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A NEMA 17 stepper motor is a type of stepper motor that follows the NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) standard for motor frame size. The number "17" refers to the faceplate size of the motor, which is 1.7 x 1.7 inches (or 43.2 x 43.2 millimeters).
The NEMA 17 stepper motor is one of the most widely used stepper motors in automation, robotics, and consumer electronics due to its compact size, precision control, and ease of integration. Below are the key features that define and distinguish NEMA 17 stepper motors:
Dimensions: The “17” in NEMA 17 stands for a 1.7 x 1.7 inch (43.2 x 43.2 mm) faceplate size.
This standardization ensures mechanical compatibility with a wide range of equipment and mounting brackets.
Step Angle: Most NEMA 17 motors have a 1.8° step angle, which means 200 steps per full revolution.
This enables accurate control of position and rotation, essential for 3D printers, CNC machines, and robotics.
NEMA 17 stepper motors come in a variety of models offering different levels of holding torque, typically from 20 oz-in to over 80 oz-in (0.14 Nm to 0.56 Nm).
This range allows selection based on the required load and precision level.
Available in both bipolar (4-wire) and unipolar (5- or 6-wire) configurations.
Bipolar motors provide more torque and efficiency, while unipolar motors are easier to control.
Thanks to their step-based design, NEMA 17 motors offer high repeatability without feedback systems.
This makes them ideal for open-loop systems where consistent motion is critical.
Most NEMA 17 motors can be used with microstepping drivers, allowing finer resolution (e.g., 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 steps).
This results in smoother motion, reduced vibration, and increased precision.
Operating voltages typically range between 2V and 12V, with current ratings from 1A to 2.5A per phase.
This makes them compatible with a broad selection of stepper drivers and controllers.
Available with single or dual shaft versions.
Shafts may be D-cut, round, or geared, depending on application needs.
Custom winding options, shaft lengths, connectors, and gear ratios are available.
Ideal for OEM applications where system integration is key.
Due to their popularity, NEMA 17 stepper motors are widely available and affordable.
Excellent choice for hobbyists, prototyping, and mass production alike.
The NEMA 17 stepper motor is a highly versatile and reliable motion control component. Its standard size, fine resolution, and customizable configurations make it the preferred choice for countless applications, from desktop 3D printers to industrial automation systems. Its blend of precision, flexibility, and affordability ensures it continues to be a cornerstone in modern motion systems.
A NEMA 17 stepper motor operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction and is designed to move in precise, fixed steps. Unlike standard DC motors that rotate continuously when power is applied, a stepper motor moves in discrete steps, making it ideal for applications that demand precise control of position and rotation.
Inside the NEMA 17 stepper motor, there are two main components:
Rotor – the rotating part, typically a permanent magnet or soft iron core.
Stator – the stationary part with multiple electromagnetic coils arranged in phases.
When electric current is applied to the stator coils in a specific sequence, they create rotating magnetic fields. These magnetic fields attract the rotor, causing it to align and move by a fixed angle, typically 1.8° per step (which means 200 steps for one full 360° rotation).
A NEMA 17 stepper motor can be driven in several step modes:
Full Step: The motor takes one full step (1.8°), energizing two coils at a time.
Half Step: Alternates between one and two energized coils, resulting in 0.9° steps.
Microstepping: Divides steps into smaller increments (e.g., 1/8 or 1/16 step), improving smoothness and precision.
This stepping is controlled by a stepper motor driver, which regulates the electrical pulses sent to each coil in the correct sequence.
Most NEMA 17 stepper motors are bipolar, meaning they have two windings (phases) and require current to flow in both directions through each winding. This requires a H-bridge driver. Some versions are unipolar, which are easier to drive but generally provide less torque.
Coils/Windings: Electromagnetic coils generate magnetic fields when energized.
Rotor: Aligns with the magnetic fields from the stator.
Driver Circuit: Sends electrical pulses to control stepping.
Controller: Microcontroller or computer that sends step commands to the driver.
Precise Positioning: No need for feedback systems like encoders.
Repeatable Movements: Same number of steps always leads to the same angle.
Open-Loop Control: Simplifies system design.
The NEMA 17 stepper motor works by moving in precise steps using controlled magnetic fields generated by its stator coils. Its ability to translate electrical pulses into accurate mechanical rotation makes it one of the most reliable and versatile motion control components in modern automation, 3D printing, and robotics.
In today’s automation-driven economy, stepper motors are the unsung heroes powering precision motion in robotics, medical devices, CNC machinery, aerospace, and countless other applications. The United States boasts a strong lineup of stepper motor manufacturers that are globally recognized for their innovation, quality, and engineering excellence. Below, we present an in-depth list of the top 25 stepper motor manufacturers in the United States, including detailed company profiles, main product offerings, and competitive advantages.
