What is classed as an electronic device?

An electronic device is any piece of equipment that uses the flow of electrons (usually through circuits, semiconductors, or other components) to perform a function such as processing, controlling, or transmitting information, signals, or power.

In simple terms: if it runs on electricity and relies on electronic components (like transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, or microchips), it’s an electronic device.

Common categories of electronic devices:

• Consumer electronics – phones, laptops, tablets, TVs, cameras, smartwatches.

• Household appliances (with electronic control) – microwaves, washing machines, refrigerators (modern ones often have electronic circuits).

• Medical and scientific devices – ECG machines, digital thermometers, lab analyzers.

• Industrial/electrical tools – circuit testers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), CNC machines.

• Entertainment gadgets – gaming consoles, MP3 players, e-readers.

Not everything that uses electricity is “electronic”:

• A light bulb or electric kettle is electrical but not electronic (they don’t process or control signals, just use electricity directly).

• A smart bulb or programmable kettle is electronic, because it contains circuits for control.

👉 A quick rule:

• Electrical = power-driven only.

• Electronic = signal/control/processing-driven.