Best IO Modules of 2025

Harvey Wall Avatar
Harvey Wall
Last Updated: 29 Jan 2025

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IO modules are electronic devices that allow for the expansion of input/output (IO) capabilities in various systems. These modules are designed to provide additional digital or analogue inputs and outputs, which can be used to control and monitor various devices and processes. IO modules are commonly used in industrial automation, building automation, and other control applications where there is a need to interface with external devices. These devices are highly versatile and can be easily integrated with existing systems to provide additional functionality and improve system performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DollaTek PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module Cover #TOP 1
DollaTek PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Fasizi 5pcs PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module Cover #TOP 2
Fasizi 5pcs PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module
ftb score rating icon 9.7
EBYTE ModBus RTU Serial IO Module with 8 Outputs Cover #TOP 3
EBYTE ModBus RTU Serial IO Module with 8 Outputs
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 IO Modules

#TOP 1

DollaTek PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module

DollaTek PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module Cover
DollaTek 3Pcs PCF8574 IO Expansion Board I/O Expander I2C-Bus Evaluation Development Module

The DollaTek I/O Expansion Board offers a standard interface that can easily integrate with various development boards. This product features an I2C serial port that converts to an 8-bit parallel port, allowing you to expand capabilities up to 64 outputs. It utilises the PCF8574 IO expansion chip, ensuring efficient performance. Compatible with platforms like Arduino, AVR, and ARM, this board provides you with the versatility needed for diverse projects.

What We Like
Versatile compatibility with platforms
Easy integration with development boards
High output capacity expansion
User-friendly I2C interface
#TOP 2

Fasizi 5pcs PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module

ELB0559
Fasizi 5pcs PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module Cover
Fasizi 5pcs PCF8574 IO Expansion Board I/O Expander I2C-Bus Evaluation Development Module

The Fasizi PCF8574 I/O Expander is a versatile module designed for various development boards. It features a standard interface, allowing you to easily expand your projects. With its I2C serial port converting to an 8-bit parallel port, you can connect up to 64 devices, enhancing your project's capabilities. This module is compatible with popular platforms like Arduino, AVR, and ARM, making it a convenient addition to your toolkit. Its pin or row seat design offers flexibility for different setups.

What We Like
Easy project expansion
Compatible with various platforms
Supports multiple device connections
Flexible board design
#TOP 3

EBYTE ModBus RTU Serial IO Module with 8 Outputs

MA01-XXCX0080
MA01-XXCX0080
EBYTE ModBus RTU Serial IO Module with 8 Outputs Cover
EBYTE ModBus RTU Serial IO Module RS485 Interface 8DO 8 Digital Outputs MA01-XXCX0080 Rail Installation 8~28VDC

The EBYTE MA01 Module is a versatile device that allows you to control eight relay switch outputs remotely via the RS485 serial port. This product supports Modbus RTU protocols, making it compatible with various configuration software and PLCs, which means you can easily integrate it into your existing systems. Additionally, it operates on a DC power supply range of 8 to 28V, giving you flexibility in power options. With configurable communication baud rates, you can tailor the settings to suit your specific needs, ensuring smooth operation.

What We Like
Remote control functionality
Wide compatibility with systems
Flexible power supply options
Customisable communication settings
#TOP 4

UMTMedia V3.0 I/O Expansion Board for Arduino Nano

UMTMedia V3.0 I/O Expansion Board for Arduino Nano Cover
UMTMedia® V3.0 I/O Expansion Breakout Sensor Module Board For Arduino Nano I/O Shield

The UMTMedia V3.0 Breakout Board enhances your Arduino Nano by expanding its I/O capabilities, allowing you to connect more sensors and components with ease. Thanks to its screw terminals, you can make secure connections without the clutter of breadboards. Designed for seamless integration, this board works perfectly with the Arduino IDE, so you can programme your projects effortlessly. Additionally, it features a 3.3V output for powering sensors, ensuring you have everything you need for precise readings and effective project management.

What We Like
Increases I/O pin availability
Secure screw terminal connections
Easy integration with Arduino
3.3V output for sensors
Compact and space-saving design
#TOP 5

DAOKAI PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module

JA-DA-006
PCF8574
DAOKAI PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Module Cover
DAOKAI 5 pcs PCF8574 IO Expansion Board I/O Expander I2C Evaluation Develop Module MCU Expansion Board module with Dupont Cable for Arduino for Raspberry Pi

The DAOKAI I/O Expansion Module is designed to enhance your projects by providing general-purpose remote I/O expansion through a two-wire bidirectional I2C-bus. This means you can easily connect multiple devices, expanding your I/O capabilities from 2 to 64. The module supports both pin and row seat interfaces, allowing flexible connections to various target boards. It is compatible with multiple platforms, including Arduino and AVR, making it a versatile choice for your development needs.

What We Like
Easy I/O expansion
Flexible connection options
Compatible with multiple platforms
Includes Dupont cables
#TOP 6

XICOOLEE CAT9555 I2C GPIO Expansion Module

XICOOLEE CAT9555 I2C GPIO Expansion Module Cover
XICOOLEE CAT9555 IO Expansion Module Board I2C Interface, SMBus I/O Port, 16 bit Parallel GPIO Expander, with Pre-soldered Header

The XICOOLEE CAT9555 Module offers a versatile solution for your I/O needs with its 5V tolerant I/O and high drive capability, ensuring robust performance in various applications. Its compatibility with a 400 kHz I2C bus allows for seamless communication with other devices, making it easier to integrate into your projects. The polarity inversion register and active low interrupt output enhance control and flexibility, allowing you to manage signals effectively. Additionally, the internal power-on reset feature provides reliability by ensuring the module starts in a known state, giving you peace of mind.

