NP0/C0G ceramic capacitors

vs. film capacitors

cheat sheet

What are the primary differences between NP0/C0G Ceramic Capacitors and Film Capacitors? This quick reference is intended
as an introductory guide to comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each type of component. For more information, or
to discuss transitioning from Film Capacitors to Ceramic Capacitors, please contact the Venkel Engineering Team.

Advantages Disadvantages
• Better volumetric efficiency • Less flexible so more susceptible to
•M
 ore cost effective solutions when utilizing mechanical stress
smaller case sizes • Dielectric absorption of ~0.5%
•L
 ower overall capacitance and
NP0/C0G •S
 tandard EIA cases and very smallcase sizes
available down to 01005 (0402mm) voltage ratings.
ceramic
capacitors • Better D.F. and Q specifications
• Better breakdown voltages
•S
 pecifications do not vary from
manufacture to manufacture
• Better dv/dt rates (4000+ Vdc/µs)

• Not suspectible to moisture failures

• Less susceptible to mechanical stress • Susceptible to mechanical deformaiton

• Self-healing capabilities except PPS films in reflow causing limited exposure to
high temperatures
•H
 igher overall capacitance offerings with
higher rated voltages. •D
 amaged when exposed to cleaning
agents such as Toluene, Trichlorethylene
• Dielectric absorption down to 0.05% for PPS
and Xylene
•G
 ood For Low lock-up times and A/D
Film converters
• Issues with lead free soldering
Capacitors • Intrinsic elasticity
• Susceptible to humidity failures (MSL >1)
•M
 ore odd and non-standard EIA
• Good dv/dt rates of ~2200Vdc/µs
case sizes
•R
 ecommended using a no clean flux
with Halogen content <0.1%
•L
 ower maximum temperature and lower
time exposer in respects to reflow
• Not ideal for bypassing in digital

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