Is there a pin-compatible replacement for LM2576T-5.0?

No, a direct pin-compatible, drop-in replacement is not readily available. The LM2596T-5.0 shares the same TO-220-5 package and pinout but is not a drop-in replacement due to its different switching frequency (150kHz vs 52kHz), which requires circuit modification.

What risks should I check before replacing LM2576T-5.0?

The main risks are package incompatibility (through-hole vs. surface-mount) and electrical differences. Specifically, check the switching frequency, as a mismatch will require changing the inductor and capacitors. Always verify the pinout and thermal performance.

LM2576T-5.0 Alternatives, Datasheet & Cross Reference | Tak Cheong Electronics (Holdings) Co., Limited

The LM2576T-5.0 is a popular 5V, 3A step-down (buck) voltage regulator in a TO-220-5 through-hole package. This page provides an analysis of functional alternatives and potential replacements, highlighting key differences in package and electrical characteristics.

AI replacement insight

Package riskhigh

Most alternatives are in a different, surface-mount package (TO-263 vs TO-220).

Electrical riskmedium

Some same-package alternatives have a different switching frequency, requiring external component changes.

Sourcing risklow

The LM2576/LM2596 family is widely available from multiple manufacturers.

Can it be replaced directly?

No direct, drop-in replacement has been identified. All candidates require design review for either package changes or different electrical characteristics.

Best replacement path

For existing designs, LM2596T-5.0 is a physical fit but needs electrical redesign. For new designs, LM2576S-5.0 offers identical function in an SMD package.

Main risk

The primary risk is the lack of a drop-in replacement, forcing a choice between a new PCB layout or redesigning external component values.

Recommended alternatives

An upgrade with higher input voltage (60V), but in a different, surface-mount package.

View details

Alternative comparison matrix

Feature / factor	LM2576T-5.0	LM2576HVR-5.0	LM2596T-5.0	LM2576S-5.0	Compatibility / risk
Package	TO-220-5	TO-263-5	TO-220-5	TO-263-5L	TO-263-5 / TO-220-5 / TO-263-5L — Surface-mount package is not a drop-in replacement for through-hole.; LM2596T-5.0: Package matches target.; LM2576S-5.0: Surface-mount package is not a drop-in replacement for through-hole.
Voltage	40V	60V	5.0V	5.0V	60V / 5.0V — Higher max input voltage provides more design margin.; LM2596T-5.0: Output voltage matches.; LM2576S-5.0: Output voltage matches.
Current	3.0A	3.0A	3.0A	3.0A - 3.5A	3.0A / 3.0A - 3.5A — Output current matches.; LM2596T-5.0: Output current matches.; LM2576S-5.0: Output current meets or exceeds target.
Frequency	52kHz	52kHz	150kHz	52kHz	52kHz / 150kHz — Switching frequency matches.; LM2596T-5.0: Higher frequency requires redesign of external components.; LM2576S-5.0: Switching frequency matches.

Application & sourcing insights

Questions & answers

The best alternative depends on your design constraints. If you cannot change the PCB, LM2596T-5.0 is a functional option but requires changing external components. If a surface-mount package is acceptable, LM2576S-5.0 offers nearly identical electrical performance.