In modern electronics, motion sensing is useful in everything from fitness trackers to industrial automation systems. Among the most trusted solutions are STMicroelectronics’ LIS2DW12 and LIS2DH12, two high-performance 3-axis MEMS accelerometers designed to deliver precise and reliable motion detection. This comparison explores their specifications, features, applications, and performance differences to help you choose the ideal accelerometer for your next project.

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LIS2DW12 and LIS2DH12 Overview

The LIS2DW12 and LIS2DH12 are 3-axis accelerometers from STMicroelectronics designed for precise and reliable motion sensing in modern electronic systems. Both sensors come from the same MEMS family but are tuned for different priorities to match specific design requirements.

The LIS2DW12 focuses on ultra-low power consumption, making it ideal for battery-powered or energy-efficient devices. It delivers accurate motion detection while keeping energy usage minimal, allowing continuous operation in wearables, portable gadgets, and smart sensors without compromising battery life.

In contrast, the LIS2DH12 is built for high accuracy and stability, featuring low noise and excellent sensitivity at low frequencies. This makes it suitable for applications that require fine motion analysis, such as vibration monitoring, movement detection, and precision control systems.

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Specifications

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Features

LIS2DW12 Features

• Ultra-low power consumption: Consumes only 50 nA in power-down mode and less than 1 µA in active low-power mode, ideal for battery-operated and portable devices.

• Very low noise: Offers noise performance down to 1.3 mg RMS in low-power mode, ensuring stable and accurate motion detection.

• Multiple operating modes: Provides flexible performance options with several bandwidth and resolution settings to optimize power and responsiveness.

• Wide measurement range: Supports selectable full-scale ranges of ±2 g, ±4 g, ±8 g, and ±16 g for diverse applications.

• High-speed digital interface: Equipped with both I²C and SPI interfaces for fast and reliable data transfer.

• Single data conversion on demand: Allows on-request sampling for precise timing and reduced energy usage.

• High-resolution 16-bit output: Delivers detailed acceleration data suitable for precision motion analysis.

• Embedded temperature sensor: Monitors internal temperature for enhanced system accuracy and stability.

• Integrated pedometer and step counter: Tracks movement in wearable and fitness devices with built-in step detection logic.

• Advanced motion functions: Includes Android stationary and motion detection, tap/double-tap, free-fall, and 6D/4D orientation recognition.

• 32-level FIFO buffer: Reduces microcontroller load by storing multiple samples, improving efficiency and timing control.

• Self-test capability: Enables internal functional verification to ensure proper sensor operation.

• High shock survivability: Tolerates up to 10,000 g, ensuring durability in harsh mechanical environments.

• Independent I/O supply: Allows flexible voltage compatibility for system integration.

• Wide supply voltage range: Operates from 1.62 V to 3.6 V, suitable for modern low-voltage designs.

• Compact LGA package: 2 × 2 × 0.7 mm package for space-constrained applications.

• RoHS and ECOPACK compliant: Environmentally friendly design that meets global manufacturing standards.

LIS2DH12 Features

• Wide supply voltage range (1.71 V to 3.6 V): Compatible with various power supply configurations for flexible system integration.

• Independent I/O supply (1.8 V): Allows separate logic-level operation for better interface compatibility.

• Ultra-low power consumption: Operates down to 2 µA in low-power mode, ideal for battery-powered systems.

• Selectable full-scale ranges: Offers ±2 g, ±4 g, ±8 g, and ±16 g measurement options to suit different applications.

• High-resolution 16-bit output: Ensures precise acceleration readings for motion and vibration analysis.

• I²C/SPI digital output interface: Provides flexible communication with microcontrollers and processors.

• Two programmable interrupt generators: Enables event detection such as free-fall, motion, or orientation change.

• 6D/4D orientation detection: Recognizes device position and tilt for intuitive user interface control.

• “Sleep-to-wake” and “return-to-sleep” functions: Automatically manage power states to extend battery life.

• Free-fall detection: Detects when the device is dropped, useful for data protection in portable electronics.

• Motion detection: Identifies user or device movement to trigger specific system responses.

• Embedded temperature sensor: Monitors internal temperature for system calibration and diagnostics.

• Embedded 32-level FIFO buffer: Reduces processor load by storing multiple samples for efficient data handling.

• Self-test function: Allows internal verification of sensor functionality and calibration accuracy.

• High data output rate (up to 5.3 kHz): Supports applications requiring fast sampling and dynamic motion capture.

• Compact 2 × 2 × 1.0 mm LGA package: Suitable for space-constrained applications such as wearables and IoT sensors.

• High shock survivability: Withstands mechanical shocks up to 2,000 g, providing durability in harsh environments.

• Built-in filtering options: Configurable high-pass and low-pass filters for signal conditioning and noise reduction.

• RoHS and ECOPACK compliant: Environmentally friendly design meeting global manufacturing standards.

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Applications

LIS2DW12 Applications

The LIS2DW12 is designed for low-power, high-precision motion sensing in compact and battery-operated devices. It is commonly used in:

• Fitness and Health Monitoring Devices – Tracks body movement, steps, and activity levels in wearable fitness bands and smart health sensors.

• Smart Watches and Wearables – Provides accurate motion detection and orientation tracking for gesture recognition, step counting, and sleep analysis.

• Motion-Detecting Products – Enables motion-triggered actions in smart devices, such as screen rotation, wake-up gestures, and activity logging.

