Inductors & Chokes

From smoothing a power supply to filtering out noise, the right inductor keeps a circuit clean and stable. We stock inductors and chokes in every common type — SMD, axial, radial, toroidal, ferrite-core and power — across the µH to mH values you design with, and our own TruComponents range is the default choice. All UK stock is same-day despatch for next-day delivery.

Inductors & chokes — buying guide & FAQs

An inductor stores energy in a magnetic field and resists changes in current, which makes it essential for power smoothing, filtering and tuning. A choke is simply an inductor used to block unwanted AC while passing DC. We stock the full range, from tiny SMD parts to power inductors and chokes.

What types of inductor and choke are there?

• SMD / surface-mount — compact shielded and unshielded parts for modern boards.
• Axial and radial — leaded inductors for through-hole assembly and prototyping.
• Toroidal — ring-core inductors with low stray field and high efficiency.
• Ferrite-core and iron-core — higher inductance for power and low-frequency work.
• Power inductors — high current-handling for converters and supplies.
• RF and common-mode chokes — for filtering and EMI suppression, alongside ferrite beads.

How do I choose an inductor?

• Inductance value — in microhenries (µH) or millihenries (mH), to suit the circuit.
• Current rating — choose a part rated above your working current to avoid saturation.
• Core and construction — ferrite, iron or air core, shielded or unshielded.
• Mounting — SMD for compact boards, through-hole for prototyping and power designs.

Not sure which to specify? Our technical team will help you match a part, and we supply bespoke quantities when a project needs them.

TruComponents — the same spec, for less

Our own TruComponents inductors and chokes are the default choice on this page: matched to the branded parts on value, current rating and footprint, and held in UK stock. Where a part has a branded equivalent, we show the TruComponents option beside it so you can compare the spec and the price directly, then decide. Every part is backed by technical support from people who know the products.

Building the rest of your passive line-up? See our capacitors and resistors, or parts for filters & suppression. For the wider range, browse all passives.

Inductors & chokes — frequently asked questions

What does an inductor do?

An inductor stores energy in a magnetic field and opposes changes in current. That makes it the go-to part for smoothing supplies, filtering noise, tuning circuits and blocking unwanted AC while passing DC.

What is the difference between an inductor and a choke?

A choke is simply an inductor used to block (choke) higher-frequency AC while letting DC or lower frequencies pass. RF chokes and common-mode chokes are inductors chosen for that filtering job.

What is a ferrite bead?

A ferrite bead is a small inductor that suppresses high-frequency noise on a power or signal line. It absorbs interference as heat, and is widely used for EMI suppression on cables and boards.

How are inductors measured?

Inductance is measured in henries (H), though most components are in microhenries (µH) or millihenries (mH). Also check the current rating and the DC resistance when choosing a part.

How do I choose an inductor?

Match the inductance value (in µH or mH), the rated current, and the core and construction to the job, then pick the mounting: SMD for compact boards or through-hole for prototyping and power designs.