How much does a PCB prototype Cost？
If you are considering a new product launch, a PCB prototype must be on your agenda. Not only do prototypes help to speed up the process and reduce the amount of rework required, importantly they help in timely identification of issues. With a PCB prototype, you can iron out any inconsistencies at an early stage, saving you from dealing with costly errors later.
First, let’s find out the factors affecting PCB prototype cost
Board Size and Complexity:
Larger boards or those with intricate designs may cost more due to increased material and manufacturing time.
Layer Count:
The number of layers in the PCB affects the cost. Multi-layer boards are more complex to manufacture and generally cost more than single-layer boards.
Material:
The choice of materials for the PCB can impact the cost. High-quality materials may increase the overall cost.
Quantity:
Prototyping costs per board are typically higher than mass production costs. Ordering a larger quantity of prototypes may reduce the per-unit cost.
Turnaround Time:
Faster turnaround times often come with higher costs. If you need your prototype quickly, you may have to pay a premium for expedited manufacturing.
Assembly:
If you require components to be assembled onto the PCB, this will add to the cost. Some companies offer assembly services as part of the prototyping process.
Special Features:
Special features such as gold plating, impedance control, or blind/buried vias can increase the cost of the prototype.
Supplier and Location:
The choice of the PCB manufacturer and their location can impact costs. Manufacturers in certain regions may have different pricing structures.
Price range for PCB prototypes
Since a PCB prototype is not really a one-size-fits-all, standard is also the cost. You could have a scenario where the prototype costs you a few dollars & a scenarios where the bare board alone more than hundreds of dollars may be. It is the size, the complexity, material, the kind of timelines & more that go into the cost of the prototype.
The one other factor that impacts the cost is the number of prototypes required. As a thumb rule, the less the number, the higher the cost! If you have a requirement for a large batch, the cost is likely to be lower. The time taken to prototype is also a determinant of the cost.
Based on your bespoke requirements, your assembler will be in the best position to offer you a customized quote
Choosing the Right PCB Prototype Partner
It is imperative that you choose the right PCB prototype partner. You need to make sure that the partner offers you competitive prices. The PCB prototype manufacturer has the necessary expertise as well as the right relationships with part manufacturers to offer you a competitive price. A word of caution here though- low cost should not come at the expense of quality. Also, an extremely low cost could actually be a red flag for you, as you should not land up in a situation where low initial costs come with poor product quality that demands several reworks.
Other than looking at the cost-effectiveness of the offering, it is important to verify that the partner can offer you quality products, quick turnaround time, and cater to the prototype order quantities as per your requirement.
Due emphasis on all these aspects will ensure that you are assured of the right product at the right price point!
Fubon Precision is skilled and professional PCB manufacturer with 13 years of experience who provides PCB prototyping services to various industries including aerospace, electronics, telecommunication, medical and automobile sectors. Email us at sales@fbpcba.com or fill out the form below to request a free quote now.