ESP32 LiPo runtime basics
Small LiPo cells are common in compact ESP32 sensors. The challenge is balancing battery capacity, peak current support and regulator losses.
WiFi peak current
ESP32 WiFi activity can create short current peaks. The battery, regulator and capacitors must support these peaks without dropping voltage too far.
Design notes
For compact devices, use a low-power board, disable LEDs, reduce WiFi time and verify sleep current after assembling the final PCB.
Calculate your real values
Use the related ESP32 calculator to test your battery, regulator or brownout numbers.
Open calculator