Difference Between Microcontroller and Microprocessor

The microcontroller is the heart of an The microprocessor is the heart of a computer

embedded system. system.

The microcontroller has an external

It is just a processor. Memory and I/O
processor along with internal memory and
components have to be connected externally
i/O components
Since memory and I/0 are present Since memory and I/O have to be connected
internally, the circuit is small. externally, the circuit becomes large.

Can be used in compact systems and hence Cannot be used in compact systems and
it is an efficient technique hence inefficient

The cost of the entire system is low Cost of the entire system increases

Since external components are low, total Due to external components, the entire power
power consumption is less and can be used consumption is high. Hence it is not suitable to
with devices running on stored power like use with devices running on stored power like
batteries. batteries.

Most of the microcontrollers have Most microprocessors do not have power

powersaving modes like idle mode and saving feature
powersaving mode. This helps to reduce
power consumption even further.

Since components are internal, most of the Since memory and I/O components are all
operations are internal instruction, hence external, each instruction will need an external
speed is fast. operation, hence it is relatively slower.

Microcontrollers have a greater number of

Microprocessors have a smaller number of
registers; hence the programs are easier to
registers; hence more operations are memory
write.
based

Microprocessors are based on the von

Microcontrollers are based on Harvard
Neumann model/architecture where programs
architecture where program memory and
and data are stored in the same memory
Data memory are separate
module

Used mainly in washing machines,

Mainly used in personal computers
MP3 players