MPyTools – Extension for MicroPython in VS Code

[daleka]

Hi everyone!

I’d like to share my MPyTools extension for Visual Studio Code. It simplifies working with MicroPython using mpremote and is designed for those who prefer buttons instead of manually typing commands.

🔹 What MPyTools can do:
✅ Automatically compiles .py to .mpy, uploads only modified files to the device, and instantly runs the updated code.
At the same time, it reads device parameters (architecture, bytecode version, small-int bits) and compiles the code accordingly,
generating a unique command each time:
mpy-cross -march= -msmall-int-bits= -O -b
This ensures compatibility and helps detect additional errors during development.
✅ Can run the active .py file via "Run" directly from the host machine without copying it to the device.
✅ Provides easy microcontroller management through convenient buttons in the VS Code status bar.
✅ Fast local project backup – useful for small projects when you need to quickly save your progress.
✅ Automatic installation of MicroPython stubs (micropython-stubs), improving autocompletion and type checking in VS Code.
✅ Added a file manager for MicroPython devices – you can now browse and manage files on the device directly from the VS Code explorer.
A minimal set of features has been added, with more interactions and enhancements coming in future updates to improve integration with
MicroPython.

🔹 Device Compatibility:
🔹 Tested only on STM32. – ESP32, RP2040, and others haven’t been verified yet. If you encounter any issues, feel free to report them – I’ll try to fix them when I have time.
🔹 Not tested on Linux, but support has been added – it should work, but no guarantees. :)

🔹 Required Dependencies
📌 mpremote
📌 mpy-cross
📌 zip archiver

🔹 What’s next?

• ESP32 and other MicroPython boards.
• I initially planned to add support for mounted directories, but mpremote currently lacks proper support for .mpy files, so I put this feature on hold for now.
• Expanding support for new mpremote commands.

If you use any mpremote features that you find helpful, let me know – I can add support for them! Please specify the command you use and where it is useful.

I’d appreciate any feedback or suggestions!

🔗 Marketplace: MPyTools

[yfyungit]

In order to facilitate the management and debugging of the micro python project, I also developed a similar set of tools by myself, but it was not made public on the Internet.

I was very distressed before that there are almost no similar tools under Mircopython that are very easy to use.

[mattytrentini]

Hmm, I guess ease is in the eye of the user! I've not found any embedded system with an easier workflow than the combination of VS Code (or your editor of choice) and mpremote.

We are lacking a debugger - and one would be welcome! - but they are much less necessary in a dynamic environment like MicroPython.