Is there a pin-compatible replacement for VH3.96-2Y?

Candidates like JST VHR-2N and HCTL HC-VH-2Y are likely form-fit and pin-compatible as they belong to the same VH 3.96mm connector family. However, always verify mechanical drawings in the datasheets before ordering.

What risks should I check before replacing VH3.96-2Y?

Key risks include mechanical fit (check datasheet dimensions), current rating, and material flammability. Some alternatives may have lower current ratings (e.g., 3A vs 7A) or a lower flammability grade (UL94V-2 vs UL94V-0).

VH3.96-2Y Alternatives, Datasheet & Cross Reference | SHOU HAN

VH3.96-2Y is a 2-position, 3.96mm pitch connector housing. Alternatives from JST, HCTL, and others offer upgraded or similar performance, but require verification of mechanical dimensions.

AI replacement insight

Package riskmedium

Clones may have slight dimensional differences; always check drawings.

Electrical risklow

Key ratings are standard, but verify current/flammability on downgrades.

Sourcing risklow

This is a very common connector family with many manufacturers.

Can it be replaced directly?

HCTL HC-VH-2Y appears to be a direct functional replacement with matching electrical and material specs, but mechanical fit must be confirmed via datasheet.

Best replacement path

JST VHR-2N is the recommended upgrade path, being the original series part with a higher current rating.

Main risk

The main risk is mechanical incompatibility. While many 'VH 3.96mm' clones exist, slight variations in housing dimensions or locking features can prevent proper mating.

Recommended alternatives

JST VHR-2N is the original VH series part, offering a higher current rating (10A) and likely form-fit compatibility.

View details

Alternative comparison matrix

Feature / factor	VH3.96-2Y	VHR-2N	HC-VH-2Y	ZX-VH3.96-2PJK	Compatibility / risk
Current	7A	10A	7A	3A	10A / 7A / 3A — Upgraded current rating provides more margin.; HC-VH-2Y: matched; ZX-VH3.96-2PJK: Significant downgrade from target's 7A rating.
Manufacturer	SHOU HAN	JST	-	-	JST — Original VH series manufacturer.
Voltage	250V	250V	250V	250V	250V — matched; HC-VH-2Y: matched; ZX-VH3.96-2PJK: matched
Pitch	3.96mm	3.96mm	3.96mm	3.96mm	3.96mm — matched; HC-VH-2Y: matched; ZX-VH3.96-2PJK: matched
Package	Rectangular Connector Housing	Housing	3.96mm Pitch Housing	Connector Housing	Housing / 3.96mm Pitch Housing / Connector Housing — Likely compatible as it's the original series part.; HC-VH-2Y: Mechanical drawings must be compared for form/fit.; ZX-VH3.96-2PJK: Mechanical drawings must be compared for form/fit.
Material	Nylon 66, UL94V-0	-	Nylon66 UL94-V0	-	Nylon66 UL94-V0 — matched
Flammability	UL94V-0	-	-	UL94V-2	UL94V-2 — Lower flammability rating than target's UL94V-0.

Application & sourcing insights

Questions & answers

JST VHR-2N is an excellent alternative from the original VH series manufacturer, offering a higher current rating (10A vs 7A). HCTL HC-VH-2Y is also a strong candidate with matching specifications.