Introduction
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are an essential component of most electronic devices and products. For many hardware startups and engineers, creating prototype PCBs is a necessary step in the development process before moving to mass production. Choosing the right PCB prototype manufacturer can have a significant impact on turnaround time, quality, and cost.
This comprehensive guide will examine the key factors to consider when selecting the best PCB prototype service for your specific needs in 2023. We will provide an overview of the top PCB prototype manufacturers, compare their capabilities and pricing, and make recommendations based on different project requirements. Whether you need a simple 2-layer board or a complex multi-layer HDI PCB, this guide will help you find the right manufacturing partner.
Overview of Prototype PCB Manufacturers
There are a wide variety of PCB manufacturers offering prototype services, from large international fabricators to smaller domestic shops. Here is a overview of the major players in prototype PCB production:
Large Multinational Fabricators
These large manufacturers have multiple factories around the world and can offer very quick turnaround times. They tend to specialize in higher volumes, but many offer prototype services.
Examples include JLCPCB, PCBWay and PCI.
Domestic Prototype Specialists
These providers focus specifically on low volume PCB prototype production. They tend to offer fast turnaround, high quality, and good customer service.
Examples include PCB Scity, WellPCBs, Dowsend PCB and RocketPCB.
DIY PCB Services
These online services allow customers to easily design their own PCBs through web-based apps. Once the design is complete, they handle the fabrication and shipping.
Examples include OSH Park and PCBGOGO.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Prototype PCB Manufacturer
There are a number of important factors that ultimately determine which company is the best fit for your particular PCB project. Here are some of the key considerations:
Type of PCB
- Number of layers – Double sided, multilayer, HDI
- Materials – FR-4, Rogers, ceramic
- Board thickness – 0.4mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm, 1.6mm
- Board size
- Impedance control requirements
- High-frequency/high-speed needs
- Flexible PCBs, rigid-flex
Not all manufacturers support every type of PCB. More complex boards may require a specialist.
Quality
For prototypes, quality is paramount. Key metrics:
- Yields and defect rates
- Minimum line/space width
- Layer-to-layer registration accuracy
- Consistency and repeatability
- Attention to detail on finishing (beveling, gold plating, vias, etc.)
- Quality certifications – ISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100
Go with manufacturers that guarantee quality and accept returns for defects. Ask for photos and samples of previous customer PCBs.
Turnaround Time
- How quickly do you need your prototype PCBs? 1 day? 1 week?
- Offering expedited turnaround has become tablestakes in the industry. Understand the options.
- For domestic factories, shipping time is reduced compared to international.
If speed is critical, look for manufacturers with expedited and super-expedited services. These often come with a premium cost.
Location
Choosing a PCB manufacturer located domestically offers some advantages:
- Faster shipping/delivery
- Easier communication and customer support
- Lower shipping costs
However international options have improved significantly. Time differences can actually allow for next day delivery from Asia.
Pricing
Pricing varies significantly based on:
- Quantity – Prototypes are usually lower volumes
- Size – Smaller boards cost less
- Layers – 2-layer vs. 6-layer vs. HDI
- Lead time – Faster turnaround costs more
- Special requirements – Impedance control, etc.
Compare pricing carefully based on your specific requirements. Don’t assume domestic is always more expensive.
Customer Service
Having a responsive, experienced customer support team is extremely valuable during the prototype phase. Look for:
- Technical expertise to review designs
- Quick communication turnaround time
- English language support
- Experience supporting prototype orders
- Willingness to do small tweaks and revisions
This can really smooth out the development process.
Order Process
- How are orders placed? Customer portal? Email?
- Design file requirements – Gerber files, drill files, etc.
- Documentation provided – Test reports, AOI, x-rays
- What DFM checks are performed? Feedback provided?
- Process for revisions, tweaks, and changes
Look for an efficient, structured process that still provides flexibility critical for prototyping.
Top 6 Prototype PCB Manufacturers Recommendations
Based on the criteria outlined above, here are my top recommendations for the best PCB manufacturer for prototypes in 2023:
1. PCBWAY
PCBWay is one of the largest and most well-established PCB manufacturers globally. They offer a wide breadth of prototype services at competitive pricing along with excellent customer service.
Key stats:
- 24-hour rush turnaround available
- Minimum order 1 piece
- 2 to 12 layers
- FR-4, Rogers, flex, HDI, and aluminum options
- Manufacturing in China and United States
PCBWay has worked on over 500,000 designs which brings valuable expertise. Their online capabilities and tracking are excellent. They have consistently received positive reviews on customer service and quality. Their design for manufacturability checks can help avoid errors.
For any type of PCB, PCBWay is a very solid choice. Their prices are affordable even at low volumes. They are my top recommendation overall for a balance of quality, speed, and value.
2. JLCPCB
JLCPCB has emerged as one of the leaders for ultra-fast PCB prototype turnaround. They can deliver boards in as little as 24 hours.
