Comparing the Best PCB Design Software for Printed Circuit Projects

You want to pick the best design printed circuit software for your next printed circuit project. In 2025, many engineers use Altium Designer, KiCad, EasyEDA, OrCAD, and Eagle as top design printed circuit tools. Your choice depends on what your circuit board needs. It also depends on if you are a professional, hobbyist, or student. Look at the latest user satisfaction ratings:

Software	Overall Rating	Ease of Use	Features	Support
OrCAD X	5.0 / 5	5.0 / 5	5.0 / 5	5.0 / 5
KiCad EDA	4.0 / 5	3.0 / 5	3.0 / 5	4.0 / 5
Altium Designer	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

You should pick design printed circuit tools that fit your project needs.

Key Takeaways

Pick PCB design software that fits your project. Think about your skills and how much money you have. This helps you get good results.
Free tools like KiCad and EasyEDA are good for beginners. Hobbyists can use them too. Paid software like Altium Designer is for professionals. It works well for hard projects.
Check for features like multi-layer design. Error checks are important. 3D views help you work faster. These features make your work better.
Cloud-based tools help teams work together. Collaboration tools keep designs safe. They make teamwork easy.
Try free versions before you choose. Use tutorials to learn. Pick software that matches how you learn. Make sure it fits your project goals.

Key Criteria for PCB Design Software

Features and Usability

When you pick pcb cad software, look for tools that help you work faster. You want features like multi-layer designs and power planes. These help your circuits work better and have less interference. A big component library with good 3D models is helpful. It makes designing easier and helps you avoid mistakes. A simple user interface saves time and is easy to use. Check if the software has design rule checks and electrical rule checks. These tools find errors early and help you make better circuits.

Here is a quick comparison of features for top pcb cad software:

Software	User Interface	Routing	Simulation	Manufacturing Integration
Altium Designer	Built-in, not very easy	Built-in layout routing	Has simulators	Strong for manufacturing
KiCAD	Okay, not very easy	Normal PCB routing	Basic simulation	3D modeling, open source
OrCAD	Easy and simple	Okay routing	Advanced mixed-signal simulation	Works with Cadence Sigrity
EasyEDA	Easy, works in the cloud	Basic routing	Not much simulation	Cloud teamwork, basic export

Cost and Licensing

Think about your budget before you choose pcb cad software. Some tools are very expensive, but others are free or cheap. Altium Designer costs about $7,000 for one license. KiCad is free and open-source, so you pay nothing. Autodesk Eagle has a free version for personal use, but it has fewer features. OrCAD and DipTrace have paid licenses, but you can try them for free. If you need high-end tools, PADS can cost more than $70,000. Free and cloud-based tools like EasyEDA are good for students and hobbyists who do not want to spend much.

Scalability and Collaboration

If you work with others, you need pcb cad software that helps teams. Many top tools let you share designs and add notes in real time. Some, like Allegro X, keep your data safe and let many engineers work together. You can design big systems and save money and time. Cloud tools let you work from anywhere. Security keeps your work safe, and links to manufacturing help you finish projects faster.

Sharing and version control help teams work together.
Cloud tools let you work from any place.
Security keeps your designs safe.
Manufacturing links make the process faster.
Visualization tools help teams check designs.

Industry Trends

It is good to know new trends in pcb design software. AI makes routing and placing parts faster. Generative design uses AI to make many layouts and pick the best one. Miniaturization and HDI let you put more parts on small boards. Flexible and rigid-flex PCBs can bend and twist, so you can make things like foldable phones. AI also helps with quality and picking materials, so your designs are better and last longer.

AI automation saves time and reduces mistakes.
HDI helps make small and complex boards.
Flexible PCBs let you make new products.
Better materials and sustainability are important now.

Best PCB Design Software Comparison

Top PCB CAD Software Options

There are many pcb cad software choices. Each one is good at something different. Some are better for people who do this for work. Others are easier for students or beginners. The table below shows how they are not the same. It lists what features they have, how easy they are to use, and what they cost.

