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JLCPCB vs ALLPCB vs HQPCB vs PCBWay: Comparing Chinese PCB Prototyping Services

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  • #1 21678104
    Ting Wang
    Anonymous  
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  • #2 21678105
    Rick Curl
    Anonymous  
  • #3 21678106
    John Wilson
    Anonymous  
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  • #4 21678107
    John Wilson
    Anonymous  
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  • #6 21678109
    Ting Wang
    Anonymous  
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  • #7 21678110
    Ting Wang
    Anonymous  
  • #8 21678111
    Rick Curl
    Anonymous  
  • #9 21678112
    Ting Wang
    Anonymous  
  • #10 21678113
    Ting Wang
    Anonymous  
  • #11 21678114
    Duane Benson
    Anonymous  
  • #12 21678115
    Ting Wang
    Anonymous  
  • #13 21678116
    tom black
    Anonymous  
  • #14 21678117
    Raghav Kapur
    Anonymous  

Topic summary

✨ The discussion compares Chinese PCB prototyping services including JLCPCB, ALLPCB, HQPCB, and PCBWay, focusing on pricing, lead times, and service quality. JLCPCB is noted for its low cost but high urgent order surcharges. ALLPCB offers fast turnaround times, free global shipping for packages under 1 kg, and had a $5 coupon for new customers, though this promotion may have ended. PCBWay is recognized for good pricing, quality, and 24/7 customer support. HQPCB is considered professional but less price competitive. Users recommend using PCBshopper.com to compare quotes across multiple suppliers efficiently. Some participants highlight the cost advantage of Chinese PCB fabs over American suppliers, though US-based fabs like Oshpark and Sunstone are preferred for small volumes or professional applications due to quality and feature sets. Additional mentions include PCBGOGO for small batch orders starting at 5 pieces and directories like PCBDirectory.com for locating fabrication and assembly companies by country and prototype capability.

FAQ

TL;DR: ALLPCB announced free shipping for packages under 1 kg, and “This can save you a lot of time.” [Elektroda, Rick Curl, post #21678105]

Why it matters: This FAQ helps hobbyists and engineers choose and compare low-cost PCB prototyping services without wasting time or budget.

Quick Facts

What’s the fastest way to compare PCB prices across many fabs?

Use PCBShopper: enter board specs and view side‑by‑side pricing and options, which “can save you a lot of time.” [Elektroda, Rick Curl, post #21678105]

Which Chinese PCB service was reported cheapest in this thread?

The OP named JLCPCB as the cheapest, noting rush surcharges were high if you need boards urgently. [Elektroda, Ting Wang, post #21678104]

Is ALLPCB actually fast on turn time?

A user reported good results and fast turn time, and highlighted concurrent free‑shipping promos to North America. [Elektroda, Rick Curl, post #21678105]

What customer‑service experiences stand out between US and China fabs?

One user got a free 24‑hour remake after a hole size error from a China fab, but a US fab suggested steel wool for shorts. [Elektroda, Rick Curl, post #21678111]

Are there reputable US prototyping choices if I want domestic boards?

Yes: OSH Park for low‑cost purple ENIG boards, and Sunstone for wider features and pro‑grade controls. [Elektroda, Duane Benson, post #21678114]

How should I choose a fab beyond just the quoted price?

Consider reliability, support responsiveness, remake policies, and long‑term partnership fit, as the OP prioritized. [Elektroda, Ting Wang, post #21678109]

Where can I browse PCB and assembly vendors by country and capability?

Use the PCB Directory links shared in the thread to filter by country (e.g., China) and by prototype capability. [Elektroda, Raghav Kapur, post #21678117]

Quick 3‑step: how do I use PCBShopper to compare quotes?

  1. Enter board size, layers, thickness, and solder mask.
  2. Review the vendor list, prices, shipping, and lead times.
  3. Click through to your chosen fab and upload Gerbers. [Elektroda, Rick Curl, post #21678105]

What is Arduino Nano (in brief)?

A compact Arduino board with USB, common for quick prototypes and small PCBs; it emphasizes ease of use for beginners. [Arduino Nano — Product Page]

What is CAN bus?

A robust multi‑master serial bus for vehicles and industrial systems, designed for reliable, priority‑based messaging. [CAN bus — Wikipedia]
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