Our Recommendation: Circuit design software
KiCad review
A complete, free and open-source tool for schematics and boards, with no size limits. It takes time to learn.
WindowsmacOS
0 €
Open source
Go to vendor’s site: KiCad (opens in a new tab)
Free, open source.
Add to Shortlist: KiCadMain features
- Schematic editor and board layout
- 3D view of the board
- Large part and footprint libraries
- Circuit simulation
- No limit on board size or layers
Limits
- Takes time to learn
- Fewer tools for teams than paid rivals
Real cost
- Price
- 0 €
- Payment
- Free
- Trial
- No trial
- Free tier
- No free tier
- Open source
- Yes
Compare KiCad with
-
KiCad vs. Altium Designer
Altium Designer: The professional standard for complex boards, with the strongest routing. It is very expensive and runs only on Windows.
-
KiCad vs. Autodesk Fusion
Autodesk Fusion: Electronics and 3D mechanical design in one app, which is handy when the board must fit a case. It needs an online account.
Listed in: Electronic Circuit Design Software