robotic.icu: ESP32 Pringles Can Antenna Posted in: News | by Robo Tron | 2025 Sept 14
esp Pringles
Yes, an ESP32 can be wired to a Pringles can antenna. A Pringles can can be used as a simple, effective directional antenna for the ESP32's Wi-Fi signal, particularly for 2.4 GHz frequencies. The can acts as a waveguide, focusing the signal in a specific direction to improve range and signal strength in that direction.
To create this antenna, the ESP32's external antenna connector (typically IPEX or U.FL) is connected to a coaxial cable. The cable is then passed through the side of the Pringles can, positioned approximately 70 mm from the bottom.
The open end of the can should be pointed towards the target access point to maximize signal gain. This modification is a well-documented method for improving Wi-Fi range, especially for ESP32-CAM modules in challenging signal environments.
This approach leverages the can's shape to create a directional antenna, which can provide significant signal improvements, particularly in reflective environments, although it results in a more pronounced directional pattern.
Which would be better for long range? Pringles can or Yagi?
A Pringles can antenna, often called a ”cantenna,” functions as a waveguide antenna and can provide moderate gain and directivity for 2.4 GHz signals, but its performance is limited by its physical dimensions. The internal diameter of a standard Pringles can is approximately 72 mm, which is below the optimal range of 76–101 mm for 2.4 GHz operation, with 92 mm considered ideal.
Due to this smaller diameter, the Pringles can antenna is suboptimal and would need to be over a meter long to be effective, which is impractical.
Real-world tests and theoretical analysis suggest that while it does offer some gain and directivity, it is a relatively crude antenna design.
In contrast, a Yagi antenna designed for 2.4 GHz is a more efficient and purpose-built directional antenna. Yagi antennas are optimized for specific frequencies and can achieve higher gain and tighter beamwidth than a typical cantenna.
For example, a well-constructed Yagi can provide 12–15 dBi of gain, which is considered impressive for a simple design.
This makes Yagi antennas more suitable for long-range, point-to-point communication where precise aiming and maximum signal strength are critical.
While both antennas are used for extending Wi-Fi range at 2.4 GHz, the Yagi antenna generally outperforms the Pringles can antenna in terms of gain, directivity, and overall long-range performance.
Additionally, the metal-coated cardboard of the Pringles can is less durable and harder to make reliable electrical contact with compared to the solid metal construction typically used in Yagi antennas.
For serious long-range applications, a Yagi or a properly sized waveguide antenna made from a can with appropriate dimensions is recommended over the Pringles can design.
