SoC vs SoM: What's the Difference?

The terms SoC (System on Chip) and SoM (System on Module) refer to two different but related types of electronic design components. Here's a clear comparison to help you understand the difference:

System on Chip (SoC)

Definition:
An SoC is a single integrated circuit (IC) that contains all the essential components of a computer or electronic system. This typically includes:

• CPU (central processing unit)

• GPU (graphics processing unit)

• RAM (sometimes)

• ROM/Flash memory (sometimes)

• I/O controllers

• Timers, DMA, etc.

Key Characteristics:

• Miniaturized and integrated: Everything is on one silicon chip.

• Custom-designed: Often tailored for specific applications (e.g., smartphones, IoT).

• Power-efficient: Designed for low power consumption.

• Example SoCs:

  • Qualcomm Snapdragon

  • Apple M-series chips

  • STM32F4 (in microcontrollers)

Use Cases:
Phones, tablets, embedded systems, wearables, microcontrollers.

System on Module (SoM)

Definition:
A SoM is a small PCB (Printed Circuit Board) that integrates an SoC plus additional components needed for a complete system, such as:

• RAM

• Flash storage

• Power management

• Clock crystals

• Ethernet PHY, USB, Wi-Fi, etc.

Key Characteristics:

• Pluggable module: Meant to be integrated into a larger carrier or baseboard.

• Simplifies design: Lets engineers focus on carrier board design while using a pre-built compute module.

• Scalable: Easy to upgrade performance by switching to a newer SoM with the same pinout.

• Example SoMs:

  • Raspberry Pi Compute Module

  • NVIDIA Jetson modules

  • Toradex Colibri series

Use Cases:
Industrial applications, robotics, medical devices, gateways, advanced embedded systems.

Analogy:

• SoC = Engine

• SoM = Engine + Transmission + Fuel System on a bolt-in frame

• Carrier Board = Chassis where SoM gets mounted

Summary Table:

If you're designing a custom board from scratch, you'd use an SoC. If you want to prototype or build a product faster, using a SoM can save time and reduce risk.