Resource • Embedded Computer Vision
Embedded Vision Hardware Guide (2025)
A practical comparison of ESP32-S3, NVIDIA Jetson, and Raspberry Pi for real-time computer vision on constrained hardware.
Why Hardware Choice Matters
Running computer vision on edge devices is very different from running models in the cloud. Embedded hardware introduces hard constraints: tight RAM and storage budgets, strict power envelopes, real-time FPS requirements, camera driver quirks, and thermal limits.
This guide walks through the three platforms most teams evaluate in 2025 — ESP32-S3, NVIDIA Jetson, and Raspberry Pi 5 — and explains where each one fits, what it can realistically handle, and how to avoid common pitfalls when building embedded vision systems.
Quick Hardware Snapshot
ESP32-S3
Microcontroller-class vision node for ultra low-power, deterministic pipelines.
- • 512KB–8MB RAM + PSRAM
- • No GPU (TinyML / classic CV)
- • 10–25 FPS (QVGA-level)
- • Best for triggers, line/marker tracking, smart sensors
NVIDIA Jetson
Edge AI computer for heavy CV and real-time neural inference.
- • 4GB–16GB RAM + GPU
- • CUDA / TensorRT acceleration
- • 30–120 FPS for HD streams
- • Best for robotics, tracking, inspection, multi-camera setups
Raspberry Pi 5
Flexible Linux SBC for prototyping and mid-tier CV workloads.
- • 4GB–8GB RAM
- • Strong community, CSI/USB cameras
- • Optional AI accelerators (Hailo / Coral)
- • Best for PoCs, edge analytics, smaller models
The full guide includes a detailed comparison table, power vs performance chart, and example pipelines for each platform.
Who This Guide Is For
Robotics Teams
Validating new perception concepts and needing the right mix of Jetson and microcontroller vision nodes.
IoT Startups
Building camera-enabled devices where power budgets are tight and BOM costs matter.
Engineering Leads
Moving from lab prototypes to hardware that must run 24/7 in real environments.
Get the Full Embedded Vision Hardware Guide (2025)
The complete 9-page PDF includes detailed tables, diagrams, and practical recommendations for choosing between ESP32-S3, Jetson, and Raspberry Pi in real-world projects.
To receive it, send me a message on LinkedIn with the keyword “VISION”.
DM “VISION” on LinkedIn