BGA vs. LGA: Which Solder Joint Type Offers Better Vibration Reliability?
"A Deep Dive into SAC105 and 63Sn37Pb Alloys"
In today's world, electronic devices are becoming smaller, thinner, and lighter. These advancements demand reliable components that can withstand various stresses, especially vibration. Ball Grid Array (BGA) and Land Grid Array (LGA) are two common types of solder joints used to connect components to circuit boards.
While both BGA and LGA serve the same basic purpose, they differ significantly in their design and, consequently, their performance under stress. Understanding these differences is crucial for engineers and designers aiming to create durable and reliable electronic products. The choice of solder alloy also plays a vital role, with SAC105 and 63Sn37Pb being two frequently used options.
Recent research dives deep into the vibration reliability of BGA and LGA solder joints, comparing the performance of SAC105 (lead-free) and 63Sn37Pb (tin-lead) alloys. By combining experimental testing with finite element simulations, the study sheds light on the strengths and weaknesses of each configuration, offering valuable insights for optimizing electronic device design.
BGA vs. LGA Solder Joints: Understanding Vibration Reliability

The study compares the vibration reliability of LGA and BGA solders, alongside SAC105 and 63Sn37Pb solder alloys, under vibration loading conditions. Using resonance tracking vibration tests and finite element simulations, the research identifies key performance differences.
- Tin-Lead vs. Lead-Free: Tin-lead solders (63Sn37Pb) exhibit superior vibration reliability compared to lead-free alternatives (SAC105).
- LGA vs. BGA: LGA solder joints generally offer better vibration reliability performance compared to BGA solder joints.
- Failure Points: LGAs tend to fail at the printed circuit board (PCB) side, while BGAs typically fail at the component side.
- Crack Propagation: In both LGA and BGA, cracks commonly propagate through the intermetallic compound layer.
Implications for Design and Manufacturing
This research offers vital insights for designing more robust electronic devices, especially for applications in high-vibration environments. The findings support the use of tin-lead solders where regulations permit, and highlight the need for optimized designs in lead-free systems. Further investigation with larger sample sizes is recommended to refine these conclusions and better understand the long-term reliability of each solder joint type. By applying these insights, manufacturers can enhance product durability and minimize vibration-related failures.