RAK11160 Dual-Core ESP32 STM32 for LoRaWAN with WiFi & BLE
RAK11160 is a dual-core, low-power module for LoRaWAN that combines the STM32WLE5 LoRa controller with an ESP32-C2 chip for WiFi and BLE connectivity. This unique architecture is designed for IoT applications requiring long-range wireless communication and occasional high-bandwidth tasks like MQTT forwarding or OTA updates.
The RAK11160 supports two development modes:
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Standalone: Program STM32WL using RAK’s RUI3 SDK for sensor reading and LoRaWAN operation.
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Dual-mode: Use STM32WL module for LoRaWAN, and wake ESP32 when WiFi/MQTT/BLE functions are needed. Data flow and logic can be managed with custom firmware.
For better frequency stability over the temperature range, the STM32WLE is using a TCXO for the clock generation.
Why You Need RAK11160 ESP32 + STM32WL Module
Build smarter, longer-lasting IoT devices with the RAK11160. Thanks to its ultra-low power control and dual wireless technologies, it's perfect for applications like battery-powered sensors, remote data logging, and asset tracking where energy efficiency and flexibility are critical.
Why it's useful:
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Save battery life – ESP32 fully powers down when not needed
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Connect anywhere easily – LoRaWAN, WiFi, BLE, and P2P all in one module
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Store data safely – Built-in memory ensures no loss during offline periods
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Simplify your IoT design – Compact size fits into almost any project
Note:
1. The antenna of Check to Include is a supporting antenna for certification.
2. When purchasing Blade Antenna, you need to use it with IPEX TO RP-SMA/SMA Connector type iPEX (MHF-4) variant.
3. As our customers are starting mass-production and deploying their products globally, we want to clarify that our modules hardware is supporting multiple LoRaWAN regions. As there is no difference in the hardware, we optimized the variants in our store to make it easier to select the correct module. Please note that the difference between the variants is only in the label on the module to reflect the different regional telecommunication certifications.
4. "With IPEX" variant has different hardware on RF path compared to "No IPEX" variant. This means the RF pinout is disconnected internally if "With IPEX" variant is selected. This is also the case if "No IPEX" is selected, IPEX connector RF path is disconnected.
Key Features of RAK11160 ESP32 + STM32WL Module
- Dual MCU Architecture: STM32WLE5 (LoRa) + ESP32-C2 (WiFi/BLE)
- STM32WLE5 LoRa transceiver with TCXO for high frequency stability
- ESP32 LoRa Low Power: Deep power-off mode (~1 µA) when inactive
- LoRaWAN 1.0.3 Class A/B/C compliant
- Supports LoRaWAN and LoRa P2P
- MQTT/HTTP capability via ESP32 with cloud forwarding
- BLE/WiFi scanning for location services or setup
- Smart Power Control: STM32 controls ESP32 via EN pin
- Compact Form Factor: 15 mm x 23 mm x 3 mm, Stamp Pad SMT design
- Supply voltage: 3.0 ~ 3.6 V
- Operating temperature: -40 °C to +85 °C
- Frequency range: 150 MHz to 960 MHz
- Flash/RAM: STM32WLE5 (256 KB Flash / 64 KB RAM), ESP32-C2 (2 MB Flash)
- Interface: UART, I2C, SPI, GPIO
- Development with RUI3 SDK for STM32 and ESP-IDF or Arduino for ESP32
- Ideal for: Low-power MQTT sensor nodes, location-aware trackers, OTA-enabled smart devices
- Supported LoRaWAN bands: EU868, US915, AU915, AS923, IN865, CN470, and more
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LBT support for AS923-1 (Japan)
Key Benefits of RAK11160 ESP32 + STM32WL Module
Unlock ultra-efficient IoT designs through smart power control, flexible connectivity, and reliable local storage. Supports battery-powered devices with extended operational life and continuous data integrity.
- Save more energy: ESP32 powers off fully when WiFi or BLE are not in use
- Collect and forward data: LoRaWAN for long-range, WiFi/BLE for fast cloud updates
- Handle remote conditions: Onboard memory stores sensor data even during network outages
Use Case #1
When farms need remote monitoring without daily maintenance, RAK11160 enables battery-powered sensor nodes that log and send vital data over LoRaWAN, ensuring operational efficiency with minimal power consumption.
Use Case #2
Deployed deep in a forest or out on a moving vehicle, a battery-powered ESP32 LoRa gateway utilising the RAK11160 acts as a roaming uplink, relaying data from local sensors over LoRaWAN, and powering down to conserve energy until the next cycle.
Comparison Table: RAK3172, RAK11160, and RAK3112
Feature / Model |
RAK3172 |
RAK11160 |
RAK3112 |
MCU |
STM32WLE5 |
STM32WLE5 + ESP32-C2 |
ESP32-S3 + SX1262 |
Connectivity |
LoRa / LoRaWAN |
LoRa + WiFi + BLE |
LoRa + WiFi + BLE |
Architecture |
Single MCU |
Dual MCU (STM32WL controls ESP32 via EN) |
Single MCU with higher processing power |
Power Strategy |
Ultra Low Power |
STM32 handles LoRa, ESP32 fully powered off when idle |
Low power supported; ESP32-S3 optimised sleep modes |
Application Focus |
Low-power LoRaWAN sensors |
Battery-powered sensors with cloud sync via WiFi/BLE |
High-performance IoT, mUI, Meshtastic, Edge AI |
Storage |
Up to 256 KB Flash (STM32) |
256 KB Flash + ESP32-C2 (1–2 MB Flash) |
ESP32-S3 with 2 MB Flash (variant-dependent) |
Development Platform |
RUI3 SDK / AT Commands |
RUI3 for STM32WL + ESP-IDF / Arduino for ESP32-C2 |
ESP-IDF / Arduino / PlatformIO |
Form Factor |
15 x 15.5 mm stamp pad |
15 mm x 23 mm x 3 mm stamp pad |
15 mm x 23 mm x 3 mm stamp pad |
How to Get Started with RAK11160 ESP32 + STM32WL Module