Multilayer PCBs have become the backbone of modern electronics, enabling compact designs, high-speed data transmission, and increased functionality in a wide range of devices. From smartphones and servers to automotive ECUs and satellite systems, multilayer boards are everywhere. But as complexity grows, so does the cost. So, how much do multilayer PCBs really cost in 2025? This guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of pricing, hidden costs, supplier comparisons, and smart strategies to lower your total spend.
1. Why Pricing Multilayer PCBs Matters
In today’s competitive electronics market, every cent counts. Whether you’re prototyping a medical device or scaling production for an industrial IoT product, understanding multilayer PCB costs helps you plan more accurately, reduce design inefficiencies, and negotiate smarter with manufacturers.
2. What Is a Multilayer PCB?
A multilayer PCB is a printed circuit board with more than two conductive copper layers, sandwiched between dielectric insulation and interconnected through vias. Common stack-ups include:
- 4-layer PCBs: Ideal for basic microcontroller applications.
- 6-layer PCBs: Suitable for mixed-signal designs and controlled impedance.
- 8-layer PCBs: Common in high-speed networking equipment.
- 10+ layers: Used in military, medical, or telecom systems.
Materials range from standard FR4 to advanced options like Rogers 4003C, Isola 370HR, or polyimide, which can add $0.50–$1.50 per cm² depending on type and thermal/electrical requirements.
3. Key Factors That Affect Multilayer PCB Prices
Understanding these variables can save you significant costs:
Number of Layers
- More layers require more lamination cycles and drilling steps.
- Each additional layer typically adds $0.20–$0.50 per cm².
Example: Moving from 6-layer to 8-layer can increase cost by 30–40%.
Board Dimensions
- Larger boards cost more in raw materials and yield fewer panels.
Example: A 100mm x 100mm 6-layer board costs ~$11–$15 each in batches of 100 pcs.
Material Type
- Standard FR4 (TG135): $1.00–$1.60 per cm²
- High-TG FR4 (TG170–180): Adds $0.20–$0.40 per cm²
- Rogers 4350B/4003C: Adds $0.80–$1.50 per cm²
Copper Thickness
- 1oz is standard. Upgrading to 2oz can add $0.30–$0.60 per cm².
- 3oz and above may require special handling, increasing tooling cost by $100+.
Surface Finish
- HASL: Basic and cheapest (~$0.10 per cm²)
- ENIG (Immersion Gold): Adds $0.20–$0.40 per cm²
- OSP or Immersion Silver: Mid-range options with 5–10% premium
Vias and Drilling
- Standard through-hole vias: Included in base price
- Blind/Buried vias: Add 15–30% to total PCB cost
- Microvias or stacked via-in-pad: May double the price due to laser drilling
Lead Time
- Standard (7–10 days): No surcharge
- Fast-turn (48–72 hours): Adds 30–70% premium
Example: A $15 board becomes $25–$28 for rush delivery.
4. Price Breakdown by Layer Count
| Layer Count | Estimated Cost (per cm²) | Notes |
| 4-layer | $0.80–$1.20 | For consumer-grade applications |
| 6-layer | $1.00–$1.60 | Good for signal integrity, EMI control |
| 8-layer | $1.50–$2.50 | Complex routing, high-speed signals |
| 10-layer | $2.80–$4.00 | Dense systems, CPUs, DDR memory |
| 12+ layers | $4.00–$7.00+ | Telecom, aerospace, medical systems |
All estimates based on FR4, 1oz copper, ENIG finish, and MOQ of 50–100 units.
Beyond base PCB costs, manufacturers often charge for the following:
Engineering Setup Charges
- Tooling, CAM review, DFM checks
- Typical cost: $50–$150 per new design
Impedance Control
- For differential pairs or matched-line designs
- Adds 10–25% to PCB cost
Example: $1.50/cm² board becomes ~$1.80–$1.90/cm²
Electrical Testing
- Flying probe or fixture testing
- Price: $0.01–$0.05 per net, or flat $20–$60 per job
Certification Costs
- UL, ISO13485, IPC Class 3 compliance
- Add-on fees: $30–$100 per batch, depending on documentation
Packaging and Shipping
- Vacuum-sealed packaging: $5–$10 per batch
- Air shipping (DHL/UPS): $30–$80 depending on destination and weight
Reorder Fee
- If files are modified or setup needs redoing, $20–$40 may apply.
