Cardputer
M5Stack Cardputer + CAP-LoRa-1262
Introduced: January 2024
Overview
The M5Stack Cardputer is a pocket-sized computer (roughly credit-card footprint at 108×57×16mm) with a full QWERTY keyboard and a 1.14” color IPS display. Paired with the CAP-LoRa-1262 expansion module, it becomes a standalone MeshCore communicator with GPS — no smartphone needed.
Required Add-On
Purchase the CAP-LoRa-1262 for Cardputer ADV module separately. It adds:
- SX1262 LoRa radio (same chip as most MeshCore devices)
- ATGM336H GPS receiver
- IPEX antenna connector (SMA pigtail adapter recommended for external antenna)
The module sits in the Cardputer’s top M-BUS slot and is recognized automatically by compatible firmware.
✓ Pros
- ✔ Credit-card sized — the most pocketable keyboard device
- ✔ Full QWERTY keyboard — no smartphone required
- ✔ Color display with direct on-device messaging
- ✔ GPS via ATGM336H on the LoRa module
- ✔ USB-C charging + expandable via M-BUS
- ✔ Multipurpose ESP32-S3 platform for other projects
✗ Cons
- ✕ Requires separate CAP-LoRa-1262 module (~$12-20 extra)
- ✕ Only 120mAh internal battery — very short runtime without external power
- ✕ Small 1.14" display (135×240) — less readable than T-Deck
- ✕ Community firmware only — not in official MeshCore flasher yet
- ✕ ESP32-S3 uses more power than nRF52 alternatives
MeshCore Firmware
The Cardputer is not yet in the official MeshCore Flasher — community firmware builds are available via the MeshCore Discord. The firmware adapts the standard companion UI to the 135×240 display and the Cardputer’s key layout, allowing direct on-device messaging, contact management, and GPS location sharing. Also check out this firmware source for the Cardputer.
Key Strengths
- Form factor: Significantly smaller than any competing keyboard device; fits in a shirt pocket
- Keyboard: 56-key QWERTY — true physical typing, same advantage as the T-Deck but in a smaller package
- GPS included: The CAP-LoRa module’s ATGM336H provides position data without an additional accessory
- Platform versatility: The ESP32-S3 supports WiFi, BLE, and USB development — useful beyond just mesh radio
Battery Caveat
The built-in 120mAh LiPo provides only 1-2 hours of active radio use. For anything beyond a brief demo, pair it with a small USB-C power bank or plan to charge frequently. This is the single biggest practical limitation for field use.
Ideal For
- Users who want the smallest possible keyboard-equipped standalone device
- Ham radio operators or technical users comfortable flashing community firmware
- Low-budget entry into all-in-one devices (total cost ~$50 combined)
- Demo units or secondary devices where small size matters more than battery life
⚙️ Specifications
- MCU Chip
- ESP32-S3
- LoRa Chip
- SX1262
- Antenna
- IPEX connector on CAP-LoRa module (SMA adapter recommended)
- Size
- 108mm x 57mm x 16mm
- Price Range
- $28-40 (+ $12-20 for CAP-LoRa-1262 module)