What We Like
High drive capability
400 kHz I2C compatibility
Polarity inversion register
Internal power-on reset
Low standby current
#TOP 7

Zooz 800 Series Z-Wave GPIO Module

ZOOZ
ZAC93
Yellow
Zooz 800 Series Z-Wave GPIO Module Cover
Zooz 800 Series Z-Wave Long Range GPIO Module ZAC93 LR (Use with Home Assistant Yellow or Raspberry Pi)

The Zooz ZAC93 LR Module is designed for advanced users of Home Assistant and home automation systems. With the latest Z-Wave Long Range technology, you can expand your network coverage up to a mile, enhancing the reliability of your smart home setup. This module adds Z-Wave Plus and Long Range capabilities to your Raspberry Pi or Home Assistant Yellow hardware, allowing for a more robust DIY smart home experience. You'll need suitable home automation software to unlock its full potential, making it ideal for tech-savvy individuals.

What We Like
Advanced functionality for experts
Extends network coverage significantly
Compatible with Raspberry Pi
Supports OTA firmware updates
Easy integration with Z-Wave
#TOP 8

8 Channel IO Level Converter with Optocoupler

SKU24766
blue
8 Channel
8 Channel IO Level Converter with Optocoupler Cover
8 Channel IO Level Converter Breakout 8 Bit Optocoupler Isolator Board 5V-24V PLC Signal Level Voltage Converter Board Module

The sb components Level Converter is an essential tool for safely connecting 5-24V signals to 3.3V or 5V devices. With its 4 or 8 channel options, you can easily manage multiple connections. The output voltage ranges from 3.3 to 5V DC, providing flexibility for various applications. Additionally, the board features 4 or 8 status LEDs, allowing you to monitor the status of each channel at a glance. This convenience ensures that you can quickly identify issues or confirm operations without hassle.

What We Like
Supports multiple voltage levels
Easy signal connection
Status LEDs for monitoring
4 or 8 channel options
Versatile for different devices
#TOP 9

Youmile PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board

JK-YM-156
Youmile PCF8574 I/O Expansion Board Cover
Youmile 5 pcs PCF8574 IO Expansion Board PCF8574 I/O Expander I2C Evaluation Develop Module with DuPont Cable for Arduino & Raspberry Pi

The Youmile PCF8574 Board offers remarkable flexibility for your projects. With its remote I/O expansion feature, you can easily connect additional devices using the two-wire I2C-bus, making it great for larger systems. The ability to expand up to 64 I/O ports with just two I/O modules saves you time and resources. The board supports both pin and row seat interface types, allowing you to choose the best connection method for your target board. Designed for a wide voltage range, it ensures compatibility with various platforms, enhancing your project’s versatility.

What We Like
Easy remote I/O expansion
Supports multiple I/O connections
Flexible interface types
Wide voltage compatibility
Versatile platform usage
#TOP 10

4DI+2DO Modbus RTU Control IO Module

MA01-AXCX4020
4DI+2DO Modbus RTU Control IO Module Cover
4DI+2DO Modbus RTU Control IO Network Modules Serial Port RS485 MA01-AXCX4020 Rail Installation 8~28V DC IoT Watchdog

The CDBAIRUI MA01-AXCX4020 Module provides high protective isolation characteristics, ensuring stable and reliable operation. The input is optoelectrically isolated, and the device features a built-in DC-DC isolated power supply. With multiple protective features, including power pulse protection and reverse connection protection, you can avoid accidents caused by incorrect operations. Its industrial-grade quality guarantees stability even in extreme temperatures, ranging from -40 to +85°C. This reliability is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted performance in demanding environments.

What We Like
High protective isolation
Multiple protective features
Wide temperature range
Stable performance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is IO module?

An I/O module is a subsystem in an integrated circuit that performs the functionality specific to interfacing a CPU to the rest of the system. It can also refer to configurable switches called I/O relay modules for switching the power to an external load.

2. What are the major function of an I O module?

The I/O Module's Key Tasks Device communication – It needs to be able to perform standard device communications, such as reporting of status. Control and timing – An I/O module needs to be capable of managing data flow between a computer's internal resources and any connected external devices.

3. What is I O module in PLC?

The main function of a PLC I/O module is to process communication that is being sent to the PLC and accept the commands sent from a processor. PLC I/O modules can also be used to detect processing errors, run system reports and manage the flow of data.

4. What are some common I O module types?

Types of I/O. There are three types of I/O operations:Sensory input. digital input. analog input.Control output. direct digital output. modulated digital output. analog output.Data transfer. parallel. serial.

Editor's Notes

During our io module research, we found 167 io module products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,070 customer reviews through our big data system to write the io modules list. We found that most customers choose io modules with an average price of £9.66.

The io modules are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of io modules, including DollaTek, Fasizi, EBYTE, UMTMedia, DAOKAI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 643 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harvey Wall Avatar

Harvey Wall was born and raised in Norwich. He mastered the art of tool production and finished at the prestigious Norwich University. His area of interest include cutting tools, abrasive finishing and power tools. Harvey is always looking for ways to improve the finesse of industrial tools via his myriads of researches. He also shares some of his experiences on many platforms while writing on tool products.