Arduino instead of FTDI breakout

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Hi everybody!
I am a begginer so my question might have a really simple answer, but I was unable to find any help on this no matter how much time I spent searching on the web.
I was wandering if it is possible to program my esp8266 through my arduino, instead of using another usb-to-serial adaptor like the ftdi breakout board ft232rl.
Some people said that it's ok to do so, some others said that the output current of the arduino is not even close to the current demands of esp8266, some others said that the problem is just that the digital outputs of the arduino have a logical value of 5V and the esp8266 has 3.3V.
I just ordered my ft232, but it will take a month to deliver. Is there a clear explenation of why I shouldn't (or should) use my arduino to program the esp8266 for now?
Thanks
ps I have arduino uno and nano

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Because it's the ATMEGA328 chip that limits the current?

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spycatcher2k:
ESP8266 Logic Level = 3.3V
Arduino Logic Level (Normally) = 5V

You would need a Logic level converter, and remove your ATMEGA328 chip, but it can be done.

Actually tying RESET to GND is all that's needed. The chip will be high-z in reset-mode.

// Per.

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dhmhtrhsv:
Because it's the ATMEGA328 chip that limits the current?

It has nothing to do with current.

From the Arduino TX to the ESP8266 RX, put a 1K resistor. It will drop the extra voltage when the ESD-clamping diodes in the ESP will conduct. It's an ugly hack, but it will work at low baud rates (don't go over 115K)

// Per.

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Some people said that it's ok to do so, some others said that the output current of the arduino is not even close to the current demands of esp8266, some others said that the problem is just that the digital outputs of the arduino have a logical value of 5V and the esp8266 has 3.3V.

There are 2 issues:

  1. Do Not power the ESP8266 from the Arduino 3.3V regulator - the Arduino cannot provide the current.

  2. The Arduino is 5V logic level and yhe ESP8266 is 3.3V logic level. BUT Espressif the manufacturer has publically stated the I/O on the ESP8266 is 5V tolerant ...
    Related Article

Personally =, I use a series resistor myself between 5V "output" logic and the ESP8266 input... 100 Ohms to 1000 Ohms should pose no issue to signaling.

Ray