Software	Features Highlights	Usability Notes	Cost Estimate	Platform Compatibility	Unique Selling Points
Altium Designer	Advanced ECO checks, 3D visualization, strong PCB editor, offline design, shortcut support	High learning curve, user-friendly editor, complex features	~$7,000 (one-time or subscription)	Windows, Linux, MacOS	Best for complex, professional projects
KiCad	Free, open-source, advanced rule checking, community libraries, 3D viewer	Steep learning curve, less intuitive UI, needs netlist export	Free	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Open-source, no cost, wide libraries
EasyEDA	Cloud-based, user-friendly, large library, cost-effective	Simple for beginners, needs fast internet, limited for complex projects	Free limited, $19.9/month+	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Works in browser, easy for new users
OrCAD	PSpice simulation, component database, SPECCTRA auto-router, multiple apps	Steep learning curve, less integrated UI, powerful but older interface	~$1,500/year	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Strong simulation, industry standard
Eagle	Good libraries, schematic/PCB sync, advanced routing, auto-router	Moderate learning curve, clunky interface, popular with hobbyists	Up to $1,640 (license)	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Community support, affordable options
PADS Professional	High-speed, RF/microwave design, advanced constraints, 3D STEP import/export	Learning curve, strong for complex designs, project import tools	~$5,000	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Best for high-speed and RF projects
Allegro X	Same as OrCAD, strong for large teams, secure collaboration	Same as OrCAD	Same as OrCAD	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Teamwork, security, large projects
DipTrace	Easy to learn, supports complex boards, high-pin count	Very easy for beginners, less industry use, no simulation	Free basic, paid upgrades	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Intuitive, budget-friendly
LibrePCB	Open-source, basic features, growing library	Not detailed, still growing	Free	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Free, open-source, community-driven

Tip: If you need to make hard boards for your job, altium designer or pads professional have the most tools. If you want free pcb cad software, kicad or librepcb are smart picks.

PCB CAD Programs for Different Needs

Pick pcb cad programs that match your skills and project. Some are best for people who work in the field. Others are made for students or hobbyists. This table helps you find the right one for you.

PCB CAD Program	Target User Groups	Key Features / Suitability	Drawbacks	User Ratings (G2)
Altium Designer	Professionals, Students, Educators	Advanced features, cloud collaboration, 3D, multi-board	High cost, steep learning curve	4.5/5
Eagle	Hobbyists, SMEs, Educational, Professionals	Easy interface, community support, 3D, affordable	Subscription for full features, learning curve	4/5
EasyEDA	Beginners, Hobbyists, Small-scale	Cloud-based, user-friendly, free version, large library	Needs internet, limited for complex projects	N/A
KiCad	Open-source, Education, SMEs, Engineers	Free, cross-platform, wide libraries, complex schematics	Hard to duplicate projects, slow with big designs	4.5/5
DipTrace	Engineers, Hobbyists, Education, SMEs	Intuitive, budget-friendly, good support	No simulation, limited third-party integration	4.3/5
CircuitMaker	Hobbyists, Beginners, Educators	Free, cloud collaboration, large library	Not for complex projects, learning curve	N/A
PADS Professional	Professionals, Advanced Engineers	High-speed, RF, advanced constraints, 3D	Expensive, learning curve	N/A
Allegro X	Large Teams, Professionals	Secure collaboration, strong for big projects	Expensive, complex	N/A
LibrePCB	Open-source, Beginners, Community	Free, open-source, growing features	Fewer features, still growing	N/A

If you work at a big company, you may use altium designer, pads professional, or allegro x. These help teams and handle hard boards.
If you are a student or hobbyist, easyeda, eagle, or diptrace are easy to start with. You can learn quickly and save money.
If you want open-source pcb cad software, kicad and librepcb are free and have a helpful community.
For cloud work, easyeda and circuitmaker let you design from any computer.

Note: Always check if your pcb cad software works on your computer. Most top tools run on Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

No single pcb design software is perfect for everyone. The best one for you depends on your project, your money, and how much you want to learn. This comparison lets you see the main choices side by side.

Overview of Leading PCB CAD Software

When you look at pcb cad software, you want to know what makes each one special. Here is a table that shows user ratings and reviews for the top choices:

Software Name	Number of Ratings	Starting Price	Notes on Reviews and Features
Altium Designer	817	$355 USD/month	Unified design environment, 35+ years of development, integrated ECAD/MCAD, online and on-premises access.
KiCad EDA	1	Free	No paywalls, up to 32 copper layers, push and shove router, 3D viewer, efficient schematic capture.
EasyEDA	1	$4.9 per month	Over 1 million components, direct links to distributor stocks, cloud backup, no licensing required.
OrCAD X	2	$107 USD/month	Unified platform with schematic, simulation, PCB layout, cloud-enabled, supports collaboration and quick design.
DipTrace	14	$75 per license	Smart manual routing, shape-based autorouter, real-time DRC, 3D preview, detailed design rule checks.
Allegro X Design Platform	15	Available Upon Request	Scalable platform for multi-board design, supports collaboration, data-driven decisions, and design compliance.

