A photodiode is a semiconductor device that converts light into an electrical current. The current is generated when photons are absorbed in the photodiode. Photodiodes are similar to regular semiconductor diodes except that they may be either exposed or packaged with a window or optical fiber connection to allow light to reach the sensitive part of the device. Many photodiodes are designed to operate in photoconductive mode (reverse bias) or photovoltaic mode (zero bias). They are widely used in optical communication, medical imaging, safety equipment, and light sensing applications. The global photodiode market is driven by increasing demand for high-speed data transmission, automation, and advanced medical diagnostics.

Global Top 10 Photodiode Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global photodiode market is dominated by a mix of large semiconductor corporations and specialized optoelectronic firms. Below is a ranking based on market share, revenue, and technological influence.

Rank	Company	Headquarters	Specialization
1	Hamamatsu Photonics	Japan	High-sensitivity photodiodes, APDs, photomultipliers
2	OSRAM Opto Semiconductors	Germany	Industrial and automotive photodiodes
3	Vishay Intertechnology	USA	Standard and high-speed silicon photodiodes
4	First Sensor AG	Germany	Custom photodiodes for medical and industrial
5	Lite-On Technology	Taiwan	Consumer and communication photodiodes
6	Excelitas Technologies	USA	Avalanche photodiodes and PIN photodiodes
7	Broadcom (Avago)	USA	Fiber optic photodiodes
8	TT Electronics	UK	High-reliability photodiodes for aerospace
9	Kyosemi Corporation	Japan	InGaAs and Si photodiodes
10	Centronic	UK	Custom photodiode arrays

China Top 10 Photodiode Suppliers and Factories

China has become a major manufacturing hub for photodiodes, offering competitive pricing and growing technical capabilities. The following list represents leading Chinese manufacturers based on production volume and export activity.

Rank	Company	City	Key Products
1	Focuslight Technologies	Xi’an	High-power photodiodes and laser diodes
2	Zhejiang Crystal-Optech	Taizhou	Optical sensors and photodiode modules
3	Shenzhen ELF Technology	Shenzhen	IR photodiodes for consumer electronics
4	Wuhan Telecommunication Devices	Wuhan	Fiber optic photodiodes
5	Hangzhou Zebra Optoelectronics	Hangzhou	UV and visible photodiodes
6	Beijing Opto-Electronics	Beijing	Custom photodiode arrays
7	Shenzhen Huanic Optoelectronics	Shenzhen	High-speed PIN photodiodes
8	Ningbo Yinzhou Optoelectronics	Ningbo	Industrial photodiode sensors
9	Guangzhou Gaosheng Electronics	Guangzhou	Photodiode modules for automation
10	Shenzhen Laisai Optoelectronics	Shenzhen	LED and photodiode combos

Global Supplier and Factory Contact Information

Below is a detailed table of key global suppliers with their primary contact emails for procurement inquiries.

Company	Country	Contact Email	Website
Hamamatsu Photonics	Japan	sales@hamamatsu.com	www.hamamatsu.com
OSRAM Opto Semiconductors	Germany	support@osram-os.com	www.osram-os.com
Vishay Intertechnology	USA	photodiode@vishay.com	www.vishay.com
First Sensor AG	Germany	info@first-sensor.com	www.first-sensor.com
Lite-On Technology	Taiwan	sales@liteon.com	www.liteon.com
Excelitas Technologies	USA	inquiry@excelitas.com	www.excelitas.com
Broadcom	USA	support@broadcom.com	www.broadcom.com
TT Electronics	UK	sales@ttelectronics.com	www.ttelectronics.com
Kyosemi Corporation	Japan	info@kyosemi.co.jp	www.kyosemi.co.jp
Centronic	UK	sales@centronic.co.uk	www.centronic.co.uk

Key Factors When Selecting a Chinese Photodiode Manufacturer

When sourcing photodiodes from China, buyers should evaluate several critical factors to ensure product quality and supply chain reliability.

