Best Arduino Sensors for DIY Projects and Robotics
If you’re working on an Arduino Project that requires immediate sensing of the surrounding temperature, humidity, or movement, then incorporating a sensor in your work might be the perfect solution. Arduino Sensors detect such changes and then transfer data in either an analog or digital format.
If you’re a beginner in the field, then Arduino sensor modules could be a great way to get introduced to their variety and complexity. They have a wide range of sensors for detecting different things and are great for designers looking to create prototypes, or simply kids looking to work on their science project. We’ve listed down some of the most amazing range of sensors from Arduino and their specifications so you can choose the one that suits your needs best.
| Sl No | Arduino Sensors for Beginners | Check Now on Amazon (US) | Check Now on Amazon (India) |
| 1 | Ultrasonic sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 2 | Touch Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 3 | Humidity and Temperature Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 4 | IR Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 5 | PIR Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 6 | Sound Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 7 | Gas Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 8 | Accelerometer / Gyro Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 9 | Soil Moisture Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
| 10 | Rain Drop Detection Sensor | Click here to buy | Click here to buy |
Top Arduino Sensors you can Buy Now!
Ultrasonic Sensor for Arduino
The Generic KG042 HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Module is a high precision, distance measuring sensor module. It can provide accurate distance measurements of up to 0.3cm and can measure within a range of 2cm to 4.5m from its face. The ideal measurement range rests within a 2m diameter all around.
The module uses a transducer sensor that uses electronic signals in the form of sonar, which reflects off the nearest object. It uses triggers lasting up to 10 microseconds and converts it into an echo signal which lets it know the distance of the nearest object. However, the sensor only works at an angle of 15 degrees from its face. Weighing only 400 grams and within dimensions of 16mm by 50mm, it is the ideal size to be added to any existing prototype. It operates at a voltage of 5 V.
Arduino Touch Sensor
The TTP223 sensor is an extremely fast, small, and responsive touch sensor. It uses capacitative sensing technology to detect the finger input. As soon as it detects the finger, the module switches to high power mode. However, once it is ideal for 12 seconds, it switches back to low-power mode. This allows it to be extremely energy efficient. The module itself operates at only 2V and works great as a switch.
The response time is 60 milliseconds, which is slightly more than the average response time of faster modules. But it quick enough for human eyes to not notice any lag.
Humidity and Temperature Sensor
The DHT11 module by Arduino provides sensors for measuring changes in relative humidity and temperature. The sensor is extremely small, measuring only 3.2 cm wide and 1.4 cm across, and weighs 20 grams.
It works within a humidity range of 20% to 95% saturation and has an overall error margin of 5%. For temperature, this margin is within 2-degree centigrade. A 10% error margin is considered as an acceptable deviation and the xcluma Dht11 module performs better than average in this regard. Working within a voltage ranging from 3.5 to 5V, this is a small and compact piece that could be an ideal addition to your project.
IR Sensor for Arduino
This is a proximity sensor made specifically for robots to use while following a line or avoiding obstacles. Using an input voltage range from 5V to 6.5V, this sensor can work within an immediate range of 15 to 20 cm. The module makes use of infrared-based micro-controllers from Arduino for high precision.
Weighing 200 grams with a width and length of 10cm and 8cm respectively, it comes with 2.5 mm long mounting board and a 3 pin header burg for easy fitting into an existing system.
PIR Sensor
If you’re looking for a PIR sensor to detect any changes in motion, the HC SR501 Pyroelectric Infrared Pir Motion Sensor could be a great option. Making use of passive infrared radiations, it can detect changes in the heat mapping of its surroundings and send immediate output signals.
Since ambient temperatures are different during summer and winter, this might affect the detection range of the sensor. To prevent this, users can manually change the temperature compensation to get accurate results within the same range. The sensor works with a default voltage range of 3.5 V to 20 V and requires 50 micro-amperes of current. The module is cubical with sides of length 3 cm and weighs only 100 grams.
Sound Sensor using MIC
If you’re looking for an adjustable sound sensor, then the Robocraze Sound Sensor Module could be the one for you. Using the available potentiometer, one can vary the detention level. After detecting the sound waves, then device can create 2 types of outputs. You can opt for analogue output or real-time signal voltage output depending on your need.
However, the best part is undoubted that it can be fixed like a USB into any computer USB slot. Along with that, there is a retaining bolt hole so that it can be bolted to a system. The effectivity and lightweight of the product make it a great buy for sound-based projects.
Gas Sensor for Arduino
While using a gas sensor to check leaks, two things are extremely important – the detection range and the response time. The REES52 MQ2 module by Arduino wins on both counts. Using an analogue gas sensor, this module can detect traces of LPG, i-butane, propane, methane, alcohol, hydrogen, and of course, smoke.
Weighing only 160 grams, it provides a singular output that states the percentage impurity due to these gases. Requiring an input voltage of 5V, one must remember that this module does not sense the type of gas found, but only detects as to the presence of such foreign gases.
Accelerometer / Gyro Sensor
To detect changes in acceleration, including gravitational acceleration, one can surely opt for the REES52 GY-521 Mpu6050 Module. Installed with 3 of each – accelerometers and gyro sensors is ideal to quickly detect, read and transmit data.
Weighing only around 18 grams, it is extremely small and uses 3.5 V to 5V of electricity.
Soil Moisture Sensor
If you’re looking for a versatile hygrometer that can work with a variety of micro-controllers available in the market, then the Robocraze 5V Soil Moisture Sensor Module should be yout go-to product. Using two probes, it can detect the changes in soil moisture by measuring the total volumetric concentration of water at various instances.
Working in a voltage range of 3.5 V to 5V, it could be an extremely cost and energy efficient addition to your project.
Rain Drop Detection Sensor
The Raindrops Detection Sensor Module is a rain-drop detecting sensor. It uses a flat nickel-plated surface of 55 x 40 cm to sense the weather condition and translate the obtained data.
The plate is specially protected against oxidation and the output is only in analogue form. Weighing 400 grams, this module can be easily installed using the installation hole present.
Final Words on Best Arduino Sensors
Arduino suggests that its sensors be used in conjunction with other Adruino based modules and circuit boards for best connectivity and longevity. Their products are a combination of economy and superior quality sensors, which makes them a great choice for beginners to use and experiment with.
