LM324 or LM358 Which Op-Amp Performs Better in Embedded Systems

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·June 26, 2025

·10 min read

LM324 or LM358 Which Op-Amp Performs Better in Embedded Systems

Engineers often select the LM324 for embedded systems that demand multiple amplifiers and low intermodulation distortion; its 103dB performance at 940Hz stands out in precision applications. The LM358, however, excels in power-sensitive designs and suits simpler circuits as a LM358 analog sensor amplifier. Both support single-supply operation, but the LM324 quad op-amp vs LM358 dual op-amp choice depends on channel requirements and efficiency. The table below compares their suitability for Arduino projects:

Specification	LM324	LM358
Amplifiers per chip	4	2
Power dissipation	1130 mW	830 mW

Designers use LM324 op-amp use cases for multi-channel needs, while LM358 fits single-channel tasks.

Key Takeaways

LM324 has four amplifiers per chip, making it ideal for projects needing multiple signal paths or complex filters.
LM358 offers two amplifiers with lower noise and smaller size, fitting well in compact or low-power designs.
Choose LM324 for higher output current and faster response when driving heavier loads or high-frequency signals.
Select LM358 for sensitive analog sensor circuits and battery-powered devices due to its low noise and power use.
Both op-amps support single-supply operation and work well with Arduino projects, but pick based on channel count and space.

Key Differences

lm324 vs lm358

The lm324 vs lm358 debate centers on several key differences that affect embedded system design. Both op-amp chips serve similar roles, but their technical specifications set them apart. The lm324 offers four amplifiers in one package, while the lm358 provides two. This difference in channel count makes the lm324 a better choice for projects that need multiple signal paths, such as multi-stage filters or sensor arrays.

The following table highlights the main technical measurements in the lm324 vs lm358 comparison:

Parameter	LM324	LM358
Power Supply Range	3V to 32V	±1.5V to ±15V (dual supply) / 3V to 36V (single supply)
Bandwidth	1.3 MHz	1.1 MHz
Output Current Capability	Up to 40 mA	20 mA
Slew Rate	0.7 V/μs	0.5 V/μs
Input Bias Current	20 nA	Up to 100 nA
Noise Voltage	N/A	0.4 mV (lower noise)
Pin Count	14 pins	8 pins

This table shows the key differences in power supply range, bandwidth, output current, and noise. The lm324 supports higher output current and more channels, while the lm358 offers lower noise and a smaller package. These factors influence the performance differences in real-world applications.

lm358 vs lm324

When comparing lm358 vs lm324, designers often focus on application needs. The lm358 works well in compact designs where board space is limited. Its lower noise voltage makes it suitable for sensitive analog sensor circuits. The lm324, with its four amplifiers, excels in systems that require multiple op-amp stages.

Some important points in the lm358 vs lm324 comparison include:

The lm324 can handle higher output currents, which benefits circuits that drive multiple loads.
The lm358, with its smaller pin count, fits better in space-constrained layouts.
Both chips support single-supply operation, making them ideal for Arduino and other embedded platforms.

Note: The lm324 vs lm358 choice depends on the number of channels, noise requirements, and available board space. Each op-amp offers unique strengths for different embedded applications.

The key differences between these two chips help engineers match the right op-amp to their project. Understanding the performance of each ensures reliable and efficient circuit design.

lm324 quad op-amp vs lm358 dual op-amp

Channel Count

The lm324 quad op-amp vs lm358 dual op-amp comparison starts with the number of amplifiers in each chip. The lm324 includes four independent op-amps in a single package. This quad operational amplifier design allows engineers to build circuits that need multiple amplification stages, such as multi-channel sensor arrays or complex filters. The lm358, on the other hand, offers two op-amps per chip. This makes it a strong choice for simpler designs where only one or two signal paths are needed. When board space is limited, the lm358’s smaller 8-pin package can help reduce the overall size of the project.

A quick specs overview:
Specification
LM324 (Quad Op-Amp)
LM358 (Dual Op-Amp)
Number of Amplifiers
4
2
Pin Count
14
8

Specification	LM324 (Quad Op-Amp)	LM358 (Dual Op-Amp)
Number of Amplifiers	4	2
Pin Count	14	8

Power and Voltage

Power and voltage ratings play a key role in the lm324 quad op-amp vs lm358 dual op-amp decision. Both the lm324 and lm358 support a wide supply voltage range from 3 V to 32 V for single supply operation. The lm324 can handle higher output current, up to 40 mA, which benefits circuits that drive multiple loads. The lm358 supports up to 20 mA output current, making it suitable for low-power applications. The lm324 has a power dissipation of 1130 mW, while the lm358 uses less power at 830 mW. This difference can affect battery-powered designs.

