Attributes

Brand	-
Category	Robotics / STEM Teaching Tools / Sensors
Origin	-
Model Number	KY-018 Compatible
Operating Voltage	3.3V - 5V DC
Interface Type	Analog Output (AO)
Sensing Element	Cadmium Sulfide Photoresistor
PCB Dimensions	32mm x 14mm x 5mm
Mounting Hole Diameter	3mm
Pin Configuration	3-Pin Header (GND, VCC, OUT)
Response Time	< 30ms
Compatibility	Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32
Package Weight	2.5 grams

6 reviews

Anonymous

Mar 30, 2026

Rating: 5/5

Great for beginners

I am new to electronics and this module made it very easy to understand how light sensors work. Plenty of tutorials online work with this specific layout.

Anonymous

Mar 26, 2026

Rating: 5/5

Reliable replacement part

Needed a replacement for a broken KY-018 sensor and this fit the bill perfectly. Pinout matches standard modules. No issues with calibration.

Anonymous

Mar 18, 2026

Rating: 4/5

Good sensitivity, compact size

The sensor is very responsive to changes in light levels. It fits perfectly on my breadboard. Only giving 4 stars because the included pins were slightly bent, but easily fixed.

Anonymous

Mar 14, 2026

Rating: 4/5

Solid performance

Used this in a line-following robot prototype. It detects light gradients well. Would prefer if it came with a digital output option too, but analog works fine for my needs.

Anonymous

Mar 07, 2026

Rating: 5/5

Perfect for Arduino light projects

This module works exactly as described. I used it to build a simple night light controller with my Arduino Uno. The analog output is stable and easy to read. Great value for the price.

Anonymous

Mar 04, 2026

Rating: 5/5

Fast shipping, works great

Arrived quickly and was well packaged. Tested immediately upon arrival and the resistance changes smoothly with light exposure. Highly recommended for sensor kits.

5 FAQ

Q: Is there a potentiometer on the board to adjust sensitivity?

A: This specific photoresistor module provides a raw analog output and does not include an onboard potentiometer for threshold adjustment like some digital modules do.

Q: Does this module come with male header pins pre-soldered?

A: No, the module typically comes without headers soldered to allow flexibility for breadboard use or custom wiring. You will need to solder them yourself.

Q: Can I connect this directly to a 5V Raspberry Pi GPIO?

A: While the module operates at 5V, the Raspberry Pi GPIO pins are 3.3V logic. You should use a voltage divider or level shifter for the output pin to avoid damaging the Pi.

Q: Is this compatible with the ESP8266 NodeMCU?

A: Yes, it is fully compatible. You can connect the VCC to 3.3V or VIN, GND to GND, and the AO pin to any available analog input pin on the NodeMCU.

Q: What is the maximum light intensity this can measure?

A: This is an analog sensor providing relative light levels rather than a specific Lux rating. It works best for distinguishing between dark, dim, and bright environments.

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