The Definitive Guide to PIC Microcontrollers for 2024

Peripheral Interface Controllers, or PIC microcontrollers, have been a mainstay in embedded systems and industrial electronics since their debut in 1993. Initially designed to control peripheral devices for PDP computers, PIC microcontrollers have since become one of the most widely used microcontroller families, thanks to their ease of use, affordability, and versatility. The ability to support serial programming, wide user base, and simplicity in interfacing have solidified PIC microcontrollers as a go-to solution for both hobbyists and professionals.

This article provides a comprehensive list of the Top 20 most popular PIC microcontrollers in the market for 2024, based on performance, cost-effectiveness, and their broad range of applications.

What Are PIC Microcontrollers?

PIC microcontrollers are compact integrated circuits (ICs) designed to execute tasks like data processing, signal control, and interfacing with other devices. They generally include a CPU, memory, input/output (I/O) ports, and timers on a single chip. PIC MCUs support communication protocols like UART, SPI, and CAN, making them highly adaptable for various applications such as automation, robotics, consumer electronics, and more.

They are classified into categories based on their bit architecture, including 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit variants. Each category targets different levels of complexity in projects, with the 8-bit PICs being particularly popular for simpler tasks due to their balance of power efficiency and functionality.

Top 20 Popular PIC Microcontrollers in 2024

PIC microcontrollers continue to dominate the embedded systems landscape, valued for their versatility, affordability, and ability to be integrated into a wide range of applications. Here’s an overview of the top 20 PIC microcontrollers for 2024, with insights into their features and typical use cases.

1. PIC16F877A

The PIC16F877A is a widely used 8-bit microcontroller, offering 368 bytes of RAM, 256 bytes of EEPROM, and a 10-bit ADC with 8 channels. It features PWM support and 35 simple instructions for ease of programming. With 14KB of Flash memory and an operating frequency of 20 MHz, it is ideal for industrial instruments, home automation systems, and security devices. Its flexibility and accessibility make it a staple for projects requiring multiple I/O interfaces and analog-to-digital conversion.

2. PIC18F4550

This microcontroller is notable for its 8-bit architecture with USB 2.0 support, which includes enhanced Flash memory of 32KB and a 13-channel 10-bit ADC. Its built-in USB transceiver makes it highly suitable for USB-based embedded systems, such as peripheral controllers and data logging projects. In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) support further enhances its usability for a range of applications.

3. PIC12F683

A compact 8-bit microcontroller, the PIC12F683 has 6 I/O pins and 128 bytes of EEPROM. It integrates a 10-bit ADC with 4 channels and includes a sleep mode for energy-saving operations. This makes it ideal for low-power systems, including remote sensors and small-scale appliances, where battery operation is key.

4. PIC16F84A

Known for its simplicity, this 8-bit microcontroller offers 13 I/O pins, 68 bytes of RAM, and 64 bytes of EEPROM. Its small form factor and power-saving sleep mode make it popular in educational projects and small automation systems. With 1024 words of Flash memory, it is especially useful for learning and prototyping purposes.

5. PIC32MX170F256

A 32-bit microcontroller designed for more advanced applications, it offers 256KB of Flash memory and operates at a frequency of 64 MHz. This makes it suitable for tasks requiring higher processing power, such as advanced robotics or Internet of Things (IoT) devices. It also includes UART, SPI, and I²C communication protocols, further broadening its versatility.

6. PIC24FJ64GA002

This 16-bit microcontroller features 64KB of Flash memory and built-in real-time clock support, along with a 16-channel 10-bit ADC. It is frequently used in industrial control systems, real-time data logging, and monitoring applications, where accurate timekeeping and data processing are necessary.

7. PIC18F46K22

An 8-bit microcontroller with 16 channels of 10-bit ADC and low-power operation modes, the PIC18F46K22 also includes 64KB of Flash memory and 5 PWM modules. Its data acquisition and motor control capabilities make it ideal for sensor-based projects and automated control systems.

