Europe vs. Asia: Where to Have PCBs Assembled?

The choice of manufacturing location is one of the most important decisions in electronics production. Both options have clear advantages and disadvantages. Blanket statements like "Asia is always cheaper" are often wrong – especially for small and medium quantities.

EMS providers in Europe like SMTEC AG offer decisive advantages:

• Direct communication: Personal contact, in your local language, without time zone differences
• Consistent quality: European precision, ISO-certified processes
• Flexibility: Short-notice changes and reorders easily possible
• Simple logistics: Straightforward logistics within Europe
• IP protection: European legislation protects your intellectual property
• Short distances: Production facility visits possible at any time

Asian manufacturing can be economical for very large series of 100,000+ units:

• Lower unit costs at very high volumes
• Large capacities for mass production
• Established supply chains for standard components

But beware of hidden costs:

• Customs and import duties
• Communication overhead (time zone difference, language barrier)
• On-site quality control or rework
• Risk with complaints and returns

Important: Depending on technology and complexity, highly automated manufacturing partners in Europe can also offer very competitive pricing – even at high volumes.

Let's take a typical project: 200 units, 150 SMD components, 10 THT components

The price difference of ~15% is often offset by time savings and reduced effort.

• Prototypes: Always local (speed is critical)
• Small series (10–500 units): Europe recommended
• Medium series (500–5,000): Europe often competitive
• Large series (10,000–100,000): Automated European manufacturers often offer very attractive conditions
• Large series (100,000+): Asia may be cheaper depending on the product – compare total costs carefully

SMTEC AG manufactures prototypes and series – fast, flexible, and at the highest quality. Request a quote now →