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Choosing Arduino for Beginners: Original vs Clone, Uno vs Leonardo, and the Best Stores to Buy

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Should I buy an original Arduino Uno or a cheaper clone, and is Uno better than Leonardo for a beginner learning simple projects?

For a beginner, the thread recommends an Arduino Uno, preferably with the ATmega in a socket, and says a cheap clone is enough to start if price matters [#16785843][#16787187][#16789491] If you buy a clone, be ready for a CH340G USB-serial chip and its driver, though some Windows installs handle it automatically [#16786033][#16789091] A removable ATmega is useful because if you damage the MCU you can replace it and reload the bootloader from a second Arduino [#16787186][#16787187] One reply also suggests getting a USBasp programmer and points to the ArduinoISP method for programming the chip in-circuit [#16787187][#16787376] Several replies note that Uno has many shields/extensions and that clones on AliExpress have generally worked fine, while buying the original mainly supports the Arduino foundation [#16787187][#16789491]
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  • #1 16785666
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
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  • #2 16785843
    piotr_go
    DIY electronics designer  
    Posts: 2904
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    Uno maple is enough for a start. Preferably 2 pcs in case you would break / block the slinger.
    If you are in a hurry, then aliexpress.
    For this breadboard, some LEDs, 470r, 1k, 10k resistors and buttons. Or some set of accessories.

    https://pl.aliexpress.com/item/free-shipping-...i-Breadboard-LED-jumper-wire/32392610240.html
    https://pl.aliexpress.com/item/Starter-Kit-UN...on-for-Arduino-Free-Shipping/32395492385.html

    Aaaaaaa, and such plates can be useful:
    https://pl.aliexpress.com/item/98-10-free-shi...pper-prototype-pcb-Universal/32674680192.html
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  • #3 16786033
    zetdeel
    Level 39  
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    Note that cheap clones (e.g. the one from AliExpress that you linked to) often have a USB / Serial to CH340G converter. Then you need to install a driver for this chip. Then you check in the device manager which COM you have on this driver (Arduino must be connected to the USB port), and select it in the Arduino program (Tools -> Serial port).
    It's actually not a problem at all, but if you don't know it ... :)
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  • #4 16786075
    tronics
    Level 38  
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    @zetdeel - it installed itself on win10, I suspect that it would be exactly the same on win7 and win8. You could also consider a series based on SAM Atmel (32-bit ARM Cortex cores) - 3.3V (which is often a plus because many sensors and displays already work at 3V3 max) but more powerful. If it is to be cheap and fast, instead of arduino clones, you can take cheap STM32F103 boards as shown in this video (also programming in arduino):
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ze6q6NidS5w
    The problem is that the cheapest ones do not have a built-in usb-ttl, so you need an external (cost from one dollar up) or a st-link (cost about 2 dollars and above).
    If, on the other hand, we want to make some devices based on arduino, we can try nano - they are cheap enough that you can buy a few of them and simply build what you want on them, or some measuring device, or some remote-controlled vehicle or controller aquarium or anything else. You will not regret using such a toddler.
  • #5 16786537
    telecaster1951
    VIP Meritorious for electroda.pl  
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    Don't shake the boy because he'll go crazy. Uno is enough. I recommend Arduino Uno with a prock on the stand. It costs a hundred bucks, but if the prock fails, it can be replaced quickly and cheaply.
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  • #6 16786945
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #7 16787186
    tronics
    Level 38  
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    It will be ok. In case something happens to you with one MCU (eg you accidentally break it), it is enough to buy the microcontroller and upload the bootloader with the second arduino.
  • #8 16787187
    jaclew
    Level 18  
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    At the beginning, it is a perfect choice. In my opinion, only Uno with a microcontroller in the socket, because in the event of its release
    you insert the second one and continue working (after uploading the bootloadrea).
    By the way, buy yourself a USBasp programmer so that it will not even be useful in an emergency situation of this Uno
    this will be useful as the next step in post-ISP programming.
    Uno also because there are dozens of overlays / extensions (shields) on this board, thanks to which it tests standard projects
    will be easier.
  • #9 16787332
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #11 16787886
    piotr_go
    DIY electronics designer  
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    telecaster1951 wrote:
    I am thinking of buying 1 original set

    Not on aliexpress, I doubt they have the originals.
    Wait with the original, see first if you like programming microcontrollers.
  • #12 16787960
    tronics
    Level 38  
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    @piotr_go
    Paaanie, he's even been Blockly for Arduino for a while :) What's not to like here :P
    e.g.
    https://ardublockly.embeddedlog.com/
    After all, in this form, this child after the lego robotics course is able to grasp arduino ;)
  • #13 16788412
    jaclew
    Level 18  
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    Lemno wrote:
    I found a few programmers, only worried me that ATmega8 and ATmega128 are written there. Does that mean I won't program this 328?

    look for one that supports atemga 328 which is not new, almost all of them now support it.
    Maybe you were looking at what controller this programmer is made of, and not what microcontrollers it supports.

    tronics wrote:
    After all, in this form, this child after the lego robotics course is able to grasp arduino

    and why these boringly sad sarcasms?
  • #14 16788695
    tronics
    Level 38  
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    Quote:
    and why these boringly sad sarcasms?

