Arducam 12MP 577 Mini High Quality Camera Module for Raspberry Pi and Pi Zero : The Ultimate High-Resolution Mini Camera for Makers
Introduction to the Arducam 12MP 577 Mini High Quality Camera Module
If you're working on Raspberry Pi projects that require crystal-clear imaging, portability, and professional-grade optics, the Arducam 12MP 577 Mini High Quality Camera Module for Raspberry Pi and Pi Zero (SKU : B0262-021) stands out as one of the best options available today. Designed with the same mounting holes and board size as the Raspberry Pi Camera Module V2, this upgraded version lets you boost your project’s performance without complicated hardware adjustments.
Arducam built this compact module for enthusiasts and professionals who want smaller size, lighter weight, and higher performance—all while maintaining compatibility with Raspberry Pi’s official software ecosystem.
Key Features of Arducam 12MP 577 Mini HQ Camera Module
High-Resolution Imaging Capabilities
The heart of this module is the 12.3MP Sony IMX219 sensor, giving makers access to stunningly sharp still images at 4056 × 3040 pixels. Compared to the common 8MP modules, this upgrade offers better clarity, dynamic range, and detail.
For video enthusiasts, the module supports multiple modes:
2028 × 1080p at 50fps
2028 × 1520p at 40fps
1332 × 990p at 120fps
These resolutions make it ideal for slow-motion footage, FPV systems, and AI-based vision applications.
Lightweight and Space-Saving Build
One of the strongest advantages of this product is its compact 25 × 24 mm design. This allows it to fit where the official Raspberry Pi High Quality Camera cannot. Drones, portable gadgets, robotic eyes, and embedded IoT devices all benefit from the slimmer footprint.
Despite the size reduction, the sensor performance matches that of the Raspberry Pi High Quality Camera, offering a rare combination of portability and high fidelity.
Interchangeable M12 Lens Support
The module includes an M12 lens mount, providing flexibility for different imaging needs. Whether you're shooting wide-angle landscapes or capturing focused, close-up details, users can easily swap lenses to fine-tune results.
This lens versatility is perfect for:
Surveillance systems
Drone mapping
Machine vision
Robotics
Scientific imaging
Technical Specifications Explained
Sony IMX219 Sensor Details
The Sony IMX219 sensor is popular among Raspberry Pi developers because of its reliability, crisp output, and excellent support across Pi versions. With a 1/2.3-inch optical size and 1.55 μm pixel size, it captures more light than many smaller sensors.
Field of View and Lens Specs
The included M12 lens delivers an impressive:
88° diagonal HFOV
75° horizontal FOV
This wide-angle capability ensures more of your scene fits into the frame, reducing blind spots for surveillance and environmental monitoring applications.
With an F2.8 aperture, the camera performs well even in moderately low-light conditions.
Manual Focus Capabilities
Unlike fixed-focus modules, this camera features manual focus adjustment, giving hobbyists precise control over their imaging results. Whether you need edge-to-edge clarity for mapping or a shallow depth-of-field for artistic shots, manual focus makes fine-tuning simple.
IR Sensitivity and Low-Light Behavior
The module features an integrated IR-cut filter, meaning it only captures visible light. This results in natural, true-color images that are ideal for photography and general vision applications.
Performance Compared to Raspberry Pi Camera Module V2 & HQ Module
Size and Weight Comparison
The key difference between this module and the official Raspberry Pi High Quality Camera is size. The Arducam 577 Mini HQ is significantly smaller and lighter, making it perfect for portable applications.
Compared to the Raspberry Pi Camera V2, the Arducam version boosts resolution from 8MP to 12.3MP, enabling sharper output without needing major mounting changes.
Imaging Quality and Lens Flexibility
The official HQ Camera uses a C/CS mount, which is larger and heavier. Arducam’s M12 mount offers similar optical benefits but in a much more compact form.
Users can choose from ultra-wide, fisheye, macro, and telephoto lenses depending on project needs.
Installation and Setup Guide
Mounting Compatibility
Since the Arducam 12MP 577 Mini HQ uses the same board size and screw holes as the Pi Camera Module V2, attaching it to Pi-compatible rigs and cases is a breeze.
Software & Driver Setup
The module supports:
Raspberry Pi OS
libcamera
Legacy raspistill/raspivid commands (depending on Pi version)
Simply connect it via the ribbon cable, enable the camera interface, and you're good to go.
Best Applications and Use Cases
The camera excels in:
Drones & quadcopters (lightweight, high resolution)
IoT monitoring systems
Robotics and AI vision
Education and STEM projects
Scientific observation and microscopy
Home automation and surveillance
Its versatility makes it one of the most adaptable Raspberry Pi-compatible cameras available today.
Pros and Cons of the Arducam 12MP 577 Mini HQ Camera
Pros
High 12.3MP resolution
Compact and lightweight
Fully compatible with Raspberry Pi ecosystem
Interchangeable M12 lenses
High video frame rates
Excellent build quality
Cons
Manual focus may require adjustments
No IR-sensitive version included
Not ideal for night vision without modifications
Buying Guide & Where to Purchase
You can purchase the camera from trusted vendors like:
1. Is this camera compatible with the Raspberry Pi Zero?
Yes, it works seamlessly with Raspberry Pi Zero and Zero W using the appropriate camera cable.
2. Does it support the latest Raspberry Pi 5?
Yes, it supports Raspberry Pi 5 using the new camera adapter ribbon.
3. Can I replace the lens with another M12 lens?
Absolutely. The camera is designed for interchangeable M12 lenses.
4. Does it support autofocus?
No, this module uses manual focus for greater precision and control.
5. Is it better than the Raspberry Pi Camera Module V2?
In terms of resolution, flexibility, and performance, yes—this is an upgrade.
6. Can it record slow-motion video?
Yes. With 1332 × 990 at 120fps, it is great for slow-motion capture.
Conclusion
The Arducam 12MP 577 Mini High Quality Camera Module for Raspberry Pi and Pi Zero (SKU : B0262-021) is a remarkable imaging tool tailored for creators who demand exceptional clarity and compact design. With its high-resolution Sony IMX219 sensor, versatile M12 lens mount, and lightweight size, it outperforms standard Raspberry Pi cameras while maintaining effortless compatibility.
November 14, 2025
