SOIC vs SSOP - What is the difference?

Last Updated May 25, 2025

SSOP and SOIC are both surface-mount integrated circuit packages, with SSOP offering a smaller footprint and tighter pin spacing for high-density applications, while SOIC provides a slightly larger, more robust form factor ideal for easier handling and soldering. To understand which package suits your design needs better, explore the detailed comparison in the rest of this article.

Comparison Table

Feature SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit)
Package Size Smaller and thinner than SOIC Larger footprint compared to SSOP
Pin Pitch Typically 0.65mm to 0.5mm Usually 1.27mm
Body Width 4.4mm to 6.2mm 7.5mm to 10.3mm
Pin Count 8 to 56 pins 8 to 28 pins
Mounting Type Surface-mount technology (SMT) Surface-mount technology (SMT)
Thermal Performance Better heat dissipation due to thinner package Moderate thermal performance
Application High-density board designs, space-constrained devices General purpose, less space-restricted applications
Cost Generally higher due to smaller size and complexity Typically lower and more common

Introduction to SSOP and SOIC

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) and SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) are popular surface-mount IC packaging types used in electronic components. SSOP features a smaller footprint and tighter lead pitch, making it ideal for high-density PCB layouts, while SOIC offers a wider lead pitch and larger size suitable for easier manual handling and soldering. Both packages improve circuit performance by reducing lead inductance compared to through-hole components, enhancing signal integrity in compact electronics.

Overview of Surface-Mount Packages

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) and SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) are common surface-mount packages used for integrated circuits, with SSOP offering a smaller footprint and finer lead pitch compared to the wider SOIC. SSOP typically features lead pitches as small as 0.65 mm, enabling higher density PCB designs, while SOIC packages usually have a 1.27 mm pitch, providing easier hand soldering and inspection. Both packages support efficient automated assembly processes but differ primarily in size and application suitability for compact or general-purpose electronics.

Defining SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package)

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) is a type of surface-mount IC packaging known for its reduced pin pitch and compact size, making it ideal for space-constrained electronic designs. It offers better thermal performance and easier PCB routing compared to standard SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) packages. Choosing SSOP can optimize your device's footprint while maintaining reliable electrical connections in high-density circuit layouts.

Defining SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit)

SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) is a surface-mounted integrated circuit package characterized by its rectangular shape and dual parallel rows of gull-wing leads, typically spaced at 1.27 mm pitch. It is widely used in applications requiring moderate pin counts and compact PCB layouts due to its thin profile and efficient heat dissipation. Compared to SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package), SOIC offers a larger lead pitch and body size, facilitating easier manual soldering and inspection.

Key Physical Differences Between SSOP and SOIC

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) features a smaller footprint and narrower lead pitch compared to SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit), making it ideal for high-density PCB designs. SSOP leads are typically spaced at 0.65mm or less, whereas SOIC lead pitch ranges from 1.27mm to 1.27mm, resulting in a wider overall package. Your choice between SSOP and SOIC hinges on the required space efficiency and solderability on your circuit board.

Electrical Performance Comparison

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) and SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) differ in electrical performance primarily due to their package sizes and lead configurations. SSOPs typically offer lower parasitic inductance and capacitance, resulting in improved signal integrity and faster switching speeds compared to SOICs. Your choice between SSOP and SOIC impacts the circuit's high-frequency performance and noise susceptibility, with SSOP being preferable for more demanding electrical applications.

Applications and Use Cases

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) is preferred for applications requiring higher pin density and reduced PCB footprint, making it ideal for compact consumer electronics and portable devices. SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) suits use cases demanding easier manual handling and soldering, commonly found in automotive electronics and industrial control systems. Both packages support surface-mount technology but cater to different priorities in assembly and performance requirements.

Assembly and Handling Considerations

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) offers a smaller footprint and finer lead pitch compared to SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit), demanding more precise assembly techniques to prevent solder bridging and lead damage. Handling SSOP packages requires careful alignment and advanced pick-and-place equipment to maintain reliability during PCB assembly, while SOIC packages provide easier manual handling and inspection due to their larger pins and body size. Your choice between SSOP and SOIC impacts assembly efficiency and defect rates, especially in high-density circuit designs where space and precision are critical.

Cost and Availability Analysis

SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) generally offers lower manufacturing costs due to its smaller size and reduced material usage compared to SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit), making it a budget-friendly choice for high-volume production. SOIC packages are more widely available and supported by a broader range of suppliers, ensuring easier sourcing and potentially faster lead times for your projects. When balancing cost and availability, your choice depends on volume requirements and supply chain constraints, with SSOP favoring cost-efficiency and SOIC providing greater accessibility.

Choosing Between SSOP and SOIC

Choosing between SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) and SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) depends on board space availability and thermal performance requirements. SSOP offers a smaller footprint and finer lead pitch, ideal for high-density designs, while SOIC provides broader leads and better heat dissipation, suitable for less compact layouts. Consider signal integrity and manufacturing capabilities when selecting the appropriate package for specific electronic applications.

SSOP vs SOIC Infographic

SOIC vs SSOP - What is the difference?


About the author.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about SSOP vs SOIC are subject to change from time to time.

Comments

No comment yet