Waveshare LCD IPS 1.3" 240x240 SPI 65K RGB display for Raspberry Pi Pico

Waveshare LCD IPS 1.3" 240x240 SPI 65K RGB display for Raspberry Pi Pico is a compact square IPS module with a 1.3-inch diagonal and 240×240 pixel resolution. Designed for connection over an SPI interface, the panel offers 65K RGB color depth and wide viewing angles typical of IPS technology. The module is intended for embedded projects and small devices where a compact, high-quality color display is required and pairs with microcontrollers such as the Raspberry Pi Pico to present UI elements, status information and simple graphics.

Advantages

The IPS panel delivers consistent color reproduction and broad viewing angles for reliable readability from different positions. The 240×240 pixel square format is space-efficient for compact enclosures and handheld devices. An SPI interface simplifies wiring and reduces required GPIO compared with parallel interfaces, making the display suitable for microcontrollers with limited pins. The 65K RGB color depth provides sufficient color variation for icons, charts and basic images while keeping power consumption and data throughput moderate.

Suitable for

• Prototyping user interfaces for Raspberry Pi Pico and other microcontrollers
• IoT device status screens and sensor readouts
• Handheld controllers, DIY instruments and compact embedded panels
• Small graphical outputs such as icons, menus and simple animations

Key specifications

• Display type: IPS LCD
• Diagonal size: 1.3 inches
• Resolution: 240 × 240 pixels
• Interface: SPI
• Color depth: 65K RGB
• Viewing angles: wide, typical for IPS panels
• Form factor: square panel suitable for compact enclosures

How to use

Connect the display to a Raspberry Pi Pico or compatible microcontroller using the SPI pins, power and ground. Install the appropriate display driver or library for your development environment and initialize the panel with the provided resolution and color settings. Use standard SPI transactions to send frame buffer data or update regions of the screen; many libraries offer helper functions for drawing text, shapes and images. Observe recommended power and signal voltage levels for the module to ensure correct operation.

Usage recommendations

For reliable results, use a stable 3.3V supply and level-compatible SPI signals. Employ library examples provided by the display vendor or community to verify wiring and driver configuration before integrating into your application. To improve readability in bright ambient light, consider using a bezel or shading on the enclosure and optimize contrast and font sizes for the 240×240 pixel area.