Choosing the right oscilloscope is an important decision, whether you’re an electronics hobbyist or a professional engineer.
Two popular four channel oscilloscopes, the Rigol DS1054Z and the Siglent SDS1104X-E, are often compared because of their features and affordability.
🏷️ Rigol DS1054Z ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In this article, we’ll break down the differences, explain what each offers, and help you decide which oscilloscope is the best choice for your needs.
Quick Summary
- Rigol DS1054Z: Known for being one of the most budget-friendly 4-channel oscilloscopes, the DS1054Z is often the go-to choice for beginners or those looking for an affordable solution without compromising on quality.
- Siglent SDS1104X-E: A step up in performance, this oscilloscope offers advanced features at a reasonable price, making it a strong contender for those who need more functionality and precision.
🏷️ Siglent SDS1104X-E ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Comparison Table: DS1054Z vs. SDS1104X-E
| Feature | Rigol DS1054Z | Siglent SDS1104X-E |
|---|---|---|
| 💳 Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Channels | 4 channels | 4 channels |
| Bandwidth | 50 MHz | 100 MHz ✅ |
| Sample Rate | 1 GSa/s | 1 GSa/s |
| Memory Depth | 24 Mpts ✅ | 14 Mpts |
| Display | 7-inch TFT LCD (800×480) | 7-inch TFT LCD (800×480) |
| Waveform Capture Rate | 30,000 wfm/s | 100,000 wfm/s ✅ |
| Serial Decoding | Optional (software upgrade) | Included (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, LIN) ✅ |
| Trigger Types | Edge, Pulse, Slope, Video | Edge, Pulse, Slope, Video, Windows ✅ |
| Connectivity | USB, LAN | USB, LAN, VGA output, Web control ✅ |
Key Differences
1. Bandwidth
- The Rigol DS1054Z has a 50 MHz bandwidth, which is suitable for most basic tasks like low-frequency signals and educational purposes. It can be upgraded to 100 MHz with a software hack, but out of the box, it’s limited to 50 MHz.
- The Siglent SDS1104X-E comes with 100 MHz bandwidth right out of the box, making it a better choice for users who need to work with higher-frequency signals or want more flexibility in their measurements.
100 MHz bandwidth future proofs your purchase for advanced waveforms
2. Waveform Capture Rate
- The DS1054Z has a waveform capture rate of 30,000 waveforms per second, which is decent for most applications.
- The SDS1104X-E outperforms with a capture rate of 100,000 waveforms per second, making it much better at capturing fast-changing signals, glitches, or anomalies.
As devices get faster, so also do the chips inside them and the testing requirements. A larger capture buffer gives you more visibility into signals.
3. Serial Decoding
- The Rigol DS1054Z offers serial decoding (I2C, SPI, UART) as an optional feature that requires a software upgrade, which can be an additional cost.
- The Siglent SDS1104X-E includes serial decoding (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, LIN) at no extra cost, making it more appealing for users who work with communication protocols.
I2C and SPI are utilized in almost all interfacing applications and it’s a valuable if not mandatory feature to have in a scope.
4. Memory Depth
- The DS1054Z has a 24 Mpts memory depth, allowing it to store a good amount of data for detailed waveform analysis.
- The SDS1104X-E edges ahead with 14 Mpts of memory depth, providing slightly more capacity for capturing detailed signals over longer time periods.
The larger the memory, the easier it is to identify signal anomalies and other patterns
5. Connectivity and Interface
- Both models come with USB and LAN ports for data transfer, but the SDS1104X-E adds a VGA output and a Web-based control interface, allowing for remote operation and a more modern workflow.
Web-based is an important feature for remote control of the scope and gives you flexibility to work from home, for instance
Pros and Cons of Each Oscilloscope
Rigol DS1054Z
Pros:
- Affordable: One of the most cost-effective 4-channel oscilloscopes on the market.
- Good Performance for Beginners: Ideal for hobbyists and students who need basic functionality without a huge price tag.
- Upgradeable: With a software hack, you can unlock features like higher bandwidth and serial decoding, which adds value.
Cons:
- Limited Bandwidth: The default 50 MHz may not be enough for more advanced users or those working with high-frequency signals.
- Paid Serial Decoding: If you need serial decoding, you’ll have to pay extra for the upgrade.
- Lower Capture Rate: With a waveform capture rate of 30,000 wfm/s, it might miss fast events in some scenarios.
Siglent SDS1104X-E
Pros:
- Higher Bandwidth: With 100 MHz out of the box, this oscilloscope offers more flexibility for advanced users.
- Included Serial Decoding: Serial decoding comes built-in, so you don’t have to pay extra for it.
- Faster Capture Rate: The 100,000 wfm/s waveform capture rate makes it ideal for detecting glitches or analyzing complex signals.
- Advanced Features: Web-based control and VGA output are great for professionals working in modern labs or educational environments.
Cons:
- Higher Price: It costs more than the DS1054Z, which could be a barrier for hobbyists or those on a tight budget.
- Not as Popular for Beginners: While the SDS1104X-E is packed with features, it may be overkill for someone just starting out who doesn’t need the extra bandwidth or capture rate.
Summary: Which One Is Right for You?
- If you’re a beginner, hobbyist, or on a budget, the Rigol DS1054Z is a great choice. It provides good performance for basic tasks, has upgradeable features, and won’t break the bank.
- If you need more advanced features, such as higher bandwidth, faster waveform capture, and built-in serial decoding, the Siglent SDS1104X-E is the better option. It’s more expensive, but the extra functionality makes it a great investment for professionals or users with more demanding requirements.
Both oscilloscopes offer excellent value for their price ranges, but the SDS1104X-E is a clear winner for those looking for more advanced capabilities, while the DS1054Z remains a top choice for entry-level users.
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