PCB Assembly Cost
Understand Pricing and Get a Custom Quote

PCB Assembly cost can vary based on several factors, such as design complexity, components, and order volume. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors affecting your costs, provide tips to optimize your budget, and offer an easy way to get a custom quote for your project.

How Much Does PCB Assembly Cost?

The cost of PCB assembly can vary depending on several factors, but it generally falls within a wide range based on the complexity and volume of your project. Simple, single-layer boards may cost as little as $100 to $200 per batch, while complex, multi-layer boards with advanced testing and components could range into the thousands of dollars. 

Factors That Affect PCB Assembly Costs

Component Costs

The cost of components is one of the largest factors in PCB assembly pricing. Whether you’re using basic resistors and capacitors or more advanced components like BGAs (Ball Grid Arrays), the price of sourcing these parts will impact the overall cost.

Optimization Tip: Bulk purchasing or working with suppliers to source cost-efficient components can help lower overall expenses.

SMD Components

Assembly Technology (SMT vs THT)

The choice between Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Through-Hole Technology (THT) also affects cost. SMT is typically faster and more cost-effective for high-volume production, while THT may be necessary for certain components but tends to be more expensive due to the manual labor involved.

Optimization Tip: When possible, opt for SMT assembly to reduce costs, especially for high-density designs.

Assembly Technology
Surface Mount Technology (SMT)
Through-Hole Technology (THT)
Setup Cost (per batch)
$500
$700
Labor Cost (per unit)
$0.10
$0.25
Component Placement Speed
High
Low
Manual Labor Requirement
Low
High
Preferred for High Volume
Yes
No
Typical Applications
High-density designs
Mechanically robust components

Number of Layers & Complexity

The more layers your PCB has, the higher the cost. Complex designs with multiple layers require more precision and time during assembly, driving up the price. Single-layer boards are cheaper to produce than multi-layer PCBs, which require more material and intricate assembly.

Optimization Tip: Simplify the design where possible and consider whether certain features are essential to reduce layers and complexity.

Number of PCB Layers
Setup Cost (per batch)
Production Cost (per unit)
Complexity Level
Single-layer
$200
$1.00
Low
Double-layer
$300
$1.50
Moderate
4-layer
$500
$3.00
High
6-layer
$700
$4.50
Higher
8-layer
$1,000
$6.00
Very High
Order Volume
Setup Cost (per batch)
Cost per Unit
Discount
Low Volume (1-100 units)
$500
$10
None
Medium Volume (101-1000 units)
$500
$6
Moderate
High Volume (1001+ units)
$500
$3
Significant
For reference only, please refer to the actual price

Order Volume

Order quantity has a significant impact on unit pricing. Higher volumes generally result in lower per-unit costs, as assembly lines can be optimized for efficiency.

Optimization Tip: If feasible, place larger orders to take advantage of bulk pricing.

Testing & Quality Control

Ensuring that your PCB assembly meets strict quality standards requires additional costs. Functional testing, automated optical inspection (AOI), and X-ray testing for complex components like BGAs can add to the total expense.

Optimization Tip: Prioritize critical tests while opting for standard quality control measures to balance cost and reliability.

Quality-inspectors-are-using-X-RAY-testing-equipment-to-test-PCB

Lead Time

The time frame in which you need your boards assembled can affect the price. Expedited services will usually come at a premium, while longer lead times may offer cost savings.

Optimization Tip: Plan ahead to avoid rush orders and take advantage of more affordable lead times.

Air-transport

Tips to Reduce Your PCB Assembly Costs

Design for Manufacturability (DFM)

Incorporating DFM principles into your design can help minimize issues that would otherwise increase assembly costs. This includes optimizing the layout for manufacturability and reducing the need for complex assembly steps.

Component Sourcing Tips

Work with reliable suppliers to source high-quality components at competitive prices. Bulk purchasing and choosing alternative components can significantly cut costs.

Batch Production Benefits

Larger production runs offer economies of scale. By increasing your order volume, you can reduce the per-unit cost and take advantage of more efficient production techniques.

FAQs

No, we offer free DFM check services. Simply click the "Free DFM Check" button at the top of our website and submit your information, and we will provide the DFM check at no cost.

Optimizing your PCB design can effectively reduce assembly costs. Here are some design optimization suggestions:

  • Reduce the variety of components: Using common standard components can lower component procurement costs.
  • Optimize component layout: By creating a more efficient layout and reducing routing complexity, assembly efficiency can be improved.
  • Reduce the number of layers: If possible, simplify the design and reduce the number of PCB layers to lower material and manufacturing costs.
  • Use double-sided design: Utilizing both sides of the PCB for component placement can sometimes eliminate the need for multilayer PCBs, saving costs.

It depends on the situation:

  • Customer-supplied components: If you have existing component inventory or can obtain better prices from suppliers, providing your own components may be more economical.
  • Assembly house-supplied components: Assembly houses can often negotiate discounts with suppliers through bulk purchasing and ensure the quality and compatibility of components. For complex projects, having the assembly house handle component procurement may be more efficient and reduce supply chain risks. It is recommended to compare both options and choose the one that best suits your project.

Yes, we offer expedited PCB assembly services, but rush production usually incurs additional fees. Expedited orders require priority processing, which can increase production time and logistics costs. If your project is time-sensitive, we recommend contacting us early to confirm expedited options and the associated costs.

Yes, the assembly cost of multilayer PCBs is generally higher than that.

Related terms

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