In this study, we theoretically designed and experimentally fabricated an InGaN vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) with a tunnel junction (TJ) structure. From numerical simulation results, the optical loss of the device can be reduced by a TJ structure. Additionally, the leakage current of the VCSEL with TJ structure was much smaller than that of the VCSEL with an Indium-Tin-Oxide (ITO) layer. We have been demonstrated that laser output performance is improved by using the TJ

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... re when compared to the typical VCSEL structure of the ITO layer. The output power obtained at 2.1 mW was enhanced by a factor of 3.5 by the successful reduction of threshold current density (Jth) from 12 to 8.5 kA/cm2, and the enlarged slope efficiency was due to less absorption in VCSEL with a TJ structure. Finally, the samples passed the high temperature (70 °C) and high operation current (1.5 × Jth) test for over 500 h.