8. PIC18F25K22

With 28 I/O pins, 64KB of Flash memory, and 24 channels of 12-bit ADC, this 8-bit microcontroller excels in sensor interfacing and real-time monitoring systems. Its low-power sleep modes make it suitable for energy-sensitive applications, such as motor control or embedded sensor arrays.

9. PIC12F629

This 8-bit microcontroller has 8 pins, 6 of which are configurable I/O pins. It includes 128 bytes of EEPROM and a low-power sleep mode, making it popular in automotive systems and simple industrial control environments. Its small size and cost-effectiveness make it a good fit for entry-level consumer electronics as well.

10. PIC18F87K22

Operating at 64 MHz, this 8-bit microcontroller supports 24 analog channels with a 12-bit ADC and operates over a wide voltage range of 1.8 to 5.5 V. It is frequently used in battery-powered devices and industrial systems that require energy efficiency alongside high processing capabilities.

11. PIC32MZ2048EFH144

This powerful 32-bit microcontroller features 2MB of Flash memory and a built-in crypto engine for secure data processing. It is well-suited for high-end IoT applications, secure networking, and multimedia systems. Its advanced processing capabilities enable it to handle large amounts of data and secure communications.

12. PIC18F14K50

A compact 8-bit microcontroller, the PIC18F14K50 integrates USB 2.0 support and a 9-channel 10-bit ADC, making it suitable for custom USB peripherals, such as human-interface devices (HID) or USB-based data loggers.

13. PIC16F690

This 8-bit microcontroller comes with 20 I/O pins, a 10-bit ADC, and serial communication features, including PWM support. Its ease of integration makes it ideal for sensor-based projects and low-power applications like home automation and small electronics.

14. PIC12F675

A popular 8-bit microcontroller with 6 GPIO pins, the PIC12F675 offers 128 bytes of EEPROM and a 10-bit ADC. It is widely used in low-end industrial systems where RISC architecture ensures efficient processing of simple tasks, such as sensor data reading and signal processing.

15. PIC18F46K80

Designed for automotive communication systems, this 8-bit microcontroller supports CAN communication and XLP (Extreme Low Power) technology. It features 32KB of Flash memory, making it a go-to choice for automotive and industrial CAN bus applications where power conservation is key.

16. PIC16F88

This 8-bit microcontroller features enhanced nanoWatt technology for power-sensitive projects. Its 7KB Flash memory and 16 I/O pins make it a popular choice for battery-operated devices and other low-power systems, such as wearables and remote sensors.

17. PIC16F1829

This microcontroller is designed for energy-efficient applications, with extreme low-power (XLP) technology and a 16 MHz internal oscillator. Its 32KB of Flash memory and real-time features make it ideal for IoT and wearable technology, where long battery life is crucial.

18. PIC16F676

With 8 channels of 10-bit ADC, 128 bytes of EEPROM, and 8 I/O pins, the PIC16F676 is an 8-bit microcontroller well-suited for consumer electronics, appliances, and industrial control systems that require precise analog-to-digital conversion.

19. PIC18F458

The PIC18F458 offers 32KB of Flash memory and high current sink capability, along with integrated CAN bus support. It is often used in industrial automation and automotive systems, where robust communication and control systems are necessary for real-time data management and system diagnostics.

20. PIC32MX250F128B

This 32-bit microcontroller features 128KB of Flash memory and operates at 40 MHz. Its integrated UART, SPI, and I²C communication protocols make it a strong candidate for high-performance embedded systems, including medical devices and sophisticated industrial controllers.

Each of these PIC microcontrollers brings unique features to the table, whether it’s processing power, I/O flexibility, or energy efficiency. They cover a wide range of applications from simple sensor controls to complex industrial systems, making them versatile components for engineers and developers across industries.

Basic Architecture of PIC Microcontrollers

Understanding the structure of a PIC microcontroller is essential when choosing the right one for your project. The key components include:

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): Like other microcontrollers, the CPU processes instructions and handles arithmetic/logical operations. It communicates with the system’s other components to execute tasks.

• Memory (Program and Data Memory): PIC microcontrollers have two main types of memory:

  • Program Memory stores the code the microcontroller executes.
  • Data Memory (RAM) handles the temporary storage of variables during program execution. EEPROM may also be available for non-volatile data storage.

