What is the Difference Between Single Sided PCB and Double Sided PCB?

Single sided PCBs are the most basic type of PCB. They contain only one conductive layer and as such constrict their use to simple low density designs. Accordingly, they are low cost and well suited to simple and high volume products.

Double sided PCBs probably are the most common type PCB. They allow for the routing of traces around each other by jumping between a top and bottom layer by way of vias. The ability to cross paths from top to bottom greatly increases the circuit designer’s flexibility in circuits designing and lends itself to greatly increased circuit densities. This type of board is relatively low cost, but only allows an intermediate level of circuit complexity and does not lend itself to electromagnetic interference reduction techniques.