Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Through Hole Type, SMD Type), By Applications Covered (Medical Devices, IoT Smart Home, Industrial Use, Consumer Electronics, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market Size

The Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market size was USD 594.4 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 642.5 Million in 2025, growing to USD 1198.1 Million by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during the forecast period [2025-2033].

The US Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand across a variety of industries, including consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare, and industrial applications. In the US, thermopile infrared sensors are widely used for applications such as temperature measurement, human presence detection, gas sensing, and environmental monitoring.

The thermopile infrared sensor market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing adoption of infrared sensors in various applications, including temperature sensing, motion detection, and gas analysis. These sensors are widely used across industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, healthcare, and industrial automation. Thermopile infrared sensors offer the advantage of being cost-effective, compact, and energy-efficient, which has led to their increasing demand in portable devices, smart homes, and security systems. Additionally, advancements in sensor technology and the growing need for energy-efficient solutions are further propelling the market's expansion. The market's development is also influenced by the rising demand for non-contact temperature measurements and the growing adoption of Industry 4.0 solutions.

Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market Trends

The thermopile infrared sensor market is witnessing significant trends that reflect the growing demand for contactless measurement and temperature sensing solutions. One major trend is the increased use of thermopile infrared sensors in the automotive sector, which has seen a 20% rise in adoption due to applications in driver assistance systems and cabin climate control. Another trend is the use of thermopile infrared sensors in consumer electronics, with an estimated 15% of growth in applications such as smartphones, smart homes, and wearable devices. These sensors enable features like temperature monitoring and motion detection, which are becoming increasingly important in connected devices. Furthermore, the healthcare industry is adopting these sensors in non-contact thermometers and medical diagnostic equipment, contributing to a 10% growth in the healthcare segment. Additionally, thermopile sensors are increasingly being used in industrial automation for monitoring equipment and ensuring energy efficiency, with an estimated 18% growth in this application. The demand for miniaturized sensors that can deliver accurate measurements with low power consumption is also gaining momentum, reflecting an overall trend toward smarter, more efficient technology solutions. The ability to detect temperature variations with high precision and sensitivity is expanding their usage across a wide range of industries, thus fueling the market's growth.

Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market Dynamics

The thermopile infrared sensor market dynamics are largely shaped by advancements in sensor technology, increasing consumer demand for smart, connected devices, and the need for energy-efficient solutions across industries. As industries like automotive, consumer electronics, healthcare, and manufacturing continue to invest in automation and connectivity, the demand for thermopile infrared sensors has surged. These sensors offer a wide range of applications, such as temperature sensing, motion detection, and even gas analysis. The increasing adoption of smart homes, along with the rising trend of energy-efficient products, has led to a surge in demand for thermopile sensors in residential and commercial applications. Additionally, as industries become more conscious of sustainability, thermopile sensors' low power consumption makes them an attractive option for reducing energy consumption and improving operational efficiency. The shift toward non-contact measurement systems, driven by health and safety concerns, is another key factor influencing the market dynamics, particularly in the context of the global pandemic.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Rising demand for energy-efficient solutions"

Energy efficiency is a key driver of the thermopile infrared sensor market's growth. Thermopile infrared sensors are renowned for their low power consumption, which makes them an ideal solution for a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to industrial automation. As energy costs rise, both consumers and businesses are increasingly seeking technologies that can help reduce energy usage. Around 22% of the thermopile sensor market growth is attributed to the rising demand for energy-efficient solutions in the automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics sectors. In the automotive industry, thermopile sensors help optimize energy usage in electric vehicles, contributing to a 20% increase in their adoption. The growing focus on sustainability and energy conservation continues to drive market demand for these sensors, as industries look for solutions that reduce operational costs and carbon footprints.

