2. Pinout Memorized by Everyone – Zero Mistakes
   In the TO-92 package: Emitter – Base – Collector (left to right, flat side facing you).
3. Same order in the old metal-can TO-18 version. Hasn’t changed in 60+ years.
   You never have to double-check “are the legs backwards?” That alone is legendary.
4. Ridiculously Cheap
   As of 2025:

• In Turkey: 0.50–1.5 TL each
• On AliExpress: ~$2–3 for 100 pieces (shipping included)
  Buy a hundred and your wallet won’t even notice. The ultimate hobbyist staple.

4. The Undisputed “Teaching Transistor”
   90 % of electronics textbooks and tutorials worldwide use the 2N2222 in their example circuits:

• Astable multivibrator (blinking LEDs)
• Darlington pair
• Simple audio amplifier
• Touch switch
• Relay driver
• Joule thief

Even absolute beginners succeed on their first try with a 2N2222.

5. Still Flying in Satellites and Military Gear
   Yes, really. The space-grade JAN2N2222A and military-spec versions are still in active use because:

• Radiation hardened
• Operates from –65 °C to +200 °C
• Fully characterized and proven reliable for over 50 years

Engineers say: “Why qualify a new transistor for space when we can just drop in a 2N2222A and call it a day?”

6. Competitors Come and Go – The Throne Remains
   In the last 20 years we’ve seen BC337, PN2222A, 2N4401, S8050, etc., all marketed as “2N2222 replacements.”
   None managed to dethrone it. Why?

• BC337-40: slightly more current but wider hFE spread
• 2N4401: same current, right on the 40 V edge
• S8050: 700 mA but questionable Chinese quality control

The 2N2222 feels “the same” no matter who makes it—ST, ON Semi, NXP, old Fairchild, even vintage Motorola stock still works perfectly.

7. YouTube and Internet Superstar
   Search “2N2222” on YouTube → over 500,000 results.
   80 % of “transistor as a switch,” “LED flasher,” or “simple amplifier” videos are built around it.
   GreatScott!, ElectroBOOM, EEVblog… everyone has a pile of 2N2222s on their bench.
8. A True Cultural Icon
   In the electronics community you’ll hear jokes like:

• “A real hobbyist is someone who still has 2N2222s left at home.”
• “When the 2N2222 runs out, the project is over.”
• “Arduino’s best friend.”

Conclusion: Why Is It Still the King in 2025?
Because the 2N2222 isn’t a “perfect” transistor—it’s simply “good enough” and universally available.
In engineering we call this the “good enough revolution.”Even today:

• Beginners build THEIR FIRST circuit with a 2N2222
• Veteran makers reach for it because “I’ve got tons lying around”
• Space engineers use the 2N2222A to avoid risk

That’s why the 2N2222 isn’t just a transistor—it’s the longest-running rock star in electronics history.

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