In 2025, single-sided PCB circuit boards remain one of the most cost-effective and widely used solutions in electronics manufacturing. Whether you’re designing LED lighting systems, power supply modules, or consumer gadgets, understanding the cost structure of single-sided PCBs can help you optimize your project budget. This article breaks down real-world pricing examples and the major cost factors that drive your final quote.
1. What Is a Single-Sided PCB Circuit Board?
A single-sided PCB is a printed circuit board that has copper traces only on one side. The components are mounted on the opposite side, making the design simpler and cheaper compared to double-sided or multilayer PCBs.
These boards are typically made from FR4 (a fiberglass epoxy laminate), CEM-1 (a paper-based material), or aluminum for high-heat applications like LED lighting. Due to their low cost and ease of manufacturing, they’re ideal for:
- LED driver modules
- Power supplies
- Calculators and remote controls
- Low-end consumer electronics
- Automotive lighting systems
Single-sided PCBs are especially suited for high-volume, low-complexity applications where cost efficiency is a top priority.
2. Key Factors Influencing Single-Sided PCB Prices (with Real USD Costs)
Several technical specifications directly affect how much a single-sided PCB will cost. Here’s a breakdown of the main cost drivers with actual price ranges in 2025:
Base Material
- FR4: Most common, affordable material
~$0.10–$0.25 per unit (bulk 1000+ pcs)
- CEM-1: Even lower cost for simple circuits
~$0.08–$0.20 per unit (bulk)
- Aluminum: Used for heat-sensitive applications like LEDs
~$0.30–$0.60 per unit (bulk)
Board Thickness
- Standard 1.6mm: No extra cost
- Thicker boards (2.0mm+): Add ~$0.05–$0.10 per unit
Copper Weight
- 1oz copper: Standard, no cost increase
- 2oz copper: Adds ~$0.05–$0.12 per unit depending on size
Trace Width and Spacing
- Standard tolerances (≥6mil): Included in base price
- Tight tolerances (<5mil): Adds ~$0.03–$0.08 per unit
Surface Finish
- HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling): Included by default
- ENIG (Electroless Nickel/Immersion Gold): Adds ~$0.10–$0.20 per unit
- OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative): Adds ~$0.05–$0.10 per unit
Solder Mask and Silkscreen Colors
- Green: Standard, no cost
- Black/White/Red: May add ~$0.02–$0.05 per unit
Order Quantity
- Prototypes (10 pcs): Higher unit cost, ~$0.40–$0.80 each
- Medium orders (100 pcs): ~$0.20–$0.35 each
- Mass production (1000+ pcs): As low as ~$0.08–$0.25 each
Each of these elements adds up to determine your final unit cost. Optimizing just one or two factors can save significant amounts—especially on large orders.
3. Price Comparison by Material Type
FR4 Single-Sided PCBs:
- Prototype (10 pcs): $0.45–$0.70 each
- Bulk (1000 pcs): $0.12–$0.25 each
Aluminum Base PCBs:
- Prototype: $0.80–$1.20 each
- Bulk: $0.30–$0.60 each
CEM-1 Boards:
- Prototype: $0.35–$0.50 each
- Bulk: $0.08–$0.20 each
4. Pricing by Board Size and Quantity
Small Boards (≤50mm x 50mm):
- $0.08–$0.15 (bulk), ~$0.30–$0.50 (prototype)
Standard Boards (100mm x 100mm):
- $0.12–$0.25 (bulk), ~$0.45–$0.70 (prototype)
Large Boards (≥150mm):
- $0.40–$1.00+ depending on features
5. Cost Differences Between Prototyping and Mass Production
Prototyping (10 pcs)
- Typical cost: $5–$9 total, or $0.50–$0.90 each
- Includes setup fees, non-panelized processing
Mass Production (1000+ pcs)
- Typical cost: $120–$250 total, or $0.12–$0.25 each
- Lower cost per board and faster production time
6. Application-Specific Price Ranges
- LED Lighting (Aluminum base): $0.30–$0.60 each
- Power Supply Circuits (FR4 2oz): $0.40–$0.80 each
- Consumer Electronics (CEM-1 or FR4): $0.08–$0.25 each
- Automotive Use (FR4/Aluminum with tighter tolerances): $0.50–$0.90 each
7. How to Reduce Costs Without Compromising Quality
Tips to keep your prices low:
- Stick to standard materials and solder mask colors
- Use 1oz copper unless high current is needed
- Optimize your layout for panelization
- Relax trace spacing if high performance isn’t required
- Order in larger quantities whenever possible
- Choose a trusted, experienced PCB manufacturer
8. KingSunPCB: Affordable & High-Quality Single-Sided PCB Manufacturing
At KingSunPCB, we’ve been manufacturing reliable and affordable single-sided PCBs for over 10 years. We offer:
- FR4 single-sided PCBs starting at $0.12 per unit in volume
- Aluminum LED boards from $0.35 per unit
- Free DFM checks and engineering support
- Prototypes shipped in 48 hours
Whether you need 10 pieces or 10,000, we provide consistent quality and competitive pricing for global customers.
9. Conclusion
Single-sided PCB circuit boards remain the most budget-friendly solution for a wide range of electronic products. In 2025, prices start as low as $0.08 per unit for bulk orders. By understanding what drives costs—from materials to finishes to quantities—you can make smarter decisions and get better value for your investment. For quick, reliable quotes and expert support, get in touch with KingSunPCB today.