MeshCore firmware (like MEshtastic) operates across a few primary microcontroller (MCU) families paired with compatible Semtech LoRa radio chipsets.  The three core microcontroller architectures supported by MeshCore are:

1. ESP32 (cheap with WiFi)
   Espressif ESP32 Series (Wi-Fi + Bluetooth + LoRa) chips are heavily used for devices that require active Wi-Fi, Bluetooth/BLE, and higher processing capability. Common variants in the ecosystem include:

   1. • ESP32-S3: Found on popular boards like the Heltec V3, Heltec Wireless Paper, LilyGo T3S3, and Station G2.

      • ESP32-C3: A lower-power RISC-V variant used on ultra-compact stamp modules (like the Heltec Capsule Sensor).

2. nRF52 (low-power and long battery life)
   Nordic Semiconductor nRF52 Series (Ultra-Low-Power BLE).  These chips are favored for low-power operation, long battery life, and solar setups because they lack power-hungry Wi-Fi radios while retaining efficient Bluetooth Low Energy.

   1. • nRF52840: The primary Nordic chip used in modular ecosystems and low-power units, powering devices like the Heltec T114, RAK WisBlock (RAK4631), and Nano G2 Ultra.

3. STM32
   Supported at the firmware architecture level for specific industrial or legacy hardware configurations, though ESP32 and nRF52 boards make up the vast majority of consumer and DIY node deployment