Building Embedded GUIs with LVGL, ILI9341, and Python: A Complete Guide

Creating intuitive and responsive graphical user interfaces (GUIs) on microcontrollers has traditionally been a challenge — limited resources, slow screen refresh rates, and difficult coding workflows have stood in the way. But thanks to LVGL (Light and Versatile Graphics Library), paired with the ILI9341 TFT display driver and Python support, it’s now easier than ever to bring professional-grade GUIs to embedded projects.

This article dives into how you can use LVGL with an ILI9341 display in Python, breaking down everything from setup to implementation. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a developer building IoT dashboards, home automation panels, or sensor readouts, this combo offers flexibility and performance.

1. Introduction: Why Combine LVGL, ILI9341, and Python?

The synergy of LVGL + ILI9341 + Python offers several key benefits:

• LVGL is an open-source graphics library optimized for embedded systems, providing UI elements like buttons, sliders, charts, and animations.

• ILI9341 is a widely used 240×320 TFT LCD driver that supports SPI communication, making it ideal for MCUs with limited I/O.

• Python — especially via MicroPython or LVGL’s Python bindings — makes the code simpler, more readable, and suitable for rapid prototyping.

Together, they provide a powerful toolkit to create responsive, stylish, and interactive interfaces for embedded devices.

2. Hardware & Software Requirements

Compatible Microcontrollers and Boards

To use LVGL with ILI9341 in Python, your MCU must support:

• Sufficient RAM (at least 256 KB recommended)

• SPI interface for the display

• Python interpreter (MicroPython or CircuitPython)

Popular choices include:

• ESP32

• Raspberry Pi Pico

• STM32 boards (with MicroPython support)

Display Module: ILI9341

The ILI9341 TFT display typically comes in 2.4″ to 2.8″ sizes and supports:

• 240×320 pixel resolution

• SPI interface (4-wire or 3-wire)

• Touch support (optional via XPT2046 controller)

Software & Libraries Needed

• LVGL: Installable through MicroPython builds or LVGL-Python bindings

• lv_micropython: Fork of MicroPython with LVGL support

• Python: 3.x version for PC simulations or MicroPython for hardware

• TFT driver: Python libraries for ILI9341 (e.g., display_driver.py)

3. Setting Up the Development Environment

Installing MicroPython and lv_micropython

Start by flashing a board-friendly version of lv_micropython:

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1. Download the prebuilt LVGL-enabled MicroPython firmware from the official GitHub repo.

2. Use a tool like esptool.py to flash it onto your ESP32 or supported device.

Wiring the ILI9341 to the MCU

Typical wiring (for ESP32 + ILI9341):

• MOSI → D23

• MISO → D19 (if touch is supported)

• SCLK → D18

• CS → D5

• DC → D2

• RESET → D4

• VCC → 3.3V

• GND → GND

Loading Python Scripts and LVGL Objects

After flashing and wiring:

• Use ampy, Thonny, or rshell to upload Python scripts

• Import LVGL and set up display drivers

• Create basic objects like labels, buttons, and sliders in Python

4. Building Your First GUI with LVGL and ILI9341

Initializing LVGL and the Display Driver

After importing required modules:

This sets up the ILI9341 driver and maps it to the SPI pins.

Creating Basic UI Elements in Python

Now add simple UI components:

Handling User Input (Optional Touch Support)

If you have a touchscreen version:

• Integrate XPT2046 driver

• Bind touch input to LVGL’s input device system

• Write event callbacks for button presses and sliders

5. Final Thoughts: Is LVGL + ILI9341 + Python Right for Your Project?

If you’re developing GUIs for embedded devices, this trio offers unmatched flexibility:

• LVGL provides polished widgets and animations

• ILI9341 is cost-effective and widely supported

• Python simplifies development, testing, and learning

While it’s not the fastest stack for performance-heavy UIs (especially on low-end MCUs), it’s more than adequate for dashboards, control panels, sensor monitors, and interactive IoT displays.

For developers who want a modern GUI on low-cost hardware — without learning complex C code or fighting memory constraints — LVGL with ILI9341 in Python is one of the best options available today.