Hey everyone,
I’m a bit confused about the differences between the L293D and L298N motor drivers. They both seem to be used for controlling DC motors, but I’m not sure which one I should be using for my project. From what I understand, they have different current and voltage ratings, but I don’t quite get how that affects the choice between them.
Could someone help clarify when to use the L293D vs. the L298N? Are there any situations where one is clearly better than the other?
Thanks
The only important difference between the L293D and L298N motor driver module is the current rating:
- L293D: Can handle up to 600mA per channel (with a peak of 1.2A for brief periods).
- L298N: Can handle up to 2A per channel (with a peak of 3A for short bursts).
So if your motors require more than 600mA of current, the L298N would be a better choice due to its higher current capacity and attached heatsink.
If you ignore the rating, there is an advantage to L293D:
Since the L293D IC comes in a DIP package, you can use it as it is in your circuit such as on a breadboard or a PCB. L298N doesn't offer this feature since it comes in a Multiwatt-15 package. So you are forced to buy the complete L298N module.
Also, the price of the L293D IC is very low compared to the L298N module.
You can read the differences between these two in detail here: L298N VS L293D
Hey Tristan,
The L293D and L298N are both H-bridge motor drivers commonly used to control DC motors, but they have some key differences. I’ve summarized these in the table below, allowing you to easily compare and choose the one that best suits your project requirements.