The miniature size of the PCB pads and tracks populated by tiny SMDs results in a reduction of inter-track capacitance. Self-inductance is virtually eliminated because of the very short leads or total absence of leads. These two factors are ideal for high frequency circuits especially in the RF range. In digital circuits propagation delays are reduced and clocking rates become higher.

In SMT the components and tracks are on the same side of the board making it very easy to trace connections and access test points on assembled boards. This tremendous advantage will be appreciated when one thinks of the problematic through hole PCB which one has to keep turning over and over trying to remember component location on one side and remembering at which point to test the circuit on the other side.

SMDs generally cost more than through-hole components. The difference, however, is not great enough to worry hobbyists.

The miniature nature of SMD assemblies is found interesting to hobbyists who are into miniaturist activities, such as model railways, military modelling, and doll’s house furnishing. An imaginative hobbyist will find numerous applications for these tiny circuits. In fact, many through-hole projects can be converted to SMD by model-makers to add realism to their models.

Finally, there is the pleasure of being up-to-date in one of the latest technologies in an interesting way.