What is an Airsoft MOSFET? Our Intro Guide

Wiring protection?
Better trigger response?
Customized burst fire?
Yes please!

One of the most crucial components of a top-performing airsoft gun is the MOSFET. MOSFET stands for Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor. It is an electronic device that controls the flow of current in the gun’s circuitry.

MOSFETs are essential in airsoft guns because they help to improve the gun’s performance, increase its lifespan, and prevent damage to the trigger contacts.

In this article, we will explore the role of MOSFETs in airsoft guns and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. We will also provide a guide on how to install a MOSFET in your airsoft gun and offer some tips on how to maintain it.

Whether you are a seasoned airsoft player or a beginner, this article will provide you with valuable insights on how to enhance your airsoft gun’s performance and make it more reliable.

mosfets for airsoft header image

What is an airsoft MOSFET?

An airsoft MOSFET is an electronic device used in airsoft guns to regulate electrical flow, improving battery efficiency and trigger response. It also helps protect the gun’s electrical components from damage.

How does it work?

A Mosfet is a device that controls the flow of electricity in a circuit. It works by using a small amount of current to control a larger amount of current. When a small current is applied to the gate of the Mosfet, it creates an electric field that allows a larger current to flow between the source and the drain.

In airsoft guns, Mosfets are used to control the flow of electricity from the battery to the motor. By doing so, they can:

  • improve the trigger response
  • increase the rate of fire
  • prevent damage to the gun’s trigger contacts

What is a mosfet used for in airsoft?

A MOSFET is used in airsoft to increase the reliability and performance of an airsoft gun. All of the best airsoft guns should have these two things.

In addition, Mosfets can also help extend the life of the battery and reduce the risk of electrical shorts. This is particularly important for players who use high-powered 11.1v LiPo batteries.

Types of Mosfets

Image courtesy of: https://help.gatee.eu/

Basic Mosfets

Basic Mosfets are the simplest type of Mosfets and are designed to be cheap and protect the trigger contacts. They are relatively easy to install and are a great option for beginners. Basic Mosfets have limited features and are generally less expensive than advanced Mosfets.

Basic Mosfets have the following features:

  • Protection for trigger contacts
  • Low cost (can be as low as $20)

Be aware that any mosfets that describe themselves as “plug and play” don’t actually protect your trigger contacts. These particular mosfets predominately add features like burst-fire or precocking, but not much else. We don’t entirely recommend these.

This is a basic plug & play mosfet

Advanced Mosfets

Advanced Mosfets are more sophisticated than Basic Mosfets and offer a wider range of features. They are designed to provide better performance and protect the internals of the gun. Advanced Mosfets have a higher price point than Basic Mosfets.

Some of the best airsoft M4’s come with mosfets preinstalled.

This is a full trigger unit replacement mosfet

Some of the advanced types of mosfets are:

  • Programmable fire control units
  • Trigger board replacements

Advanced Mosfets have the following features:

  • Improved trigger response
  • Protection for trigger contacts
  • Protection for the internals of the gun
  • Burst fire mode
  • Active breaking
  • Pre-cocking

Overall, Mosfets are a great addition to any airsoft gun and can greatly improve its performance. Basic Mosfets are a good option for beginners, while advanced Mosfets are better suited for experienced players who want to take their game to the next level.

mosfet for airsoft guide

Benefits of Using an Airsoft Mosfet

Reduced Wear and Tear on the Trigger Contacts

One of the primary benefits of using a Mosfet is that it can help to reduce the wear and tear on the trigger contacts. Traditional trigger contacts can become worn down over time due to arcing, which causes burn marks.

This can lead to inconsistent performance and even failure. However, with a Mosfet installed, the contacts are no longer completing the circuit, thus preventing the arcs that cause burns. Instead, there are microswitches that tell the gun that the trigger has been pulled.

This can help to extend their lifespan and ensure more reliable performance over the long term.