6. Cost Comparison: China vs. USA vs. Europe
| Region | Avg. 6-Layer PCB Price (100x100mm) | Lead Time | Notes |
| China | $11–$15 per board | 5–10 days | Best for affordability, even with shipping |
| USA | $25–$40 per board | 7–14 days | Ideal for high-IP or regulated industries |
| Europe | $28–$45 per board | 10–20 days | Strong support for automotive/medical PCBs |
Chinese suppliers dominate the mid- to high-volume market with aggressive pricing and quick prototyping capabilities, especially for 4–10 layer PCBs.
7. How to Get an Accurate Quotation
To avoid vague or inflated estimates, provide these essential files:
- Gerber Files: RS-274X or equivalent
- Layer Stack-Up Info: Include copper weights and dielectric spacing
- Quantity & Lead Time: Be clear to avoid rush charges
- Controlled Impedance Requirements: Specify tolerance (+/-10%)
- Surface Finish and Via Types: Make your needs clear
KingSunPCB, for example, offers instant quoting tools that calculate live pricing based on these parameters.
8. Cost-Saving Tips for Multilayer PCB Orders
Smart design and sourcing decisions can cut your total cost by up to 40%:
Use Standard Materials
- FR4 (TG150) is usually sufficient for most designs.
- Avoid specialty laminates unless necessary.
- Savings: $0.30–$0.80 per cm²
Optimize Stack-Up Design
- Minimize unnecessary layers by smarter routing or using ground planes efficiently.
- Reducing from 8 to 6 layers can save $0.60–$1.00 per cm².
Avoid Over-Specification
- Use HASL instead of ENIG if gold contact isn’t critical
- Avoid blind or buried vias unless space-constrained
- Savings: 10–35% depending on design
Combine Orders / Panelize
- Ordering multiple designs in one panel spreads the tooling and setup fees.
- Consider panel optimization for quantities >100pcs.
- Panelization can reduce per-board cost by 15–25%
Flexible Lead Times
- Avoid rush services unless deadlines are critical.
- Standard lead times save $3–$8 per board on average
9. Why Choose KingSunPCB for Affordable Multilayer PCBs
KingSunPCB offers expert multilayer PCB manufacturing at globally competitive prices. Whether you need a 4-layer prototype or a 12-layer high-speed design, we deliver:
- 4–12 layers starting from $0.90/cm²
- Free DFM + impedance review on all orders
- UL, RoHS, ISO9001 certified factory
- Global DHL/UPS shipping within 3–7 days
- 24-hour support and online quote in 3 minutes
Let us help reduce your PCB cost without compromising on quality.
10. Conclusion: Plan Ahead, Save More
Multilayer PCBs are indispensable for modern electronics. While costs can vary significantly based on materials, complexity, and location, smart planning and supplier selection can reduce your expenses dramatically. Use this guide as a checklist before your next RFQ or board order.
11. FAQ: Multilayer PCB Pricing Questions Answered
Q1: Is a 6-layer PCB always more expensive than two 2-layer boards?
A: Yes—multilayer boards use additional lamination and alignment steps, which add to manufacturing complexity and cost.
Q2: Does ENIG finish increase cost significantly?
A: Yes. Expect to pay $0.20–$0.40 per cm² more compared to HASL.
Q3: How much more does it cost to use Rogers material instead of FR4?
A: Rogers 4003C adds $0.80–$1.50 per cm², depending on thickness and stack-up.
Q4: What’s the cheapest way to get a 6-layer prototype?
A: Use FR4, HASL finish, standard 1oz copper, and avoid blind vias. Panelize if possible and choose a 7-day turnaround. KingSunPCB can offer this from $10.50 per board (100mm x 100mm) in 50–100 piece quantities.