A quick specs overview for power and voltage:

Parameter	LM324	LM358
Supply Voltage Range	3 V to 32 V	3 V to 32 V
Output Current	Up to 40 mA	Up to 20 mA
Power Dissipation	1130 mW	830 mW

Noise and Precision

Noise and precision often determine the performance differences between these op-amps. The lm358 features lower noise voltage, around 0.4 mV, which helps in sensitive analog circuits. It also has a lower input offset voltage drift, about 20 µV/°C, which means better stability over temperature changes. The lm324 has a slightly higher noise voltage and a drift of 30 µV/°C. For applications that require high accuracy and low noise, the lm358 stands out. However, the lm324 still provides reliable performance for most general-purpose tasks.

Parameter	LM324	LM358
Noise Voltage	Higher	0.4 mV (lower)
Input Offset Voltage Drift	30 µV/°C (max)	20 µV/°C (max)

The lm324 quad op-amp vs lm358 dual op-amp comparison shows that each chip has strengths for different embedded system needs. Designers should match the op-amp to the project’s channel count, power, and precision requirements for the best performance.

Applications

Sensor Circuits

Engineers often choose the LM324 for sensor circuits that require precision and stability. This op-amp features low input offset voltage and high DC voltage gain, making it ideal for transducer amplifiers and voltage followers. The LM324 works well in industrial automation, automotive systems, and voltage monitoring. Its ability to handle negative common-mode voltages and provide stable output ensures reliable sensor readings. The LM358, with its low power consumption and low input offset voltage, fits portable medical devices such as handheld glucometers and ECGs. Both amplifiers include internal frequency compensation and short-circuit protection, which improves performance and reliability in sensor applications.

LM324 is common in industrial sensor signal conditioning and automotive systems.
LM358 is preferred in battery-powered and portable sensor devices.
Both support 4-20 mA current loop systems for robust sensor signal transmission.

Signal Amplification

Signal amplification is a core application for both LM324 and LM358. The LM324 offers high DC voltage gain, around 100 dB, and a unity gain bandwidth of 1 MHz. This makes it suitable for DC gain blocks, transducer amplifiers, and filter circuits. The LM358, while having slightly lower gain, excels in low-voltage and low-power projects. It provides adequate amplification for general analog systems and active filters.

Specification	LM324	LM358
DC Voltage Gain	~100 dB	Lower than LM324
Unity Gain Bandwidth	1 MHz	Lower than LM324
Input Offset Voltage	2-5 mV	Around 5 mV

The LM324 is best for applications needing strong and stable amplification, while the LM358 is chosen for versatile, low-voltage amplification tasks.

Comparators and Filters

Both LM324 and LM358 serve as comparators and in active filter circuits. The LM324, with four op-amps in one package, allows engineers to design multi-stage filters or multiple comparator circuits in a single chip. This is useful in audio processing, instrumentation, and communication systems. The LM358, with its dual op-amp design, fits simpler comparator circuits and single-stage filters. Its low noise and low power features make it suitable for battery-powered filter applications.

Tip: Use LM324 for multi-stage filters and complex comparator networks. Choose LM358 for compact, low-power comparator and filter circuits.

Arduino Projects

In Arduino DIY project development, both LM324 and LM358 play important roles. The LM324 supports projects that need multiple analog channels, such as sensor arrays, multi-stage amplifiers, or complex filters. The LM358 is ideal for projects with limited board space or single-channel analog signal processing. Both op-amps integrate easily with Arduino boards, supporting voltage followers, signal amplifiers, and analog-to-digital conversion interfaces. Their single-supply operation and robust performance make them reliable choices for embedded projects.

Design Considerations

Board Space

Engineers often face strict board space limits in embedded systems. The lm324, with its four amplifiers in a single package, helps reduce the number of chips needed on a printed circuit board. This approach saves valuable space, especially in multi-channel designs. The lm358, with two amplifiers, fits well in projects where only one or two channels are necessary. Designers can further optimize layouts by following these strategies:

Use integrated switches within op-amps to enable programmable gain and minimize external components.
Choose compact packages like QFN or TSSOP for both lm324 and lm358 to achieve a smaller footprint.
Place components close together and use short, wide traces to improve both space efficiency and electrical performance.
Design PCB footprints that support multiple package types, making it easier to source parts without increasing board area.
Replace discrete components with integrated multifunction devices when possible to simplify the layout.

These practices help engineers create compact, reliable circuits using either lm324 or lm358.

