Chinese PCB manufacturers are frequently preferred by engineers, amateurs, and small-scale manufacturers working on electronics projects due to their low-cost PCB prototyping and fast delivery options.
While many PCB companies offer similar services today, details such as pricing model, production time, layer support, surface coating options, and assembly services are decisive in the selection process.
This article briefly introduces some well-known China PCB manufacturers.
1. PCBWin
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PCBWin is a China-based manufacturer offering PCB prototyping and low-to-medium volume production solutions.
It supports FR4, flexible, and metal-based PCB options, and also provides SMT assembly services.
It follows a structure based on international quality standards in its production processes.
2. DirtyPCBs
DirtyPCBs is a simple and user-friendly manufacturing platform focused on low-cost PCB prototyping.
It is particularly preferred for hobby projects and experimental designs.
It aims to provide economical solutions for basic PCB needs.
3. PCBasic
PCBasic is a Shenzhen-based company that manufactures PCBs and PCBA.
It aims to offer PCB design, manufacturing, and assembly all under one roof.
IPC standards are used in quality control processes.
4. NextPCB
NextPCB is a manufacturer that offers integrated PCB manufacturing and PCBA (assembly) services.
With DFM/DFA controls, SMT production lines, and component supply support, it aims to provide a comprehensive service structure from design to production.
5. OurPCB
OurPCB is a China-based company with a long history of providing PCB manufacturing and assembly services.
We offer solutions on various scales, from prototype production to mass production.
Our manufacturing processes adhere to international standards.
6. PSVGOGO
PCBGOGO is a platform that offers PCB manufacturing and turnkey assembly services together.
It offers various manufacturing options, from single-layer boards to multi-layer PCBs.
It aims to provide fast manufacturing and delivery alternatives.
7. PCBCart
PCBCart is a China-based supplier offering manufacturing and assembly services for various PCB types.
In addition to standard PCBs, they also provide flexible and LED PCB solutions.
Pre-production quality control and quotation processes are conducted online.
8. JLCPCB
JLCPCB is a China-based manufacturer widely used in the field of prototyping and low-to-medium scale PCB production.
It offers fast ordering through online quotation and Gerber upload processes.
In addition to standard PCB manufacturing, optional assembly services are also available.
9. PCBWay
PCBWay is a China-based manufacturer offering a variety of PCB production options, from prototyping to mass production.
It aims to make the PCB manufacturing process more accessible through its online ordering and pricing system.
10. ALLPCB
ALLPCB is a China-based platform offering integrated PCB manufacturing and assembly services.
It provides services such as multilayer PCB manufacturing, SMT/THT assembly, and pre-production DFM inspections. It offers quick pricing via Gerber files.
General Assessment
PCB manufacturer selection may vary depending on the project’s technical requirements, delivery time, and budget.
It is recommended to carefully evaluate production parameters and compare multiple manufacturers before ordering.
Things to Consider When Ordering PCBs (My Experiences)
The following points are based on my experiences during orders placed with various China-based PCB manufacturers.
1. Low-Price PCB Size Limits
Many PCB manufacturers offer very low prices for prototype orders up to certain board sizes. However, exceeding these sizes can lead to disproportionate price increases. Therefore, ensuring the board size remains within the standard prototype limits offered by manufacturers during the design phase provides a cost advantage.
2. The Impact of PCB Thickness and Weight on Shipping Costs
As PCB weight increases, so does shipping cost. In simple projects without mechanical strength requirements, choosing a PCB thickness of 1.2 mm or 1.0 mm instead of 1.6 mm can both reduce board weight and provide a small but significant decrease in total cost.
This difference is particularly noticeable in low-budget prototype projects.
3. Shipping Company Selection
When using popular and fast international shipping companies, shipping costs can be higher than the PCB manufacturing cost.
If time is not critical, more economical shipping options offered by the manufacturer can significantly reduce the total cost.
4. PCB Color Selection
Unless absolutely necessary, avoid black as the PCB color. Black PCBs make it difficult to visually inspect copper traces and solder defects, making it harder to identify potential problems.
Lighter colors (green, blue) are better for prototype and testing boards, facilitating the inspection and debugging process.
5. Through-Hole Plating and Pad Sizes
In dual-layer PCB designs, we prefer through-hole plating on pads unless there is a cost difference.
Choosing a pad hole diameter that is suitable for the component pin thickness, and preferably slightly wider, significantly simplifies desoldering and reassembly processes after soldering.
Even if it’s a prototype in the testing phase and there will be a lot of assembly and disassembly, the hole diameters may be larger.
6. Gerber Verification
Check the Gerber file you will send to the manufacturer with a different Gerber rendering program than the PCB design program. I use the GERBV Gerber viewer program .
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute official advice or guidance for any PCB manufacturer.