Best IO Modules of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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IO modules are electronic devices that enable communication between various pieces of equipment in industrial settings. These modules act as a bridge between sensors, actuators, and other devices, allowing them to transmit data and signals to a central control system. IO modules come in a variety of types and configurations, including analog and digital inputs and outputs, relay outputs, and special function modules. They are designed to be easy to install and integrate with existing systems and can help improve efficiency and productivity in industrial operations.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Waveshare 8-Ch Digital I/O Module Cover #TOP 1
Waveshare 8-Ch Digital I/O Module
ftb score rating icon 9.8
UIROBOT Compact I/O Module UIM1616 Cover #TOP 2
UIROBOT Compact I/O Module UIM1616
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Waveshare 8-Ch Relay Module Cover #TOP 3
Waveshare 8-Ch Relay Module
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 IO Modules

#TOP 1

Waveshare 8-Ch Digital I/O Module

Modbus RTU IO 8CH
Waveshare 8-Ch Digital I/O Module Cover
Waveshare Industrial 8-Ch Digital Input & Output Module, DC 7~36V Wide Voltage Power Supply, Modbus RTU Protocol, Multiple Isolation Protection Circuits, Rail-Mount Support

The Waveshare Digital I/O Module is designed for versatility and reliability. It supports a wide voltage range of 7 to 36V, ensuring stable operation in various environments. With the ability to configure addresses between 1 and 255, you can easily connect multiple devices on a single RS485 bus, simplifying your setup. The onboard voltage regulator and magnetical isolation enhance performance by providing stable isolated voltage and protecting against interference. Additionally, the resettable fuse and transient voltage suppressor safeguard your circuit from surges and spikes, giving you peace of mind in your applications.

What We Like
Wide voltage support
Multiple device connectivity
Signal isolation
Surge protection
#TOP 2

UIROBOT Compact I/O Module UIM1616

UIROBOT
UIM1616
Black
120*68*13mm
UIROBOT Compact I/O Module UIM1616 Cover
UIROBOT Compact I/O Module, Data Acquisition Module with CAN Bus and Encoder Interface, DAQ Device with 16 Inputs and 16 Outputs (UIM1616)

The UIROBOT Compact I/O offers powerful data acquisition capabilities with its advanced DSP system, ensuring high performance and fault tolerance. You can easily connect various devices using its CAN Bus interface, making it ideal for precise data input and output. The module also includes robust safety features, such as protection against short circuits and overvoltage, allowing you to work confidently. With 16 digital inputs and outputs, along with a quadrature encoder interface, you have the flexibility to configure your system to meet your specific needs, all in a compact and portable design.

What We Like
High-performance DSP system
Robust safety features
Flexible I/O configuration
Compact and portable design
#TOP 3

Waveshare 8-Ch Relay Module

Modbus RTU Relay (D)
Waveshare 8-Ch Relay Module Cover
Waveshare Industrial Modbus RTU 8-Ch Relay Module (D) with Digital Input and RS485 Interface, Multi Isolation Protection Circuits, 7~36V Power Supply

The Waveshare Relay Module offers versatile control with its configurable device address, allowing you to connect multiple devices on an RS485 bus. You can enjoy the convenience of its flash-on and flash-off function, which lets you activate a relay for a set period before it automatically turns off. This module also features onboard power supply isolation for stable voltage, eliminating the need for an additional power source. Furthermore, with magnetic isolation, you can rely on high reliability and low power consumption, ensuring your system runs smoothly without interference.

What We Like
Configurable device address
Flash-on and flash-off function
Stable power supply isolation
High reliability and low power
#TOP 4

SIEMENS LOGO! 12/24RCE

6ED1052-1MD08-0BA0
SIEMENS LOGO! 12/24RCE Cover
Siemens 6ED1052-1MD08-0BA0 LOGO! 12/24RCE, logic module, disp PS/I/O: 12/24VDC/relay, 8 DI (4AI)/4DO, memory 400 blocks, modular expandable, Ethernet

The SIEMENS LOGO! Relay is a logic module designed for 12/24VDC/relay applications. With 8 digital inputs (4 analog inputs) and 4 digital outputs, this module offers flexibility for various automation needs. It comes with a memory capacity of 400 blocks and is modular expandable, allowing for future upgrades. Additionally, it features Ethernet connectivity for easy integration into network systems. The SIEMENS LOGO! Relay simplifies control tasks, enhances monitoring capabilities, and ensures efficient operation for users.

What We Like
Modular expandability
8 DI/4 DO
Memory 400 blocks
#TOP 5

Grayhill 70M-IAC5 AC Input Module

Grayhill
70M-IAC5
Grayhill 70M-IAC5 AC Input Module Cover
GRAYHILL 70M-IAC5 Relays io-modules 70M Series 140 V 8 mA Yellow Color Mini Style AC Input Module - 1 item(s)

The Grayhill AC Input Module is designed to efficiently handle AC input with a maximum current of 8 mA and an input voltage range of 90 to 140 V. This flexibility allows you to integrate it easily into various systems without worrying about compatibility. Additionally, it provides an output voltage of 3 to 6 V, ensuring that you have the necessary power for your applications. With a maximum output current of 10 mA, this module can effectively support your devices, making it a convenient choice for your electrical projects.

