
2N4401 vs PN2222 Transistor|PDF, Pinout, Equivalent, Pros & Cons
yunying Release time:2024-03-12 Page View:268

This article will compare the 2N4401 and PN2222 transistors for datasheet, pinout, CAD-Model, equivalents, pros & cons
2N4401 TRANS NPN 40V 0.6A TO92 TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)
PN2222 TRANS NPN 30V 0.6A TO92 TO-226-3, TO-92-3 Long Body
2N4401 vs PN2222 Description
2N4401 & PN2222
2N4401 Description
2N4401 Description:
The 2N4401 transistor is a bipolar junction transistor that is used in many electronic circuits. It has three terminals, the base, the collector and emitter. 2N4401s are typically packaged in a TO92 package. This is a discrete, small package that is commonly used to house transistors.
The 2N4401 has been designed for switching and amplification applications. The transistor has a collector current of up to 600 mA, and a collector-emitter maximum voltage of 40V. The gain (hFE), which ranges from 40 to 300,00, makes it suitable for low- to medium-power applications.
- The 2N4401 has a wide availability and is well known for its versatility and reliability. It is widely used in audio amplifiers and signal processing circuits.
PN2222 Description
PN2222 Description:
The PN2222, which is a bipolar junction transistor that operates in NPN mode, is very similar to the 2N4401. It is housed in a TO92 package and has three terminals, the base, collector and emitter.
- The PN2222 was designed to be used in general-purpose amplification applications and switching, similar to the 2N4401. The maximum collector current is 600 mA, and the maximum collector-emitter (VCEO) voltage is 40V. The transistor's gain (hFE), which ranges from 75 to 300 makes it suitable for low- to medium-power applications.
The PN2222, which is widely available, is also known for its versatility and reliability. Like the 2N4401, it is used for audio amplifiers and signal processing circuits.
2N4401 vs PN2222 Features
- Current gain (hFE): PN2222 typically has a higher hFE of 60-300 compared to 30-150 for 2N4401.
- Breakdown voltage (BVCBO): 2N4401 has a marginally higher 40V vs 30V for PN2222.
- Collector current (IC): Both can handle 600mA continuously but PN2222 is rated for 800mA maximum.
2N4401 vs PN2222 Pinout
Standard NPN pinout for both - Base, Emitter, Collector pins
2N4401 vs PN2222 CAD-Model
2N4401 Symbol
Footprint
3D-Model
PN2222 Symbol
Footprint
3D-Model
2N4401 vs PN2222 Applications
Amplification: Both transistors can be used in amplifier circuits to amplify small signals.
Switching: They can also be used as switches in digital and analog circuits to control the flow of current.
Oscillators: The transistors can be used in oscillator circuits to generate oscillating signals.
Signal Processing: They can be used in signal processing circuits such as filters and modulators.
- 2N4401 is suitable for general switching where higher voltages may be present.
- PN2222 is better for amplification circuits due to current gain. Also preferred in space-constrained projects due to package size.
Both are robust transistors suitable for hobbyist and educational projects involving low power switching and amplification like sensors, LED drivers and more. Final choice depends on circuit design specifications and package requirements.
2N4401 vs PN2222 Pros & Cons
The 2N4401 and PN2222 are both NPN bipolar junction transistors
Pros of 2N4401: Higher breakdown voltage rating.
Pros of PN2222: Higher current gain and rating, available in smaller SOT-23 package.
2N4401 vs PN2222 Equivalent:
Equivalents: 2N4401 can be replaced with PN2222, 2N3904, MPSA42.
PN2222 equivalents include 2N4401, 2N3904.
If you want to know whether can be replaced for each other, the answer is yes:
The 2N4401 and PN2222 are considered to be equivalent transistors in terms of their electrical characteristics. They have similar voltage and current ratings, as well as similar gain and frequency response. This means that in most applications, the two transistors can be used interchangeably without significant differences in performance.
Product comparison
-
ImagePart NumberManufacturerToleranceVoltage - RatedProduct StatusPackage / CaseProduct CategoryView Compare
-
-
-
-
TO-92
Transistors - Bipolar (BJT) - Single
-
-
-
-
TO-226-3
Transistors - Bipolar (BJT) - Single
-
-
-
-
TO-18
Transistors - Bipolar (BJT) - Single
-
-
-
-
TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)
Transistors - Bipolar (BJT) - Single

Frequently Asked Questions
can i use 2n4401 as alternative for 2n222?
-
1,000+Daily Order Quantity
-
2,500,000+Alternative Parts
-
2,200+Worldwide Manufacturers
-
10,000 ㎡In-stock Warehouse