BAW vs SAW Filters

SAW filters and BAW filters are both types of acoustic wave filters (AWFs) that utilize acoustic waves to achieve precise filtering in RF and microwave applications. The primary difference between them lies in their physical structures and the way they propagate acoustic waves. In SAW filters, the acoustic wave travels along the surface of the piezoelectric substrate, while in BAW filters, the acoustic wave propagates vertically through the bulk of the piezoelectric substrate material, often made of quartz. This distinction in the propagation direction influences various performance characteristics of the filters, including frequency range, power handling capabilities, and temperature sensitivity.

SAW filters support frequencies up to 3 GHz, are temperature-sensitive, have lower power handling capabilities, and are less expensive and less complex to design & fabricate. On the other hand, BAW filters propagate acoustic waves through the bulk of the substrate, can support frequencies exceeding 10 GHz, are temperature-insensitive, have higher power handling capabilities (around 40 dBm), and are more expensive and complex to design. Today, SAW filters still maintain a relatively large market share below 2 GHz, while above 2 GHz, BAW filters dominate the market.

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