Rigid-Flex PCB Market - By Product Type, By Layer Count, By Flexibility Type, By Materials, By End-Use Industry & Forecast, 2024 - 2032

Rigid-Flex PCB Market Size

The global rigid-flex PCB Market was valued at USD 22.1 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.9% between 2024 to 2032. As IoT, wearables, and medical technology advance, manufacturers are increasingly shifting to high-density circuit solutions.
 

These solutions reduce weight and accommodate unique form factors. Rigid-Flex PCBs integrate rigid and flexible circuit board materials into a single structure, enabling compact, durable, and adaptable designs. The rigid sections offer stability for component mounting, while the flexible parts allow bending without compromising connections. This design is particularly suitable for space-constrained or movable applications.
 

Rigid-Flex PCBs are widespread use in aerospace, medical devices, consumer electronics, and automotive systems. They offer several advantages, including reduced connector requirements, enhanced electrical performance, and lightweight construction that is used for advanced and portable electronic designs, which, in turn, exhibiting a positive influence on the rigid-flex PCB market growth globally.
 

The demand for Rigid-Flex PCBs is surging as industrial electronics expand, especially in factory and building automation. In factory or industrial automation, Rigid-Flex PCBs play a pivotal role in robotic systems, control units, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs). Their compactness, flexibility, and durability are significant. These boards facilitate intricate wiring in confined spaces and guarantee dependable performance even with continuous use. Similarly, in building automation where smart systems oversee HVAC, lighting, and security Rigid-Flex PCBs enable high-density component mounting.
 

This capability is vital for ensuring continuous operation and resilience across diverse environments. Furthermore, their distinct ability to bend and flex without signal degradation positions them as the preferred choice for interconnected, space-efficient designs. As the trend of automation accelerates, accordingly the demand for Rigid-Flex PCBs highlights the industry's shift towards compact, reliable, and high-performance electronics.
 

Rigid-Flex PCB Market Trends

The rapid expansion of 5G networks and IoT devices is a key trend that is exhibiting a positive influence on the growth of the rigid-flex PCB industry. The rollout of 5G technology enables faster data transmission, higher bandwidth, and low-latency connections, increasing demand for compact, high-performance PCBs that support complex circuitry in limited spaces. According to 5G Americas, global 5G connections have surged by 76% year-over-year, reaching 1.05 billion.
 

This number is projected to grow to 1.9 billion by the end of 2023 and to 5.9 billion by the end of 2027. Rigid-Flex PCBs are suitable for 5G-enabled devices due to their ability to handle high-speed and high-frequency signals without degradation, which are gaining high traction in mobile devices, wearables, and communication infrastructure. In IoT applications, miniaturized, flexible, and durable PCBs are essential, as IoT devices are compact and operate in diverse environments, from smart homes to industrial sites. Rigid-Flex PCBs allow IoT devices to be designed in smaller, more versatile form factors without compromising reliability.
 

They also enable seamless connections and reduce the need for large connectors, which is crucial for the efficient operation of interconnected devices in smart homes, healthcare, automotive, and industrial automation sectors. The integration of Rigid-Flex PCBs in 5G and IoT applications continues to expand, establishing the technology as fundamental for these rapidly advancing fields and driving growth for the market.
 

Rigid-Flex PCB Market Analysis

The market contends with challenges such as high manufacturing complexity and costs and design and reliability complexities. The manufacturing process for Rigid-Flex PCBs is complex, involving multiple steps such as bonding flexible and rigid layers, creating intricate multi-layer structures, and ensuring high precision to prevent alignment issues. Unlike traditional PCBs, Rigid-Flex boards must maintain reliability while flexing, necessitating advanced materials and techniques. This complexity results in higher production costs due to expensive materials, specialized equipment, and longer processing times.    
 

However, the increasing demand for miniaturization and lightweight components across multiple industries is a significant factor driving the rigid-flex PCB market. As devices become smaller and more complex in sectors such as consumer electronics, healthcare, automotive, and aerospace, there is a growing need for PCBs that support high-density components within limited space while providing flexibility, durability, and performance.
 

Rigid-Flex PCBs facilitates intricate designs that combine rigid and flexible layers, which enables engineers to integrate components in smaller packages while reducing the need for multiple connectors or wiring. This capability is particularly valuable in applications such as wearable devices, smartphones, medical implants, and automotive electronics, where space and weight constraints are common. As the shift towards miniaturization continues, the demand for Rigid-Flex PCBs in these high-growth markets is expected to increase, creating significant opportunities for manufacturers capable of producing advanced, high-density designs.
 

The technology also offers competitive advantages for businesses by enabling innovation in flexible, space-efficient products that can outperform those based on traditional PCBs. Consequently, the miniaturization and lightweight trend is presenting various growth prospects for the growth of the market in the anticipated years.
 

