JST GH vs JST SH - What is the difference?

Last Updated May 25, 2025

JST SH connectors offer a compact design ideal for space-constrained electronics, while JST GH connectors provide a more secure locking mechanism suited for applications requiring greater vibration resistance. Discover which connector best aligns with Your project needs by exploring the detailed comparison in the rest of this article.

Comparison Table

Feature JST SH Series JST GH Series
Pitch 1.0 mm 2.54 mm (0.1 inch)
Current Rating 3 A 3 A
Number of Positions 2 to 16 pins 2 to 15 pins
Mounting Type Through-hole or SMT (cable-to-board) Through-hole or SMT
Application Compact board-to-wire connections General purpose board-to-board or wire-to-board
Connector Type Housing and crimp terminals (wire-to-board) Housing and crimp terminals (wire-to-board or board-to-board)
Durability Up to 30 mating cycles Up to 30 mating cycles
Industry Use Consumer electronics, compact devices Industrial, consumer electronics

Introduction to JST SH and JST GH Connectors

JST SH and JST GH connectors are compact, high-performance surface-mount connectors widely used in electronics for reliable wire-to-board connections. The JST SH series features a 1.0mm pitch and is ideal for small, space-constrained devices, while the JST GH series offers a slightly larger 1.25mm pitch, providing enhanced current capacity and durability. Choosing the right connector depends on your device's size constraints and current requirements, ensuring secure and efficient connectivity.

Key Differences Between JST SH and JST GH

JST SH connectors feature a pitch of 1.0mm, making them ideal for compact wiring in electronic devices, while JST GH connectors have a larger 1.25mm pitch suited for higher-current applications. The SH series supports a lower current rating, typically up to 1A, whereas the GH series can handle currents up to 3A, providing greater power capacity. Your choice between JST SH and GH depends on space constraints and the electrical requirements of your project.

Physical Design Comparison: SH vs GH

JST SH connectors are smaller and more compact with a pitch of 1.0mm, designed for space-saving applications, while JST GH connectors have a larger 1.25mm pitch, providing enhanced durability and ease of handling. The SH series features a lower profile suitable for tight PCB layouts, whereas the GH series offers more robust construction ideal for applications requiring frequent mating cycles. Choosing between JST SH and GH depends on your device's space constraints and mechanical reliability needs.

Pin Pitch and Size Specifications

JST SH connectors feature a 1.0mm pin pitch, making them ideal for compact electronics requiring fine-pitch connections, with typical sizes around 2.5mm in height. JST GH connectors have a slightly larger 1.25mm pin pitch, offering a balance between compactness and robustness, with connector heights generally near 5.0mm. The smaller pin pitch and reduced size of JST SH connectors suit applications with limited space, while JST GH connectors provide enhanced durability for moderate space designs.

Electrical Performance: Current and Voltage Ratings

JST SH connectors typically support a current rating of up to 3A per contact with a voltage rating of 50V AC/DC, making them suitable for low-power signal and light load applications. In contrast, JST GH connectors offer a higher current capacity of up to 3A per contact but with improved durability and a voltage rating of 250V AC/DC, accommodating more demanding electronic circuits. The electrical performance of JST GH connectors ensures better insulation and stability at higher voltages compared to the JST SH series.

Applications and Industry Use-Cases

JST SH connectors are widely used in consumer electronics and small devices due to their compact size and reliable connections, ideal for applications such as LED lighting, small appliances, and hobby electronics. JST GH connectors, featuring a finer pitch and higher current rating, are preferred in industrial automation, robotics, and medical devices where precision and durability under demanding conditions are critical. Both connector types support secure signal and power transmission, but JST GH is favored in environments requiring higher reliability and robustness.

Mating Cycles and Durability

JST SH connectors feature 2.5mm pitch with single-row mating cycles of approximately 250, offering reliable performance for applications requiring moderate durability. JST GH connectors have a finer 1.25mm pitch and support up to 500 mating cycles, making them ideal for compact designs needing enhanced durability and frequent connections. Choosing between JST SH and GH depends on your requirement for mating cycle longevity and connector size constraints.

Compatibility with Cables and PCB Mounting

JST SH connectors are designed for smaller pitch sizes, typically 1.0mm, making them ideal for compact applications with thinner cables, whereas JST GH connectors feature a 1.25mm pitch suitable for slightly larger cables and higher current demands. Compatibility with PCB mounting varies as JST SH connectors often use surface mount technology (SMT) or through-hole types for tight spaces, while JST GH connectors commonly support through-hole mounting offering stronger mechanical stability. Your choice between JST SH and GH should consider the cable gauge and PCB footprint to ensure optimal fit and reliable electrical connections.

Pros and Cons of JST SH vs JST GH

JST SH connectors offer a compact design with a 1.0mm pitch, ideal for space-constrained electronic applications, but their smaller size can make handling and soldering more challenging compared to JST GH connectors. JST GH connectors feature a 1.25mm pitch that provides greater mechanical strength and easier mating, benefiting durability and ease of assembly while slightly increasing the footprint. Selecting between JST SH and GH depends on balancing space limitations against mechanical robustness and assembly convenience in electronic device design.

Choosing the Right Connector for Your Project

JST SH connectors offer a compact 1.0mm pitch ideal for space-constrained electronics, while JST GH connectors provide a slightly larger 1.25mm pitch suitable for applications requiring higher current capacity. Selecting between JST SH and JST GH depends on factors like PCB layout, current requirements, and mechanical durability, with SH favoring miniature designs and GH supporting more robust connections. Evaluate connector pitch, pin count, and environmental conditions to ensure optimal performance and reliability in your project.

JST SH vs JST GH Infographic

JST GH vs JST SH - What is the difference?


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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 JST SH vs JST GH are subject to change from time to time.

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