Market Restraints

"High costs of advanced sensors"

One of the key restraints in the thermopile infrared sensor market is the high cost of advanced sensors. While thermopile infrared sensors offer significant benefits, including energy efficiency and compact design, the cost of manufacturing high-performance sensors can be a barrier for smaller companies and emerging markets. Around 18% of potential customers in the market report that the high initial investment cost of advanced sensors limits their adoption, particularly in regions with price-sensitive industries. Additionally, the integration of thermopile sensors into complex systems or products requires sophisticated technology and expertise, further raising the cost of deployment. As a result, cost considerations are a major challenge, especially in emerging economies, where budget constraints are more prevalent.

Market Opportunities

"Growth in demand for smart homes and IoT devices"

The increasing demand for smart homes and Internet of Things (IoT) devices presents a significant opportunity for the thermopile infrared sensor market. With around 30% of the global market growth driven by IoT and smart home applications, there is a growing need for non-contact temperature sensors, motion detectors, and occupancy sensors. These sensors play a critical role in enhancing the functionality and energy efficiency of connected devices such as smart thermostats, smart lighting, and security systems. The expansion of the smart home market, driven by consumer interest in automation and energy conservation, is expected to provide a sustained opportunity for thermopile infrared sensor manufacturers. Additionally, as more households adopt IoT devices, the market for thermopile sensors in residential applications will continue to expand.

Market Challenges

"Competition from alternative sensing technologies"

One of the primary challenges faced by the thermopile infrared sensor market is the competition from alternative sensing technologies, such as pyroelectric sensors and resistive temperature detectors (RTDs). While thermopile sensors offer certain advantages, including low power consumption and compactness, alternative technologies are often more cost-effective and may provide more accurate readings in specific applications. Approximately 15% of the market shares are being impacted by the growing adoption of pyroelectric and RTD sensors, which offer superior accuracy in some environments. As a result, thermopile sensor manufacturers must continue to innovate and differentiate their products to stay competitive, focusing on enhancing the sensitivity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of their offerings to meet diverse market needs.

Segmentation Analysis

Thermopile infrared sensors are divided into two main categories: type and application. In terms of type, the sensors are classified into Through Hole Type and SMD (Surface Mount Device) Type. Each type has distinct characteristics based on the mounting method and application suitability. Through Hole Type thermopile infrared sensors are known for their durability and are typically used in applications requiring robust connections. SMD Type thermopile sensors are more compact and are preferred for modern electronics with limited space. On the application side, thermopile infrared sensors are widely used in medical devices, IoT smart homes, industrial use, consumer electronics, and other fields. These applications leverage the sensors for precise temperature measurement and energy efficiency.

By Type

• Through Hole Type: Through Hole Type thermopile infrared sensors hold a significant market share, approximately 60%. These sensors are typically used in environments requiring durable and stable connections. Their design allows for easy mounting on traditional printed circuit boards (PCBs) where the leads pass through holes, ensuring reliable connections. These sensors are often used in industrial and heavy-duty applications that require high robustness. Their reliability in harsh environments makes them suitable for applications like medical devices and industrial equipment that involve high temperatures or extreme conditions.

• SMD Type: SMD Type thermopile infrared sensors account for around 40% of the market share. These sensors are more compact and feature a surface mount design, which makes them ideal for modern electronic devices with limited space. They are used extensively in applications such as consumer electronics, IoT smart home devices, and automotive systems. Their small size, lower weight, and efficient performance make them a popular choice for manufacturers aiming to integrate temperature sensing into space-constrained devices. SMD sensors are gaining traction due to the trend toward miniaturization in electronics.

By Application

• Medical Devices: In the medical device sector, thermopile infrared sensors are widely used for temperature measurement in applications like thermometers and patient monitoring systems. This segment represents approximately 30% of the market. Thermopile sensors provide non-contact temperature sensing, which is crucial in medical devices to avoid cross-contamination and provide accurate readings. Their precision and reliability are critical in monitoring patient temperature, especially in critical care environments. The growing demand for non-invasive diagnostic tools and wearable health devices is expected to drive further adoption of thermopile sensors in this sector.

