Difference between 1N914 and 1N4148 diode?

Submitted by Roman on Tue, 08/21/2018 - 17:28

I have a circuit diagram which is using 1N914 diode, I don't have one so I searched for equivalents and found 1N4148 can be used in place of 1N914. Then I checked datasheets of both and their specs are exactly same. So why their are two different diodes with same specs and from same manufacturer? 

So 1N914 and 1N4148 are same or I am missing something? Can I use 1N4148 in place of 1N914?

Hi Roman,

1N914 and 1N4148 diodes can be used interchangeably. 1N4148 is considered as advanced version of 1N914 but technically there is not much difference. Only difference is that 1n4148 has low leakage current than 1n914, but even for some manufacturers the leakage current is same for both the diodes.

You didn't mentioned, in which circuit you are using it, if the use is not critical then you can even use many other equivalent diodes like 1N914, 1N914A, 1N914B, 1N916, 1N916A, 1N916B, 1N4148, 1N4448.

  Joined May 19, 2015      402
Tuesday at 03:13 PM

Hi Roman,

It is not just 1N914 and 1N4148 that are bit similar. You can find lots of ICs, transistors and even MCUs with almost similar specifications and applications. 

But the point to note here is that, while many components can be similar most of them will are not identical.  Every component is created for certain applications in mind, as always they will have some pros and cons based on the application they are used. As the available technology for manufacturing IC's improves manufactures release new version of the same IC with improved Performance and give them a new name. 

  Joined August 16, 2016      998
Tuesday at 12:29 AM