JCPCB
Design Guide

Rigid-Flex PCB Guide: Design, Cost, and Manufacturing Tips

A practical guide to rigid-flex PCBs: when to use them, how they differ from pure flex boards, and what affects manufacturing cost.

Rigid-flex PCBs combine rigid and flexible sections into one board. They eliminate connectors between sections, reduce assembly cost, and improve reliability in dynamic applications.

When rigid-flex makes sense

  • Wearable devices
  • Medical implants
  • Aerospace systems
  • Compact consumer electronics
  • Any design with folding or bending

Cost factors

  • Number of flex layers
  • Bend radius requirements
  • Coverlay vs solder mask on flex areas
  • Stiffener type and placement

Rigid-flex boards cost more than pure rigid, but the total system cost is often lower because you eliminate connectors and reduce assembly steps.

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