Introduction
If you are designing a washing machine control board, an air conditioner indoor panel, or a microwave oven interface, you have probably compared LED driver ICs and seen two model numbers come up again and again: TM1628 from Titan Micro Electronics and HT1628 from Holtek Semiconductor. Both are designed to drive multi-digit seven-segment LED displays while scanning a key matrix, both come in similar SOP28 packages, and both target the same appliance market. For an overseas buyer or design engineer, the question is not whether these chips overlap in function, but which one is easier to source, more stable in supply, and more cost-effective for mass production.
This article compares TM1628 vs HT1628 from a purchasing and engineering perspective. We will look at specifications, display capacity, interface, package, application fit, and most importantly, the supply chain situation for buyers in India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. If you are evaluating the TM1628 as a replacement for HT1628, or deciding between the two for a new design, this guide will help you make a confident decision.
TM1628 and HT1628 Product Overview
TM1628 — Titan Micro Electronics (天微电子)
The TM1628 is an LED display driver IC with integrated keyboard scan, manufactured by Titan Micro Electronics. It supports 10-segment × 7-bit to 13-segment × 4-bit display configurations and a 10 × 2 key matrix. The 3-wire serial interface (DIN, CLK, STB) keeps MCU pin usage low, and the built-in RC oscillator removes the need for an external clock component. Newfly Electronics supplies original TM1628 in SOP28 with stable China stock and competitive export pricing.
HT1628 — Holtek Semiconductor
The HT1628 is a similar LED display driver with keyboard scanning, produced by Holtek Semiconductor in Taiwan. It is widely used in appliance panels and is recognized for its mature ecosystem and broad documentation. The HT1628 is also available in SOP28 and supports comparable display and key matrix configurations. For many overseas designs, HT1628 is the de facto reference part, but sourcing in volume from China can be more expensive than sourcing TM1628 directly.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | TM1628 | HT1628 |
| Manufacturer | Titan Micro Electronics (天微电子) | Holtek Semiconductor |
| Display configuration | 10-seg × 7-bit / 13-seg × 4-bit | 10-seg × 7-bit / 13-seg × 4-bit (similar) |
| Key scan matrix | 10 × 2 | Comparable matrix size |
| Serial interface | 3-wire (DIN, CLK, STB) | 3-wire (similar, different command set) |
| Operating voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.4 V to 5.5 V (typical) |
| Brightness levels | 8 levels | 8 levels |
| Oscillator | Built-in RC oscillator | Built-in RC oscillator |
| Package | SOP28 | SOP28 |
| Display memory | 14 × 8 bits RAM | Similar RAM size |
| Typical applications | Air conditioner panels, washing machines, microwave ovens | Air conditioner panels, washing machines, small appliances |
The two ICs overlap strongly in electrical and functional parameters. Both run on 5 V, both come in SOP28, and both integrate display driving and key scanning. The main differences appear in the serial command protocol, the firmware library, and—most importantly for buyers—the supply chain.
Applications and Target Markets
Both the TM1628 and HT1628 are designed for the same end products: white goods control panels with LED displays and button inputs. The choice between them usually comes down to firmware legacy, MCU compatibility, and cost.
TM1628 applications: air conditioner indoor control panels, washing machine display boards, microwave oven interfaces, water heater controllers, induction cooker displays, and compact industrial HMI modules. Strong adoption in India, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia, where Titan Micro’s pricing and supply chain advantages are most felt by OEMs.
HT1628 applications: the same appliance categories, plus various small consumer electronics with segmented LED displays. The HT1628 is well known in Taiwan, Korea, and Japan-based OEM designs and has an established reputation in legacy products.
If your firmware already targets the HT1628 command set, switching to TM1628 requires a software port. If you are starting a new design or planning a cost-down revision, the TM1628 is often the better choice for direct sourcing from China.
TM1628 vs HT1628: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | TM1628 | HT1628 |
| Origin | Mainland China (Titan Micro) | Taiwan (Holtek) |
| Interface command set | 3-wire, Titan protocol | 3-wire, Holtek protocol |
| Display segments | 10×7 to 13×4 | 10×7 to 13×4 |
| Key matrix | 10 × 2 | Comparable |
| Operating voltage | 4.5–5.5 V | 2.4–5.5 V |
| Brightness | 8 levels | 8 levels |
| Package | SOP28 | SOP28 |
| Pricing (China supply chain) | Lower | Higher for overseas buyers |
| Supply stability for overseas | Strong via Newfly | Available through global distributors |
| Documentation | Chinese datasheet, English on request | English datasheet, widely available |
| Library / firmware support | Titan libraries, porting required for Holtek code | Holtek libraries, mature ecosystem |
The HT1628 has a more mature library ecosystem and English documentation, which is convenient for engineers. The TM1628 wins on cost for overseas buyers, supply stability when sourced through a China distributor like Newfly Electronics, and a more direct relationship with the original manufacturer. In many mass-production appliance projects, the BOM cost difference of a few cents per unit at the TM1628 price level becomes significant at scale.
Can TM1628 Replace HT1628?
Yes, in most appliance panel designs, the TM1628 can be used as a drop-in functional replacement for the HT1628. The pinout, package (SOP28), display configurations, key matrix, brightness levels, and operating voltage are aligned. The two areas that require attention are:
1. Firmware porting. The serial command set differs between Titan Micro and Holtek. If your existing code targets HT1628, you will need to update initialization sequences, display address mapping, and key-scan read commands. This is a one-time engineering effort and is usually straightforward for engineers familiar with these ICs.