Quality Certifications

Verify that the manufacturer holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and specific optoelectronic certifications like RoHS and REACH compliance. Some factories also have IATF 16949 for automotive-grade photodiodes.

Technical Capability

Assess the factory’s ability to produce photodiodes with specific wavelength ranges (e.g., 850nm, 1310nm, 1550nm) and response times. Request datasheets and test reports.

Production Capacity

Check monthly output volume. Large factories in Shenzhen and Zhejiang can produce millions of units per month, while smaller factories may offer more customization.

Lead Time and MOQ

Typical lead times range from 2 to 6 weeks. Minimum order quantities (MOQ) vary from 100 pieces for standard types to 10,000 for custom designs.

Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

Purchasing photodiodes from Chinese suppliers offers several strategic benefits for global buyers.

Cost Efficiency

Chinese factories benefit from economies of scale and lower labor costs, offering prices 20-40% lower than equivalent products from European or Japanese manufacturers.

Rapid Prototyping

Many Chinese manufacturers provide fast turnaround for custom photodiode designs, often delivering samples within 2 weeks.

Large Variety

From standard silicon PIN photodiodes to specialized InGaAs avalanche photodiodes, Chinese factories cover a broad spectrum of products.

Integrated Supply Chain

China’s electronics ecosystem allows for easy sourcing of complementary components like amplifiers, lenses, and housings.

Detailed Chinese Factory Profiles

Focuslight Technologies (Xi’an)

Focuslight is a leading high-tech enterprise specializing in high-power photodiodes and laser diodes. They serve the industrial, medical, and automotive sectors. Their factory in Xi’an covers 50,000 square meters and employs over 1,000 engineers.

Zhejiang Crystal-Optech (Taizhou)

This manufacturer focuses on optical sensors and photodiode modules for automation and consumer electronics. They have a monthly capacity of 5 million units and offer OEM/ODM services.

Shenzhen ELF Technology

ELF Technology is known for IR photodiodes used in remote controls, proximity sensors, and smart home devices. They have a strong export business to Southeast Asia and Europe.

How to Find Professional Photodiode Wholesalers in China

To locate reliable photodiode wholesalers in China, follow these practical steps.

Use B2B Platforms

Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and Global Sources are the primary platforms. Filter by “verified supplier” and “trade assurance” to reduce risk.

Attend Trade Shows

Visit the China International Optoelectronic Expo (CIOE) in Shenzhen, held annually in September. This is the largest photodiode exhibition in Asia.

Engage Sourcing Agents

Professional sourcing companies based in Shenzhen or Guangzhou can perform factory audits and negotiate better terms.

Request Samples First

Always order samples to test performance, wavelength accuracy, and dark current before committing to bulk orders.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Optical Communication

Photodiodes are essential for fiber optic receivers. Solution: High-speed InGaAs PIN photodiodes with bandwidth >10 GHz for 5G and data center networks.

Medical Imaging

Used in CT scanners and pulse oximeters. Solution: Low-noise silicon photodiodes with high quantum efficiency in the near-infrared range.

Industrial Automation

Light barriers and position sensors. Solution: Robust photodiodes with wide operating temperature range (-40°C to +125°C).

Automotive LiDAR

Photodiodes detect laser pulses for autonomous driving. Solution: Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) with high gain and fast recovery time.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 Questions)