• IoT and Smart Home Systems – Monitors vibrations, movements, or positional changes in connected devices for automation and security.

• Asset and Vibration Monitoring – Detects mechanical shocks and vibrations in machinery or transported goods, ensuring stability and operational safety.

• Portable Medical Equipment – Assists in movement-based monitoring and positioning in compact health devices.

LIS2DH12 Applications

The LIS2DH12 is widely used in consumer electronics and industrial systems where accuracy, responsiveness, and digital output are essential. It is ideal for:

• Gaming Controllers and Consoles – Detects motion, tilt, and gestures to enhance user interaction and gaming experience.

• Virtual and Augmented Reality Devices – Provides precise orientation and acceleration data for smooth and responsive tracking in immersive environments.

• Drones and Robotics – Measures acceleration, orientation, and vibration for stability control and navigation systems.

• Industrial Automation – Monitors machine vibration, alignment, and motion in factory and robotic systems for predictive maintenance.

• Smartphones and Tablets – Supports screen rotation, tap detection, and motion-based user interface features.

• Security and Surveillance Systems – Detects motion or tampering in sensors and camera systems for enhanced protection.

• Consumer Electronics – Integrated into devices requiring gesture recognition, shock detection, or motion-triggered wake-up functions.

LIS2DW12 vs. LIS2DH12: Pin Connection

The LIS2DW12 and LIS2DH12 pin connection diagrams show the orientation and electrical connections of their 12-pin LGA packages. Both sensors detect acceleration along three axes (X, Y, and Z), as illustrated in the top-view diagram. The arrow directions indicate how each axis corresponds to the device’s orientation, helping you correctly mount it on a PCB for accurate motion detection.

In the bottom-view pinout, both accelerometers share a similar layout but differ slightly in pin functions and power configurations. Pins 1 to 4 handle communication and control-these include SCL/SPC (serial clock), CS (chip select), SDO/SA0 (data output/address selection), and SDA/SDI/SDO (data input/output)-which support both I²C and SPI interfaces for flexible integration with microcontrollers. Pins 5 to 8 are mainly for power and grounding: RES (reset), GND, and VDD/VDDIO, ensuring stable operation and voltage isolation. Pins 11 and 12 (INT1 and INT2) serve as interrupt outputs, used to signal events like motion detection or free-fall.

The LIS2DW12 includes a dedicated VDDIO pin for separate I/O voltage levels, allowing compatibility with different logic systems, while the LIS2DH12 uses a similar Vdd_IO function but has an additional ground pin for improved noise reduction.

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Packaging Information

The LIS2DW12 and LIS2DH12 both use a compact 12-lead LGA package, designed for space-efficient integration in portable and wearable devices. These packages ensure durability and consistent sensor performance even in small electronic assemblies.

The LIS2DW12 has a package size of 2.0 × 2.0 × 0.7 mm, making it slightly thinner and more suitable for ultra-compact applications. Its lower height allows easier placement in slim enclosures such as smartbands and IoT sensors. The mechanical outline also includes a Pin 1 indicator for correct orientation during PCB mounting and reflow soldering. The tighter tolerance of ±0.1 mm enhances dimensional accuracy and fit in high-density designs.

The LIS2DH12, on the other hand, features a similar 2.0 × 2.0 mm footprint but with a 1.0 mm height, providing a slightly larger package that improves mechanical robustness and thermal stability. Its LGA-12 structure maintains the same pin layout, ensuring compatibility with existing LIS series footprints while allowing flexible board design.

While both accelerometers share nearly identical package dimensions, the LIS2DW12 offers a thinner and lighter design for compact devices, whereas the LIS2DH12 delivers a sturdier build ideal for environments where physical durability is prioritized.

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Block Diagram

Both the LIS2DH12 and LIS2DW12 share a similar structure that converts acceleration into digital signals. Each uses a 3-axis sensing element, a charge amplifier, an A/D converter, and control logic connected via I²C or SPI interfaces.

The LIS2DH12 includes a temperature sensor, self-test, trimming circuits, a 32-level FIFO, and dual interrupt generators for motion detection. In contrast, the LIS2DW12 adds a reference block and optimized amplifier for improved stability and ultra-low-power performance.

In short, the LIS2DH12 suits general motion detection, while the LIS2DW12 delivers higher precision and lower power consumption.

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Equivalent and Alternatives

LIS2DW12 Equivalent and Alternatives

LIS2DH12 Equivalent and Alternatives

LIS2DW12 vs LIS2DH12: Which One is the Best?

Choosing between the LIS2DW12 and LIS2DH12 depends on your specific application needs. Both are 3-axis MEMS accelerometers from STMicroelectronics, but each excels in different areas.

The LIS2DW12 is ideal for low-power and battery-operated applications. It offers extremely low current consumption, enhanced noise performance, and a wide range of operating modes, making it perfect for wearables, IoT sensors, and smart devices that prioritize energy efficiency. Its improved analog front-end and digital processing ensure stable and accurate readings, even at ultra-low power.

The LIS2DH12, on the other hand, is better suited for general-purpose and industrial applications. It provides consistent performance, flexible data rates, and strong motion detection capabilities at a slightly higher power cost. Its dual interrupt pins, self-test function, and wide full-scale range make it a reliable option for motion tracking, vibration monitoring, and handheld electronics.