Overview - what determines the cost of double-sided boards
Choosing a double-sided PCB is a common step when single-sided layouts hit routing limits but you want to avoid the expense of multilayer fabrication. The price you pay reflects more than board area: layer count, copper weight, surface finish, hole types, minimum trace/space, soldermask and testing add measurable cost. This guide gives practical, locally relevant cost drivers and examples so you can budget accurately for hobby, student or production runs in South Africa.
Primary cost drivers
- Board size and quantity - smaller panels and higher volumes lower per-board cost.
- PCB thickness and copper weight - 1.6 mm FR4 with 1 oz copper is common; heavier copper increases price.
- Hole count and plated through-holes (PTH) - more vias and through-hole parts raise processing and tooling costs.
- Minimum trace width and spacing - tighter tolerances require higher-spec fabrication and inspection.
- Surface finish and soldermask colours - ENIG or HASL, and special mask colours, add to unit cost.
For makers and students, the biggest levers to control cost are panelisation, accepting common fabrication tolerances (e.g., 6/6 mil trace/space), and consolidating vias with careful routing. For procurement teams, consolidating several small designs into a single panel often reduces per-board price significantly.
Quick local context
Communica stocks components and prototyping supplies that pair well with double-sided PCBs, from through-hole headers to surface-mount kits. Check sample parts and prototyping tools in our collections: Shop by Category. Our branches in Samrand and Cape Town mean you can often collect small prototype orders same-day; see branch hours at Branches & Trading Hours.