Bar chart comparing user ratings for leading PCB CAD software

Altium Designer

Altium designer is a strong pcb cad software. It has tools for high-speed design and signal checks. You can use cloud libraries with Altium 365. The software lets you design many boards at once. You see your board in 3D and connect ECAD and MCAD. Altium designer helps you reuse designs and handle different versions. You can make documents and files for manufacturing fast. It costs more than some other tools. Many engineers say it saves time and is worth the price. Altium designer is best for people who need advanced features and teamwork.

KiCad

KiCad is free and open-source pcb cad software. You can draw schematics, lay out boards, and see 3D models. KiCad lets you use up to 32 copper layers. It has a push and shove router. The community keeps adding new libraries. You do not pay for a license. KiCad is good for hobbyists, new companies, and schools. You need other tools for version control and hard simulations. KiCad is not as strong as altium designer for fast or tricky boards. But it is great if you want a flexible tool with no cost.

EasyEDA

EasyEDA is a cloud pcb cad software that is simple for beginners. You can use it online or download it for your computer. EasyEDA gives you over 1 million parts and lets you import files from other tools. The interface is easy, so you can start quickly. You do not need a license. EasyEDA is newer than kicad but is growing fast. You get cloud backup and can see what parts are in stock. This makes it good for fast projects and learning.

OrCAD

OrCAD has strong simulation and works well with manufacturing. You can use PSpice for different kinds of simulation. OrCAD checks your design for many rules. It helps you make documents and files for factories. OrCAD is good for engineers who need strong simulation and safe manufacturing. You can also work with MCAD tools for mechanical checks.

Eagle

Eagle is liked by hobbyists and small businesses. You get a big library, sync between schematic and PCB, and auto-router. Eagle is now part of Autodesk Fusion 360, so you get more features. The interface is easy to learn. There is a big community to help you. Eagle does not cost much and is good for simple or medium projects.

PADS Professional

PADS Professional is for advanced users. You get a full design flow and can check signal and power. The software lets you design complex boards and FPGA projects. You can use advanced routing and set rules for your design. PADS Professional is easy to set up and grows with your needs. You can check how parts fit and see your board in 3D.

Allegro X

Allegro X is made for big teams. You get a strong design area that brings many tools together. Allegro X checks rules, finds problems, and manages libraries. You can check signals and power in real time. The software works with rigid-flex and HDI boards. Allegro X AI helps place and route parts. Teams can work together and keep track of changes. This makes Allegro X great for big, hard projects.

DipTrace

DipTrace is easy for new users and strong for experts. You get help for drawing schematics and laying out boards. DipTrace lets you route by hand or use auto-routing. You can see your board in 3D and check for mistakes. You can import files from other tools and make your own parts. DipTrace works for fast and RF designs. You also get online guides and a helpful forum.

LibrePCB

LibrePCB is an open-source tool that is simple to use. You can run it on Linux, Mac, or Windows. LibrePCB has an easy interface and more libraries are added often. You get built-in checks and some simulation tools. The software lets you work with others and use version control. LibrePCB is good for open-source hardware projects. It helps people work together and share ideas.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Altium Designer Pros & Cons

Altium has lots of features and strong automation. Many people like switching between PCB and schematic design fast. The big component library and 3D view help you find mistakes early. Altium has special tools for hard and fast designs. Teamwork is easier with Altium 365.

✅ You can do simulation, schematic, PCB, and 3D modeling.
✅ Automation helps you finish tasks faster.
✅ There is a big library and online help.
✅ Advanced tools help with tough projects.
✅ The interface is easy to use and has many choices.
❌ The parts library can be hard to use.
❌ Sometimes, teamwork features lose data.
❌ Too many features make simple jobs harder.
❌ Some people worry about company choices.

Tip: Altium is good for big team projects. It may feel too much for small boards.

KiCad Pros & Cons

Kicad is free and open-source. You get strong tools for drawing and making boards. The community adds new parts and helps you learn. Kicad works for hobbyists and pros who want to save money.

