
MOSFET Transistors
144 results
N-channel and P-channel MOSFET transistors, in through-hole TO-220, TO-247, TO-3P packages or SOT-23 SMD, for switching loads, driving motors and building switch-mode power supplies.
Related categories




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Dual N-Channel MOSFET 8205L

P2026100896
N-Channel MOSFET IRFR7440TRPBF, 180A 40V SMD




P2026090763
N-Channel MOSFET FQPF10N90, 900V 10A

P2026090723
N-Channel Power MOSFET 11N90, 900V 11A

P2026090721
N-Channel Power MOSFET 80NF55, 55V 80A

P2026090718
N-Channel Power MOSFET S80N10R, 80V 100A




Choosing the right MOSFET
A MOSFET is controlled by voltage on the gate, not by current like a bipolar transistor: once saturated, it behaves like a low-resistance switch. Three figures decide almost everything: the maximum drain-source voltage (Vds), the drain current (Id) and the on-state resistance (Rds-on). Allow a margin of at least 1.5 to 2 times the voltage actually present in the circuit, especially with an inductive load.
- Low voltage, high current: for 12 V, inverters or an H-bridge, the classic IRFZ44N, IRF3205, IRF1404 or 75NF75 offer low Rds-on and therefore little heating.
- High voltage: for a chopper, a ballast or a switch-mode power supply running off rectified mains, look at the IRF740, FQPF8N60, IRFP460 or FQA60N60 (500 to 900 V).
- Direct drive from a microcontroller: with a 3.3 V or 5 V output, you need a logic-level MOSFET such as the IRLZ44N, or a small signal 2N7000 / BS170; otherwise add a driver such as the TC426CPA or IR21571.
- P-channel: for switching on the positive side (high-side) or protecting against reverse polarity — AO3401 in SOT-23, IRF4905 or IRFP9240 for power applications.
Also think about cooling: beyond a few watts dissipated, a heatsink becomes necessary, and the insulated TO-220F package avoids the need for a mica washer. Other transistor families can be found in Transistors and DIAC.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an N-channel and a P-channel MOSFET?
The N-channel conducts when the gate is driven above the source and is generally placed on the negative side of the load (low-side); it is the most common type because its resistance is lower. The P-channel conducts when the gate is pulled below the source and is mainly used to switch the positive rail or to protect against reverse polarity.
Can an IRFZ44N be driven directly with an Arduino?
Not really: the IRFZ44N is specified for 10 V on the gate and remains partially open at 5 V, which causes it to heat up under high current. Prefer a logic-level version such as the IRLZ44N, or add a gate driver.
What does Rds-on mean and why does it matter?
This is the resistance of the MOSFET when it is conducting. Losses equal I² × Rds-on: at 20 A, going from 50 mΩ to 5 mΩ drops dissipation from 20 W to 2 W, which is why low Rds-on references are important for high currents.
Which MOSFET should be chosen to replace the one in a switch-mode power supply?
Note down the original reference and match the voltage (often 600 V or more for rectified 220 V mains), the current and the package type. An equivalent reference must have a Vds and an Id at least equal, and a Rds-on and gate charge close to the original so as not to disturb the driver.
Why don't two MOSFETs with the same current rating have the same price?
Price mainly follows breakdown voltage, Rds-on, package technology and the original manufacturer. A high-voltage, low-resistance component in a TO-247 package costs more than a small signal SOT-23 part.
