OurPCB Review: Find Its Best Alternative

Choosing the right PCB manufacturer can make or break your electronics project. Whether you’re a hobbyist building a DIY robot or a startup developing a medical device, factors like cost, quality, and turnaround time matter. OurPCB has been a go-to choice for many since 2007, but is it still the best option in 2025? 

In this review, we’ll explore OurPCB’s strengths, weaknesses, and alternatives—with PCBPit emerging as the standout choice for most projects.

What Does OurPCB Offer?

OurPCB is a China-based PCB manufacturer with a global footprint. Their services include:

  • PCB fabrication: From 1 to 50 layers, including specialized boards like aluminum, Rogers, and HDI PCBs.
  • PCB assembly: Turnkey solutions with component sourcing and testing.
  • Prototyping: Rapid prototyping with a 24-hour quote system.
  • Niche services: Custom wire harnesses, enclosures, and hybrid cables.

Strengths of OurPCB

  1. Speed and Flexibility: Their “Quick Turn PCB Assembly” promises fast prototyping, with some users reporting boards delivered in a week.
  2. Compliance and Quality: Certifications like ISO 9001, IPC-A-610 Class 3, and RoHS compliance ensure reliability.
  3. Global Reach: Factories in China and Australia cater to international clients, with DHL shipping options.
  4. Customer Support: Dedicated account managers and a responsive quoting system streamline the process.

Weaknesses of OurPCB

  1. Pricing: While competitive for low-volume orders, OurPCB becomes costly for bulk production compared to alternatives.
  2. Component Sourcing: Limited to authorized distributors like Mouser and Digi-Key, which can delay assembly for rare parts.
  3. Quality Inconsistencies: Some users report minor issues like solder mask misalignment or adhesive residue on boards.

Why PCBPit Is the Best Alternative to OurPCB

PCBPit has rapidly gained traction as a top-tier PCB manufacturer since its founding in 2003. With facilities in Shenzhen and partnerships worldwide, it combines affordability with cutting-edge technology—making it ideal for both prototyping and mass production.

Key Advantages of PCBPit

  1. Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities
    • HDI and Flex PCBs: Handles high-density interconnect and flexible designs better than most competitors.
    • Material Variety: Supports aluminum, metal-core, and high-frequency Rogers boards.
    • Innovation: Holds over 54 patents, ensuring access to the latest PCB technologies.
  2. Cost-Effective Solutions
    • No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing for prototypes (as low as $1.50/board) and bulk orders.
    • Global Infrastructure: Localized production hubs reduce shipping costs and tariffs.
  3. Speed and Reliability
    • 5-Day Turnaround: Faster than OurPCB’s average 7–10 days for complex designs.
    • Rigorous Testing: Includes AOI, X-ray, and thermal stress tests to minimize defects.
  4. User-Friendly Experience
    • Online Platform: Instant quotes and DFM (Design for Manufacturing) checks prevent design errors.
    • 24/7 Support: Multilingual team assists with technical queries and logistics.
  5. Sustainability Focus
    • Uses eco-friendly materials and processes, aligning with 2025 industry trends toward greener manufacturing.

How PCBPit Addresses OurPCB’s Shortcomings

  • Cost: PCBPit’s bulk pricing undercuts OurPCB by ~20% for orders over 500 units.
  • Component Availability: Maintains a larger in-house inventory, reducing sourcing delays.
  • Consistency: Automated production lines ensure fewer cosmetic flaws compared to OurPCB’s occasional quality hiccups.

Other Notable Alternatives to OurPCB

1. JLCPCB

  • Pros: Rock-bottom pricing ($2/board for prototypes), integrated assembly, and 24-hour turnaround.
  • Cons: Thin solder masks and limited support for high-layer counts.
  • Best For: Budget-conscious hobbyists and simple designs.

2. PCBWay

  • Pros: Strong in flexible PCBs and automotive-grade boards; excellent customer communication.
  • Cons: Solder mask alignment issues reported in complex designs.
  • Best For: Mid-range projects requiring customization.

3. OSH Park

  • Pros: High-quality ENIG finish, U.S.-based manufacturing, and community-driven pricing.
  • Cons: Expensive ($15/board for small orders) and slower shipping.
  • Best For: Low-volume, high-reliability projects (e.g., aerospace).

4. Advanced Circuits

  • Pros: ISO-certified U.S. facility, ideal for defense and medical sectors.
  • Cons: Minimum order fees and limited material options.
  • Best For: Regulated industries requiring domestic production.

5. Eurocircuits

  • Pros: Top choice in Europe for prototypes, with strict adherence to IPC standards .
  • Cons: Higher costs for non-EU customers due to tariffs.
  • Best For: EU-based startups and SMEs.

How to Choose the Right PCB Manufacturer

  1. Project Scale
    • Prototypes: JLCPCB or PCBPit for speed and affordability.
    • Mass Production: PCBPit or PCBWay for volume discounts.
  2. Technical Requirements
    • High-Frequency/RF: PCBPit (Rogers PCBs) or Unimicron.
    • Flexible Designs: PCBWay or PCBPit.
  3. Location
    • North America: Advanced Circuits or OSH Park.
    • Asia/Global: PCBPit or JLCPCB.
  4. Budget
    • Under $100: JLCPCB.
    • 100–
    • 100–500: PCBPit or PCBWay.
    • Over $500: Negotiate bulk rates with PCBPit or Shennan Circuit.

Conclusion: Why PCBPit Stands Out in 2025

While OurPCB remains a solid choice for quick-turn prototyping, PCBPit outperforms it in nearly every category—cost, technology, and scalability. Its blend of innovation, global reach, and customer-centric policies makes it the best alternative for makers, startups, and enterprises alike.

For those prioritizing speed and budget, JLCPCB and PCBWay are viable options, but PCBPit’s ability to handle complex, high-stakes projects gives it the edge. As PCB technology evolves with trends like 3D printing and 5G integration, partnering with a forward-thinking manufacturer like PCBPit ensures your designs stay ahead of the curve.

FAQs

Q: Can PCBPit handle high-frequency PCBs for 5G devices?
A: Yes, PCBPit specializes in Rogers PCBs and high-frequency designs, ideal for 5G and RF applications.

Q: Is OurPCB suitable for large-scale production?
A: While possible, OurPCB’s bulk pricing is less competitive than PCBPit’s.

Q: How does PCBPit ensure quality?
A: They use AOI, X-ray, and thermal stress testing, exceeding IPC standards 4.

Q: Are there EU-based alternatives to avoid shipping delays?
A: Eurocircuits (EU) and Aisler (Germany) are reliable but costlier than Asian options 311.

For more details, visit PCBPit or explore the full list of manufacturers in our sources.

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