GUIDE 2026-08-12
OEM vs ODM: Which Model Fits Your Brand?
A practical guide to choosing between OEM and ODM for protective case manufacturing. Lead time, IP, cost, risk compared.
OEM and ODM are the two most common manufacturing models for protective cases. Both can produce IP67/IP68, MIL-STD-rated cases — but they differ in lead time, cost, IP ownership, and risk.
**OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)**
You design the case, Kexin manufactures it to your specification.
- Lead time: 12-16 weeks (tooling + production)
- Tooling cost: USD 3,000-10,000 (one-time)
- IP: 100% yours — drawings, CAD, brand
- MOQ: 500-1,000 pieces
- Best for: established brands, unique products, IP-protected designs
**ODM (Original Design Manufacturer)**
We design, you re-brand with your logo and color.
- Lead time: 4-6 weeks (use existing tooling)
- Tooling cost: 0 (use our 200+ tooled designs)
- IP: shared — case design ours, brand yours
- MOQ: 200-500 pieces
- Best for: startups, distributors, fast market entry
**When to choose OEM**
- You have a unique product that needs custom dimensions
- You want exclusive tooling and IP
- You plan to scale to 5,000+ pieces per year
- Brand differentiation matters more than time-to-market
**When to choose ODM**
- You want to enter the market in 4-6 weeks
- 200+ tooled designs cover your product needs
- You can accept 100+ pieces MOQ
- Brand identity comes from logo, color, and packaging
Kexin supports both paths from 500-piece MOQ. Send us your inquiry and we'll recommend the right path.
Get a quote: [email protected] / +86 135 9055 5309.