Memory chips—especially NOR Flash from Winbond and Macronix—have been rising in price lately. Introducing form-/function-compatible alternatives is therefore a routine supply-chain hedge and a proven way to keep BOM cost under control. Winbond’s mainstream 128 Mbit SPI NOR Flash, the W25Q128JVSIM, already has a fully-qualified, volume-shipping drop-in replacement: GigaDevice’s GD25Q128ESIGR.
Key-specification comparison
Core parameters – baseline compatibility check
Parameter | W25Q128JVSIM (Winbond) | GD25Q128ESIGR (GigaDevice) | Compatibility verdict |
Density | 128 Mbit (16 MB) | 128 Mbit (16 MB) | Identical |
Interface | SPI (SPI & QPI modes) | SPI (SPI & QPI modes) | Protocol-compatible |
Package | 8-pin SOIC 150 mil | 8-pin SOIC 150 mil | Pin-to-pin; direct solder-down |
VCC range | 2.7 V – 3.6 V | 2.7 V – 3.6 V | Same supply window |
Max. clock | 133 MHz (QPI) | 108 MHz (QPI) | Adequate for most apps |
Endurance | 100 k erase cycles / sector | 100 k erase cycles / sector | Equal reliability |
Data retention | 20 years | 20 years | Long-term stability equivalent |
Pin-out comparison (both devices use the standard 8-pin SOIC footprint)
Pin # | Name | Function | Key notes |
1 | CS# | Chip-select | Active low |
2 | DO / IO1 | Data output (single) or IO1 (quad) | |
3 | WP# / IO2 | Write-protect (single) or IO2 (quad) | |
4 | GND | Ground | |
5 | DI / IO0 | Data input (single) or IO0 (quad) | |
6 | CLK | Serial clock | |
7 | HOLD# / IO3 | Hold (single) or IO3 (quad) | |
8 | VCC | 2.7 V – 3.6 V supply |
Hardware-design impact
Because both parts share the same supply range, pin-out and command set, the existing 2.7 V–3.6 V rail, pull-up/pull-down resistors and decoupling capacitors can be re-used without change. GD25Q128ESIGR’s 108 MHz top speed is slightly lower but still relaxes signal-integrity requirements, making PCB layout and SI validation easier and cheaper.
Field-verification summary
GD25Q128ESIGR has already been validated across multiple market segments:
Industrial – PLC code-storage, -40 °C ↔ +85 °C temperature cycling passed; boot time and throughput identical to W25Q128JVSIM.
Consumer – Smooth operation in smart routers and smart speakers under QPI mode; firmware start-up time delta < 1 %.
Automotive – Reliable data logging in non-safety sensor modules; for safety-critical ECUs additional AEC-Q100 qualification is required.
Bottom line: W25Q128JVSIM and GD25Q128ESIGR are highly compatible at the pin, protocol and parametric level, making the GigaDevice part an ideal second-source / cost-optimized replacement.
About Mandu Technology
Shenzhen Mandu Technology Co., Ltd. has steadfastly centered its operations on the distribution of high-performance, high-quality, and highly reliable integrated circuit products. Its portfolio encompasses memory chips, differential crystal oscillators, and MCU microcontrollers, while progressively integrating analog signal chain products. The company prides itself on delivering comprehensive and cost-effective solutions to its customers. Its products find applications across a broad spectrum of industries, including but not limited to network communication, industrial control, robotics, medical equipment, personal health, and numerous other fields.
Business: sales@manduic.com
Website: www.manduic.com
Sales: +86 150-1290-5940
Telephone: +86-150-1290-5940
Mobile phone: +86-150-1290-5940
Mailbox: sales@manduic.com
Address: B1205, building 2, Fenghui garden, No. 9, South Ring Road, Matian street, Guangming District, Shenzhen