiring.
• MicroPython installed on the Pico: This is the programming language you will use to program the smart lock logic.

Start by connecting the lock mechanism to your Pico, ensuring you have enough power for the solenoid or the servo motor depending on your setup. Next, wire your chosen input device and write a MicroPython script to read input and activate the lock.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfptYHFc6xU

7. Make Your Home Smarter

This project involves creating a simple home automation system to control appliances, lights, or sensors remotely. Whether it’s turning on lights with a smartphone, monitoring room temperature, or even triggering a fan based on humidity levels, the possibilities are endless.

The beauty of this project is its scalability—you can start small and keep adding features to suit your needs. For example, you can start by first learning how to switch ON/OFF a single bulb before adding another feature like a fan or a door lock.

What You’ll Need:

• Raspberry Pi Pico W: The “W” version has built-in Wi-Fi, making it ideal for remote control and IoT projects. If you’re using the standard Raspberry Pi Pico, which lacks Wi-Fi functionality, you can easily add connectivity by pairing it with a Wi-Fi module like the ESP8266 or ESP01.
• Relays or MOSFETs: These are used to switch household appliances safely.
• Sensors (optional): You can add temperature, humidity, or motion sensors for more functionality.
• Smartphone or Computer: This is what you will use to control your devices or monitor data through a web app.
• Power supply: To power the Pico and connected devices.
• Jumper wires and breadboard: You can use these for connection if you don’t want to clutter your Raspberry Pi pico board with different wires.
• MicroPython and IoT Libraries: To program your smart system and integrate with apps or platforms like Blynk or Home Assistant.

Begin by identifying what you want to automate—like turning lights on and off. Use relays to connect your appliances to the Pico and write a script to control them via a smartphone or web interface.

For more ideas, our Raspberry Pi home projects article has listed 25 things that you can automate in your home. Feel free to check it out.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgSMKzhYupc

8. Learn how to work with Servo Motors

If you’re planning to build a robot, drone, smart door lock, or any other project that requires precise movement, learning how to work with servo motors should be at the top of your list.

Servo motors are motors that rotate to a specific angle or position with precision, controlled by a signal from a microcontroller.

They are perfect for applications where accuracy is key, such as controlling a robotic arm, adjusting the position of a camera, or moving a door lock. This project will introduce you to the basics of motor control and give you the foundation needed to integrate motors into more complex systems.

Aside from the Raspberry Pi Pico, here is what you will need for this project.

• Servo Motor – SG90 or MG996R: The motor that will perform precise rotational movements.
• External Power Supply: Servos often require more power than the Pico can provide, so an external power source (e.g., a battery pack or wall adapter) is needed.
• Jumper Wires and Breadboard: For connecting the Pico to the servo motors.
• MicroPython: To program the Pico and control the motor’s movement.

Working with servo motors is an excellent starting point for many projects. These motors are available in various sizes and voltage ranges, making them versatile for different applications. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with medium-sized motors, as they are powerful enough for a wide range of projects without being overly complex to handle.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5Kl__mJwkU

9. Build a RGB LED Color Mixer

Using RGB (Red, Green, Blue) LEDs, you can control the intensity of each color to mix and create almost any color in the visible spectrum.

This project is visually rewarding and teaches you how to work with LEDs, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), and basic electronics.

What You’ll Need:

• RGB LEDs: Common anode or cathode RGB LEDs that combine red, green, and blue light.
• Resistors: To limit the current to the LEDs and prevent them from burning out.
• Potentiometers (optional): To manually control the intensity of each color channel (Red, Green, and Blue).
• Breadboard and Jumper Wires: For connecting everything.
• External Power Supply: If you’re using multiple LEDs or high-power setups, an external power source might be needed.
• MicroPython: To program the Pico and control the LEDs based on user inputs.

This project is perfect for experimenting with color mixing and can be expanded to control more LEDs, add sensors, or even create automated light displays. By adjusting the PWM values, you’ll see how combining different intensities of red, green, and blue creates an array of colors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed1WV8VPIUA

10. Build a Pico-powered Drone or Quadcopter

This is one of the advanced projects you might carry out with your Raspberry Pi Pico. This project challenges you to combine your knowledge of electronics, programming, and aerodynamics to create a functioning flying machine.

The Pico acts as the flight controller, managing motor speeds, stabilization, and other critical flight parameters.

Let’s look at the requirements for this project:

• Brushless DC Motors (4): To generate thrust for the quadcopter.
• Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs): To control the speed of each motor based on signals from the Pico.
• Propellers: Four appropriately sized propellers to provide lift.
• IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit): A sensor module (e.g., MPU6050) for stabilization by measuring orientation and motion.
• Battery: A lightweight, high-capacity LiPo battery to power the drone.
• Frame: A sturdy yet lightweight frame to mount the components.
• Transmitter and Receiver: For remote control of the drone.
• Additional Components: Jumper wires, connectors, and a power distribution board.
• MicroPython: For programming the Pico to handle motor control, sensor input, and stability algorithms.

This project is an ambitious but highly rewarding challenge, giving you a hands-on understanding of drone mechanics, flight dynamics, and real-time control systems.

Related: Building a Drone With Raspberry Pi – What You Need to Know

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYRzRxEIJiU

11. Develop an Automated Plant Watering System

If you’ve ever forgotten to water your plants or overwatered them, this project is for you. With a Raspberry Pi Pico, you can create an automated plant watering system that monitors soil moisture levels and waters your plants when needed.

It’s a practical and fun way to learn about sensors, relays, and automation while ensuring your plants thrive—even when you’re away.

• Soil Moisture Sensor: To measure the water content in the soil and determine if watering is needed.
• Water Pump: To deliver water to the plants.
• Relay Module: To control the water pump.
• Water Reservoir: A container to hold water for the pump.
• Tubing: To transport water from the pump to the plants.
• Power Supply: For the pump and Pico.
• Breadboard and Jumper Wires: For wiring the components.
• MicroPython: To program the Pico and automate the process.

This system saves time and ensures your plants get the care they need. It’s perfect for busy plant enthusiasts or frequent travellers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVijoh-hqkw

Whenever you’re ready, here are other ways I can help you:

Test Your Raspberry Pi Level (Free): Not sure why everything takes so long on your Raspberry Pi? Take this free 3-minute assessment and see what’s causing the problems.

The RaspberryTips Community: Need help or want to discuss your Raspberry Pi projects with others who actually get it? Join the RaspberryTips Community and get access to private forums, exclusive lessons, and direct help (try it for just $1).

Master your Raspberry Pi in 30 days: If you are looking for the best tips to become an expert on Raspberry Pi, this book is for you. Learn useful Linux skills and practice multiple projects with step-by-step guides.

Master Python on Raspberry Pi: Create, understand, and improve any Python script for your Raspberry Pi. Learn the essentials step-by-step without losing time understanding useless concepts.

You can also find all my recommendations for tools and hardware on this page.