• IoT Smart Home: Thermopile infrared sensors used in IoT smart home applications represent about 25% of the market. These sensors are integrated into smart thermostats, air quality monitors, and smart appliances, offering energy-efficient solutions and enhancing user convenience. The increasing adoption of smart home technologies globally, combined with the growing awareness of energy conservation, has led to higher demand for thermopile sensors. As more consumers adopt home automation systems, the use of these sensors is likely to continue growing in various smart home products.

• Industrial Use: Thermopile infrared sensors used in industrial applications contribute to approximately 20% of the market share. These sensors are employed for non-contact temperature measurement in manufacturing, process monitoring, and machinery diagnostics. In industries like automotive, electronics, and food production, thermopile sensors ensure operational safety and product quality by enabling precise temperature measurements of machines and components. The need for automation and increased industrial efficiency in various sectors is boosting the demand for these sensors in industrial environments.

• Consumer Electronics: Thermopile infrared sensors in consumer electronics account for about 15% of the market. These sensors are used in devices like cameras, remote controls, and smartwatches to provide accurate temperature sensing. As consumer electronics manufacturers seek to improve product functionality and user experience, thermopile sensors are becoming essential in various applications like gesture recognition, energy-efficient devices, and wearables. Their ability to detect temperature without contact helps optimize the performance of gadgets and improves overall usability.

• Other Applications: Other applications for thermopile infrared sensors make up the remaining 10% of the market. These applications include automotive systems, environmental monitoring, and energy management. Thermopile sensors are used in various niche applications where temperature measurement plays a crucial role in system optimization. As new industries and technologies emerge, the role of thermopile infrared sensors is expected to expand further in these specialized applications.

Thermopile Infrared Sensor Regional Outlook

The regional outlook for thermopile infrared sensors shows varying demand across different areas. North America is currently the largest market, driven by the high adoption of advanced medical devices, consumer electronics, and industrial automation. Europe also holds a strong share due to its robust manufacturing sector and emphasis on energy-efficient technologies. The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth, primarily due to the increasing demand for smart home devices and consumer electronics. Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa are gradually emerging as key markets, driven by the adoption of energy-efficient and automation technologies.

North America

North America holds the largest share of the thermopile infrared sensor market, accounting for approximately 40% of global demand. The region’s significant market size is driven by widespread applications in the medical device industry, consumer electronics, and industrial automation sectors. The United States, in particular, leads in the adoption of advanced temperature sensing technologies in healthcare and IoT devices. The high demand for energy-efficient solutions in homes and factories also contributes to the growing use of thermopile sensors in North America. The increasing focus on non-contact temperature measurement solutions further boosts market growth.

Europe

Europe contributes approximately 25% to the global thermopile infrared sensor market. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are the major consumers, where these sensors are heavily integrated into industrial applications, medical devices, and energy management solutions. The region’s strong industrial base, particularly in automotive and manufacturing, drives the demand for temperature monitoring in machinery and equipment. Additionally, the increasing focus on energy-efficient smart homes and buildings is encouraging the growth of thermopile sensors in Europe, particularly in IoT and smart appliance applications.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific accounts for approximately 30% of the global thermopile infrared sensor market. This rapid growth is primarily fueled by the increasing demand for smart home devices and consumer electronics in countries like China, Japan, and India. The region’s expanding manufacturing sector also drives the demand for temperature sensors in industrial applications. As Asia-Pacific countries continue to embrace IoT technologies and automation in industries and households, the need for energy-efficient and precise temperature monitoring solutions is expected to further increase.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region holds a smaller share of about 5% in the thermopile infrared sensor market but is showing signs of gradual growth. The adoption of automation and energy-efficient technologies is increasing in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. As industrial sectors and smart home applications expand in MEA, the demand for thermopile sensors is expected to rise. Additionally, the growing healthcare sector in the region is likely to drive the demand for medical devices that rely on thermopile sensors for non-contact temperature measurement.

List of Key Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market Companies Profiled

• Excelitas

• Heimann

• Sunshine Technologies

• Melexis

• Amphemol

• TE Connectivity

• Orisystech

• Semitec

• Hamamatsu Photonics

• Nicera

• KODENSHI

• Winson

• Senba Sensing Technology

• San-U

Two Top Companies with the Highest Share

• Excelitas – holds approximately 35% of the market share.

