January 14, 2026
Soldering irons down, popcorn up
SparkFun Officially Dropping AdaFruit due to CoC Violation
Public breakup shocks makers; fans ask why and worry about EU stock
TLDR: SparkFun publicly cut ties with Adafruit over alleged Code of Conduct breaches. The community is split: some trust SparkFun, others ask why this was posted and fret about European stock, while many wait for Adafruit’s response—because this could affect where makers buy parts and who they trust.
SparkFun just went public with a breakup: they say Adafruit violated their Code of Conduct (CoC). The statement alleges offensive emails and dragging a customer into a private dispute, then ends with a polite “wish you the best.” The community immediately asked: why publish this? Echelon praised SparkFun for past kindness but wondered what really happened. Ramblurr nervously asked about European availability since many EU stores carry Adafruit via SparkFun distribution. Trust vs. transparency became the mood: some side with SparkFun’s reputation, others smell corporate drama.
Speculators are circling. Mosura said Adafruit’s been “heading in the wrong direction,” pointing to Arduino messaging and tariff headaches. Progbits called the accusations “fun” but wants Adafruit’s side, reminding everyone they’re competitors. Sorcix roasted the page’s generic URL—“this will 404”—because even in a breakup, link rot matters. The vibe: popcorn energy, cautious outrage, and commerce anxiety. Until Adafruit replies, the thread is split between “SparkFun wouldn’t post this lightly” and “this is vague tea—spill it.” For first-timers: Adafruit and SparkFun sell DIY electronics kits; a CoC is a rules list for behavior. The stakes? Community trust—and where you’ll buy your next blinking LEDs in Europe. Drama not over yet.
Key Points
- •SparkFun will no longer transact with Adafruit Industries due to Code of Conduct violations.
- •Alleged violations include offensive and derogatory communications sent to SparkFun employees, former employees, and customers.
- •Another cited violation is involving a SparkFun customer in a private matter.
- •SparkFun sent official communication to Adafruit and stated the decision was made after thoughtful consideration.
- •SparkFun continues to support its reseller network and provides a distributor map for SparkFun-original products, Teensy, and other offerings.