What Is an HDI PCB?
HDI stands for High-Density Interconnect. An HDI PCB is a circuit board that packs more components into a smaller space than a regular PCB. It does this by using much smaller holes (called microvias), thinner copper lines, and multiple layers of circuit paths stacked on top of each other.
Why does that matter? Because modern electronics — smartphones, laptops, medical devices, and 5G equipment — need to be powerful AND small at the same time. A standard PCB just can’t fit enough circuits into that kind of space. HDI boards solve that problem.
The key technology behind HDI is the microvia: a tiny laser-drilled hole as small as 0.075 mm.
These microvias connect the layers inside the board without taking up much space. The result is a board that’s lighter, faster, and more reliable than traditional multi-layer PCBs.

HDI PCB Manufacturing Capabilities
At PCBINQ, we manufacture HDI circuit boards to tight tolerances. Here’s exactly what we can build:
| Specification | PCBINQ Capability |
| Layer count | 4 – 20 layers |
| Stackup types | 1+N+1 / 2+N+2 / 3+N+3 / 4+N+4 / 5+N+5 / Any-layer HDI |
| Minimum microvia diameter | 0.075 mm (laser drilled) |
| Minimum line width / spacing | 0.075 mm / 0.075 mm |
| Board thickness | 0.4 mm – 6.0 mm |
| Copper weight | 0.5 oz – 6 oz |
| Surface finish options | ENIG, HASL, OSP, Immersion Silver, Hard Gold |
| Base materials | FR4, Rogers, High-Tg, Halogen-Free |
| Max board size | 580 mm × 1,100 mm |
| Lead time (standard) | 10 – 15 business days |
| Lead time (express) | 3 – 5 business days |
| IPC class | IPC Class 2 & Class 3 |
| Certifications | ISO 9001, UL, REACH, RoHS |
Understanding HDI Stackup Types
The ‘stackup’ is how the layers of your PCB are arranged. Different designs call for different stackup types. Here’s a plain-English breakdown:
- 1+N+1 — One build-up layer on each side of the core. Good for mid-density designs like consumer electronics.
- 2+N+2 — Two build-up layers per side. Supports higher component density. Common in networking hardware and industrial controls.
- 3+N+3 and above — Three or more build-up layers per side. Used in high-performance computing, advanced RF, and medical imaging devices.
Any-layer HDI — Every layer can be connected to any other layer using microvias. This is the most flexible — and most complex — type. Used in flagship smartphones and aerospace systems.
Not sure which stackup your design needs? Our engineers review your Gerber files for free and recommend the best option for your application and budget.
HDI PCB vs Standard PCB — What’s the Difference?
Both types do the same basic job. The difference is how much power they can handle ina given space. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Standard PCB | HDI PCB |
| Minimum hole size | 0.2 mm | 0.075 mm |
| Layer count (typical) | 1 – 8 layers | 4 – 20+ layers |
| Component density | Low to medium | High to very high |
| Board size for same function | Larger | Up to 50% smaller |
| Signal speed | Standard | Faster |
| Best for | Simpler electronics, low-cost products | Smartphones, medical, 5G, auto ADAS |
| Cost | Lower | Moderate to higher |
Where HDI PCBs Are Used
HDI boards show up anywhere that electronics need to be small, fast, and reliable.
5G and Telecom Equipment
5G base stations, routers, and signal processors need boards that can handle high-frequency signals without interference. The short, precise copper paths in HDI boards reduce signal loss — which is critical at millimeter-wave frequencies.
Automotive and ADAS Systems
Modern vehicles run dozens of electronic systems: cameras, radar, LiDAR, and control units for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These need boards that survive vibration, heat, and tight spaces under the hood. HDI PCBs handle all three.
Medical and Diagnostic Devices
Ultrasound probes, imaging sensors, and portable diagnostic devices demand high component density with zero tolerance for failure. HDI boards built to IPC Class 3 standards are the go-to choice for medical electronics.
Consumer Electronics and Wearables
Smartwatches, earbuds, and portable health monitors pack more features into smaller enclosures every year. HDI PCBs make that miniaturization possible without sacrificing performance.
Aerospace and Defense
Satellites, avionics, and military-grade communication systems rely on HDI boards for their combination of low weight, high reliability, and compact footprint.
How Much Do HDI PCBs Cost?
HDI PCB pricing depends on several factors. Here’s what drives your quote:
- Layer count — More layers mean more material and more processing steps. A 4-layer board costs less than a 16-layer board of the same size.
- Stackup complexity — Any-layer HDI costs more than a 1+N+1 stackup because it requires more laser drilling passes and lamination cycles.
- Board quantity — Larger orders have a lower per-unit cost. Even small quantities are welcome — we have no minimum order quantity.
- Surface finish — ENIG (gold) costs more than HASL. Immersion Silver sits in between.
- Lead time — Express 3–5 day turnaround carries a premium. Standard 10–15 day production is the most cost-effective option.
The fastest way to get an accurate price is to upload your Gerber files for an instant automated quote. No email back-and-forth required.

Get your HDI today on PCBINQ and enjoy first-order discounts now!
Why Engineers Choose PCBINQ for HDI PCBs
We’ve been manufacturing HDI circuit boards for over 10 years. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Factory-direct pricing — No middlemen. We manufacture in-house, which means lower prices and direct communication with your production team.
- Instant online quoting — Upload your Gerbers and get a real price in seconds. No waiting 24 hours for a sales rep to get back to you.
- No minimum order quantity — Order 5 boards or 5,000. Both get the same quality control and manufacturing precision.
- Express turnaround — Need boards fast? Our express line delivers in 3–5 business days.
- Full IPC Class 2 & Class 3 support — For medical, aerospace, and defense designs that need the highest reliability standards.
Certified quality — ISO 9001:2015 certified. All boards are 100% electrically tested before shipment. We’re also UL listed, RoHS compliant, and REACH certified.
Free DFM review — Our engineers check your design for manufacturability before production starts, catching problems before they cost you money.
How to Order HDI PCBs from PCBINQ
Getting your boards made is a 4-step process:
Getting your boards made is a 4-step process:
- Upload your Gerber files — Use our online quoting tool. It reads your files automatically and calculates a price in seconds.
- Confirm your specs — Choose your stackup, surface finish, lead time, and quantity.
- Review and pay — Check the DFM report our system generates, then place your order. We accept major credit cards, PayPal, and wire transfer.
- Track your order — We send production updates at each manufacturing milestone. Your boards ship with full tracking.

Have questions about your circuit board design? Get professional insights for free today.
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FAQ
The main advantage is the ability to pack more components into a smaller area using microvias and fine lines, significantly reducing the size and weight of the final product.
HDI manufacturing utilizes laser drilling technology to create microvias, whereas standard PCBs rely on mechanical drilling. This allows for blind and buried via structures.
The HDI PCB cost is primarily driven by the number of lamination cycles (stackup complexity), layer count, and the type of materials used.