What are the differences between gold plating, tin plating, and nickel plating?

Gold Plating: Enhancing the Performance of High-End Connectors
Gold plating is a popular coating for use in high-end electronic connectors, such as HDMI connectors, USB connectors, and SIM card slots. This is due to gold plating's multiple benefits, including increased conductivity, resistance against corrosion, and enhanced aesthetic appeal of connectors. Gold plating not only improves signal transmission but also enhances the appearance of connectors. It also ensures a longer lifespan, maintaining high performance over time.

Tin Plating: Providing Cost-Efficiency and Reliability
Tin plating is a cost-effective and reliable option for general electronic connectors, including D-sub connectors, RJ45 connectors, and pin headers. Tin plating enhances the conductivity, corrosion resistance, and solderability of connectors, while also lowering their costs, making it a cost-effective solution. Moreover, it is extensively employed in various soldering applications, such as soldering, solder joints, and solder pads, leading to increased soldering efficiency, strength, and reliability.

Nickel Plating: Enhancing the Performance of Industrial Parts
Nickel plating is commonly used on industrial and automotive components like screws, nuts, springs, and valves to increase their corrosion resistance, hardness, and wear resistance. This not only makes these parts suitable for use in harsh environments for prolonged periods of time but also extends their lifespan.