The IRLZ44N is a high-power N-channel enhancement mode MOSFET specifically designed to be driven directly by microcontrollers. While standard power MOSFETs (like the IRFZ44N) typically require 10V at the Gate to fully turn on, the IRLZ44N features a Logic Level gate. This allows it to achieve very low resistance even with a 3.3V or 5V signal from an Arduino, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi.
IRLZ44N Pinout (TO-220)
The IRLZ44N uses the industry-standard TO-220 package. This design includes a metal tab (connected to the Drain) for easy mounting to a heatsink.
| Pin Number | Terminal | Description |
| 1 | Gate (G) | The control pin; triggered by your microcontroller signal. |
| 2 | Drain (D) | Connected to the Negative terminal of the Load. |
| 3 | Source (S) | Connected to the circuit Ground (GND). |
Technical Specifications
The IRLZ44N is prized for its high current capacity and low “On-Resistance” (RDS(on)).
- Transistor Polarity: N-Channel
- Max Drain-Source Voltage (VDS): 55V
- Max Continuous Drain Current (ID): 47A (at 25∘C with proper heatsink)
- Max Pulsed Drain Current (IDM): 160A
- Gate Threshold Voltage (VGS(th)): 1.0V (Min) to 2.0V (Max)
- RDS(on) at VGS=5V: 0.025Ω
- RDS(on) at VGS=4V: 0.035Ω
- Total Power Dissipation (PD): 110W
- Operating Temperature: −55 to +175 ∘C
Key Features & Benefits
- Direct MCU Drive: Can be switched fully “ON” by 3.3V and 5V logic pins.
- Low Thermal Resistance: Designed to dissipate heat efficiently when mounted to a cooling fin.
- Fast Switching: Extremely quick response times, making it excellent for high-frequency PWM applications like motor speed control.
- Ruggedness: Built to handle high-current surges and voltage spikes.
Common Applications
- DC Motor Control: Using PWM to vary the speed of 12V or 24V motors.
- Solenoid & Relay Drivers: Switching heavy mechanical loads from a low-power digital pin.
- LED Strip Dimming: Controlling high-power RGB or single-color LED strips.
- Power Inverters: Used in DC-to-AC conversion circuits.
IRLZ44N Equivalent & Substitutes
If you cannot find an IRLZ44N, these are the best logic-level alternatives:
- FQP30N06L: A reliable 30A alternative with very similar logic-level characteristics.
- STP40NF10L: Suitable for projects requiring higher voltage (up to 100V).
- IRL3705N: A high-current alternative capable of up to 89A.
- IRFZ44N: Warning: This is not logic-level. It has the same pinout but requires a 10V gate driver to function efficiently.
Related Tutorials on elxhub
- Master Selection: Need help choosing? See our Ultimate MOSFET Selection Guide.
- Signal Shifting: Learn how to bridge different logic levels in our Logic Level Shifter Tutorial.
- Basics: Understand how MOSFETs differ from BJTs in Transistors – Basics, Types, and Working.
Conclusion
The IRLZ44N is arguably the most useful power MOSFET for any digital electronics enthusiast. Its ability to bridge the gap between a tiny 5V microcontroller pin and a massive 47A load makes it a staple for your component drawer.
Download the MOSFET Datasheet pdf