Improved Trigger Response

Another advantage of using a Mosfet in airsoft is that it can significantly improve trigger response times. With traditional trigger contacts, there can be a delay between when the trigger is pulled and when the motor actually starts spinning. However, with a Mosfet installed, this delay is greatly reduced, resulting in a much faster and more responsive trigger.

Increased Battery Life

By reducing the amount of power lost through the trigger contacts, a Mosfet can also help to increase battery life. With traditional contacts, a significant amount of power is lost as heat, which can drain the battery faster and reduce overall performance. However, with a Mosfet installed, this power loss is minimized, resulting in longer battery life and more consistent performance.

Better Rate of Fire Control

Another benefit of using a Mosfet in airsoft is that it can provide a better rate of fire control. With traditional contacts, the rate of fire is largely determined by the voltage of the battery and the strength of the motor. However, with a Mosfet installed, it is possible to adjust the rate of fire more precisely, allowing for greater customization and control over the performance of the gun.

Customization in Fire Control

Finally, the more advanced Mosfets will allow you to program your fire rate. Burst fire? It is possible. Precocking? Also possible. It does take some testing, but you can get a customized airosft gun fire control with an advanced Mosfet.

trigger replacement unit for airsoft

How to Install a MOSFET in your Airsoft AEG

For starters, we don’t recommend a home installation for beginners. Some of these tasks, such as soldering, are not easy skills to master on your first try.

If you do want to give a home installation a shot, then we additionally recommend not to do it for your main gun.

Tools Required

Before you start with the installation process, you will need to consider the following tools:

  • Screwdrivers to open the gearbox
  • Soldering iron
  • Solder
  • Wire strippers
  • Heat shrink tubing & heat gun
  • Mosfet kit

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these steps to install a Mosfet in your airsoft gun:

  1. Remove the battery from your airsoft gun and disassemble the gearbox.
  2. Locate the trigger contacts and remove them from the gearbox.
  3. Install the Mosfet according to the instructions provided in the kit.
  4. Solder the wires from the Mosfet to the appropriate locations on the gearbox.
  5. Slide heat shrink tubing over the soldered connections and use a heat gun to shrink the tubing in place.
  6. Reassemble the gearbox and test the airsoft gun to ensure that it is functioning properly.

It is important to note that the installation process may vary depending on the specific Mosfet kit and airsoft gun that you are using. Be sure to carefully read the instructions provided with your Mosfet kit and consult with a professional if you are unsure about any steps in the installation process.

what are mosfets for airsoft

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mosfet airsoft is a great option for airsoft enthusiasts who want to improve their gameplay experience. They can help protect your gun’s electrical components from damage due to high voltage or current. Additionally, provide a variety of benefits, including better trigger response, increased rate of fire, and improved battery life.

While Mosfets can be a bit more expensive than traditional wiring setups, the benefits they provide make them well worth the investment for serious airsoft players. With the right Mosfet installed, you can take your airsoft game to the next level and dominate the battlefield.

When choosing a Mosfet for your airsoft gun, be sure to consider factors such as compatibility, features, and price. Look for reputable brands and read customer reviews to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product that will meet your needs.

Check out Evike.com or Airsoftstation.com for a great selection of mosfets.

FAQ

What is an ETU?

ETU is short for Electronic Trigger Unit. This is a type of mosfet that replaces your trigger entirely.

Are there disadvantages to a mosfet?

It does add some complexity to the overall gun, and if you’re not familiar with how mosfets work, then a field repair is very difficult.

Can a mosfet burn out?

It is incredibly rare, but possible. Usually we recommend you replace the mosfet unit if it does.
Timothy Hackett
Timothy Hackett

Tim has been playing airsoft since 1994. With over a thousand (no lie) airsoft games under his belt he has spent countless hours testing various airsoft guns and tactical gear. He's gotten hundreds (still no lie) of people into the airsoft hobby and is more than willing to spread the love of slinging 6mm plastic to any new player.

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