Based on product type, the market is divided into single-sided flex, double-sided flex, multi-layer flex, multilayer PCB, and quick turn rigid flex PCB. The multi-layer flex segment is expected to reach a value of USD 7.4 billion in 2023.
 

• The multi-layer flex segment dominates the rigid-flex PCB industry, driven by growing demand for compact, high-density electronic solutions across industries like automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics. These PCBs offer enhanced flexibility and durability in complex electronic systems suitable for applications requiring miniaturization and intricate circuit designs. With the rise of electric vehicles, autonomous driving technologies, and IoT devices, multi-layer flex PCBs are increasingly sought after due to their ability to handle high data transfer rates, reduce wiring complexity, and improve reliability in demanding environments. Additionally, advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques are helping reduce costs, further boosting their adoption in diverse sectors.
   
• Quick turn rigid flex PCB segment is growing significantly due to the high demand for rapid prototyping and short production runs, particularly in industries such as consumer electronics and medical devices, where time-to-market is crucial. Quick turn capabilities enable manufacturers to deliver prototypes within 24 to 48 hours, facilitating faster design iterations and quicker concept validation. Furthermore, the growing trend towards miniaturization and the need for lightweight, space-saving designs drive the adoption of rigid-flex PCBs. These boards offer improved reliability and flexibility, making them suitable for complex applications that require dynamic performance in limited spaces. As companies aim to innovate rapidly while maintaining high quality, the quick turn market is expected to experience significant growth.
   

Based on end-use industry, the rigid-flex PCB market is divided into aerospace and defense, automotive, consumer electronics, industrial, IT and telecommunications, healthcare, and others (e.g., energy, transportation). The consumer electronics segment is the holds highest market share of 23.36% in 2023.
 

• Consumer electronics segment in the rigid-flex PCB industry is driven by rising shift towards miniaturization and advanced technology drive rigid-flex PCB demand in consumer electronics. Consumer demand for miniaturization, reliability, and durability in high-performance devices such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, and smart home products is driving the adoption of rigid-flex PCBs. These PCBs offer the flexibility and compactness required for intricate designs while maintaining structural integrity, meeting the need for thinner, more compact devices with advanced functionalities. The emergence of IoT and 5G technologies is further increasing demand, as rigid-flex PCBs support higher data speeds and more efficient power management. Additionally, the industry's shift towards lightweight, versatile materials and durable components is accelerating the use of rigid-flex PCBs in consumer electronics, where aesthetics, functionality, and long-term performance are essential.
   
• Healthcare segment is expanding rapidly due to the increasing adoption of compact, high-reliability medical devices. These include wearables, implantable devices, diagnostic equipment, and portable monitoring systems. Rigid-flex PCBs enable the miniaturization required for modern medical applications, allowing devices to be lightweight and flexible while fitting into complex shapes without compromising durability. As the sector prioritizes patient comfort and continuous monitoring, these PCBs provide the necessary reliability and performance for critical, life-saving technologies. Furthermore, advancements in telemedicine and remote healthcare are fueling the demand for innovative, high-precision medical electronics, which, in turn, accelerates the rigid-flex PCBs market growth.
   

The U.S. dominated the North America rigid-flex PCB Market in 2023, accounting for a share of 77.86%. The U.S. rigid-flex PCB industry is driven by increasing demand in advanced consumer electronics, automotive electronics, and aerospace applications. The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the need for device miniaturization have led to a surge in demand for compact, high-performance rigid-flex PCBs. The automotive sector, especially electric vehicles (EVs), is adopting rigid-flex PCBs for their reliability and space-saving properties. The aerospace and defense industries, which require high-performance and durable components for critical applications, are also contributing to market growth. The United States benefits from a robust technological ecosystem and ongoing research in PCB manufacturing innovations, further propelling market expansion.
 

China market is burgeoning due to its leading manufacturing sector. The country's status as a major electronics production hub drives high demand for advanced PCBs, including rigid-flex types, particularly in mobile devices, consumer electronics, and wearables. China's emphasis on 5G network development and growth in the automotive industry, especially electric vehicles, further stimulates demand for these PCBs. The expansion of IoT applications, smart devices, and industrial automation also contributes to market growth. China's competitive workforce, substantial government investment in advanced manufacturing technologies, and numerous electronics companies solidify its crucial role in the global market.
 

In India, the rigid-flex PCB market is experiencing significant growth, propelled by the rapid expansion of the electronics manufacturing industry. Government initiatives like "Make in India" have encouraged both domestic and international companies to invest in advanced PCB technologies, promoting electronics localization. Key drivers of this market include India's expanding smartphone sector and the increasing adoption of IoT devices, which require the compact and durable designs enabled by rigid-flex PCBs. The automotive industry, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles, is also a substantial growth factor due to the demand for lightweight, high-performance PCBs. Additionally, government policies supporting the electronics and manufacturing sectors, along with the growing focus on renewable energy and industrial automation, are contributing to the market's expansion in India.
 