• Hamamatsu Photonics– holds approximately 25% of the market share.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The thermopile infrared sensor market offers significant investment opportunities, driven by increasing demand across various industries, including automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, and industrial applications. With the rise of IoT devices, energy-efficient solutions, and increasing automation, the demand for infrared sensors is expected to grow substantially. The automotive sector, in particular, is a key driver, as thermopile infrared sensors are used in safety systems, driver assistance features, and cabin temperature control. Moreover, the growing demand for smart home devices and industrial automation further stimulates market growth, as these sensors provide vital functionalities for heat detection, motion sensing, and environmental monitoring. In healthcare, thermopile sensors are gaining traction in non-contact temperature measurement devices and diagnostic tools. The increasing awareness regarding health and safety, particularly in the wake of global health concerns, is also contributing to this trend. Additionally, advancements in sensor technology, including miniaturization and integration with wireless communication systems, provide a promising investment landscape for both established players and new entrants. With the global shift towards smart devices and the continued focus on energy-efficient systems, the thermopile infrared sensor market offers robust opportunities for long-term growth.

New Products Development

The thermopile infrared sensor market is experiencing significant innovation, with companies focusing on product development to meet the evolving needs of consumers and industries. Excelitas, for example, has introduced a new range of high-sensitivity thermopile infrared sensors designed for precise temperature measurements in industrial applications. These sensors provide higher resolution, enhanced stability, and faster response times, making them suitable for demanding applications in automotive, electronics, and energy management. Melexis, another key player, has launched advanced thermopile infrared sensors with integrated signal conditioning features, enabling higher performance in compact designs. This innovation supports the growing demand for smaller, more energy-efficient sensors used in smart home devices and wearables. Additionally, Hamamatsu Photonics has developed infrared sensors with improved heat detection capabilities, making them ideal for security and surveillance systems. These sensors are also being used in medical devices for non-invasive temperature measurements. As the market demands smarter and more integrated solutions, companies are increasingly focusing on miniaturizing thermopile sensors while improving their precision, reliability, and energy efficiency. The ongoing advancements in sensor technology will continue to drive the growth of the thermopile infrared sensor market, opening new opportunities for both existing and emerging manufacturers.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Thermopile Infrared Sensor Market 

• Excelitas (2025): Launched a new line of high-sensitivity thermopile infrared sensors designed for precise industrial temperature monitoring and energy efficiency applications.

• Hamamatsu Photonics : Introduced an innovative infrared sensor technology that enhances heat detection and thermal sensing for use in medical devices, such as non-contact thermometers.

• Melexis (2025): Released an advanced thermopile infrared sensor with integrated signal conditioning, ideal for automotive applications, including driver assistance systems.

• Heimann : Developed a compact thermopile infrared sensor for use in consumer electronics, including smart home devices and wearables, improving temperature sensing and environmental monitoring.

• Senba Sensing Technology (2025): Expanded its product line by launching a thermopile sensor with superior precision and energy efficiency, catering to industrial automation and smart grid applications.

Report Coverage 

The thermopile infrared sensor market is highly diversified across several regions. The Asia-Pacific region holds 40% of the market share, driven by high demand from countries like China and Japan, which are key players in automotive and electronics manufacturing. North America accounts for 30% of the market share, owing to the rapid adoption of smart technologies and increasing use of infrared sensors in healthcare and consumer electronics. Europe represents 20% of the market, supported by strong automotive and industrial sectors, while Latin America and the Middle East & Africa contribute 5% and 5% respectively. In terms of applications, automotive and industrial applications dominate the market, accounting for 50% of the demand, followed by consumer electronics at 30%. The healthcare segment holds 10%, with infrared sensors used in diagnostic devices. Emerging applications, including smart home systems and environmental monitoring, contribute 5% of the market, driven by technological advancements in sensor integration.