8 of the 9 features in our table differ between the BH1750 and the TSL2561.
0.11 lx to 100,000 lx · I²C · 2.4 to 3.6 V
ROHM’s simple lux meter on I²C: 1 to 65,535 lx by default, and 0.11 to 100,000 lx when the driver adjusts the measurement time.
Watch out: Sunlight needs a shorter measurement time than the default: ESPHome sets it on its own; with another library, check that it does. The datasheet gives a ±20 % variation.
dynamic range 1,000,000:1 · I²C · 2.7 to 3.6 V
ams’ two-channel light sensor (visible plus infrared), used in many older projects and libraries.
Watch out: Discontinued by ams OSRAM: for new builds, choose the TSL2591 or the VEML7700.
| Feature | BH1750 | TSL2561 |
|---|---|---|
| Measures | light | light · infrared |
| Light range | 0.11 lx to 100,000 lx | dynamic range 1,000,000:1 |
| Resolution | 0.11 lx | – |
| I²C address | 0x23, 0x5C (set with a pin) | 0x29, 0x39, 0x49 (set with a pin) |
| Supply | 2.4 to 3.6 V | 2.7 to 3.6 V |
| Current between readings | 0.01 µA | 3.2 µA |
| ESPHome | bh1750 | tsl2561 |
| Status | Available | Discontinued |
Same on both: interface.
Open the sensor comparison →Tick what your project needs and see which sensor fits best.
BH1750: I²C address, wiring and pull-ups →
TSL2561: I²C address, wiring and pull-ups →
The BH1750 offers less current between readings and a part still in production. The TSL2561 offers a separate infrared channel.
The BH1750: 0.11 lx to 100,000 lx. The TSL2561: dynamic range 1,000,000:1.
Often yes: both use I²C. Change the driver or, in ESPHome, the component (bh1750 → tsl2561). The I²C address changes too (0x23/0x5C → 0x29/0x39/0x49).
Figures from the makers’ datasheets and product pages and the ESPHome documentation, checked in November 2026.