Microprocessor (MPU)

A microprocessor (MPU) is a CPU on a single chip that executes instructions. On its own it can’t run a system. It needs external chips for memory (RAM, ROM/flash), storage and I/O. Microprocessors are built for general-purpose, high-performance computing.

Microcontroller (MCU)

A microcontroller (MCU) is a small computer on a single chip. It puts a processor core together with RAM, flash/ROM, and peripherals (GPIO, timers, ADC/DAC, UART, SPI, I²C, PWM, and so on) on one die. It is built to control one dedicated task in an embedded system (e.g. Smart Kettle), usually at low cost and low power.