The Differences Between NTC and PTC Thermistors
- Seron Electronics
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 30
When it comes to managing temperature in modern systems—whether in cars, medical devices, or consumer electronics—thermistors are often the unsung heroes. These tiny components act as precise thermal sensors and protectors, ensuring devices perform safely and reliably. Among the most common types are NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) and PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) thermistors. While they may look similar, their behaviors under heat make them uniquely suited for different applications.
Guide:
Applications:
Automotive systems
Medical devices
Consumer electronics
Industrial equipment
Renewable energy
Battery management
Electric vehicles
NTC and PTC Thermistor Differences
At their core, the distinction lies in how resistance changes with temperature:
NTC thermistors decrease in resistance as temperature rises. This makes them ideal for measuring temperature changes with high sensitivity.
PTC thermistors, on the other hand, increase in resistance with temperature. They’re often a safeguard against overheating.
This simple but powerful difference defines their roles across industries. While NTCs excel at tracking small temperature variations with precision, PTCs step in to prevent damage when systems run too hot.
Why It Matters for Industry
From electric vehicles to wearable health monitors, thermal management has become a key factor in both performance and safety. Choosing between NTC and PTC thermistors isn’t just about sensing—it’s about designing systems that stay accurate, efficient, and protected under real-world conditions.
The Next Layer: Power Delivery
While the inherent properties of NTC and PTC thermistors are well understood, what’s often overlooked is how power delivery impacts their behavior. Supplying power in traditional constant voltage or constant current modes can introduce variability that affects thermal stability. In contrast, approaches like constant power control can unlock more reliable performance, ensuring thermistors behave predictably and deliver more accurate results.
Looking Ahead
The differences between NTC and PTC thermistors are foundational for anyone working with thermal systems. But the real opportunity lies in pairing the right thermistor with the right method of power delivery. At Seron Electronics, we explore how innovations like constant power sourcing open new possibilities for precision, safety, and control.
Want to dive deeper into how power delivery transforms thermistor performance?
Download our full paper to explore the differences in detail and the benefit of constant power delivery.