How to Use Wokwi in VS Code for ESP32

 

How to Use Wokwi in VS Code for ESP32

Introduction

Wokwi is a powerful online simulator for ESP32 development, but did you know you can also use it directly in Visual Studio Code (VS Code)? This setup provides a smoother workflow with better debugging and coding tools.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to:
✅ Install Wokwi in VS Code
✅ Create and simulate ESP32 projects
✅ Debug and run your code

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Step 1: Install VS Code

If you haven’t already installed VS Code, download it from:
🔗 https://code.visualstudio.com/

After installation, open VS Code and proceed to the next step.

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Step 2: Install Wokwi Extension

1. Open VS Code and go to the Extensions Marketplace (Ctrl + Shift + X).
2. Search for “Wokwi Simulator”.
3. Click Install to add the extension.

✅ The Wokwi extension allows you to simulate ESP32 projects directly inside VS Code.

 

 

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Step 3: Create a New Wokwi ESP32 Project

1. Open VS Code.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + P to open the command palette.
3. Type “Wokwi: New ESP32 Project” and select it.
4. Choose a folder where you want to save your project.

This will create the necessary project files, including:

• main.cpp (for your ESP32 code)
• wokwi.toml (configuration file)

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Step 4: Writing ESP32 Code in VS Code

Open main.cpp and replace its content with the following basic ESP32 code:

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Step 5: Running the Wokwi Simulation

1. Open the command palette (Ctrl + Shift + P).
2. Type “Wokwi: Start Simulation” and select it.
3. The Wokwi simulator will launch, showing the ESP32 board and a Serial Monitor.

✅ You will see the output:

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Step 6: Adding Components (LED, Sensors, etc.)

You can edit the wokwi.toml file to add components like LEDs, buttons, or sensors.

Example: Adding an LED

Edit wokwi.toml and add:

Now, when you run the simulation, an LED will blink!

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Step 7: Saving and Sharing Your Project

To share your project, simply upload the project folder to GitHub or zip it for others to download.

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Conclusion

Using Wokwi in VS Code gives you:
🚀 A better coding experience
🔍 Advanced debugging tools
🔗 Direct integration with Wokwi’s powerful simulation

Now you can develop ESP32 projects more efficiently without leaving VS Code!