LILYGO T5 V2.3.1

Overview

The LILYGO T5 V2.3.1 is a 2.13-inch e-paper development board built around the ESP32 microcontroller. The e-paper display uses the SSD1680 driver IC and supports both DEPG0213BN and GDEM0213B74 panel variants, delivering a 212x104 pixel black-and-white image that retains content indefinitely without any power consumption once written.

With a 180-degree viewing angle and 8-second full refresh time consuming only 26.4 mW, the display is well-suited for low-power applications such as shelf labels, name badges, room signs, and wireless sensor readouts. Operating temperature range is -20°C to 60°C. The 3-wire and 4-wire SPI interface connects to the ESP32, and the board includes a 1.25mm JST connector for a lithium battery.

The onboard Wi-Fi enables OTA (over-the-air) image updates, allowing content changes without physical access to deployed devices. Combined with deep sleep modes, battery-powered deployments lasting months are achievable.

Firmware Compatibility

The T5 V2.3.1 is supported by the Arduino IDE with the ESP32 core. The GxEPD2 and Waveshare e-paper libraries are compatible with the SSD1680 driver. LILYGO's LilyGo-T5-ink-series GitHub repository provides ready-to-use examples for various display operations including full refresh, partial refresh, and deep sleep. MicroPython is also supported.

Flashing Guide

1. Connect via the onboard USB port (Micro USB or Type-C depending on revision).
2. In Arduino IDE, select "ESP32 Dev Module."
3. Install GxEPD2 or LILYGO's e-paper library via the Library Manager.
4. Open an example from the LilyGo-T5-ink-series repository.
5. Click Upload.

Warning: Do not perform partial refresh continuously for extended periods — this causes permanent ghost images on the e-paper panel. Always perform a full refresh periodically.