Key stats:
- 24 hour turnaround available
- Minimum order 5 pieces
- 2 to 6 layers
- Most affordable quick-turn service
- Very fast shipping from China
JLCPCB maintains an enormous manufacturing capability focused on protoyping and small batches. For simpler PCBs needed extremely quickly, JLCPCB is likely the best choice. Their SMT Assembly service can populate boards in 3 days.
Keep in mind that quality and service may not match more specialized prototype shops. But for quick-turn, low cost boards, JLCPCB is hard to beat.
3. PCB Scity
Based in Ohio, USA, PCB Scity focuses on fast turnaround and high quality boards specifically for R&D and prototyping.
Key stats:
- 3 day standard turnaround
- Minimum order 1 piece
- 2 to 16 layers
- FR-4, Rogers, polyimide
- ITAR registered
- Excellent engineering reviews
I recommend PCB Scity for more advanced boards where performance is critical. Their engineers really take the time to review designs thoroughly. They can build very complex boards like HDI, rigid-flex and advanced RF materials. Being based in the US, communication and support are excellent.
Their pricing is competitive, especially considering their focus on quality. For advanced prototypes subject to ITAR or that need robust design reviews, PCB Scity is a superb choice.
4. WellPCB
WellPCB provides high quality PCB prototype and small-batch production out of China. Known for great customer service and reviews.
Key Stats:
- 5 day standard lead time
- Minimum order 1 piece
- 2 to 12 layers
- Fr-4, Rogers, flex, HDI
- 9000 square foot facility
WellPCB is a smaller specialized manufacturer focused on prototyping. Their quality and attention to detail is superb. Support teams are responsive and provide valuable feedback on designs.
Their website makes ordering easy and their blog contains helpful design resources. Pricing is reasonable, though not the cheapest. I recommend WellPCB for those looking for a customer-focused, diligent company.
5. Dowsend PCB
Dowsend focuses on rapid PCB prototypes with their US manufacturing facilities. They have quickquoting and online order capabilities.
Key Stats:
- 24 hour rush turnaround
- Minimum order 1 piece
- 2 to 12 layers
- FR-4, Rogers, aluminum
- Design review in 1 hour
- Free DFM check
I recommend Dowsend for their blend of speed, services, and affordability. Small volume discounts make them quite affordable. The online order tools simplify everything. Multiple manufacturing sites give redundancies. They are a great choice for accessible, domestic production.
6. Rocket PCB
RocketPCB provides advanced PCB prototyping and low volume services out of New York state. They focus on high-tech, qucikturn projects.
Key Stats:
- 24 hour expedited service
- Minimum order 1 piece
- 2 to 16 layers
- FR-4, Rogers, polyimide, quartz
- ITAR and ISO certified
- Engineering conference reviews
I recommend RocketPCB for advanced electronics and RF designs. Their engineering team has extensive RF, microwave, and high-speed digital expertise. The ITAR certification enables defense projects. While pricing is higher, they do advanced validation testing.
RocketPCB is ideal for regulated, complex projects needing close engineering partnership. Their expertise makes them a trusted choice for critical prototypes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main advantages of domestic vs international PCB manufacturers?
Domestic PCB factories located in North America offer some potential benefits:
- Faster shipping and delivery
- Easier communication, lower language barrier
- Better ITAR/IP/regulatory compliance
- Lower shipping costs
However, the gap has narrowed as many international options now provide excellent English support, fast global delivery and strong online tools.
Should I choose the cheapest prototype PCB manufacturer?
Not necessarily. While price is a key factor, quality and responsiveness are also critical for prototypes.
The cheapest options typically have longer lead times, lower quality, and less personalized support. This can waste time and money compared to a slightly more expensive but faster, higher-quality manufacturer.
How many PCB prototype companies should I get quotes from?
I recommend getting quotes from 3-4 different manufacturers. This allows you to compare pricing and capabilities.
Too few and you miss possible better options. Too many and it becomes time consuming and complex to compare.
What basic info do PCB manufacturers need for a quotation?
To receive an accurate quote, you’ll need to provide:
- Gerber files for all layers
- BOM with part types, values and quantities
- Layer count
- Board dimensions (width x height x thickness)
- Material – FR-4, Rogers, etc.
- Mounting type – through hole, SMT, mixed
- Quantity required
- Any special requirements – impedance control etc.
- Target lead time
Provide as much detail upfront as possible to get an accurate price and production estimate.
Should I pay more for faster PCB prototype turnaround?
In most cases, yes I would recommend paying additional fees for expedited production and faster shipping.
The ability to get working prototypes in your hands much quicker has tremendous value, especially for startups. It enables faster iteration, testing, and progress.
The premium costs are usually reasonable for the massive time savings. Just be sure to confirm production time upfront.
Conclusion
Selecting the right PCB manufacturing partner is a key decision when bringing an electronic product from concept to reality. For prototyping and low volume production, choosing a company focused on quality, speed, and service can avoid headaches and delays.
There are a number of excellent domestic and international providers who cater specifically to the needs of engineers, designers, and startups. Taking into account your specific requirements, budget, and time constraints will ensure you find the best match.
With this guide’s recommendations on top manufacturers, capabilities and selection criteria, you can confidently choose the best partner for your next PCB prototype project.
0 Comments