Choosing the correct imager for an application has never been a simple task. Varied applications have varied requirements. These requirements impose constraints that affect performance and price. With these complexities at play, it is not surprising that it is impossible to make a general statement about CMOS versus CCD imagers that applies to all applications.

CMOS area and line scan imagers outperform CCDs in most visible imaging applications. TDI CCDs, used for high speed, low light level applications, outperform CMOS TDIs. The need to image in the NIR can make CCDs a better choice for some area and line scan applications. To image in the UV, the surface treatment after backside thinning is key, as is the global shutter requirement. The need for very low noise introduces new constraints, with CMOS generally still outperforming CCDs at high readout speeds. The price-performance trade-off can favor either CCD or CMOS imagers, depending on leverage, volume, and supply security.

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