Best Optocouplers of 2026
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Optocouplers are essential components in industrial and scientific applications. These devices are used to isolate high voltage circuits from low voltage circuits, protecting sensitive components from damage. Optocouplers consist of an LED and a photodetector, which are separated by a small gap. When the LED is activated, it emits light that is detected by the photodetector, allowing signals to be transmitted between circuits without direct electrical contact. Optocouplers are commonly used in motor control, power supplies, and communication systems, making them an important part of many industrial and scientific processes.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Optocouplers
BOJACK PC817 OPTOCOUPLER DIP (Pack of 50 pcs)
BOJACK PC817 OPTOCOUPLER DIP is a pack of 50 pieces of 4-pin DIP-4 with a needle distance of 2.54mm. The photocoupler output type is phototransistor, and it is commonly used in household appliances, computer terminals, photocopiers, SCR system equipment, and measuring instruments. The product comes in a durable and resealable plastic storage box.
Chanzon PC817 Optocoupler 50pcs DIP-4
The Chanzon PC817 Optocoupler is a set of 50 reliable optocouplers designed for easy installation with a 4-pin DIP package. It offers a wide transfer ratio range from 50% to 600%, which means you can expect flexible and efficient signal transfer for various electronic projects. With a strong isolation voltage of 5000Vrms, it ensures your circuits remain protected from high voltage spikes, keeping your components safe. The 4-pin through-hole design makes it simple to mount on breadboards or circuit boards, perfect for DIY electronics or Arduino projects. This pack is compatible with other popular models like EL817C, making it a versatile choice for replacements or new builds.
ALLECIN PC817 Optocoupler (Pack of 50)
The ALLECIN PC817 Optocoupler is a versatile component ideal for various electronic projects. With its four pins and a 2.54mm pitch, it makes connections straightforward, allowing you to focus on your experiments. The high isolation voltage between the input and output ensures safety and reliability, which is crucial when working with sensitive electronics. Its double transfer mold packaging provides durability, protecting the internal components during use. This optocoupler is perfect for applications like computer terminals, measuring instruments, and household appliances, making it a valuable addition to your toolkit.
AOICRIE PC817 6pcs 1-Channel Optocoupler Module
The AOICRIE PC817 Optocoupler is a handy isolation module designed with a single channel and easy-to-use screw terminals, making wiring quick and simple for you. It supports a range of input voltages from 3V up to 24V, giving you flexibility depending on your project needs. This module helps protect your microcontroller when driving motors or other inductive devices by isolating signals and reducing interference. Additionally, it can act as a level converter, allowing you to safely connect devices with different voltage levels, which is perfect if you want to control or receive signals from other equipment without risk.
DONGKER 8-Channel Optocoupler Isolation Board
The DONGKER Optocoupler Board is a versatile voltage converter adapter module that offers optocoupler isolation control and 8-channel input and output. With NPN / PNP signal output capability, this module supports DC 3.3V5V input and can handle a load voltage range of DC 1.8V-24V. The optocoupler isolation control ensures electrical isolation between the input and output, providing added protection to your circuit. The 8-channel input and output allow for easy integration with multiple devices, making it suitable for various applications. The NPN / PNP signal output offers flexibility in signal compatibility, allowing you to connect to different types of devices. With support for DC 3.3V5V input, this module is compatible with a wide range of power sources. The DC 1.8V-24V load voltage capability makes it suitable for different load requirements. The DONGKER Optocoupler Board is a reliable and convenient solution for voltage conversion and signal control in your projects.
NOYITO PC817 1-Channel Optocoupler Module
The NOYITO Optocoupler Module offers an easy way to protect your microcontroller circuits from electrical interference by using 5.0 pitch screw terminals for straightforward wiring. If you need to detect high voltages, such as a 12V sensor output while working with a 5V microcontroller, this module safely isolates the signals to prevent damage. It also helps amplify current when your microcontroller's output is too weak to drive certain devices like motors. With flexible input voltage options (3-5V, 12V, or 24V), it adapts to different setups, making your electronics projects more reliable and versatile.
AOICRIE PC817 4-Channel Optocoupler Board
The AOICRIE PC817 Optocoupler lets you control multiple voltages independently, making it easy to manage different circuits at once. With four channels, you can handle signal voltages from 3.6 to 24V and outputs up to 30V, giving you flexibility for various projects. This module isolates your control signals, so you can safely connect microcontrollers or other devices without worrying about voltage interference. Plus, it includes jumper caps that let you choose between high or low output, offering you simple customization to fit your specific needs.
