As the demand for customized detection solutions grows in security, mining, and hobby electronics, metal detector PCB boards are becoming a crucial component in various detection systems. Whether you’re prototyping a DIY treasure finder or building industrial-grade scanning equipment, understanding the cost breakdown of a metal detector PCB board in 2025 can save you both time and money.
While prices may vary due to technical complexity, materials, and production quantity, this guide will provide a transparent and detailed look into the real costs involved—using actual USD pricing examples to help you make smarter procurement decisions.
1. What Is a Metal Detector PCB Board?
A metal detector PCB board is the core circuit that powers electromagnetic detection. It typically includes an oscillator circuit, signal processing, filtering, amplification, and sometimes a microcontroller for digital signal analysis. Pricing depends not only on the complexity of the circuit but also on the quality, layout, and materials used.
2. Core Factors Influencing Metal Detector PCB Pricing
Here are the key technical variables that impact price:
- PCB Material: Standard FR-4 is the most cost-effective, while high-frequency substrates (e.g., Rogers) increase cost by 30–50%.
- Layer Count: Most DIY or low-end metal detector PCBs use 1–2 layers ($5–$20/pc), while multi-layer designs (3–4 layers) range from $25–$60/pc.
- Copper Weight: Thicker copper (2oz+) improves signal integrity but adds $0.50–$2.00 per unit.
- Design Precision: Tighter tolerances (±0.1mm or less) increase manufacturing cost by around 10–20%.
3. Price Comparison by Application Type
| Application | Typical Price Range (USD) |
| DIY/Hobbyist | $5 – $20 |
| Consumer Electronics (Portable) | $20 – $50 |
| Industrial or Security-grade | $60 – $200+ |
| Waterproof/Ruggedized Versions | Add 20%–40% |
Example: A ruggedized, weather-resistant PCB for outdoor industrial use can reach $150/unit with assembly.
4. Prototype vs. Mass Production Costs
Rapid Prototyping (1–5 pcs):
– $50–$150 per piece, depending on layer count and complexity.
Low-Volume Production (10–100 pcs):
– $10–$40 per unit.
High-Volume Manufacturing (1,000+ pcs):
– $5–$15 per unit.
– Panelization can reduce unit cost by 10%–30%.
5. Impact of PCB Assembly on Overall Cost
A bare PCB is only part of the total cost. Full PCBA (Printed Circuit Board Assembly) includes:
- Manual Assembly: $5–$15 extra per board.
- SMT Assembly: $0.01–$0.03 per joint, or ~$10–$25/board for typical designs.
- Component Cost: $5–$40 depending on ICs, op-amps, and coil quality.
- Firmware Preloading & Testing: $2–$10/board.
6. Geographical Price Differences in 2025
| Region | Typical Unit Price (Bare PCB) |
| China | $5 – $25 |
| USA | $20 – $70 |
| Europe | $25 – $80 |
- Shipping & Taxes: Add 10%–30% depending on country.
- Lead Time Impact: Rush orders increase cost by 20–50%.
7. Quantity and Lead Time Impact on Pricing
- Urgent Orders (24h–72h): +$30–$80 per order.
- Standard Production (5–10 days): Regular pricing.
- Bulk Orders (1,000 pcs): Can reduce per-unit cost by 50%+.
Tip: For DIY kits, batch ordering with other hobbyists helps reduce unit costs.
- Engineering Changes: Redesigns after first prototype can cost $100–$500.
- Obsolete Components: Premiums of 20%–200% for hard-to-find parts.
- Inspection & Compliance Testing: Adds $50–$200 for industrial use.
9. How to Reduce Your Metal Detector PCB Cost Without Sacrificing Quality
- Optimize trace width and via count.
- Use standard board sizes (like 100x100mm).
- Choose 1oz copper unless otherwise needed.
- Partner with a full-service manufacturer for bundled assembly + PCB services.
10. Why Choose KingSunPCB for Your Metal Detector PCB Needs
At KingSunPCB, we specialize in low-cost, high-precision PCB manufacturing, including complex analog circuits for metal detection. In 2025, we offer:
- 1–2 layer metal detector PCB boards: Starting from $6.50/pc (bare board, FR-4).
- Fully assembled PCBA: From $18.90/pc including testing and firmware loading.
- Prototype service: 24–72 hour turnaround available.
- Custom coil integration and DFM checks for free on orders over 100 pcs.
Get a free quote within 12 hours—contact our sales team or visit KingSunPCB.com for details.
11. Conclusion
In 2025, the cost of a metal detector PCB board can range from $5 to over $200, depending on specs, quantity, and application. By understanding the influencing factors—such as material, design, assembly, and supplier—you can make informed decisions and stay within budget. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a commercial buyer, choosing the right manufacturing partner makes all the difference.
For reliable quality and competitive pricing, KingSunPCB is your trusted solution.