South Korea's rigid-flex PCB industry is experiencing strong growth, driven by the country's prominence in semiconductor, automotive, and consumer electronics industries. Major smartphone manufacturing leaders like Samsung, coupled with the advancement of 5G and IoT technologies, are increasing demand for rigid-flex PCBs to support device miniaturization and performance enhancement. The automotive sector, particularly in autonomous and electric vehicles, is fueling demand for high-performance, space-efficient PCBs crucial for safety-critical applications. South Korea's commitment to technological innovation in electronics, its robust industrial base, and supportive government policies position the country as a key region for market growth.
 

Japan's rigid-flex PCB market is propelled by the country's prominence in advanced technology sectors, notably robotics, automotive, and consumer electronics. The automotive industry, with its focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving systems, relies on rigid-flex PCBs for their compact design, high performance, and reliability. Japan's robotics sector, another significant market driver, utilizes rigid-flex PCBs to achieve lightweight and durable solutions for complex designs. The demand for high-end consumer products such as wearables, medical devices, and smart home technologies further stimulates market growth. Additionally, government initiatives supporting advanced manufacturing and technological development contribute to the expansion of the rigid-flex PCB sector in Japan.
 

Rigid-Flex PCB Market Share

Competition in the Rigid-Flex PCB (QLED) market is driven by product differentiation, technological advancements, pricing strategies, and distribution efficiency. rigid-flex PCB industry's competitive landscape comprises established global players and regional manufacturers competing. Industry leaders like Nippon Mektron, Samsung Electro-Mechanics, and Flex Ltd. specialize in high-precision, high-quality PCBs for sectors requiring exceptional reliability, such as automotive, consumer electronics, and aerospace.
 

These companies invest heavily in R&D to develop advanced PCB solutions that meet the growing demand for miniaturization and durability in electronic devices. The market also faces strong competition from emerging companies, particularly in Asia, where China, South Korea, and Japan host numerous local manufacturers with cost-effective production capabilities.
 

Rigid-Flex PCB Market Companies

Major players operating in the Rigid-Flex PCB industry are:

• Zhen Ding Technology Holding Limited
• Nippon Mektron, Ltd.
• Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
• Unimicron Technology Corporation
• Interflex Co., Ltd.
• Young Poong Electronics Co., Ltd.
• TTM Technologies, Inc.
• Multek (a Flex Company)
• Shengyi Technology Co., Ltd.
• AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik AG
• Meiko Electronics Co., Ltd.
• Kinwong Electronic Co., Ltd.
• Sierra Circuits, Inc.
• Eltek Ltd.
• Jabil Circuit, Inc.
• Samsung Electro-Mechanics
• Würth Elektronik GmbH & Co. KG
• Shenzhen Kinwong Electronic Co., Ltd.
• Flex PCB (Printed Circuits LLC)
   

Rigid-Flex PCB Industry News

• In April 2024, DuPont announced the launch of the Pyralux ML Series, a new line of double-sided metal-clad laminates designed for enhanced thermal management in flexible and rigid-flex PCBs. These laminates target high-reliability markets like aerospace, defense, EVs, and AI networking. Engineered for challenging environments, the Pyralux ML laminates support complex circuit designs with superior performance, ideal for applications such as sensors, heaters, and thermocouples.
   
• In June 2024, AdvancedPCB, a major North American PCB manufacturer, has officially launched, merging the expertise of Advanced Printed Circuit Technology (APCT), Advanced Circuits, Inc. (ACI), and San Diego PCB Design (SDPCB). The new entity aims to enhance PCB manufacturing, especially for high-demand areas such as healthcare, aerospace, and defense. AdvancedPCB offers a comprehensive range of PCB products, including advanced Flex and Rigid-Flex PCBs, which combine flexible and rigid board structures to meet diverse and complex application requirements.
   

This rigid-flex PCB Market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) & volume (Units) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Single-sided flex
• Double-sided flex
• Multi-layer flex
• Multilayer PCB
• Quick turn rigid flex PCB

Market, By Layer Count

• Single layer
• Double layer
• Multi-layer

Market, By Flexibility Type

• static flex
• dynamic flex

Market, By Materials

• FR4
• Kapton
• Rogers
• Others

Market, By End-Use Industry

• Aerospace and defense
• Automotive
• Consumer electronics
• Industrial
• IT and telecommunications
• Healthcare
• Others (e.g., Energy, Transportation)

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA