1 Layer PCB vs 2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

1 layer pcb, 2 layer pcb and 4 layer pcb are very common 3 types of pcb board in pcb manufacturing. When and where are they generally used? What are the differences between them. In this articel, we will not tell the 2 layer pcb thickness, but tell the detailed introduction for 2 layer pcb vs 4 layer pcb. Besides, there is a tutorial about 2 layer pcb board making.

1 Layer PCB vs 2 Layer PCB

1 Layer PCB has only one layer of conductive material and is suitable for low density and simple design. 2 Layer PCB contains 2 layers and layout is easier for more traces. The 2-layer PCB provides more surface area for housing a conductor pattern. Its surface is two times larger than that of a 1 layer PCB.

For a hobbyist or student, you’d better choose to make 1 layer PCB by yourself. Because 1 layer pcb is much easier to do. 2 layer PCB is a little harder. So we suggest you can get your 2 layer pcb boards made commercially by PCB manufacturer, such as ALLPCB.com. It takes only &10 for 5pcs 2 layer pcb boards in 24 hours with free shipping!

2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

The 2 layer PCB is the most common used among all the multilayer PCBs. It can accommodate interconnects on both sides. Signal integrity and interference levels weigh in the favor of 4-layer pcb boards. But, what are the differences between 2 layer and 4 layer PCB?

Stackups of 2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

The 2-layer PCB stackup contains 1 top layer and 1 bottom layer. The 4 layer PCB stackup contains ont only the top layer and bottom layer, but also 2 inner layers - inner layer 1 and inner layer 2. Between layers there is prepreg.

Standard 4 Layer PCB Stackup

Designs of 2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

Vias in 2 layer PCB are used to create electrical connections that enable the routing of the traces so that they reach the opposite side of the board. Even more surface area is available for traces in a 4 layer PCB design than that in a 2 layer PCB. The 4 layer PCB design involves a prepreg layer that bonds two layers and a double-sided boards together by applying heat and pressure. Prepreg provides dielectric between the layers.

Functionality of 2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

If the microstrip traces comprising a ground plane are utilized, the 2 layer PCB delivers more functionality as there are no propagation delays or other problems. However, a 4-layer PCB design consisting of ground and VCC plane layers and 2 signal layers is more preferred. This design struggle with impedance and propagation delays.

Cost of 2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

Due to complexity of design, higher sensitivity, the higher levels of signal integrity and reduced interference levels, the 4 layer PCB is more expensive than a 2 layer PCB. The price of 2 layer PCB can be as low as $2/piece, and the cost of 4 layer pcb can be as low as $6.5/piece in ALLPCB.com. 

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Lead Time of 2 Layer PCB vs 4 Layer PCB

The After your payment, your 2 layer pcb order with standard manufacturing specifications can be shipped within 24 hours and the lead time of your 4 layer pcb order can be within 48 hours on ALLPCB.com. Order now, we offer worldwide free shipping service!