What should I use?

This question is popular among beginners…

QUESTION: “Should I use through-hole or surface mount? What’s the difference?”

OYVIND: Through-hole components have pins that go through the board. Surface mount components have pins that are soldered on the surface of the board.

Through-hole components are usually easier to solder. But surface mount components take up less space.

For simplicity I often use through-hole components when I can. Unfortunately, newer chips only come in surface mount packages.

Need a jump-start? My eBook «Getting Started With Electronics» can be found here:

https://www.build-electronic-circuits.com/products/getting-started-with-electronics
Keep on Soldering!
Oyvind