What We Like
Wide input voltage range
Compact mini style
Efficient power handling
Versatile output options
#TOP 6

EBYTE ME31-AAAX4220 I/O Module

EBYTE
ME31-AAAX4220
ME31-AAAX4220
EBYTE ME31-AAAX4220 I/O Module Cover
4DI+2AI+2DO RS485 RJ45 Analog and Digital Acquisition Control ME31-AAAX4220 ModBus TCP RTU I/O Networking Module

The EBYTE I/O Module is a versatile device that supports both Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP protocols, making it compatible with various configuration software, PLCs, and touch screens. This flexibility allows you to easily integrate it into your current systems. It features RJ45 connections for up to four host accesses, which enhances your networking capabilities. Additionally, the module includes an OLED display to provide real-time status updates, ensuring you can monitor operations effortlessly. With two analog inputs and four dry switch inputs, it offers a reliable way to gather data and control devices effectively.

What We Like
Supports multiple communication protocols
Real-time status monitoring
Easy integration with existing systems
Multiple host access capability
#TOP 7

Hyuduo MCP23017 16 Channels IO Module

Hyuduo
Hyuduoodm8sn3pvw
Hyuduo MCP23017 16 Channels IO Module Cover
16 Channels IO Extension Module with I2C Interface for MCP23017 Chip 5V 3.3V Compatible 100Khz 400Khz 1.7Mhz Support High Speed IC Interface

The Hyuduo IO Expansion Module offers incredible versatility with its 16 channels, allowing you to easily configure each channel as either an input or output. You can enhance your project by using pull-up resistors and enabling interrupts for input channels. With a high-speed I2C interface, this module supports various frequencies, ensuring smooth data transfer. Additionally, you can connect up to 8 modules, expanding your I/O capabilities significantly. This means you can manage multiple devices effortlessly, making your projects more efficient and effective.

What We Like
Versatile channel configurations
High-speed data transfer
Supports multiple module connections
Compatible with 5V/3.3V systems
#TOP 8

ArecaIoT 4-Channel IO Module

ArecaIoT
bsr06-AD40B(A)
bsr06-AD40B(A)
ArecaIoT 4-Channel IO Module Cover
4 Channels 4-20mA Inputs RS485 RS232 Modbus Rtu IO Module

The ArecaIoT IO Module features four channels for 4-20mA inputs with impressive precision of 0.1% and a 12-bit resolution. This allows you to monitor and control various sensors with high accuracy, enhancing your data reliability. It operates on a wide power supply range of DC9-48V, making it versatile for different setups. Communication is facilitated through RS485 and RS232 ports using the Modbus RTU protocol, ensuring seamless integration with your existing systems. Additionally, its robust design can withstand extreme temperatures from -40℃ to 70℃, making it suitable for challenging environments.

What We Like
High precision inputs
Wide power supply range
Multiple communication options
Durable in extreme conditions
#TOP 9

HYTROL GEN 3 IO Module

HYTROL
032.532
HYTROL GEN 3 IO Module Cover
HYTROL 032.532 GEN 3, IO Module, 10-30 V DC, EZ Logic, Auxiliary, 1-5 MA, Plugs INTO Auxiliary Port of Controller

The HYTROL IO Module offers a versatile range of features that enhance your control system. Operating within a voltage range of 10-30 V DC, it provides flexibility for various applications. With a current output of 1-5 MA, you can ensure reliable performance for your devices. The auxiliary functionality allows for seamless integration with other components, making it easier to expand your system. Additionally, the EZ Logic feature simplifies programming, allowing you to set up and manage your configuration with ease. This module is designed to make your automation tasks more efficient and user-friendly.

What We Like
Wide voltage compatibility
Reliable current output
Easy integration
Simplified programming
#TOP 10

WAGO 750-530 8 Channel Output Module

750-530-WAGO
WAGO 750-530 8 Channel Output Module Cover
WAGO 750-530 I/O MODULES

The WAGO 8 Channel Output is a versatile digital output module designed for use with WAGO's modular input and output systems. With a current rating of 25, it ensures reliable performance for various applications. The compact design, measuring just 12 mm in width and 100 mm in depth, allows for easy integration into existing systems without taking up much space. Operating at a voltage rating of 24, this module is RoHS compliant, making it a safe choice for environmentally conscious users. By incorporating this module, you can enhance your system's efficiency and reliability.

What We Like
Compact design
Reliable performance
RoHS compliant
Easy integration
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which are the three types of IO modules?

The three types of IO modules are direct digital output, modulated digital output, and analog output. These modules provide different ways to interact with input and output signals in various applications.

2. What are the different types of IO modules?

IO modules can be categorized into analog channels, digital channels, or a combination of both. Analog inputs can detect signals like frequency, voltage, or current. Digital inputs and outputs are used for low-level on-off signals. The specific types of IO modules may vary depending on the manufacturer and application requirements.

3. What are the 4 types of IO?

The four types of IO are programmed I/O, interrupt-based I/O, direct memory access (DMA) I/O, and channel I/O. Programmed I/O involves controlling data transfer between devices and the computer. Interrupt-based I/O controls data transfer to and from connected I/O devices using interrupts. DMA I/O allows direct memory access for data transfer, reducing CPU involvement. Channel I/O utilizes dedicated channels for I/O operations.

Editor's Notes

During our io module research, we found 24 io module products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,464 customer reviews through our big data system to write the io modules list. We found that most customers choose io modules with an average price of $59.16.

The io modules are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of io modules, including waveshare, UIROBOT, SIEMENS, Grayhill, EBYTE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 96 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.