What Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pick and Place Machine?

When choosing a pick and place machine, what do you think are the most important factors to consider? Is it better to focus on accuracy or speed? I'm also curious about how important it is for the machine to work with different PCB sizes and components.

Do you think it's worth spending more for a machine that can handle a wider range of components? What about software, how important is it for a machine to have easy-to-use software? I've heard that good support and easy maintenance are also key.

Do you think about the factors to consider when choosing a pick and place machine ? And finally, how do you weigh features versus price? Is it better to go for a more expensive model with more features, or is a basic model usually sufficient? Would love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

snowgoer540 yes it definitely raises an eyebrow.
To the original poster. if this isn't a gateway for spam, then I have two words for all your stated questions.
It Depends.
in MY opinion accuracy is far better then speed, that requirement only goes up when dealing with highly
dense circuit boards with very small components. Like say 0201 SMD sizes.
Do you want to place high pin count chips on the same run? Accuracy again is key. Having to realign
chips after going through the reflow is a major pain.
The key questions you would need to answer are -
Whats the smallest component you will be dealing with?
What's the maximum size PCB you are willing to deal with?
How much do you require the machine to do automatically?
Do you require the machine to place glue dots on the board?
Will you accept using a machine that requires an external air source?
Does the machine need to operate 24/7 365?
Do you require an entire assembly line with the PnP?
( solder screener, PnP, reflow oven, post reflow inspection, PCB cleaning)

This is all highly dependent on Your requirements. The more you want to happen automatically the more expensive
things get.

lastly, don't take it personally about the SPAM comment we get a ton of it on this site all the time.