The Flipper Zero has created a storm in the cybersecurity category, becoming a popular choice for pentesters, hobbyists, and anyone with a penchant for exploring digital systems. Its compact size and versatile capabilities, from Sub-GHz radio to RFID and IR, make it a true pocket multi-tool. But what if you’re looking for a more accessible or customizable alternative? Enter the Liet M5, a M5Stack StickC plus2 based device, a tiny yet mighty IoT development kit gaining traction for its potential to mimic some of the Flipper Zero’s most exciting features.

Unboxing the LieT M5

The Liet M5, an iterative version of its predecessor, is built around the ESP32-PICO-V3 02 chip, granting it built-in Wi-Fi Hacking functionality. Don’t let its small stature fool you; this device packs a surprising array of hardware resources:

• ESP32-PICO-V3–02: The brain of the operation, providing a 240MHz dual-core processor, Wi-Fi, 2MB PSRAM, and 8MB Flash. This is a significant upgrade from the previous model’s 4MB Flash and no PSRAM, allowing for more complex applications.
• Integrated Sensors: It comes equipped with a 6-axis IMU (for motion sensing), an IR transmitter (think universal remote!), a microphone, and a passive buzzer.
• Display & Interface: A vibrant 1.14-inch TFT screen with a 135x240 resolution, driven by the ST7789V2, provides a clear visual interface. It also features multiple programmable buttons and a Type-C USB port for power and data.
• Power: The device boasts an increased 200mAh LiPo battery, offering better battery life than earlier versions.
• Expandability: A key strength of the Liet M5 ecosystem is its extendable socket, supporting a wide range of HAT and Unit series products. This modularity is crucial for expanding its capabilities.
• Development Friendly: The Liet M5 supports multi-platform development, including UIFlow (a graphical programming platform), MicroPython, Arduino, and .NET nanoFramework, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned developers alike.

These features make it an excellent choice for rapid prototyping of IoT products, wearable devices, STEM education, and various DIY creations.

Liet M5 vs. Flipper Zero

While both devices are compact and versatile, they cater to slightly different philosophies and offer distinct advantages.

Flipper Zero Strengths:

• All-in-One Design: The Flipper Zero is designed as a self-contained multi-tool, integrating Sub-GHz radio, NFC, RFID (125kHz and 13.56MHz), Infrared, iButton, and BadUSB functionality directly into its hardware. This “ready-to-go” aspect is a major draw.
• Strong Community and Firmware: The Flipper Zero boasts a massive and active community, leading to a wealth of readily available firmware, applications, and support for various “hacking” scenarios.
• Specialized Hardware: Features like dedicated Sub-GHz and NFC modules are optimized for those specific tasks, often offering better performance and compatibility out of the box.

Liet M5 (as a Flipper Zero alternative):

• Cost-Effectiveness: The Liet M5 is significantly more affordable than a Flipper Zero, making it an attractive option for those on a budget or looking to experiment without a large initial investment.
• Modularity and Customization: This is where the Liet M5 truly shines. While it doesn’t have all of Flipper Zero’s capabilities built-in, its extensive HAT and Unit ecosystem allows you to add specific functionalities as needed. Want Sub-GHz? Add a CC1101 module. Need RFID? Attach an RFID unit. This “build-your-own-Flipper” approach offers unparalleled flexibility.
• Open-Source Development: Being an ESP32-based platform, the Liet M5 is incredibly open for development. You can write custom firmware in Arduino, MicroPython, or UIFlow, tailoring it precisely to your needs. This is ideal for those who enjoy coding and deep dives into hardware.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: The native Wi-Fi on the Liet M5 is a huge advantage for network-based attacks or IoT integration, often requiring external modules for the Flipper Zero to achieve similar functionality (e.g., for Evil Portal or Wi-Fi sniffing).

Where the Liet M5 packs features (Bruce firmware):

Is the Liet M5 for You?

If you’re a beginner in coding or hardware and want an all-in-one, “works out of the box” experience for exploring various digital protocols, the Flipper Zero might be a more straightforward choice.

The world of portable pentesting and digital exploration is constantly evolving. The Liet M5 proves that you don’t always need the most expensive or popular device to get started, especially when open-source hardware and a passion for DIY are on your side.

Links to Buy LieT M5

More details on LieT M5 and NLieTN and YouTube channel