DIY smartwatch: 2.01 inch touchscreen with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth also pulls double duty for smart home use

Elecrow has expanded its lineup with the CrowPanel 2.01-inch HMI ESP32 Watch Display. Far from being just a simple screen, the module integrates a full development board powered by the popular ESP32-S3 microcontroller. While performance is limited and the chip cannot handle complex 3D graphics, such capabilities are rarely necessary for a DIY wearable. At the same time, built-in support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth makes it well-suited for connected smartwatch projects. The display measures 2.01 inches diagonally and features a touch-enabled IPS panel with a resolution of 240 x 296 pixels, interfacing via SPI. For audio capabilities, Elecrow has equipped the CrowPanel with a built-in microphone and speaker.

However, anyone looking to replicate a modern flagship wearable will notice a few omissions. While a gyroscope is included for motion sensing, the board lacks several sensors typically expected in today's smartwatches; there is no onboard GNSS module for independent location tracking, and optical sensors for heart rate monitoring are not included. A vibration motor is present. A battery is not included in the package, but the board features the necessary contacts to connect one. An encoder is also part of the kit, and additional sensors or actuators can be connected via the expansion interfaces.

As is typical for this product category, the CrowPanel 2.01-inch HMI ESP32 Watch Display—which retails directly from the manufacturer for $19—is not a plug-and-play device. It requires some programming effort to become functional. That said, its utility extends beyond wearables; the module can also be used as a compact control panel for smart home systems. Those looking for similar hardware alternatives can find comparable  displays from brands like Waveshare on Amazon.