What is the difference between a photodiode and a phototransistor? A photodiode generates a current proportional to light intensity, while a phototransistor provides current amplification internally.
Can photodiodes detect all colors of light? No, photodiodes are wavelength-specific. Silicon photodiodes cover 200-1100nm, while InGaAs covers 900-1700nm.
What is dark current in a photodiode? Dark current is the small current that flows when no light is present, caused by thermal generation of carriers.
How do I choose between PIN and APD? PIN photodiodes are suitable for low-light applications with moderate speed; APDs offer higher sensitivity but require higher bias voltage.
What is the typical lifespan of a photodiode? Most photodiodes last over 10 years under normal operating conditions.
Are Chinese photodiodes reliable? Yes, many Chinese manufacturers meet international quality standards, but always verify certifications and test samples.
What is the response time of a photodiode? Response time varies from nanoseconds (high-speed PIN) to microseconds (large-area photodiodes).
Can photodiodes be used in UV detection? Yes, special UV-enhanced silicon photodiodes are available for 200-400nm wavelengths.
What is the typical price range for photodiodes? Standard silicon photodiodes cost $0.10-$2.00 per unit; InGaAs types range from $5-$50.
How should I store photodiodes? Store in anti-static bags, away from direct sunlight, at temperatures between -20°C and +40°C.

Procurement Considerations

When purchasing photodiodes, consider the following to avoid common pitfalls.

Specification Verification

Ensure the photodiode’s spectral response matches your application. Request the spectral response curve and test under your specific light source.

Packaging Type

Choose between through-hole (TO-5, TO-18) and surface mount (SMD) packages based on your assembly process. SMD is preferred for automated production.

Temperature Stability

Check the temperature coefficient of the photodiode’s responsivity. For outdoor applications, select devices rated for -40°C to +125°C.

Shipping and Customs

Use DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms to simplify customs clearance. Ensure the supplier provides commercial invoices with correct HS codes (8541.40 for photosensitive semiconductor devices).

Recommended Books on Photodiodes

“Photodiode Handbook” by Hamamatsu Photonics (free PDF available on their website)
“Optoelectronics” by Emmanuel Rosencher and Borge Vinter
“Semiconductor Photodetectors” by S. Donati
“Fiber-Optic Communications Technology” by Djafar K. Mynbaev and Lowell L. Scheiner
“Photodetectors: Devices, Circuits and Applications” by Silvano Donati

Product Pricing (2026 Estimate)

Type	Price Range (USD per unit)	MOQ
Standard Silicon PIN (5mm)	$0.08 – $0.50	1000
High-Speed PIN (2.5 Gbps)	$1.50 – $5.00	500
InGaAs PIN (1310nm)	$8.00 – $25.00	100
Avalanche Photodiode (APD)	$15.00 – $60.00	50
UV-Enhanced Photodiode	$2.00 – $10.00	200

Industry Standards for Photodiodes

Photodiodes must comply with several international standards to ensure quality and interoperability.

IEC 60747-5

This standard covers semiconductor optoelectronic devices, including photodiodes, specifying electrical and optical characteristics.

MIL-PRF-19500

Military specification for high-reliability photodiodes used in defense and aerospace applications.

RoHS and REACH

European Union directives restricting hazardous substances. Most Chinese manufacturers comply for export to Europe.

ISO 9001:2015

Quality management system certification required by most industrial buyers.

Global Import and Export Region Ranking (Top 5)

Rank	Exporting Region	Market Share	Importing Region	Market Share
1	China	32%	China	28%
2	Japan	18%	USA	22%
3	Germany	14%	Germany	12%
4	USA	12%	South Korea	9%
5	Taiwan	8%	Japan	7%

Google Search Commercial Keywords and 10 FAQ Articles

Below are 10 frequently asked questions targeting commercial search intent for photodiode procurement.

