50pcs LDR Photoresistor Light Sensor Photocell for Arduino, ESP32, ESP8266, Raspberry Pi

Description

Product Overview

The DIYables 50pcs LDR Photoresistor GL5516 is a high‑quality light dependent resistor designed for precision light sensing across a broad spectrum of illumination conditions. Each sensor exhibits a resistance of approximately 5‑10 kΩ when exposed to bright light and rises dramatically to around 0.2 MΩ in complete darkness, delivering a clear and measurable response that can be directly interpreted by microcontroller analog inputs. Constructed from a durable GL5516 semiconductor material, the photoresistor offers stable performance over a wide temperature range and resists degradation caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation. The package includes 50 individual units, each pre‑tested for consistency, and is supplied in a compact, lightweight container measuring 4.02 × 3.03 × 0.67 inches, weighing only 0.63 oz, making it easy to store and integrate into any project. Compatibility is broad: the sensors operate at both 5 V and 3.3 V, allowing seamless connection to popular development platforms such as Arduino, ESP32, ESP8266, and Raspberry Pi, as well as other 5 V or 3.3 V microcontrollers. The product is not discontinued, carries the model number DIY‑LIGHT‑SENSOR‑100, and has earned a strong customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33 reviews, reflecting its reliability and value for makers, educators, and engineers alike.

Usage

These LDR photoresistors are ideally suited for a variety of real‑world applications where light intensity must be monitored or controlled. In home automation, they can trigger lights, blinds, or HVAC systems based on ambient brightness, creating energy‑efficient environments that respond naturally to daylight cycles. For solar tracking projects, the sensors enable precise alignment of photovoltaic panels by detecting the sun’s position and adjusting motorized mounts to maximize energy capture throughout the day. Educational settings benefit from hands‑on experiments that illustrate the principles of photoconductivity, allowing students to build circuits that react to changing light levels and explore concepts such as voltage dividers, analog‑to‑digital conversion, and feedback control. Hobbyists developing wearable devices, smart garden systems, or interactive art installations can rely on the low power draw and small footprint of the GL5516 to embed responsive lighting effects without adding bulk. The sensors also integrate smoothly into robotics platforms, where they can be used for line‑following, obstacle detection, or environmental awareness, enhancing autonomous behavior with minimal coding effort.

Why Choose Us

Choosing DIYables for your light sensing needs means selecting a partner committed to quality, consistency, and customer support. Each batch of GL5516 photoresistors undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that resistance values fall within the specified ranges, guaranteeing predictable performance across all 50 units in the kit. The sensors are sourced from reputable manufacturers and assembled under strict quality‑control procedures, reducing the risk of variance that can affect calibration and accuracy. DIYables provides comprehensive documentation, including wiring diagrams, example code snippets for Arduino, ESP32, ESP8266, and Raspberry Pi, and troubleshooting guides that help users get up and running quickly. In addition, the company offers responsive after‑sales service: any technical questions or concerns are addressed within 24 hours, and replacement parts are available for defective items at no extra cost. By offering a competitive price point of $6.99 for the entire 50‑piece set, DIYables delivers exceptional value without compromising on reliability, making it a trusted choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

Key Features

• Wide resistance range from 5‑10 kΩ in bright light to 0.2 MΩ in darkness for precise light level detection.
• Compatible with 5 V and 3.3 V systems, enabling use with Arduino, ESP32, ESP8266, Raspberry Pi and many other microcontrollers.
• Compact GL5516 semiconductor design offers stable performance and long‑term durability under varying temperature and UV exposure.
• Packaged in a lightweight, space‑saving container of 4.02 × 3.03 × 0.67 inches, perfect for prototyping and bulk projects.
• Dedicated customer support and detailed documentation ensure smooth integration and quick resolution of any issues.

FAQ

What voltage range can these LDR sensors operate within?

The sensors function reliably at both 5 V and 3.3 V, making them suitable for a wide variety of development boards and microcontroller platforms.

How do I calibrate the sensor for my specific lighting conditions?

Begin by creating a simple voltage divider circuit using the LDR and a fixed resistor, then read the analog voltage with your microcontroller. Adjust the fixed resistor value or apply a software scaling factor until the measured values correspond to the desired light intensity levels.

Can these sensors be used for solar panel tracking?

Yes, the GL5516’s fast response to changes in illumination makes it an excellent choice for solar tracking systems. By placing two sensors on opposite sides of a panel, you can compare their readings and drive motors to align the panel with the brightest light source.

Are the sensors waterproof or suitable for outdoor use?

The GL5516 photoresistor is not inherently waterproof, but it can be protected with a clear epoxy coating or placed inside a sealed enclosure to guard against moisture while still allowing light to reach the active surface.

What is the typical lifespan of these photoresistors?

When used within their specified voltage and temperature limits, GL5516 photoresistors typically last for many years—often exceeding 10,000 hours of operation—without significant drift in performance.