MOSFETs and IGBTs: Similar But Different
The IGBT technology is certainly the device of choice for breakdown voltages above 1000V, while the MOSFET is certainly the device of choice for device breakdown voltages below 250V.
Between 250 to 1000V, there are many technical papers available from manufacturers of these devices, some preferring MOSFETs, some IGBTs. However, choosing between IGBTs and MOSFETs is very application specific and cost, size, speed and thermal requirements should all be considered.
IGBTs have been the preferred device under these conditions:
- Low duty cycle
- Low frequency (<20kHz)
- Narrow or small line or load variations
- High-voltage applications (>1000V)
- Operation at high junction temperature is allowed (>100°C)
- >5kW output power
MOSFETs are preferred in:
- High frequency applications (>200kHz)
- Wide line or load variations
- Long duty cycles
- Low-voltage applications (<250V)
- < 500W output power