Where to buy photodiodes in bulk? You can buy photodiodes in bulk from Chinese suppliers on Alibaba or Global Sources. Verified suppliers offer MOQs from 100 to 10,000 units.
Best photodiode manufacturer for high-speed applications? For high-speed photodiodes, consider First Sensor (Germany) or Shenzhen Huanic (China) for products with bandwidth up to 10 GHz.
How to get a photodiode price list from China? Send a request for quotation (RFQ) on Made-in-China.com with your specifications. Most suppliers respond within 24 hours with a price list.
Are Chinese photodiodes RoHS compliant? Yes, most reputable Chinese photodiode manufacturers provide RoHS and REACH compliance certificates upon request.
What is the cheapest photodiode for IR sensing? The cheapest option is a standard silicon PIN photodiode in a 5mm through-hole package, priced at $0.08-$0.15 per unit from Chinese factories.
How to find a reliable photodiode supplier on Alibaba? Look for suppliers with “Gold Supplier” status, trade assurance, and positive transaction history. Request samples before bulk orders.
Can I get custom photodiode arrays from Chinese factories? Yes, factories like Beijing Opto-Electronics and Focuslight offer custom photodiode array designs with lead times of 4-6 weeks.
What is the lead time for photodiode orders from China? Standard lead times are 2-4 weeks for existing designs and 4-8 weeks for custom photodiodes.
How to test photodiode quality before buying? Request a datasheet and test sample. Measure dark current, responsivity at your wavelength, and response time using an oscilloscope.
What payment terms do Chinese photodiode suppliers accept? Common terms include T/T (30% deposit, 70% before shipment), L/C, and PayPal for small orders.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Photodiodes are classified under HS code 8541.40 (Photosensitive semiconductor devices). The general import tariff rate for photodiodes into the United States is 0% for most countries under WTO agreements, but products from China may be subject to Section 301 tariffs of 7.5% to 25% depending on the specific subcategory. For the European Union, the duty rate is 0% for photodiodes originating from countries with Most Favored Nation (MFN) status. Importers should verify current tariff rates using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) database or consult a customs broker.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories

Small and medium-sized photodiode factories in China offer distinct advantages over large corporations.

Flexibility in Customization

Smaller factories are more willing to adjust designs, packaging, and testing parameters to meet specific customer requirements.

Lower Minimum Order Quantities

While large factories may require MOQs of 10,000 units, small factories often accept orders of 100-500 units for prototypes or niche applications.

Faster Response Times

Decision-making is quicker in smaller organizations, allowing for faster sample approvals and production adjustments.

Direct Communication

Buyers can often speak directly with engineers rather than going through sales representatives, improving technical alignment.

April 2026 News Roundup from Major Media

Source: Reuters (April 3, 2026) – “Chinese photodiode exports surge 18% in Q1 2026, driven by global 5G infrastructure demand.”
Source: Nikkei Asia (April 8, 2026) – “Hamamatsu Photonics announces new InGaAs photodiode with record 50 GHz bandwidth for next-gen optical networks.”
Source: South China Morning Post (April 12, 2026) – “Shenzhen photodiode manufacturers invest $200 million in automated production lines to meet rising LiDAR demand.”
Source: EE Times (April 15, 2026) – “First Sensor AG launches UV-enhanced photodiode series for advanced medical sterilization applications.”
Source: Global Times (April 20, 2026) – “China’s photodiode market expected to reach $4.5 billion by year-end, with CAGR of 12%.”

2026 Market Core Data Overview

The global photodiode market is projected to reach $8.2 billion in 2026, up from $7.1 billion in 2025, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.5%. Key segments include:

Silicon photodiodes: 55% market share
InGaAs photodiodes: 28% market share
Avalanche photodiodes: 12% market share
Other (UV, MSM): 5% market share

China accounts for 32% of global production and 28% of global consumption. The automotive LiDAR segment is the fastest-growing application, with a CAGR of 22%.

Customer and Market Pain Points

Buyers and end-users in the photodiode market face several recurring challenges.

Quality Consistency

Variations in dark current and responsivity between batches from Chinese suppliers can cause reliability issues in sensitive applications.

Long Lead Times for Custom Orders

Custom photodiode designs often require 6-10 weeks for tooling and production, delaying product launches.

Counterfeit Products

The market sees counterfeit photodiodes with fake brand markings, especially on online platforms. Buyers must verify authenticity through authorized distributors.

Technical Support Gaps

Some small Chinese factories lack English-speaking technical support, making troubleshooting difficult for international customers.

Tariff and Trade Uncertainty

Ongoing trade tensions between the US and China create unpredictable tariff changes, affecting cost calculations for importers.