Bosch has been a leader in barometric pressure sensors, from the BMP280, BMP388, BMP390... now we've got the next generation, the Adafruit BMP580 Precision Barometric Pressure and Altimeter Breakout. It can even be used in either I2C and SPI configurations.

The BMP580 is the next-generation of sensors from Bosch and is the upgrade to the BMP2xx and BMP3xx - with a low-altitude noise as low as 1.5cm (0.1Pa) and the same fast conversion time. And like the previous BMP280, you can use I2C or SPI. For simple easy wiring, go with I2C. If you want to connect a bunch of sensors without worrying about I2C address collisions, go with SPI.

This sensor has a relative accuracy of ±6 Pascals at room temperature, which translates to about ±50 centimeters of altitude (compare to the BMP280's ±12 Pascal/±1 meter and BMP388's ±8 Pascal/±0.5 meter). The typical absolute accuracy is ±30Pa or about 2.5 meters. Check the datasheet for how temperature and altitude can affect the absolute/relative accuracy.

The BMP580 is software/firmware compatible with the BMP581 but has less accurate/precision measurements. It's also less expensive! So pick this when cost is more important than accuracy.

The datasheet sort of implies that this sensor is intended to be used for drones and quadcopters to maintain altitude stability, but it can also be used for wearables or any project that requires tracking height above sea level. Note that for absolute height, you'll still need to enter the barometric pressure at sea level if the weather changes; however, this is true of every altimeter sensor that uses pressure. You can also measure temperature with ±0.5°C accuracy.

Nice sensor, right? So we made it easy for you to get right into your next project. The surface-mount sensor is soldered onto a custom made PCB in the STEMMA QT form factor, making them easy to interface with. The STEMMA QT connectors on either side are compatible with the SparkFun Qwiic I2C connectors. This allows you to make solderless connections between your development board and the BMP58x or to chain it with a wide range of other sensors and accessories using a compatible cable. QT Cable is not included, but we have a variety in the shop.