The Impact of 5G on the Multilayer Varistor Market: Protection Meets Innovation

 

The global multilayer varistor (MLV) market is gaining momentum as demand for smarter, smaller, and more reliable electronic systems continues to rise. Valued at US$ 0.5 Bn in 2024, the industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2025 to 2035, reaching US$ 1.1 Bn by the end of 2035. This steady growth is underpinned by the rapid expansion of consumer electronics, 5G networks, electric vehicles (EVs), and renewable energy systems.

 

What is Driving Market Growth?

1. Miniaturization of Electronics

Electronics are becoming increasingly compact while delivering higher performance. Smartphones, wearables, IoT devices, and EV systems all require c

omponents that ensure safety and stability within tight designs. Multilayer varistors, built with stacked layers of zinc oxide and ceramics, are designed to withstand transient surges in low-voltage environments. Their small form factor, combined with high surge resistance, makes them essential in next-gen electronics.

2. Consumer Electronics Boom

The demand for AI-powered smartphones, laptops, and home automation devices is surging worldwide. For instance, Taiwan’s electronic exports grew more than 11% in October 2024, reflecting the increasing global demand for intelligent devices. With such growth, the role of MLVs in protecting sensitive circuits from electrostatic discharge (ESD) and voltage fluctuations is more critical than ever.

3. Telecommunications Infrastructure

The rollout of 5G networks and fiber connectivity has accelerated investment in high-speed digital infrastructure. Governments across India, Australia, and other nations are investing billions in upgrading telecom systems, further boosting MLV adoption to protect sensitive networking equipment from surges.

4. Electrification & EV Adoption

From EV charging infrastructure to onboard automotive electronics, multilayer varistors play a crucial role in ensuring voltage stability and protecting circuits against harmful surges. The rise of smart grids and renewable integration also strengthens market opportunities.

 

Market Segmentation Insights

• Voltage Range: The up to 30 V segment led the market with 32.8% share in 2024, driven by demand from smartphones, IoT devices, and low-voltage consumer electronics.
• Applications: MLVs are widely used in circuit protection, IC protection, data lines, EMI suppression, and power supply devices, ensuring reliability across varied end-use cases.
• End-use Industries: Key sectors include consumer electronics, automotive, IT & telecom, aerospace & defense, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing.

 

Regional Outlook

East Asia dominates the global market, accounting for 38% share in 2024. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea remain global hubs for consumer electronics, EVs, and semiconductor manufacturing. The region’s cost-efficient production ecosystem and strong R&D capabilities further strengthen its leadership.

Meanwhile, Europe and North America are expected to witness significant growth, supported by strict EMC compliance regulations and a rising emphasis on renewable energy and electrification.

 

Competitive Landscape

The industry is moderately consolidated, with leading players focusing on product innovation, strategic collaborations, and acquisitions. Notable developments include:

• KOA Speer Electronics (2024): Launched NV73S series multilayer varistors, designed to withstand surge currents up to 6,000 A.
• Bourns, Inc. (2024): Introduced the BVR Series of low-voltage multilayer varistors, offering enhanced surge protection for sensitive electronic devices.

Prominent players include TDK Corporation, Panasonic, Vishay, Littelfuse, KYOCERA AVX, Bourns, Eaton, and Walsin Technology.

 

Conclusion

The multilayer varistor market is set for robust growth through 2035, driven by consumer electronics expansion, telecom upgrades, EV adoption, and miniaturization trends. With East Asia leading production and global demand for surge-protection solutions rising, MLVs will remain indispensable to powering the digital and electrified future.