PCB-First vs Enclosure-First: Which Should You Design First?

PCB-First vs Enclosure-First: Which Should You Design First?

When it comes to electronic product design, one question continues to divide engineers:
Should you design your PCB first and then find an enclosure to fit, or select the enclosure before finalising the PCB layout?

Both approaches have their merits, but choosing the right strategy early can save significant time, cost, and frustration later in the development process. At Evatron, we work with engineers across multiple sectors, and here’s what experience has taught us.

Designing the printed circuit board first is common in fast-paced development cycles. Engineers focus on component placement, signal integrity, and performance before considering the mechanical housing.

Pros:

Complete freedom to optimise for electrical performance.
Easier to reuse existing PCB designs in multiple projects.

Cons:

Risk of size or shape incompatibility with standard enclosures.
Can lead to awkward compromises (e.g., unused space or poor ergonomics).

When to choose PCB-first:
If the project is highly performance-driven or your enclosure will be completely bespoke, PCB-first may be suitable. Evatron can assist to find suitable off the shelf enclosures for all shape and size PCB, in addition our tool free manufacturing service can be utilised to create completely custom enclosures with short lead times.

The Enclosure-First Approach

Starting with the enclosure means defining the product’s external dimensions and mounting constraints early, then designing the PCB to fit inside.

Pros:

Simplifies compliance with environmental or IP rating requirements.
Easier to select a cost-effective, off-the-shelf enclosure.
Reduces mechanical integration risks and accelerates assembly.

Cons:

PCB design flexibility is reduced.
Potential for compromises in component placement.

When to choose enclosure-first:
Ideal for consumer products, IoT devices, or any application where size, ergonomics, and durability are critical.

The Best Practice? Parallel Design

In reality, the most successful projects integrate mechanical and electronic design early and in parallel. This approach enables:

Efficient thermal management planning.
Accurate allowance for connectors, wiring, and fixings.
Faster prototyping with fewer design revisions.

Modern CAD and enclosure customisation services make this easier than ever.

How Evatron Can Help

At Evatron, we offer a wide range of standard and customisable enclosures, combined with expert advice. Whether you’re starting from a blank PCB or working to strict housing dimensions, we can help you achieve a seamless fit.

Explore our custom enclosure services.
Browse off-the-shelf enclosures.
Speak to our team about rapid prototyping options.

Ready to discuss your next project?
Contact us today for expert guidance on choosing the right enclosure and workflow for your application.

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