I2C vs SPI vs UART: Wiring, Speed, and How to Choose

A side-by-side comparison of the three serial buses every microcontroller project runs into — I2C, SPI and UART — across four axes: number of signal lines, speed, how many devices you can hang off them, and wiring distance. Includes a decision flow and what to look for on a scope.

July 20, 2026 · 20 min ·