• I/O Ports: Multiple ports allow the microcontroller to communicate with external devices. The number and type of I/O pins (such as analog-to-digital converters) vary between different PIC models.

• Timers and ADC (Analog to Digital Converter): Timers help manage time-dependent tasks, while ADCs convert analog signals to digital, useful for sensor-based applications.

• Oscillator: Controls the clock frequency of the microcontroller, defining the speed at which it operates.

• Communication Interfaces: PIC microcontrollers support protocols such as USART, SPI, and I²C, allowing them to interface with other hardware components and sensors.

Choosing the Right PIC Microcontroller

When selecting a PIC microcontroller for your project, consider the following factors:

1. Communication Interface: Make sure the microcontroller supports the communication protocols (like UART, I²C, or SPI) that your peripherals need.
2. Operating Voltage: Choose a microcontroller with an appropriate operating voltage to match the components in your design.
3. I/O Pins: Ensure you have enough general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pins for controlling your external devices. If your project involves motors or sensors, consider the number of PWM and ADC pins.
4. Power Consumption: For battery-powered or energy-sensitive applications, opt for microcontrollers with extreme low-power (XLP) technology.
5. Cost: Compare the price of different microcontrollers based on the features they offer. Many low-cost PIC microcontrollers provide adequate performance for simple applications.

Programming Tools for PIC Microcontrollers

When developing with PIC microcontrollers, choosing the right programming tools is essential for streamlining the development process. Below are two of the most popular and widely used tools for programming PIC microcontrollers.

1. MPLAB X IDE

MPLAB X IDE is the official integrated development environment (IDE) provided by Microchip Technology for programming and debugging PIC microcontrollers. Based on the open-source NetBeans platform, it supports various features to help developers create, build, and debug their code.

Features:

• • Multi-window layout for organizing project components.
  • Supports debugging, including real-time variables inspection and code breakpoints.
  • Simulation of microcontroller behavior, allowing you to test your program without needing physical hardware.
  • Cross-platform compatibility (supports Windows, macOS, and Linux).
  • Integrated support for various compilers, such as MPLAB XC8, XC16, and XC32, tailored for different families of PIC microcontrollers.
  • Supports third-party plugins for additional features.

MPLAB X IDE is well-suited for developers working with PIC microcontrollers as it integrates seamlessly with Microchip’s hardware programmers and debuggers, providing a unified development environment.

2. PICKIT4

PICKIT4 is a highly popular in-circuit debugger and programmer used to upload code to PIC microcontrollers. It connects to a computer via USB and interfaces with the microcontroller through its programming pins. PICKIT4 is the successor to the earlier PICKIT3 and brings several upgrades for improved performance and user experience.

Features:

• • Faster programming and debugging speed compared to previous versions.
  • Supports a wide range of PIC microcontrollers, including newer models.
  • Allows users to program the microcontroller directly from the MPLAB X IDE.
  • Built-in SD card slot for storing firmware and project files.
  • Portable design, making it a handy tool for fieldwork or on-site programming.

PICKIT4 simplifies the process of downloading firmware onto a microcontroller and provides debugging functionalities, allowing developers to troubleshoot and optimize their code directly on the hardware. It is an essential tool for both prototyping and production environments.

Conclusion

PIC microcontrollers remain a cornerstone of the embedded systems market in 2024, providing scalable and energy-efficient solutions for a wide variety of applications. Whether you’re working on a small DIY project or developing a complex industrial control system, PIC microcontrollers offer versatility, affordability, and ease of programming, making them a smart choice for both beginners and experienced developers.

As a leading PCB & PCBA manufacturer, we offer one-stop electronic services, including components procurement and customized assembly solutions. Partner with us to bring your projects to life—from designing reliable IoT solutions to crafting energy-efficient embedded systems. With the right PIC microcontroller and our expert manufacturing services, your project can achieve the utmost efficiency, automation, and cost-effectiveness tailored to your specific needs. Reach out to us to streamline your next development journey!