FAQ
TL;DR: Real user data: $120 for 100 sq in, ~1.5 weeks; “haven’t had a real problem yet.” [Elektroda, Olin Lathrop, post #21657595]
Why it matters: If you’re choosing a PCB house, these first‑hand prices, lead times, and quality notes cut your risk and save time for hobbyists, startups, and engineers comparing fabrication and delivery.
Quick Facts
- GoldPhoenix reported ~$120 for 100 sq in, 2‑layer, delivered in ~1.5 weeks. [Elektroda, Olin Lathrop, post #21657595]
- PCBGeek delivered 44 pcs of 2×2 in boards for $90 via a 200 in² service. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657592]
- One PCBGeek order took a bit more than a month, with slower email replies. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657592]
- PCBCORE shipped on time; user said the boards “look good.” [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657594]
- Users noted min 3 mil trace/space and 4 mil drill (as listed when reviewed). [Elektroda, Cody Miller, post #21657590]
Which was faster for delivery: pcbcore.com or pcbgeek.com?
From user reports, PCBCORE shipped on the promised date and arrived on time. PCBGeek delivered boards that worked, but one order arrived after a bit more than a month. If you prioritize schedule predictability, PCBCORE beat that specific PCBGeek experience. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657594]
What real prices and quantities did users pay and receive?
One user paid $90 and received 44 pieces of 2×2 in boards using PCBGeek’s 200 in² service, which does not let you choose quantity. The same user ordered ~40 boards of about 1 in² each from PCBCORE for $115. These concrete figures help forecast small‑run costs. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657592]
How was PCBGeek’s board quality according to the thread?
The delivered boards “came out nicely,” despite a lead time of a bit more than a month on that order. Users cited working boards as the end result, though communication slowed during the delay window. Consider schedule buffer if choosing PCBGeek. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657592]
How was PCBCORE’s quality and schedule performance?
PCBCORE shipped when promised, and the boards looked good on arrival. Another user later reported receiving three designs (five pieces each) as scheduled and recommended the service. “Everything as promised.” [Elektroda, Darcio Prestes, post #21657596]
What typical quick‑turn option did users recommend for prototypes?
GoldPhoenix was a go‑to for prototypes: about $120 for whatever fits on 100 sq in, 2‑layer, soldermask both sides, top silkscreen, electrical test, delivered in about 1.5 weeks. The user noted repeated successful orders. [Elektroda, Olin Lathrop, post #21657595]
What design rules were observed (trace/space, drill)?
A reviewer noted the site listed minimum 3 mil trace/space and 4 mil drill capability. Treat these as planning figures and confirm during quoting. Tight rules can increase yield risk and cost. [Elektroda, Cody Miller, post #21657590]
Any other PCB manufacturers with good reputations mentioned?
Users called out PCBfabexpress, PCBwing, and GoldPhoenix as well‑regarded options. One post also mentioned EverythingPCB listing many vendors and offering a small discount for PCBwing via their site. Use these as comparison points when sourcing. [Elektroda, Danny Carr, post #21657597]
How was vendor communication and DFM support reported?
One user said a vendor spotted a design fault pre‑production and asked for clarification, enabling a fix before fabrication. This kind of DFM check reduces respins and delays. “Good quality card, good service, recommended.” [Elektroda, Per Zackrisson, post #21657600]
What’s an edge case or failure scenario to plan for?
A PCBGeek order took a bit more than a month with slower email responses and no clear reason provided. Build in schedule margin and request status updates. Long transit or rework can extend timelines unexpectedly. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21657592]
Can I prototype in‑house to avoid shipping delays?
Yes. One contributor suggested LPKF rapid PCB milling for office prototyping. This reduces wait time for single‑sided or simple two‑layer iterations before ordering production boards. Evaluate cost versus iteration speed needs. [Elektroda, Shane Stafford, post #21657606]
How do I request a quick quote from a Chinese PCB house mentioned here?
- Prepare Gerber files for all layers and a readme with stackup, finish, and thickness.
- Email the files and target quantity; ask for lead time and shipping options.
- Confirm DFM checks and panelization before payment.
“Please send the Gerber file so that we could give you better prices.” [Elektroda, Liberty Zhang, post #21657601]
Is shipping to Europe supported by vendors discussed?
A user explicitly requested pricing for 2‑layer, 50×50 mm, five pieces with shipping to Europe, indicating vendor willingness to quote for EU delivery. Always specify destination early to compare total landed cost. [Elektroda, John Mar, post #21657599]
Are there first‑hand recommendations for PCBfabexpress quality?
One participant reported using PCBfabexpress with good results, noting boards turned out nice compared with some cheaper houses whose soldermask looked cheap. This speaks to cosmetic and manufacturing consistency. [Elektroda, Cody Miller, post #21657590]
Did anyone recommend a distributor with online quoting and finishes?
Yes. A user cited PCB Solutions for reliable delivery, quality finishes, and a free online quote system. Use this when you need predictable service over the absolute lowest price. [Elektroda, Rob Walker, post #21657605]
Is there community feedback endorsing PCBCORE overall?
Multiple posts reported on‑time shipments and good results, with one user calling PCBCORE well regarded alongside GoldPhoenix and PCBfabexpress. “Well regarded” signals consistent outcomes across orders. [Elektroda, Danny Carr, post #21657597]
