A useful starting point for
- Battery-powered prototypes comparing an existing 12V rail with a new motion supply.
- Automation equipment that already has a 24V control and power architecture.
Configuration & OEM engineering
12V vs 24V Micro Linear Actuators
Choose 12V or 24V around the complete power system
12V and 24V micro linear actuator selection starts at the power source, wiring and controller. Voltage alone does not determine thrust, speed or duty cycle. Compare actual motor-and-transmission configurations at the same loaded operating point, then check whether the source and driver can support starting, running and stopping.
Request the applicable drawing / CAD revisionThis is a configuration review, not a stocked SKU listing. Ratings, documentation availability, sample scope and lead time are confirmed for the reviewed design.
The first design decision
Which supply architecture meets your motion requirement with a compatible driver and practical wiring?
Define these boundaries
- A 12V actuator must not be treated as interchangeable with a 24V model without a manufacturer-approved electrical configuration.
- A higher nominal voltage does not prove a higher output force or a lower overall system temperature.
Configuration choices and required evidence
Use this matrix to compare candidate configurations. Entries describe decisions to make and evidence to request; they are not unverified product ratings.
| Design input | Options to review | Evidence for the decision |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Existing 12V rail or 24V rail with a compatible motor winding | Actual supply range, current limit, battery sag or source transient behavior. |
| Wiring and current | Conductor size, connector and cable length | Voltage at the driver under starting and loaded running conditions; measured current. |
| Driver behavior | Direction control, braking, current limit and feedback inputs | Supply limits, motor compatibility, startup and stop behavior. |
| Motion comparison | Candidate 12V and 24V configurations at the same operating point | Loaded force-speed curves, cycle temperature and installed size. |
Agree on prototype acceptance before sampling
- 01
State the real supply conditions
Record the minimum and maximum voltage at the equipment, including battery discharge or cable effects. Do not provide only the label on the power supply.
- 02
Compare matched configurations
Use the same output load, stroke, speed and cycle for both alternatives. Include the drive and any additional converter in the system comparison.
- 03
Measure starting and stopping
Confirm loaded startup, source current limiting and stop behavior using the intended cable and controller. Repeat in the actual enclosure if thermal conditions differ.
Define the inspection and release package before fixing the sample acceptance criteria.
A practical engineering handoff
Prepare your 12v vs 24v micro linear actuators RFQ
Copy or download this editable text checklist, fill in the operating conditions and send it for review. For confidential drawings, agree on an exchange method and confidentiality terms first. The website form accepts text; it does not upload CAD.
Engineering RFQ — 12V vs 24V Micro Linear Actuators Source: https://minilinearactuators.com/products/12v-24v-micro-linear-actuators To: [email protected] Company / contact: Application and project stage: Available supply: nominal / minimum / maximum voltage: Source current limit and cable length: Required force, loaded speed and stroke: Controller, feedback and stop behavior: Cycle timing, ambient and enclosure: Preferred 12V / 24V configuration and quantities: Required drawings / CAD format and revision: Sample quantity / estimated production quantity: Target milestone: Requirements checklist only. Configuration, documentation availability, acceptance criteria and commercial terms require review.
Email the checklist →
Engineering FAQ
Is 24V always stronger than 12V?
No. Output force depends on the motor, transmission, current limits and thermal conditions. Compare published or reviewed configurations at the required loaded speed instead of ranking them by voltage alone.
Can I run a 12V actuator from a 24V source with PWM?
Do not assume compatibility. The motor insulation, driver, feedback electronics, peak current and waveform all matter. Use a reviewed supply-and-drive configuration or request an appropriate winding.
Where are the separate voltage product families?
Use the linked 12V Micro Linear Actuators and 24V Mini Linear Actuators family pages for their configuration questions. This page covers the system-level choice between the two supply architectures.
Compare related architectures
- Micro Pen Linear Actuators →
Fit a slender actuator without overlooking mounting and cable space.
- Mini Track Linear Actuators →
Use a translating carriage when a projecting rod does not fit.
- Micro Stepper Linear Actuators →
Compare captive, non-captive and externally driven screw arrangements.
- 12V Micro Linear Actuators family →
- 24V Mini Linear Actuators family →
Review your operating point and interfaces
Published and reviewed · Mini Linear Actuators engineering content