NOYITO PC817 Optocoupler Module
The NOYITO Optocoupler Module is designed to provide reliable signal isolation, making it an essential tool for your electronic projects. With 5.0 pitch screw terminals, you can easily connect your devices without hassle. This module helps protect your microcontroller by isolating it from high-voltage signals, ensuring safe operation. Additionally, it amplifies weak output currents, allowing you to drive more demanding circuits effortlessly. Whether you're working with 3-5V, 12V, or 24V signals, this module offers versatile voltage handling to meet your needs.
Diitao PC817 6PCS 2-Channel Optocoupler Module
The Diitao 2-Channel Optocoupler is designed to handle signal voltages from 3.3 to 24 volts and output voltages between 3.6 and 30 volts, making it versatile for various electronic projects. You can easily switch between high and low potential outputs using the included jumper cap, allowing for flexible control options. With two independent channels on board, you can control different voltages simultaneously, which is great for managing multiple circuits at once. Keep in mind, though, it works best with signals below 3 kHz, so it’s ideal for low-frequency applications. This makes it a useful and adaptable module for your isolation and driving needs.
TAODAN PC817 50pcs Optocoupler DIP-4
The TAODAN PC817 Optocoupler comes in a set of 50 pieces, making it a great choice if you need multiple units for your projects or repairs. Each chip has four pins, which allows for easy integration into your circuits. The pins are spaced 2.54mm apart, a common size that fits well with standard breadboards and PCBs, making installation straightforward. This optocoupler uses a phototransistor output, providing reliable signal transfer while keeping your devices electrically isolated. With the TAODAN PC817 Optocoupler, you get a convenient and efficient component for various electronic applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are optocouplers used for?
Optocouplers are used to send signals between circuits with separate grounds, providing an isolated galvanic barrier. They are commonly used in circuits that require isolation for safety or regulatory reasons while still allowing interaction between the circuits.
2. What is the main advantage of an optocoupler?
The main advantages of an optocoupler are its fast operation, low noise, ability to work with both AC and DC high-voltage signals, and its use in various sensor applications to detect physical objects.
3. What are the types of optocouplers?
There are four types of optocouplers: those that use a photo transistor, photo Darlington transistor, photo TRIAC, and photo SCR.
4. Is an optocoupler like a relay?
No, an optocoupler is not like a relay. Optocouplers are cheaper, longer-lasting, consume less power, and handle less power compared to relays. Relays are typically used for applications that require higher power switching.
5. Is an optocoupler necessary?
An optocoupler is only necessary when additional isolation is required. In most applications, a relay provides sufficient isolation. Solid-state relays often include an optocoupler to protect against potential malfunctions in the internal electronics.
6. How long do optocouplers last?
The lifespan of an optocoupler depends on various factors, but under certain conditions, it can last up to 21 years or more.
7. Why use an optocoupler instead of a transistor?
Optocouplers are used when isolation is needed between the control circuit and the switched circuit, especially when the coil operates on AC or to prevent switching transients from affecting the control circuits. Transistors are generally easier and cheaper to use.
8. How fast can an optocoupler switch?
Optocouplers can switch at speeds up to 1 Mbit/s with a bandwidth of 2 MHz.
9. How do you use an optocoupler as a switch?
To use an optocoupler as a switch, the forward current must be large enough compared to the collector current to drive it into saturation. The forward and collector currents are linked through the current transfer ratio (CTR) in the optocoupler circuit.
10. Why does a relay need an optocoupler?
Relays are often driven using optocouplers to provide isolation between the analog and digital grounds. This ensures that the switching currents in the relay coils do not affect the noise margin of the digital circuit.
11. How does an optocoupler relay work?
In an optocoupler relay, the input trigger is applied to the LED of the optocoupler, which illuminates and makes the photo-transistor conduct. The voltage from the photo-transistor passes through the collector to the emitter and reaches the triac's gate, activating it.
During our optocoupler research, we found 24 optocoupler products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,498 customer reviews through our big data system to write the optocouplers list. We found that most customers choose optocouplers with an average price of $8.03.
The optocouplers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of optocouplers, including BOJACK, CHANZON, ALLECIN, AOICRIE, DONGKER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,152 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
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.