High frequency PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) are essential for high-speed signal transmission, particularly in RF, microwave, 5G, radar, aerospace, and satellite communications. As of 2025, the demand for these boards continues to grow—but so does the confusion around pricing.
This guide breaks down the real factors influencing high frequency PCB pricing and provides actual USD-based examples to help engineers and purchasers budget more effectively.
1. Key Technical Factors That Affect High Frequency PCB Pricing
1.1 RF Material Selection
The dielectric material is one of the most important—and costly—components. Compared to standard FR4, RF materials like Rogers and PTFE offer lower dielectric loss and higher stability, but at a premium:
| Material Type | Cost Range (USD / ft²) |
| FR4 (Standard) | $0.20 – $0.60 |
| Rogers RO4350B | $2.50 – $5.00 |
| Rogers RO4003C | $1.80 – $3.50 |
| PTFE (Teflon) | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| Taconic RF-35 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
Choosing Rogers RO4003C instead of RO4350B can reduce cost by 15–20% while still delivering solid RF performance.
1.2 Layer Count and Stack-up Complexity
The more layers your high frequency board requires, the more it will cost—especially with impedance-controlled stackups and mixed dielectric construction.
- 2-layer RO4350B board (100x100mm, 50 pcs): $85–$120/pc
- 4-layer PTFE + FR4 hybrid (100x100mm, 20 pcs): $180–$300/pc
- 6-layer pure PTFE RF board: $250–$400/pc
Blind/buried vias and embedded RF structures (e.g., stripline) also increase costs by 30% or more.
1.3 Thickness, Copper Weight, and Board Size
Heavier copper (2oz+), non-standard thicknesses (>2.4mm), or large-format RF antennas can increase the price:
- 1oz copper, 1.6mm thick (standard): base cost
- 2oz copper: +$10–$15 per board
- >2.4mm board thickness: +10–20% surcharge
1.4 Tolerances, Impedance Control, and Signal Integrity
High frequency PCBs often require tight impedance control (±5% or better), which involves advanced manufacturing and testing:
- Impedance control testing (TDR): $80–$150 per lot
- ±10% tolerance: no extra charge
- ±5% tolerance: adds $15–$30 per board
1.5 Surface Finish Options
The right finish ensures stable conductivity and minimal signal loss:
| Finish Type | Cost Impact | Notes |
| HASL | Low | Not recommended for RF |
| ENIG | +$20–$30/pc | Good for signal integrity |
| Silver | +$15–$25/pc | Cost-effective RF finish |
| ENEPIG | +$30–$50/pc | High-end performance |
1.6 Via Technologies and Drilling Methods
High density and low-loss PCBs often need advanced vias:
- Laser-drilled microvias: +$0.03–$0.10 per via
- Via-in-pad: adds $10–$20/pc
- Backdrilling: +$50–$100 per job setup
2. Commercial and Market Factors Influencing Pricing
2.1 Application-Based Price Trends
Different end-use cases dictate quality and tolerance levels:
- 5G telecom RF PCB (6-layer Rogers): $280–$400/pc
- Automotive radar board (4-layer, hybrid): $120–$200/pc
- Medical RF (3-layer PTFE, certified): $250–$350/pc
- Aerospace-grade: +30% to +50% due to MIL-spec compliance
2.2 Global Price Differences by Region
| Region | Price Trend | Notes |
| China | Lowest | $0.35–$0.65/cm², high volume advantage |
| USA | High | Adds 40–60% due to labor & regulation |
| Europe | Medium-High | Strong on quality, strict RoHS/REACH |
| India/SEA | Low | Limited RF material availability |
Example: A 2-layer 100x100mm RF board in China may cost $85, but $140–$180 in the US.
2.3 Order Volume and Lead Time
- Low volume (<10 pcs): $100–$200/pc
- Mid-volume (100 pcs): $45–$80/pc
- High volume (1,000+ pcs): as low as $25–$40/pc
- Expedited turnaround (3–5 days): +50–100% surcharge
Buyers should be aware of:
- Tooling/setup fee: $50–$200 per job
- Design validation/simulation: $100–$500 depending on complexity
- X-ray or TDR report: $80–$150
- Custom packaging and labeling: $1–$3 per board
- Scrap rate for ultra-high frequency boards (24+ GHz): 5–10% embedded in price
4. Real-World Price Examples in 2025
| Spec | Quantity | Approx. Price/pc |
| 2-layer RO4003C, ENIG, 100x100mm | 50 pcs | $80 – $110 |
| 4-layer PTFE, Silver finish, with impedance control | 20 pcs | $180 – $300 |
| 6-layer hybrid (FR4 + Rogers), 200x150mm | 100 pcs | $85 – $120 |
| Telecom RF board, 1,000 pcs | / | $25 – $45 |
5. Cost-Optimization Tips Without Sacrificing RF Performance
- Use Rogers RO4003C instead of RO4350B for moderate performance at lower cost
- Stick to ENIG or silver finishes unless ENEPIG is functionally required
- Avoid unnecessary microvias or via-in-pad designs
- Engage manufacturers early for DFM feedback
- Panelize small boards to optimize panel utilization
6. KingSunPCB: Reliable High Frequency PCB Manufacturer in China
At KingSunPCB, we specialize in manufacturing high frequency and microwave PCBs with premium materials like Rogers, Taconic, and PTFE. With over 15 years of experience and UL, ISO, and RoHS certifications, we support both prototyping and volume production.
Why choose us:
- In-house Rogers/PTFE processing capability
- Fast prototyping: 3–5 days
- Free DFM and impedance calculation services
- Prices from $80/pc for 2-layer RF boards (100x100mm)
- Dedicated support for telecom, radar, and medical clients
Request your free quote today and get a response within 12 hours!
7. Conclusion
High frequency PCB pricing in 2025 is influenced by material selection, stack-up complexity, application, and region. Costs can vary from $80 to $400 per piece based on specs, with many hidden variables to watch for. By understanding these factors and working with an expert manufacturer like KingSunPCB, you can optimize your budget without compromising performance.