Power Supply

Power supply requirements play a major role in selecting between lm324 and lm358. Both support single-supply operation, which simplifies power design in embedded systems. The table below compares key power-related parameters:

Parameter	LM324	LM358
Supply Voltage Range	3 V to 32 V	3 V to 32 V (up to 36 V max)
Number of Amplifiers	4	2
Input Common-Mode Voltage Range	Includes ground	Extends to ground
Power Dissipation (DIP)	1130 mW	830 mW
Supply Current Drain	~700 μA	Lower per amplifier

The lm358’s input range extends to the negative supply, allowing operation without extra biasing. This feature reduces the need for additional components. Lower power dissipation in the lm358 also benefits battery-powered designs. The lm324, with more amplifiers, may increase total power use but supports more complex circuits.

Integration

Integration affects both performance and ease of assembly. The lm324 provides four amplifiers in one chip, making it ideal for multi-stage filters, sensor arrays, or instrumentation amplifiers. This high level of integration reduces the number of ICs on the board and simplifies wiring. The lm358, with two amplifiers, suits simpler circuits or projects with tight space constraints. Both devices come in various package types, such as SOIC, TSSOP, and QFN, allowing designers to match the package to their board layout needs. Integrated features like short-circuit protection and internal frequency compensation further simplify circuit design and improve reliability.

Tip: Selecting the right op-amp package and integration level can streamline assembly and boost system reliability.

choose between lm358 and lm324

Project Needs

Selecting the right op-amp depends on the unique requirements of each project. Engineers often compare the lm324 and lm358 by looking at several key factors. These include the number of channels, power supply range, noise level, output current, and board space. The choice between lm358 and lm324 should always reflect the specific needs of the project.

For projects that require multiple signal paths, such as sensor arrays or multi-stage filters, the lm324 offers four amplifiers in one package. This design reduces the number of chips on the board and simplifies wiring.
When a project needs only one or two channels, the lm358 provides a compact solution with its dual op-amp design. Its smaller pin count helps save board space.
If the project involves amplifying weak signals, the lower noise voltage of the lm358 can improve performance in sensitive analog circuits.
For circuits that drive larger loads, the lm324 delivers higher output current, making it a better choice for applications like motor drives or solid-state relay control.
Projects that operate at higher frequencies benefit from the lm324’s higher slew rate and bandwidth.

The table below summarizes how different performance parameters influence the choice:

Performance Parameter	LM358 Specification	LM324 Specification	Impact on Choice
Slew Rate	0.5 V/μs	0.7 V/μs	LM324 offers better frequency response
Noise Voltage	0.4 mV	2 mV	LM358 is preferred for low-noise projects
Output Current	20 mA	40 mA	LM324 suits higher load requirements
Channel Count	2	4	LM324 is ideal for multi-channel designs

Note: Subtle internal differences between these op-amps can affect performance in specific applications. For example, a circuit using lm324 may drive a solid-state relay correctly, while the same circuit with lm358 may not, even if output voltage and current appear similar.

Engineers often select the lm324 for embedded systems that require higher bandwidth, greater output current, or multiple channels. The lm358 fits best in compact designs or low-noise sensor circuits. The table below highlights key statistics for quick comparison:

Parameter	LM324	LM358	Embedded Systems Benefit
Bandwidth	1.3 MHz	1.1 MHz	lm324 supports high-frequency signals
Output Current	40 mA	20 mA	lm324 drives heavier loads
Slew Rate	0.7 V/μs	0.5 V/μs	lm324 offers faster response

Project needs should guide the choice. Matching lm324 or lm358 features to application requirements ensures reliable performance.

What are the key differences between LM324 and LM358?

The key differences include the number of amplifiers, output current, noise level, and package size. LM324 is a quad op-amp with four channels, while LM358 is a dual op-amp. LM324 suits multi-channel projects. LM358 fits compact designs and low-noise applications.

When should engineers choose between LM358 and LM324?

Engineers should choose between LM358 and LM324 based on project needs. LM324 works best for multi-stage filters or sensor arrays. LM358 fits single-channel amplification or space-limited layouts. The choice depends on channel count, noise, and power requirements.

Can LM324 and LM358 be used in Arduino DIY projects?

Both LM324 and LM358 work well in Arduino DIY project designs. LM324 supports multiple analog channels, making it ideal for sensor arrays. LM358 is suitable for single-sensor amplification or compact Arduino boards. Both op-amps integrate easily with Arduino systems.

What are common applications for LM324 and LM358?

Common applications include voltage followers, signal amplifiers, comparators, and active filters. LM324 often appears in multi-channel circuits or instrumentation amplifiers. LM358 is popular in portable devices, sensor interfaces, and low-power projects.

How does the performance of LM324 compare to LM358 in embedded systems?

Performance differences depend on the application. LM324 offers higher output current and more channels, which benefits complex embedded systems. LM358 provides lower noise and fits sensitive analog circuits. The lm324 quad op-amp vs lm358 dual op-amp comparison helps engineers select the right device.