ESP32-C6 vs ESP32: Differences, performance, power consumption, usage scenarios

Hello everyone,

I have recently been considering the use of a WiFi module for my project and am currently experiencing some confusion between choosing ESP32-C6 and ESP32. I hope to understand the specific differences and applicable scenarios of these two modules so that I can make the right decision.

Feature comparison: I know that the ESP32 is a widely used low-power WiFi (802.11b/g/n) and Bluetooth (Bluetooth 4.2/BLE) module, while the ESP32-C6 supports the more advanced WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and the new generation Bluetooth 5.0 module. Apart from the supported Wi-Fi standards and Bluetooth versions, how do they differ in performance, power consumption and other key aspects?

Application scenario: When choosing the right module for my project, I consider performance, stability and cost. Based on your experience, in which application scenarios do the ESP32-C6 and ESP32 perform best? Are there specific use cases or project types that are suitable for one and not the other?

Development and support: In addition to hardware features, I also focus on development tools, documentation and community support. Which module provides a better development ecosystem and support resources for early adopters?

I hope to hear your suggestions and share your experiences, thank you!

The ESP32-C6 has less SRAM and ROM and a lower clocked processor. It also has fewer GPIOs. Instead, it has, in addition to the ones you mentioned, Zigbee 3.0.
As for the power consumption, you'll have to check for yourself, as it depends on the usage scenario. In section 5.6 everything is nicely tabulated: https://www.espressif.com/sites/default/files/documentation/esp32-c6_datasheet_en.pdf Overall, it draws more current than the ESP32 when transmitting WiFi.

>>21148064 .
The ESP 32c6 was envisaged more as an IoT gateway for devices than a standalone chip - which is how Espriff itself defined it

And no , it does not have ax support. It only has a base 5ghz wifi 5

>>21201514 .
It has wifi 6 ax support and no, there is no 5 GHz support, only 2.4 GHz.
AX is the WiFi 6 standard which operates on either the 2.4 or 5 GHz bands.
You probably meant WiFi 6E which is also able to use the 6 GHz band.