Soldered Electronics
E-Paper
Home Automation
A large, colorful e-paper platform for your next project
$73,698 raised
of $9,270 goal
Back this project to help bring it into existence.
Funding ends on Apr 03, 2026 at 05:25 AM PDT.
$309 - $349
Recent Updates
- Mar 20, 2026 Week Three Status Report
- Mar 10, 2026 Week Two Progress Report
- Mar 05, 2026 Features of E-Ink's Spectra 6 Panel & Tales From Our Time at LOPEC 2026
- Feb 23, 2026 Our Campaign Is Live!
Inkplate 13SPECTRA brings E-Ink Spectra™ color technology to a massive 13" canvas, delivering 1600 x 1200 resolution across six vivid colors. Whether you are building a smart home dashboard, a digital art frame, or a personal calendar, this development board offers the perfect blend of color, high resolution, and ease of use. Powered by the ESP32-S3 with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Inkplate 13SPECTRA is fully programmable via Arduino IDE or MicroPython, making it easy to create battery-powered IoT e-paper applications that run for months on a single charge.
Ultra-Low Power for Months of Battery Life
We have pushed the limits of efficiency with the Inkplate 13 SPECTRA. In deep sleep mode, the board draws only about 14 microamps, enabling battery-powered projects that can still run for long periods on a single charge. For example, with a 3000 mAh battery and one full-screen display update every hour, the Inkplate 13 SPECTRA can operate for roughly 1.5–2 months (around 40–50 days).
This calculation assumes 24 cycles per day, with the board spending almost the entire hour between updates in deep sleep at 14 microamps, briefly waking for about eight seconds to connect to Wi‑Fi and fetch data (drawing around 200 mA), and then refreshing the display for about 20 seconds.
Open-Source Software Ecosystem
Inkplate 13SPECTRA software platforms
We believe powerful hardware should be easy to use. Inkplate 13SPECTRA is supported by a robust software ecosystem from day one:
- Familiar Inkplate Library: Start drawing shapes, text, and images in minutes using the Arduino IDE, with exciting ready-made examples including: Google Calendar, OpenMeteo Weather Station, Spotify "Currently Playing" display, and photo frame from microSD
- MicroPython Support: For those who prefer a higher-level scripting language, our MicroPython library is here for you
- Deep Documentation: We provide full schematics, KiCad board files, high-level documentation, tutorials, and a wealth of complete examples
- ESPHome Integration: We pledge to have ESPHome ready for Inkplate 13SPECTRA in time for delivery so you can use it for the smart home dashboard of your dreams!
ESP32-S3 Powerhouse
The Inkplate 13SPECTRA runs on the ESP32-S3-WROOM-2-N32R16V microcontroller, featuring a dual-core Xtensa LX7 processor running at up to 240 MHz. With 32 MB of flash memory and 16 MB of PSRAM, it handles seamless multitasking and frame buffer management. Native Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz) and Bluetooth 5 (LE) connectivity enable you to effortlessly pull data from the web, connect to sensors, or update your display remotely. Support for multiple communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART) and low-power modes makes creating sophisticated IoT projects remarkably straightforward.
Features & Specificationss
- Display: 13-inch E-Ink SPECTRA color e-paper with 1600 x 1200 resolution (six colors: black, white, yellow, red, blue, green)
- Microcontroller: ESP32-S3-WROOM-2-N32R16V with dual-core Xtensa LX7 processor (up to 240 MHz)
- Memory: 32 MB flash, 16 MB PSRAM
- Ultra-Low Power: 14 µA deep-sleep current
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz), Bluetooth 5 (LE), USB-C for data and battery charging, three Qwiic ports
- Storage: Onboard microSD card slot and RTC memory to retain data during deep sleep
- Timekeeping: Onboard real-time clock (RTC) PCF85063A with CR2032 battery backup for precise wake-up cycles
- Controls: Dedicated power and wake buttons
- Battery Management: JST connector for 3.7V Li-ion batteries with battery charging circuit onboard
- Open Source: Fully open-source hardware and software
Variants
We offer Inkplate 13 SPECTRA in two versions:
Base Edition
Includes a fully tested Inkplate 13 SPECTRA, but no enclosure or battery
Enclosure and Battery Version
Includes 3000 mAh Li-ion battery and custom 3D-printed protective case, ready to use out of the box
Comparison of E-Ink Spectra 6 Devices
| Inkplate 13SPECTRA | Pimoroni Inky Impression 13.3" | Waveshare 13.3” Spectra 6 HAT+ (E) + ESP32 Driver Board | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Soldered Electronics (EU) | Pimoroni (UK) | Waveshare (China) |
| Design | All-in-one (integrated e-paper + controller custom PCB) | Modular (no MCU; plugs into Raspberry Pi) | Modular (no MCU; plugs into various microcontrollers via SPI) |
| Display | Spectra™ 6 by E-Ink, 13.3" | Spectra™ 6 by E-Ink, 13.3" | Spectra™ 6 by E-Ink, 13.3" |
| Resolution | 1600 x 1200 pixels | 1600 x 1200 pixels | 1600 x 1200 pixels |
| Colors | 6 (black, white, yellow, red, blue, green) | 6 (black, white, yellow, red, blue, green) | 6 (black, white, yellow, red, blue, green) |
| Refresh Time | 19 seconds | 19 seconds | 19 seconds |
| Enclosure | Optional | No | No |
| Microcontroller | ESP32-S3-WROOM-2 (dual-core, 240 MHz) | None (uses external Raspberry Pi via 40‑pin header) | None (uses external microcontroller) |