Based in Watsonville, California, Applied Motion Products is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in high-performance motion control products.
StepSERVO Integrated Motors
Hybrid Stepper Motors
Drives and Controllers
Extensive selection of Ethernet-compatible stepper systems
Excellent technical support
Innovative closed-loop technology
A global player with its U.S. headquarters in Torrance, California, Oriental Motor is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and brings Japanese precision to American industries.
5-phase and 2-phase stepper motors
Linear and rotary actuators
Integrated stepper motor units
Ultra-compact motor designs
Broad voltage and frame size options
High-reliability construction
Headquartered in Morgan Hill, California, Lin Engineering is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and renowned for its ability to customize motion solutions.
Hybrid Stepper Motors
BLDC Motors
Custom Stepper Assemblies
High-precision motor winding
USA-based manufacturing
Quick-turn custom prototyping
Established in Anaheim, California, Anaheim Automation is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and offers cost-effective motion control solutions for OEMs.
Stepper Motors
Stepper Drives
Controllers and Gearboxes
One-stop-shop for motion control
Competitive pricing
Custom OEM solutions
Located in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Portescap is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and delivers micro-motion excellence.
Can Stack Stepper Motors
Hybrid Stepper Motors
Disc Magnet Stepper Motors
Ideal for medical and aerospace
Ultra-compact designs
Superior torque density
A division of AMETEK, headquartered in Waterbury, Connecticut, this brand is synonymous with linear motion control.
Linear Stepper Motors
Can-Stack and Hybrid Steppers
Integrated Linear Actuators
Exceptional linear accuracy
Modular product architecture
Proven OEM partnerships
Virginia-based Kollmorgen is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and known for aerospace-grade motors.
Stepper Motors
Servo and BLDC Motors
Drives and Motion Controllers
Military-grade reliability
Motion systems integration
Industry-leading engineering
With operations in Irwin, Pennsylvania, Parker Hannifin is a leading stepper motor manufacturer in motion and control technologies.
Hybrid Steppers
Integrated Drives
Linear Actuator Solutions
Strong presence in automation
Integrated system design
Precision and robustness
The U.S. division of MOONS’, located in Chicago, Illinois, supports a vast product lineup for precision motion.
Closed-loop Stepper Motors
Integrated Controllers
High-Torque Steppers
High energy efficiency
Robust closed-loop architecture
Smart motor diagnostics
Based in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, LinMot USA is a leading stepper motor manufacturer in tubular linear motor technologies but also offers hybrid steppers.
Linear Stepper Motors
Servo-Driven Actuators
Hybrid Rotary Motors
Superior linear performance
Ideal for packaging automation
Swiss-engineered quality
Schneider Electric’s motion division in Marlborough, Connecticut, is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and supplies high-quality automation components.
Lexium Stepper Drives
Integrated Motion Systems
Hybrid Stepper Motors
Global support network
Advanced motion software
Seamless PLC integration
Based in Montville, New Jersey, Servo Systems Co. is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and provides comprehensive automation solutions.
Stepper Motors & Drivers
Linear Steppers
Integrated Servo-Stepper Systems
Wide component inventory
Expert tech consultation
Rapid response time
Operating in the U.S. with global engineering support, Precision Microdrives is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and focuses on compact motion products.
Miniature Stepper Motors
Vibration Motors
Driver Boards
Specialization in medical & wearable tech
ISO-certified quality
Small-form-factor solutions
Located in Rohnert Park, California, Empire Magnetics is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and serves harsh and extreme environment markets.
Harsh-Duty Stepper Motors
Explosion-Proof Steppers
Radiation-Resistant Motors
High-reliability in demanding environments
Customized rugged builds
Excellent technical documentation
OMC-StepperOnline, based in Illinois, is the U.S. arm of OMC Corporation, a global stepper motor manufacturer in stepper solutions.
NEMA Stepper Motors
Stepper Drivers
Planetary Gearboxes
Massive online inventory
Cost-effective for prototyping
Fast U.S. shipping
Although UK-based, Mclennan is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and offers U.S. support and distribution for its range of precision motion systems.
Miniature Stepper Motors
Hybrid Linear Steppers
Driver Electronics
Strong niche expertise
Custom motion assemblies
European craftsmanship in U.S. market
MotionKing provides U.S. access to an expansive catalog of motion components, with warehouses in key hubs.
Hybrid Steppers
Stepper Motor Kits
Linear Actuators
Cost-effective imports
NEMA-standard compatibility
Ideal for startups and prototyping
Danish by origin but with a U.S. base, JVL is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in integrated motor and drive systems.
Integrated Stepper Motors
Ethernet Stepper Systems
Compact Controller Modules
Built-in fieldbus protocols
Compact and modular
Industrial-grade durability
Electromate is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and supports North American customers from its base in the U.S. with mechatronic automation solutions.
