witnessmenow/ESP32-Cheap-Yellow-Display
FreeBuilding a community around a cheap ESP32 Display with a touch screen
FreeFree tier
About witnessmenow/ESP32-Cheap-Yellow-Display
The ESP32-Cheap-Yellow-Display (CYD) is an open-source community project centered around the ESP32-2432S028R microcontroller board, which features a 2.8-inch 320x240 LCD display with a resistive touchscreen, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB programming, an SD card slot, and additional GPIO pins. Priced at around $15, it offers a low-cost entry point for hardware projects without soldering. The project provides documentation, example code (including TFT_eSPI and alternative libraries), ESPHome configurations, 3D-printed case designs, and a Discord community for sharing projects and troubleshooting.
Key Features
ESP32 microcontroller with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
2.8-inch 320x240 TFT LCD display
Resistive touchscreen interface
USB port for powering and programming
MicroSD card slot for storage
Breakout pins for additional sensors and peripherals
Onboard LED indicator
Low cost approximately $15 USD
Community-driven documentation, examples, and projects
Support for TFT_eSPI and alternative display libraries
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very affordable at ~$15, including display and touch
- No soldering required – everything is pre-connected
- Active community with Discord support and shared projects
- Comprehensive setup and troubleshooting documentation
- Versatile: supports multiple display libraries and ESPHome
- Open-source hardware and software, fully modifiable
Cons
- Resistive touchscreen is less responsive than capacitive
- 2.8-inch screen may be too small for complex UIs
- Limited number of free GPIO pins exposed
- No official manufacturer support; relies on community
- Not designed for high-performance or AI workloads
Best For
Introductory hardware projects for beginnersQuick prototyping without solderingIoT sensor dashboards and display terminalsHome automation control panelsPortable weather stations or clocksEducational tool for learning ESP32 programmingDIY touchscreen interfaces for microcontrollersSmall-scale data logging with SD card
FAQ
What is the Cheap Yellow Display (CYD)?
CYD stands for 'Cheap Yellow Display', a nickname for the ESP32-2432S028R board: an ESP32 with a 2.8-inch 320x240 LCD and resistive touchscreen, costing about $15. The open-source project aims to build community resources around this hardware.
How do I get started with my CYD?
Visit the SETUP.md page in the repository for detailed instructions on installing the required Arduino libraries (e.g., TFT_eSPI), configuring the board, and running basic examples.
Where can I buy a CYD board?
The board is available from AliExpress (affiliate links in README) and Makerfabs, which sometimes includes a 16GB SD card. Prices may vary by seller.
Does the CYD work with ESPHome?
Yes, the repository includes ESPHome example configurations that can be used to integrate the CYD into Home Assistant or other smart home systems.
Can I use other display libraries instead of TFT_eSPI?
Yes, aside from TFT_eSPI, the project provides example code for alternative Arduino display libraries, giving developers flexibility.