| Memory | 32 MB flash + 16 MB PSRAM | N/A (uses Raspberry Pi’s RAM/flash) | None (uses external microcontroller) |
| Deep Sleep Current | 14 µA | N/A (depends on Raspberry Pi model) | Not specified |
| Battery Connection | Yes, 3.7V Li-Ion via JST connector + charging IC | No dedicated battery connector | No dedicated battery connector |
| Supported Platforms | Arduino IDE + LVGL + MicroPython + ESPHome | Python (Raspberry Pi) | C, C++, Python (various platforms) |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz + Bluetooth 5 (LE) | Via host Raspberry Pi (Wi‑Fi/Ethernet depending on Pi model) | N/A (uses external microcontroller) |
| Expansion Ports | 3x Qwiic (I2C), microSD slot | 2× Qwiic (I2C) | N/A (uses external microcontroller) |
| Additional I/O | 1 x user button, USB-C serial, remaining ESP32 GPIO pins, GPIO expander (16 pins + interrupt) | 4x user buttons | N/A (uses external microcontroller) |
| RTC | Yes (PCF85063A with CR2032 battery backup) | No | No |
| Open Source | Hardware & Software | Software | Software |
| Battery Included | Optional (3000 mAh Li-ion with enclosure version) | No | No |
| Price | $309.00 (base model) | $332.88 (base + required Raspberry Pi) | $295.98 (base + requried ESP32-S3 driver board) |
Manufacturing Plan
All Soldered Electronics products are designed and manufactured in-house in Osijek, Croatia. Inkplate 13SPECTRA follows our established production processes, which have successfully delivered thousands of Inkplate models to backers worldwide. We source the panels and handle assembly, testing, and quality control at our facility. After all, e-Paper is our specialty.
Fulfillment & Logistics
We will ship the Inkplate 13SPECTRA through Crowd Supply’s fulfillment network, ensuring efficient delivery to backers worldwide. Our previous Inkplate campaigns have established reliable shipping processes, and we will apply the same logistics framework and our experience to this project. All units will be thoroughly tested before shipping to ensure they meet our quality standards.
Support & Documentation
Inkplate 13SPECTRA schematic
We provide comprehensive support and documentation for the Inkplate 13SPECTRA on docs.soldered.com:
- Easily readable full product documentation
- Full schematics and KiCad board files
- Arduino IDE library with extensive examples
- MicroPython library and documentation
- Getting-started guides and tutorials
We’re also always here for you; feel free to contact us.
Risks & Challenges
As the e-paper experts with multiple successful Inkplate campaigns, we have established relationships with component suppliers and manufacturing processes. However, several risks remain:
- E-Paper Panel Supply: Global supply chain disruptions could affect panel availability. We have secured initial inventory and maintain relationships with backup suppliers to mitigate this risk.
- Component Shortages: The ESP32-S3 and other electronic components may face availability issues. We have pre-ordered components based on campaign projections and will adjust production schedules if needed.
- Shipping Delays: International logistics can be unpredictable. We work with Crowd Supply's experienced fulfillment network and build buffer time into our delivery estimates.
We are committed to transparent communication and will provide regular updates throughout the campaign and production process.
About Inkplate
ICYMI, Inkplate is a series of powerful, energy-efficient, Wi-Fi-enabled development boards featuring different models and sizes of e-paper displays. We created Inkplate because we loved e-paper and wanted to bring it to the masses. All Inkplate boards are low-power oriented, enabling battery projects that last for months. By choosing Inkplate, you are joining a growing community of makers and engineers who value transparency, hackability, and long-term support.
Ask a Question
Inkplate 13SPECTRA
Inkplate 13SPECTRA board with 13.3" color e-paper display and USB Type-C cable.
$309 Free US Shipping / $12 Worldwide
Orders placed now ship Jun 30, 2026.
Inkplate 13SPECTRA with Enclosure & Battery
Inkplate 13SPECTRA board with 13.3" color e-paper display, USB Type-C cable, 3D-printed enclosure, and 3000 mAh Li-Ion battery.
$349 Free US Shipping / $12 Worldwide
Orders placed now ship Jun 30, 2026.
About the Team
Soldered Electronics
Osijek, Croatia · solderedcom · solderedelectronics · soldered.com
Our company originated as a high school garage project in 2013. Initially crafting electronic boards for friends and hobbyists, we evolved into a professional entity, engineering and producing a diverse range of products and services for makers worldwide. In 2022, we transitioned to the name Soldered Electronics, marking a new chapter in our growth and product design. To date, we have engineered over 200 electronic products, manufactured a total of 250,000 units, and delivered those units to makers in more than 85 countries. In addition to electronic production, we have curated an extensive library of 320 tutorials and manuals, complete with descriptions and schematics for electronic products. These resources help makers use our products and our sample code more effectively. Finally, we offer 24/7 customer support and technical assistance for each of our products, regardless of the sales channel through which it was obtained.