Thermistor vs PT100: Which Temperature Sensor is Right for Your Project?
Hey there! If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “What is the difference between a thermistor and a PT100?”—you’re in the right place. Both are popular temperature sensors, but they work in pretty different ways and are suited for different applications. Let’s break it down in plain English!
How They Work
At the heart of the difference is how these sensors measure temperature. Thermistors are resistors that change resistance significantly with temperature—usually made of ceramic or polymer materials. PT100 sensors, on the other hand, are a type of RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) made of pure platinum, with a resistance of 100 ohms at 0°C.
Accuracy and Temperature Range
If you need high accuracy over a wide temperature range, PT100s are generally your best bet. They offer excellent precision and stability from -200°C to over 600°C. Thermistors are super sensitive and accurate within a smaller range (typically -50°C to 150°C), but outside of that, they might not perform as well.
Response Time and Stability
Thermistors usually have a faster response to temperature changes because of their smaller size. However, PT100s are known for long-term stability and can handle harsh environments without drifting to much over time.
Cost and Application
Thermistors are generally more affordable and great for everyday applications like thermostats or consumer electronics. PT100s tend to be pricier due to their platinum construction and are often used in industrial, medical, or laboratory settings where precision is critical.
So, which one should you choose?
If your project requires high accuracy over a broad temperature range and budget isn’t a big issue, go with a PT100. If you’re working within a limited temperature window and need something cost-effective with fast response, a thermistor might be the way to go.
Hope this clears things up! Feel free to share your thoughts or questions below.