VL53L0X Time of Flight Laser Ranging Distance Sensor

The VL53L0X Time of Flight Laser Ranging Distance Sensor is a high-precision, non-contact distance sensor that measures distance using laser time-of-flight technology. Unlike ultrasonic sensors, it delivers fast, accurate readings that are unaffected by object colour, surface texture, or ambient light, making it ideal for robotics, automation, and advanced sensing projects.

Developed by STMicroelectronics, the VL53L0X uses a 940nm Class 1 laser and integrated ranging engine to measure distance with millimetre resolution. Its compact size, low power consumption, and I2C interface make it well suited for Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontroller platforms.

Key Features

• Accurate laser-based distance measurement using time-of-flight technology
• Recommended measurement range from 30mm to 1000mm
• Millimetre resolution for precise positioning and detection
• Compact form factor suitable for tight enclosures
• Low power consumption for battery-powered projects
• I2C interface compatible with Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi
• High-speed measurements ideal for robotics and real-time applications

Technical Specifications

• Measurement Range 30mm to 1000mm recommended
• Accuracy ±3 to ±5 percent depending on mode and conditions
• Resolution 1mm
• Operating Voltage 2.8V to 5.5V
• I2C Address 0x29 default
• Bus Speed Up to 400kHz
• Laser Type 940nm VCSEL
• Laser Safety Class 1

Pinout and Connections

• VIN Power supply input supporting 2.8V to 5.5V
• GND Ground connection
• SDA I2C data line
• SCL I2C clock line
• XSHUT Shutdown and address control pin for multiple sensors

Getting Started

The VL53L0X is easy to integrate using widely available libraries. Connect the sensor to your microcontroller using I2C, power it from 3.3V or 5V, and use an Arduino or Python library to begin reading distance values. When using multiple sensors on the same I2C bus, the XSHUT pin allows you to assign unique addresses.

For a deeper technical explanation, configuration modes, and performance optimisation tips, see our VL53L0X Time of Flight Distance Sensor Advanced Guide.

Comparison and Alternatives

If you are choosing between distance sensing technologies, consider the following alternatives depending on your project requirements.

• HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Distance Measuring Sensor for low-cost ultrasonic sensing where precision is less critical
• Adafruit VL53L0X Time of Flight Sensor for a STEMMA QT and Qwiic compatible version
• Adafruit VL53L1X Time of Flight Sensor for extended range up to 4 metres
• Browse all sensors to explore other distance and motion sensing options

The VL53L0X is an excellent choice for projects that require fast, accurate, and reliable distance measurement in a compact package, especially where ultrasonic sensors fall short.

This product can be found here:

• Components & Parts
• Development Boards
• Sensors