Feature	Strengths	Weaknesses
Cost	Free, no license needed	N/A
Schematic Capture	Easy to use, rated 8.4/10	Takes time to learn
PCB Layout	Strong, 3D view, rated 8.2/10	3D view is not as good as altium
Component Library	Big, you can change it, rated 8.0/10	Not as big as paid tools
Simulation Tools	Has SPICE, good for checking	Not as strong as altium
Community	Many people help and share	N/A
Customization	You can change many things	N/A
Learning Curve	Tutorials help, UI keeps changing	Harder to learn than some other tools

Bar chart comparing KiCad user ratings for different features

Note: Kicad is best if you want a free tool. You may need more time to learn everything.

EasyEDA Pros & Cons

Easyeda makes designing PCBs quick and simple. You do not need to install anything. You can use it in any browser. Easyeda has a big library and lets you share your work. You can order boards online fast.

✅ No need to install; works in browsers.
✅ You can make schematics and boards quickly.
✅ Free plan lets you make public projects.
✅ Big libraries of parts and models.
✅ Easy to share and work with others.
❌ Soldermask and alignment may not be as good as others.
❌ Making boards can cost more than other places.
❌ Not good for very hard projects.

If you want to start fast and share your work, easyeda is a good pick.

OrCAD Pros & Cons

OrCAD is trusted for being reliable and having good support. Its rule system finds mistakes before they cause problems. OrCAD works well for big designs and gives help all day. The design rules are strong and keep you on track.

Rule system finds errors early
Works well for big projects
Support is always available
Strong design rules
Can be hard for new users
Costs more than some other tools

OrCAD is a good choice if you need strong tools for big or important projects.

Eagle Pros & Cons

Eagle is liked by hobbyists and small businesses. The interface is easy and there is a big community. Eagle works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. The auto-router and library sharing save time.

✅ Cheap, with free and paid choices
✅ Easy for beginners to use
✅ Good libraries and auto-routing
✅ Big community and Autodesk features
❌ Not many simulation and analysis tools
❌ Not great for hard, multi-layer boards
❌ Library management can be slow

Eagle is good for simple and medium projects. You may need stronger tools for bigger jobs.

Other Tools Pros & Cons

PCB Tool	Pros	Cons	Best For
PADS Professional	Strong simulation and routing, works for all skill levels	Costs a lot, no cloud features	Beginners to experts
Allegro X	Has advanced features, teamwork, and automation	Hard to learn, no free version	Big companies
DipTrace	Easy to use, cheap, works on many systems	Not many advanced features, slow for big boards	Beginners to pros
LibrePCB	Free, open-source, keeps getting better	Not much data yet	Open-source hardware projects

There are many PCB design tools. Each one is good for different jobs, from easy boards to big team projects.

Use Cases for Design Printed Circuit Projects

Professional and Enterprise

If you work at a company, you need advanced tools. Altium Designer is great for professional projects. It gives you one place to do all your work. You can use ECAD and MCAD together. Routing is strong and fast. OrCAD X and Siemens PADS Professional help with hard boards. They also support making the boards in factories. These tools let you design printed circuit boards quickly and accurately. You get features like differential pair routing. You can also make rigid-flex designs. The table below shows popular choices for big companies:

Software Name	Key Features	Best For
Altium Designer	Unified design, 3D, ECAD/MCAD, cloud	Large teams, complex boards
OrCAD X	Simulation, rule checks, collaboration	Simulation-heavy projects
PADS Professional	RF, rigid-flex, advanced routing	High-speed, RF designs
Allegro X	Multi-board, global teamwork	Enterprise collaboration

Tip: Pick Altium Designer or Allegro X if you need strong manufacturing links and advanced PCB technology.

Hobbyist and Beginners

If you are new, you want easy tools to start. KiCad, LibrePCB, and EasyEDA are simple to learn. These tools have easy interfaces and lots of guides. You can drag and drop parts. Guided steps help you finish your project. Fritzing and CircuitMaker also teach you with step-by-step help. The table below lists good choices for beginners:

Software	Why Good for Beginners	Cost
KiCad	Tutorials, big library, 3D viewer	Free
LibrePCB	Clean interface, easy workflow	Free
EasyEDA	Browser-based, quick start	Free
Fritzing	Drag-and-drop, educational focus	Free/$
CircuitMaker	Community sharing, modern interface	Free

You can finish simple circuit board projects without spending money.

Open Source and Community

If you want freedom and help from others, use open-source tools. KiCad and LibrePCB are top open-source choices. KiCad gets help from CERN and has strong features. LibrePCB grows fast because users help improve it. Open-source tools save money and let you change how you work. You get privacy and can use them on any computer. No company controls your work. The community helps you solve problems and share ideas.

