Stripline vs Microstrip: PCB Stackup Selection Guide

Stripline vs microstrip PCB stackup showing signal and ground layer placement

Neither structure wins every stripline vs microstrip comparison. Microstrip places the signal on an outer layer, which favors direct component launches, probing, and fewer layer transitions. Stripline embeds the signal between reference planes, which generally improves field containment when those references remain continuous.For a high-speed digital or RF path, start with the intended layer assignment […]