The TO-220 package series is widely used in power semiconductor devices such as MOSFETs, IGBTs, and thyristors.

However, there are significant differences between TO-220F and TO-220C in terms of electrical insulation, thermal performance, and application scenarios, which affect the reliability, safety, and cost of the devices.

📌 What is TO-220F? (Fully Isolated)

TO-220F package is electrically isolated from the semiconductor components inside the package. Which means that the heat sink can be directly connected to the circuit board without the need for additional isolation devices.

📌 Advantages of TO-220F

  • Tab is fully isolated — no insulator required
  • Simplifies PCB layout
  • Reduced risk of short-circuit
  • Ideal for multi-device heatsink configuration

The drawback is that the TO-220F has a higher thermal resistance, requiring a better heat dissipation design; its heat dissipation efficiency is slightly lower than that of the TO-220C.

📌 What is TO-220C? (Center Tab)

The “C” refers to Center Tab.
Here, the metal heatsink tab is electrically connected to a device node—typically collector for BJT, drain or source for MOSFET.

📌 Advantages of TO-220C

  • Excellent heat conduction
  • Lower thermal resistance → higher current handling capability
  • Suitable for high-power, high-heat applications

⚙️ TO-220F vs TO-220C

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🔷 TO-220F Applications — when isolation matters

  • Motor drive systems
  • Power supplies where tab shorting is unacceptable
  • Industrial power control
  • Consumer power devices with safety isolation
  • Multi-device heatsink configurations

e.g:
In a motor control system, TO-220F MOSFETs enable safe sharing of a common heatsink without electrical coupling.

🔷 TO-220C Applications — when heat matters

  • Audio & RF power amplifiers
  • High-current MOSFET switching
  • AC/DC power converters
  • DC-DC regulators
  • Power stage switching components

e.g:
In a power amplifier, TO-220C provides efficient heat conduction, delivering more stable operation under heavy loads.

TO-220F Package Mechanicai Data

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TO-220C Package Mechanicai Data

TO-220 Package Explained: Differences Between TO-220F vs TO-220C and How to Choose-Protection Devices-TVS Diodes-ESD Protection devices-Gas Discharge Tube-Thyristor-Pled Protectors-Mov

TO-220F and TO-220C are two variants of the TO-220 package,their main difference lies in the design of the heat sink and the structure of the package.

📌 How to Choose Between TO-220F and TO-220C?

Please select TO-220F if the following conditions are met:

  • Electrical isolation is required
  • The heatsink is grounded
  • You desire safer mechanical integration
  • Moderate thermal load

Please select TO-220C if the following conditions are met:

  • High heat dissipation performance is required
  • The design needs to handle high current
  • Suitable insulation materials are already in use
  • You desire optimal heat dissipation efficiency

🌏 Conclusion

Both TO-220F and TO-220C are highly reliable and widely used in power electronics, but the correct choice depends on your electrical isolation requirements, thermal performance needs, and assembly conditions. Understanding these differences ensures optimal device performance and cost efficiency.

About Semiware
About Semiware (采购导向 + 技术支持)

Semiware offers a comprehensive range of circuit protection components, including TO-220 packaged devices. Our engineering team provides selection support, datasheets, samples and product recommendations for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

👉 If you need help choosing the correct TO-220 package or require samples and pricing, please contact us via↗️ our website.