In the competitive world of electronics manufacturing, 5 layer PCBs strike a perfect balance between functionality and affordability. As devices get smaller and more powerful, engineers are turning to 5-layer stack-ups to manage complex signal routing without overspending. But if you’re wondering how much a 5 layer PCB costs in 2025 — and how to keep that cost in check — this guide walks you through every major factor, complete with real USD pricing examples and insider tips.
1. Why 5 Layer PCB Pricing Matters in 2025
5 layer PCBs are commonly used in automotive electronics, industrial automation, IoT gateways, and high-speed digital devices. Understanding how their cost is calculated helps engineers, buyers, and business owners make smarter decisions, avoid budget overruns, and compare supplier quotes effectively.
2. Key Factors That Affect 5 Layer PCB Pricing
Here are the primary cost drivers for 5-layer PCBs, with 2025 pricing:
| Factor | Description | Typical Added Cost (USD) |
| Board Size | Larger PCBs require more material and longer processing time | $0.10–$0.35 per in² |
| Copper Thickness | Standard: 1oz; upgrading to 2oz adds cost | +$0.05–$0.12/in² |
| Base Material | FR4 (standard), High Tg FR4, Rogers | FR4: included; High Tg: +$0.08/in²; Rogers: +$0.20–$0.40/in² |
| Minimum Hole Size | Smaller drill sizes increase tool wear | +$10–$20 per batch for <0.25mm |
| Trace/Space Width | ≤4mil trace/space requires HDI capability | +$0.02–$0.08/in² |
| Surface Finish | HASL (standard); ENIG is premium | HASL: base price; ENIG: +$0.10–$0.20/in² |
| Solder Mask/Silkscreen | Black, red, or yellow cost more than green | +$5–$10 per batch |
Example: A standard 100×100mm 5-layer PCB with FR4, ENIG, and 1oz copper typically costs $4.50–$7.00/pc for 10 pieces.
3. Prototype vs Mass Production: Cost Differences Explained
Prototype Orders (1–10 pcs)
- Ideal for function testing and design verification
- Unit price: $60–$120 total for a 100mm × 100mm board
- Per-piece cost: $6–$12/pc
- Lead time: 3–7 working days
- Setup fees may be included
At KingSunPCB, a standard 5-layer prototype (100mm x 100mm, ENIG) for 5 pcs costs around $65–$75 total, including shipping.
Mass Production (100–10,000 pcs)
- Suitable for final product rollouts
- Unit price: $0.08–$0.20/in², or $1.20–$3.50/pc
- Bulk discounts can reduce prices by 30–50%
- Lead time: 7–15 working days
- Tooling costs may apply (~$30–$80 for stencils)
Tip: Ask suppliers for price breaks at 100, 500, and 1000 pcs. Even small volume changes can cut cost significantly.
4. Cost Breakdown Example: Real Quote for a Standard 5 Layer PCB
Specs:
- 5 layers, FR4 TG150, 1.6mm thickness, 1oz copper
- 100mm × 100mm board
- ENIG finish, green solder mask
- Qty: 100 pcs
Breakdown:
- Material & pressing: $22
- Drilling & plating: $18
- ENIG surface: $15
- Testing & QC: $8
- Total: $63.00
- Per piece: $0.63/pc
5. Regional Price Comparison: China vs US vs Europe
| Region | Avg. Unit Price (Mass Prod.) | Example Lead Time |
| China | $0.10–$0.20/in² | 7–12 days |
| USA | $0.25–$0.40/in² | 10–15 days |
| Europe | $0.30–$0.45/in² | 12–18 days |
Chinese manufacturers, such as KingSunPCB, offer global express delivery with customs support and fast DFM feedback.
6. How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your 5 Layer PCB
To get a reliable quote, you should prepare:
- Gerber Files with layer stack-up clearly defined
- Drill File (Excellon format)
- Design Requirements: copper weight, finish, mask color, impedance control, etc.
- Quantity & Delivery Location
- Optional: Pick-and-Place File (for assembly)
Pro Tip: Request multiple quantity brackets (e.g., 10, 100, 500 pcs) to see price tiers.
At KingSunPCB, you can upload your files and get a detailed quote within 2 hours — no registration required.
Not all quotes are fully transparent. Watch for:
| Cost Item | Description | Typical Price |
| Blind/Buried Vias | Required in HDI designs | +$0.05–$0.15/in² |
| Impedance Control | High-speed signal routing | +$20–$40/batch |
| Electrical Testing | Final QC for open/short | $10–$25 per batch |
| Stencils (for SMT) | One-time tooling for assembly | $30–$60 |
| Shipping | International express (DHL, UPS) | $20–$80 depending on weight |
Always clarify whether shipping and testing are included before confirming your order.
8. Price Trends for 5 Layer PCBs in 2025
2025 trends influencing 5-layer PCB pricing:
- Stable copper pricing, but inflation affects logistics and labor
- ENIG finish prices increased by ~10% compared to 2024
- Higher demand for HDI, leading to more blind via requests (increasing cost)
- Automation in CAM and inspection helps keep mass production affordable
Projection: Multilayer PCB prices may increase 3–6% year-over-year, depending on finish and material.
9. Conclusion: Optimize Your PCB Design to Reduce Cost
Cost-saving strategies include:
- Use standard FR4 material unless necessary
- Choose HASL if gold plating isn’t essential
- Consolidate vias to reduce drilling costs
- Stick to common PCB dimensions (e.g., 100×100mm)
- Work with experienced manufacturers like KingSunPCB
10. About KingSunPCB: Affordable and Reliable 5 Layer PCB Manufacturing
KingSunPCB is a professional PCB manufacturer based in Shenzhen, China. We specialize in multilayer PCB solutions from 4–20 layers, serving clients in the automotive, medical, and industrial sectors.
What we offer:
- Competitive pricing: as low as $0.10/in²
- Fast turnaround: 3–7 days for prototyping
- Free DFM review + instant quote system
- UL, ISO9001, and RoHS certified
- Global express shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
Request your custom quote today at www.kingsunpcb.com