JST Connector Models Explained: How to Choose the Right Series
Introduction
If you've ever worked with JST connectors, you know the feeling: so many series, different pitches, pin counts — it's easy to get confused. This guide breaks down the most common JST connector models and explains how to choose the right one with confidence.
JST Connector Series Comparison Table
| Series | Pitch | Current | Wire AWG | Common Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SH | 1.0mm | 1A | 28-32 | Drones, wearables, laptops |
| GH | 1.25mm | 1A | 28-32 | Flight controllers, FPV drones |
| ZH | 1.5mm | 1A | 26-32 | Camera modules, compact electronics |
| PH | 2.0mm | 2A | 24-32 | LiPo batteries, RC hobby, sensors |
| PA | 2.0mm | 3A | 22-28 | Automotive, high-temperature |
| EH | 2.5mm | 3A | 22-30 | Industrial control boards |
| XH | 2.5mm | 3A | 22-28 | 3D printers, battery packs, DIY |
| SM | 2.5mm | 3A | 22-28 | LED strips, wire-to-wire |
| VH | 3.96mm | 10A | 18-22 | Power supply, motors, industrial |
Common JST Connector Confusions
- Pitch mix-ups: 1.0mm, 1.25mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm, 3.96mm — easy to mistake visually.
- Series confusion: XH and EH share the same 2.5mm pitch but are NOT interchangeable.
- Pin count problems: Same series but different pin numbers cannot be forced together.
How to Choose the Right JST Connector — 3 Steps
- Identify the pitch — Measure the center-to-center distance between pins.
- Confirm the series — Same pitch ≠ interchangeable. Check the datasheet or housing shape.
- Check pin count and current rating — Make sure the connector supports your wire gauge and current requirements.
Quick Selection Guide by Application
- Drones / FPV: GH (1.25mm) or SH (1.0mm)
- LiPo batteries: PH (2.0mm) or XH (2.5mm)
- Arduino / 3D printers: XH (2.5mm)
- LED strips: SM (2.5mm)
- High current / motors: VH (3.96mm)
- Compact sensors: ZH (1.5mm) or PH (2.0mm)
Related JST Connector Guides
- 📌 JST VH Connector: Complete Guide to Types, Pinout & Specs
- 📌 12 Most Common JST Connector Types: SH, GH, PH, XH, VH & More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common JST connector?
The JST XH series (2.5mm pitch) is one of the most widely used in consumer electronics and DIY projects. The PH series (2.0mm) is also extremely common in compact devices and RC equipment.
Are JST connectors from different series interchangeable?
No. Even if two JST connectors share the same pitch, they are not interchangeable across series. Housing shape, locking mechanism, and terminal design differ.
How do I identify a JST connector series?
Measure the pitch (distance between pin centers) and compare the housing shape against JST datasheets.
Where can I buy JST connector cables?
Browse our JST Connector collection for all major series including XH, PH, VH, SH, GH, ZH, and EH. Ships worldwide with no minimum order quantity.
