7 Awesome Raspberry Pi Projects using LED Matrix displays
The Raspberry Pi is a versatile mini-computer that can power a wide range of projects, and when paired with an LED matrix display, the possibilities expand even further. Whether you’re looking to create eye-catching visuals, interactive games, or real-time information displays, an LED matrix combined with a Raspberry Pi can bring your ideas to life. Here are some awesome projects to try out:
1. Scrolling News Ticker
Stay updated with real-time news, weather, or stock prices by creating a scrolling news ticker. Using a simple Python script and an RSS feed, you can display the latest headlines on your LED matrix. This is a great project for keeping an eye on important updates while working on other tasks.
My Desk Size LED Matrix Ticker (Stocks, Weather, News, GIFs and More)!
byu/CheersBros inraspberry_pi
2. Retro Pixel Art Display
Turn your LED matrix into a digital art frame that cycles through different pixel art images or GIFs. This project is perfect for displaying classic 8-bit game sprites, custom animations, or even your own pixel creations. It adds a nostalgic touch to any setup and is a fun way to showcase creativity.
3. Audio Visualizer
Create a real-time LED matrix visualizer that reacts to sound from a microphone or music input. Using the Raspberry Pi’s audio processing capabilities, you can generate dynamic, colorful patterns that move in sync with your music. This is a fantastic project for parties or personal enjoyment.
https://www.instructables.com/Raspberry-Pi-Audio-Spectrum-Display
https://github.com/karlstav/cava
4. Mini LED Arcade Marquee
Recreate the look of classic arcade cabinets by displaying dynamic arcade logos, game names, or animations on an LED matrix. Whether you’re building a DIY arcade machine or simply want a cool retro display, this project is sure to impress gaming enthusiasts.
5. Internet-Connected Clock & Timer
Build a digital clock that syncs via Network Time Protocol (NTP) to ensure accurate timekeeping. You can enhance this project by adding features like alarms, countdowns, or even a world clock display for tracking different time zones.
https://github.com/hzeller/rpi-rgb-led-matrix
https://www.raspberrypi.com/news/build-low-power-clock-controlled-devices
6. Smart Home Dashboard
Integrate your Raspberry Pi with smart home devices to display real-time environmental data such as temperature, humidity, air quality, or motion alerts. An LED matrix can act as an efficient status board, giving you instant feedback on the conditions inside your home.
7. Tetris or Snake Game
Turn your LED matrix into a gaming display by coding classic games like Tetris, Snake, or Pong. You can control the game using physical buttons, a joystick, or even a smartphone app. This is an engaging project that’s both fun to build and play.
All of the games currently included in my ongoing LED project named retro_matrix!!
byu/Gorse212 inraspberry_pi
https://github.com/sighup1/tetris
What you might need
We finally have some LED Matrix’ for all the display nerds in our community, absolutely looking forward to messing around with these display!
- Interstate 75 W RGB LED Matrix Driver
- RGB LED Matrix Panel – 32×32 6mm pitch
- RGB LED Matrix Panel – 32×64 4mm pitch
- 830 Point Solderless Breadboard
- 120Pcs 10cm Breadboard Jumper Cable Kit
- MAX7219 Dot Matrix MCU LED Display Control Module Kit
Conclusion
These ten projects highlight just a few of the incredible ways you can use an LED matrix with a Raspberry Pi. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, these ideas offer a fun and rewarding challenge. Try building one of these projects and share your results with the maker community! What other creative uses for an LED matrix can you think of? Let us know in the comments or on social media!