2. Voltage range. The HT1628 typically supports a wider voltage range (down to 2.4 V) compared to TM1628 (4.5 V minimum). If your design operates below 4.5 V, the TM1628 may not be a direct substitute without additional power regulation. Most 5 V appliance designs are not affected.
If you are starting a new design or planning a cost-reduction revision, the TM1628 is a strong candidate. If your firmware is locked to the HT1628 command set and you are not ready to invest engineering time in porting, you may prefer to keep the existing design. Newfly Electronics can supply either IC and can provide engineering support if you decide to switch to TM1628.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Between TM1628 and HT1628
Before placing an order, consider the following checklist:
1. Compare total landed cost, not just unit price. Overseas buyers often see a lower unit price for HT1628 from Western distributors, but after adding shipping, customs, and broker fees, the total landed cost can exceed the TM1628 sourced from China. Always calculate total cost of ownership.
2. Verify the original source. Counterfeit LED driver ICs circulate in the gray market. Request traceability documentation, lot code photos, and original packaging. Newfly Electronics sources TM1628 directly from authorized Titan Micro channels and provides full batch traceability.
3. Check supply stability. For mass production, a single supply disruption can halt your assembly line. Choose a supplier that maintains regular stock and can scale with your volume needs. Newfly Electronics holds TM1628 inventory for export orders.
4. Confirm datasheet availability. Make sure you can obtain the official datasheet for whichever IC you choose. The TM1628 datasheet is available from Newfly Electronics upon request. The HT1628 datasheet is available from Holtek directly or through authorized distributors.
5. Evaluate MOQ flexibility. During prototyping you may need 10–50 pieces; during mass production you need thousands. Newfly Electronics supports both small R&D orders and bulk production runs for the TM1628.
6. Ask about engineering support. If you are migrating from HT1628 to TM1628, a supplier that can answer pinout, timing, and command-set questions will save your engineers time. Newfly Electronics can provide application guidance based on our experience with Titan Micro display driver ICs.
Why Choose Newfly Electronics for TM1628 Sourcing
Newfly Electronics is a China-based IC distributor specializing in Titan Micro Electronics display driver ICs. Our team has deep experience with the TM1628, TM1637, TM1640, TM1650, and the wider Titan Micro product family. We focus on serving overseas electronics manufacturers who need original components at competitive prices with reliable export service.
When you source TM1628 from Newfly Electronics, you benefit from:
- Original Titan Micro TM1628 with full batch traceability
- Direct access to the China supply chain for competitive distributor pricing
- Stable stock for both small R&D orders and bulk production runs
- Fast export service to India, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas
- Technical support including datasheet, pinout, command set, and schematic review
- Flexible MOQ and payment terms for overseas buyers
- Optional kitting and bundle pricing if you also need TM1637, TM1640, or TM1650
For more detail on the TM1628 itself, see our TM1628 IC supplier page. For related comparisons, see our TM1650 vs HT16K33 and TM1640 vs MAX7219 guides.
FAQ
Can TM1628 replace HT1628 directly?
In most appliance panel designs, yes. The pinout, package, and electrical parameters align. The main change is the firmware command set: TM1628 uses Titan Micro’s protocol while HT1628 uses Holtek’s. If you are ready to port your firmware, TM1628 is a cost-effective replacement. For details, see our TM1628 supplier page.
Which is cheaper, TM1628 or HT1628?
In the China supply chain, TM1628 is generally more cost-effective for overseas buyers. HT1628 unit prices through Western distribution are often higher after shipping, customs, and broker fees are added. Newfly Electronics offers competitive TM1628 pricing for export orders.
Who manufactures HT1628?
HT1628 is manufactured by Holtek Semiconductor, headquartered in Taiwan. Titan Micro’s TM1628 is a functional alternative from a mainland China manufacturer with similar pinout and feature set.
Is TM1628 original Titan Micro?
Yes, TM1628 is an original Titan Micro Electronics (天微电子) product. Newfly Electronics supplies original TM1628 with batch traceability and complete export documentation.
Does Newfly Electronics provide TM1628 and HT1628 datasheets?
Yes. We provide the official TM1628 datasheet from Titan Micro upon request. For HT1628, we can refer you to Holtek’s official resources or assist with cross-referencing during a design migration.
What is the minimum order quantity for TM1628?
Newfly Electronics supports flexible MOQ. We accept small R&D orders (10–50 pieces) and bulk production orders (thousands of pieces). Pricing is tiered based on quantity.
Can I get samples before placing a bulk order?
Yes. Newfly Electronics provides sample quantities for engineering validation. Contact us with your project details and we will arrange sample shipment with expedited delivery.
Request Your TM1628 or HT1628 Quotation Today
If you are deciding between TM1628 and HT1628, or planning to migrate an existing design to TM1628 for cost reduction, Newfly Electronics can help. We offer original Titan Micro components at competitive distributor prices, with stable stock, flexible MOQ, and full export support.
Get started in three steps:
- Send your target IC, quantity requirement, and project timeline to sales@newflyelectronics.com or message us on WhatsApp +86 15112635657.
- Receive a quotation with unit price, lead time, and shipping options within 24 hours.
- Confirm your order and receive tracking information for your shipment.
We also supply related Titan Micro LED driver ICs including TM1637, TM1640, and TM1650. Contact us for multi-model orders and bundle pricing.
Email: sales@newflyelectronics.com
WhatsApp: +86 15112635657
Contact Newfly Electronics today for your TM1628 sourcing and HT1628 migration needs. Original Titan Micro quality, competitive distributor pricing, and reliable China export service.