High-Torque Steppers
Custom Motion Packages
Motion Controllers
Engineering-focused sales
Cross-industry solutions
Trusted technical advice
Located in Radford, Virginia, Nippon Pulse is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and delivers Japanese precision with U.S. engineering support.
Tin-Can and Hybrid Steppers
Stepper Control ICs
Linear Shaft Motors
Compact, high-precision designs
Dedicated U.S. engineering team
Excellent long-term support
Jkongmotor is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and has long been a leader in high-performance motion controllers.
Stepper Controllers
Multi-Axis Systems
Software Integration Tools
Real-time OS compatibility
Deep software stack
Exceptional controller accuracy
Located in Plymouth, Minnesota, Power Electric is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and offers both custom and standard stepper motor solutions.
Hybrid Steppers
Permanent Magnet Steppers
Custom Machined Housings
Strong customization capabilities
Engineering design partnerships
Full motor-to-housing solutions
Buffalo, New York-based Allied Motion is a leading stepper motor manufacturer in precision motion control.
PM Stepper Motors
Servo-Step Hybrids
Integrated Motion Systems
High-performance industrial applications
Reliable long-life design
North American manufacturing
With operations in Clearwater, Florida, MICROMO is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and delivers German-engineered micro-motion in the U.S.
Micro Steppers
Linear Actuators
Medical Motor Systems
Ultra-miniature motion solutions
High-reliability under extreme conditions
Medical & aerospace certifications
Based in San Luis Obispo, California, Trust Automation is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and offers innovative motion control systems.
Stepper Motor Drivers
Linear and Rotary Motors
Custom Motion Systems
Defense and medical focus
System-level design expertise
U.S.-based R&D and assembly
3D printers (e.g., extruder motors, X/Y/Z axis)
CNC machines
Robotics
Camera sliders and gimbals
Automated instruments
Laser cutters and engravers
Choosing the right motor is crucial for the performance, accuracy, and reliability of your project or machine. The NEMA 17 stepper motor has become a global standard in motion control systems for a reason. Below are the key advantages and reasons why NEMA 17 is the preferred choice in both professional and DIY applications.
With a 1.7 x 1.7 inch (43.2 x 43.2 mm) frame, NEMA 17 motors offer an excellent power-to-size ratio.
They are compact enough to fit into space-limited designs yet powerful enough to drive mechanical loads such as belts, lead screws, or gears.
Most NEMA 17 motors offer a step angle of 1.8°, delivering 200 steps per revolution.
When paired with microstepping drivers, they can achieve up to 1600–3200 microsteps per revolution, enabling ultra-precise positioning.
NEMA 17 is widely used in 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC routers.
Its mechanical and electrical characteristics have become default specifications for open-source hardware projects like RepRap, Prusa, and Creality.
Being an industry-standard size, NEMA 17 motors are interchangeable across multiple brands and systems.
This ensures easy replacement, upgrading, and sourcing, which is especially beneficial for prototyping and scaling up production.
NEMA 17 motors are affordable and widely available, making them ideal for budget-sensitive applications without sacrificing performance.
Bulk availability from global suppliers ensures lower lead times and consistent quality.
Stepper motors like the NEMA 17 don’t require feedback systems like encoders, making them easy to use with simple controllers.
This reduces system complexity and cost, making them perfect for straightforward automation tasks.
Available in a variety of:
Voltage and current ratings
Shaft lengths and diameters
Connector types
Mounting configurations
Many manufacturers offer tailor-made versions for specific OEM applications.
NEMA 17 stepper motors typically offer holding torque from 20 oz-in up to 80 oz-in or more, depending on the model.
This makes them powerful enough to drive demanding loads in small to medium applications.
NEMA 17 motors are supported by a wide range of motor drivers, including A4988, DRV8825, TMC2209, and many others.
Compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PLCs, and industrial motion controllers.
Trusted across industries such as:
3D printing
Medical devices
Textile machinery
Robotics
Home automation
Its reliability under diverse conditions makes it a go-to solution for engineers worldwide.
Choosing a NEMA 17 stepper motor means opting for proven reliability, industry-standard compatibility, high precision, and cost efficiency. Whether you're building a prototype, scaling up a production line, or powering a personal project, NEMA 17 delivers the perfect balance of performance and practicality.
It is the smart choice for professionals and hobbyists looking for versatile, dependable, and precise motion control in a compact package.
The United States is home to an impressive spectrum of stepper motor manufacturers, each with its own niche, technological edge, and industry specialization. Whether you're looking for robust motors for harsh environments or high-precision miniature steppers for medical use, there is a U.S. manufacturer ready to meet your needs.
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