KiCad is stable and has advanced features.
LibrePCB is easy to use and helps you switch from other tools.
Forums and tutorials help you learn faster.
Open-source tools get better quickly with user feedback.

Open-source software lets you create new things and work with others.

Education and Learning

If you study electronics or teach, you need easy tools. KiCad, LibrePCB, and Fritzing are good for schools. These tools have simple interfaces and lots of guides. Students can learn basic and advanced circuit board skills. Open-source platforms let you share projects and get help from others.

KiCad and LibrePCB work on many computers.
Fritzing is good for simple, visual projects.
CircuitMaker lets groups share work in the cloud.

You can use free tools to teach and learn as much as you want.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you want to save money, pick free or cheap tools. KiCad and EasyEDA are free and have strong features. DipTrace and CircuitStudio cost less than big company tools. You get 3D modeling, auto-routing, and cloud teamwork. The table below shows good choices for saving money:

Software	Cost Model	Key Features	Best For
KiCad	Free, open-source	3D, rule checks, libraries	Hobbyists, students
EasyEDA	Free, browser	Cloud, auto-routing	Makers, startups
DipTrace	Affordable paid	Drag-and-drop, 3D modeling	Small businesses
CircuitStudio	Affordable paid	Advanced layout, libraries	Engineers on a budget

You can start your project without spending a lot and still get strong features.

Choosing the Best PCB Design Software

Project Complexity

You should match your PCB design software to the complexity of your project. If you work on simple boards, tools like EasyEDA or KiCad will help you finish quickly. For advanced designs with many layers or high-speed signals, you need software like Altium Designer or PADS Professional. These programs offer features such as advanced routing, 3D modeling, and strong error checking.

Tip: Write down your project needs before you choose. Count the number of layers, check if you need simulation, and decide if you want 3D views.

Budget and Cost

Your budget plays a big role in your choice. Free tools like KiCad and LibrePCB work well for students and hobbyists. If you need more features, you may pay for software like Altium Designer or OrCAD. Some programs offer monthly plans, while others require a one-time payment.

Software	Cost Type	Best For
KiCad, LibrePCB	Free	Beginners, schools
EasyEDA	Free/Paid	Makers, startups
Altium Designer	Paid	Professionals

Note: Always check if the free version has limits that affect your project.

Learning Curve

You want software that matches your skill level. EasyEDA and DipTrace have simple interfaces. You can start designing in minutes. Altium Designer and Allegro X have more features, but you may need more time to learn them. Many programs offer tutorials and community support.

Try the demo or free version first.
Watch video guides or read tutorials.
Join forums to ask questions.

Collaboration Features

If you work with a team, look for tools with strong collaboration features. Cloud-based programs like EasyEDA and CircuitMaker let you share designs online. Altium 365 and Allegro X offer real-time teamwork and version control.

Action Step: Test the sharing and teamwork tools before you decide. Invite a friend or teammate to review your design.

How to Evaluate PCB CAD Programs:

List your project needs.
Set your budget.
Try free versions or demos.
Check for tutorials and support.
Test collaboration features with your team.

You can find the best PCB design software by following these steps and matching the tool to your needs.

You have many options for PCB design software. The best choice depends on your project needs and goals. Think about features, cost, and how easy the tool feels to use. Try free versions or read reviews before you decide. Ask friends or classmates for advice. Pick a tool that helps you design printed circuit boards now and in the future.

FAQ

What is the easiest PCB design software for beginners?

You can start with EasyEDA or KiCad. Both have simple interfaces and many tutorials. EasyEDA works in your browser. KiCad is free and runs on most computers. You will learn basic design skills quickly.

Can I use free PCB design software for professional projects?

You can use free tools like KiCad or LibrePCB for small or medium projects. Many engineers use them for prototypes. For complex boards, you may need advanced features from paid software.

How do I share my PCB design with a team?

You can use cloud-based tools like EasyEDA or Altium 365. These let you invite teammates, leave comments, and track changes. Sharing designs online helps your team work faster and avoid mistakes.

Which PCB software works on Mac and Linux?

You can use KiCad, LibrePCB, and DipTrace on Mac and Linux. Altium Designer and Eagle also support multiple platforms. Always check the software website for the latest compatibility.

Do I need to know programming to use PCB design software?

You do not need programming skills for most PCB design tools. You will use drag-and-drop features and simple menus. Some advanced users write scripts, but you can design boards without coding.