Small TFmini-S Lidar Sensor - Compact 0.1-12m TOF Distance Module

In this review of the Small TFmini-S Lidar Sensor the bottom line is simple: this compact TOF laser rangefinder is best for hobbyists and developers who need a lightweight, fast distance module for drones, Arduino or Raspberry Pi projects. The reviewer found the sensor delivers stable and precise single-point ranging from 0.1 to 12m, with a narrow 2 degree field of view that makes it easy to target specific objects. It is a practical choice when reliable short-to-medium range measurement is required and when UART connectivity is acceptable.

Key Features

• TOF single-point ranging: Provides stable, high-speed distance readings based on time-of-flight, making it suitable for rapid obstacle detection and level measurement.
• Operating range 0.1-12m: Covers close-proximity sensing through moderate distance tasks, useful for drones, robots and indoor monitoring setups.
• UART/I2C communication: Ships in UART mode by default and can be switched to I2C, offering flexible integration with Raspberry Pi, Arduino and Pixhawk controllers.
• Low voltage operation: Runs from 4.5 to 6V, which matches common microcontroller and flight controller power supplies for straightforward wiring.
• Narrow 2 degree FOV: A tight beam helps focus measurements on a single target and reduce interference from nearby surfaces.
• Compact and lightweight: Small module size keeps added payload weight to a minimum on UAVs and mobile robots.

Who It's For

The TFmini-S is aimed at makers, drone pilots, and robotics developers who need a compact, accurate distance sensor that integrates with Arduino, Raspberry Pi or Pixhawk systems. Its short-to-medium range and narrow FOV make it ideal for obstacle avoidance, level sensing and targeted distance measurements where pinpoint accuracy and speed matter.

Users who require very long-range LiDAR, wide-area scanning, or a ready-made I2C setup out of the box might look elsewhere; switching the communication mode requires manual configuration and this module is optimized for single-point detection rather than 3D mapping.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact form factor and low weight make it easy to add to drones and portable robots.
• Fast, stable TOF measurements across 0.1-12m deliver useful performance for many applications.
• Compatible with common platforms like Raspberry Pi and Arduino, easing development work.
• Narrow 2 degree FOV reduces unwanted readings from adjacent objects.

Cons

• TFmini-S is UART by default, so users wanting I2C must manually switch modes.
• Single-point output means it is not suited for scanning or mapping tasks that need multiple returns.

Specifications

Product type	Single-point TOF laser ranging module
Operating range	0.1-12m
Field of view	2 degree
Supply voltage	4.5-6V
Communication	UART (default), switchable to I2C
Compatibility	Raspberry Pi, Arduino, Pixhawk

Our Verdict

The Small TFmini-S Lidar Sensor is a strong, cost-effective choice for creators who need accurate short-to-medium range detection with minimal payload impact. It excels in UAV obstacle sensing and embedded projects that accept UART connectivity, offering solid value when a compact, fast TOF module is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this with a Raspberry Pi?
Yes, the module is compatible with Raspberry Pi and can communicate via UART or I2C after switching modes.

What range can I expect in real conditions?
The sensor operates from 0.1 to 12m; performance is best on objects that reflect well and within the specified FOV and environmental conditions.

Is it ready for flight on a small drone?
Yes, its compact, lightweight design and 4.5-6V supply make it suitable for drones, provided the single-point output fits the planned avoidance or sensing system.