    What sarcasm? ;) means not to take a part of the statement as seriously as your colleague has just done. And why exactly did I write something like that? Because it just so happens that kids in my town have recently learned about Lego mindstorm and the Junior level are such blocks. If a child on pulleys would do it, and on arduino pulleys it would be fine. Where's the sarcasm !?
  • #15 16789091
    kassans
    Level 32  
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    I have arduino clones for as long as I can remember, those on CH340g are trouble-free win 7 and 8 install the driver immediately. I use mini pro most often because they are small ;)
  • #16 16789491
    Simon79
    Level 21  
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    I was the first Arduino to buy the original Arduino Uno on Allegro quite a few years ago and it is still used today.
    Currently, I am buying a smaller, nano or pro mini as it often applies them to the target device and fits better to the contact plate during experiments. I mean buying clones on Alliexpress, I haven't been disappointed yet, no problems with drivers, compilation of programs in different IDE versions is more likely to cause problems than a broken clone.
    But remember, buying the original is supporting the Arduino Foundation and its development :) .
  • #17 16807456
    Anonymous
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around the choice of Arduino for beginners, focusing on whether to purchase an original Arduino or a cheaper clone for initial learning. Participants suggest starting with an Arduino Uno, emphasizing its ease of use and availability of accessories. Clones, particularly those with the CH340G USB/Serial converter, are noted for their affordability but may require additional driver installations. Recommendations include purchasing from AliExpress for budget options, while also considering local stores like Botland or Kamami for original products. The Arduino Uno is favored over the Leonardo for its compatibility with numerous shields and ease of programming. Some users also mention exploring STM32F103 boards as alternatives. The consensus leans towards acquiring both an original and a clone with removable ATmega for flexibility in projects.
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FAQ

TL;DR: Start with Arduino Uno; "Uno is enough," and a socketed version runs about “a hundred.” Keep it simple and swappable. [Elektroda, telecaster1951, post #16786537]

Why it matters:** This FAQ helps beginners pick the right first board, avoid driver snags, and buy smart without overspending.

Quick Facts

What’s the best first Arduino: Uno or Leonardo?

Choose Arduino Uno. It has the broadest beginner tutorials and shield compatibility. As one expert put it, “Uno is enough.” A socketed ATmega328P makes repairs cheap and fast. Start simple, then expand with shields as you learn. [Elektroda, telecaster1951, post #16786537]

Should I buy an original Arduino or a cheaper clone first?

Start with a clone to learn and prototype. Users report reliable clones and no driver issues. If you like the platform, buy an original later to support Arduino’s development. That sequence balances cost and community support. [Elektroda, Simon79, post #16789491]

Is an “original Arduino” from AliExpress actually original?

Be cautious. Experienced members doubt genuine originals ship from AliExpress listings. If authenticity matters, buy from recognized distributors first. Clones can still be fine for learning and low‑risk projects. [Elektroda, piotr_go, post #16787886]

What is CH340G, and do I need a special driver?

CH340G is the USB‑to‑serial chip used on many Uno‑compatible clones. You may need to install its driver, then select the correct COM port in the Arduino IDE. This step ensures uploads succeed. [Elektroda, zetdeel, post #16786033]

How do I set up a CH340G‑based clone in Windows?

  1. Install the CH340G driver and plug in the board.
  2. Open Device Manager and note the assigned COM port.
  3. In Arduino IDE: Tools → Port, select that COM, then Upload. [Elektroda, zetdeel, post #16786033]

Why choose a socketed ATmega328P on the Uno?

A socketed MCU lets you pull a damaged chip and drop in a new one. “Insert the second one and continue working” after reloading the bootloader. It minimizes downtime and cost. [Elektroda, jaclew, post #16787187]

Do I really need two boards as a beginner?

Yes, it helps. Keep a second Uno so you can learn while recovering the first. If you accidentally brick a chip, you can reflash the bootloader using the other board. [Elektroda, piotr_go, post #16785843]

What is Arduino Nano, and when should I use it?

Arduino Nano is a compact, breadboard‑friendly board with Uno‑class capabilities. Use it for embedded or space‑constrained builds and small devices. Many makers buy several for permanent projects. [Elektroda, tronics, post #16786075]

Are STM32 “Blue Pill” boards a good cheap alternative?

Yes for advanced users. STM32F103 boards are powerful, 3.3 V, and Arduino‑programmable. The cheapest versions need a USB‑TTL adapter (~$1) or ST‑Link (~$2). Expect extra setup compared with Uno. [Elektroda, tronics, post #16786075]

Will Windows 10 find the clone’s driver automatically?

Often yes. Users report Windows 10 auto‑installs drivers for common USB‑serial chips. Always confirm the COM port and board in the IDE before uploading sketches. [Elektroda, tronics, post #16786075]

What is USBasp, and do I need one?

USBasp is a low‑cost ISP programmer for AVR chips. It helps in emergencies and teaches bare‑metal flashing. Buy one as your next step after basics; it also supports post‑ISP workflows. [Elektroda, jaclew, post #16787187]

My programmer lists ATmega8/128, not 328P. Will it program ATmega328P?

Yes. Look at supported microcontrollers, not the programmer’s own MCU. Modern USBasp units support ATmega328P. Update firmware if needed, then flash confidently. [Elektroda, jaclew, post #16788412]

What is ArduinoISP and when should I use it?

ArduinoISP turns one Arduino into an in‑circuit programmer. Use it to burn or restore bootloaders on another board after a failed upload or fuse issue. It saves time and parts. [Elektroda, tronics, post #16787376]

What accessories do I need on day one?

Get a breadboard, LEDs, 470 Ω/1 kΩ/10 kΩ resistors, buttons, and jumper wires. Add a small prototyping PCB set for soldered experiments. A starter kit bundles these cheaply for quick wins. [Elektroda, piotr_go, post #16785843]

What if I brick the microcontroller while learning?

Swap the socketed ATmega328P and keep going, or burn the bootloader from your second Arduino. This edge case is common for beginners and easy to recover. [Elektroda, tronics, post #16787186]
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