
Form-fit match in a 4018 package, but has lower current ratings requiring engineering review.
Finding a replacement for the NR4018S4R7MT, a 4.7µH power inductor, requires careful consideration of current ratings. While several parts match its 4018 package, they typically offer lower performance, posing a potential downgrade risk.
All form-fit options have lower RMS and/or saturation current ratings.
Several alternatives share the same 4018 package, but require electrical validation.
No direct, drop-in replacement with equivalent or better current ratings has been identified. All same-package alternatives have lower current handling capabilities.
Use a form-fit part like SFE4018A-4R7M-F-HF if the circuit can tolerate a lower 2.0A current rating. For an upgrade, a board redesign is required for a part like VLS6045EX-4R7M-H.
The primary risk is using a replacement with a lower current rating, which can lead to overheating or performance degradation.

Form-fit match in a 4018 package, but has lower current ratings requiring engineering review.
| Feature / factor | NR4018S4R7MT | SFE4018A-4R7M-F-HF | VLS6045EX-4R7M-H | Alt 3 | Compatibility / risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 4018 | 4018 | 6045 | 4018 / 6045 — Same 4.0x4.0mm footprint.; VLS6045EX-4R7M-H: Larger footprint (6.0x4.5mm) requires PCB redesign. | |
| Inductance | 4.7µH | 4.7µH | 4.7µH | 4.7µH — Inductance value matches.; VLS6045EX-4R7M-H: Inductance value matches. | |
| Current | 2.3A | 2.0A | 4.2A | 2.0A / 4.2A — Lower RMS current rating.; VLS6045EX-4R7M-H: Significantly higher RMS current rating (Itemp). | |
| Saturation Current | 2.3A | 2.2A | 5.8A | 2.2A / 5.8A — Slightly lower saturation current.; VLS6045EX-4R7M-H: Significantly higher saturation current. | |
| Dcr | 0.117Ω | 0.117Ω | 0.027Ω | 0.117Ω / 0.027Ω — DC resistance matches.; VLS6045EX-4R7M-H: Much lower DCR improves efficiency. |
The best alternative depends on your design constraints. SFE4018A-4R7M-F-HF is the closest form-fit option but has a lower 2.0A current rating. If a board redesign is possible, VLS6045EX-4R7M-H offers superior electrical performance.