You want to find the best printed circuit board PCB design tools for you. Altium Designer is excellent for complex printed circuit board PCB design projects. It provides a single platform to handle all your work efficiently. Autodesk Eagle is ideal for new users and integrates well with Fusion 360. KiCad is a powerful open-source option for printed circuit board PCB design, supported by a strong community. OrCAD is favored for its advanced simulation capabilities in printed circuit board PCB design projects. The chart below shows how users rate top PCB design software:
When evaluating printed circuit board PCB design tools, consider ease of use, price, scalability, features, and support. This comparison helps you choose the best printed circuit board PCB design tool that fits your skills, project needs, and budget.
Key Takeaways
Pick PCB design software that matches your skills, project, and money. This helps you get the best results. Altium Designer and OrCAD have many features and good help. They are best for hard and professional projects. Eagle, KiCad, and cloud PCB software are easier to use. They also cost less. These are good for beginners and hobbyists. Cloud PCB tools let teams work together online. You do not need to install software. But these tools may not work for very hard designs. Find software with good tutorials, active groups, and ways to work together. This helps you learn faster and do better work.
PCB Design Software Comparison
Features Overview
When you check out printed circuit board pcb design tools, you want to see what makes each one different. The table below gives a fast look at the main features, extra features, and best uses for each pcb cad software. This helps you pick which pcb design software works for you.
Software | Key Features | Advanced Features | Best For | Platform(s) | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Altium Designer | Intuitive interface, real-time collaboration, signal integrity analysis, constraint-driven design, layer stackup management | 3D visualization, high-speed design, HDI, flex/rigid-flex support | Complex, high-performance pcb design, large teams | Windows | High (subscription) |
Eagle | Schematic capture, pcb layout, auto-routing, component libraries, Fusion 360 integration | 3D design with Fusion 360, cloud storage | Beginners, hobbyists, small businesses | Windows, macOS, Linux | Moderate (subscription) |
KiCAD | Free, open-source, schematic capture, pcb layout, 3D viewer, library management | Multi-layer support, 3D visualization | Hobbyists, students, open-source projects | Windows, macOS, Linux | Free |
OrCAD | Schematic capture, pcb layout, simulation, signal integrity analysis, constraint-driven design | Mixed-signal simulation, power analysis | Small to medium teams, simulation-heavy work | Windows | High (perpetual/subscription) |
Fusion 360 | 3D mechanical CAD, integrates with Eagle for pcb layout and design | Mechanical-electrical co-design | Makers, engineers needing MCAD integration | Windows, macOS | Moderate (subscription) |
Browser-based access, real-time collaboration, integrated libraries, version control, manufacturing links | Community-driven libraries, instant sharing | Collaboration, remote teams, quick prototyping | Web-based | Free to low-cost |
Tip: Cloud pcb software like EasyEDA and CircuitMaker let you start designing right away. You do not have to install anything. You can use any computer with internet to work.
Usability
You want pcb cad software that is easy to use. The way the program looks and works can help a lot, especially if you are new to circuit board design. Here is how the main pcb design software choices compare:
Software | Usability Strengths | Usability Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
Altium Designer | All-in-one tools, powerful routing, easy collaboration, modern interface | Steep learning curve, high system requirements, complex footprint management |
Eagle | Simple for beginners, strong community support, good online resources | Less intuitive interface, limited advanced features |
KiCAD | Free, cross-platform, active community, many tutorials | Less user-friendly, fewer features than paid tools |
OrCAD | Easy UI, strong simulation features | Some advanced features may require extra modules |
Fusion 360 | Combines mechanical and pcb design, easy 3D visualization | Needs Eagle for full pcb layout, subscription required |
Cloud PCB Software | No installation, real-time collaboration, easy sharing | Feature-limited for complex designs, may be slower with large projects |
Altium Designer is great for working together and using files from anywhere. You can comment, share, and keep your files safe in the cloud.
Eagle and KiCAD are easy for new users, but some advanced features are missing.
Cloud pcb software lets you design online and is good for teams, but it may not work well for big or fast pcb design jobs.
Pros and Cons
Every pcb design software has good and bad points. This comparison helps you pick the one that matches your printed circuit board pcb design goals.
Altium Designer
Pros:
Advanced features for high-quality pcbs
Real-time collaboration
Powerful pcb layout and 3D tools
Cons:
High pricing
Steep learning curve
Eagle
Pros:
Affordable pricing
Good for beginners
Integrates with Fusion 360
Cons:
Limited advanced features
Less intuitive interface
KiCAD
Pros:
Free and open-source
Active community
Multi-layer pcb layout support
Cons:
Learning curve
Limited official support
OrCAD
Pros:
Strong simulation and analysis features
Easy to use for small teams
Cons:
High costs for advanced modules
Windows-only
Fusion 360
Pros:
Combines mechanical and pcb cad software
Good for 3D design
Cons:
Needs Eagle for full pcb layout
Subscription required
Cloud PCB Software (EasyEDA, Upverter, CircuitMaker)
Pros:
No installation needed
Real-time collaboration
Integrated with manufacturing services
Cons:
Limited advanced features
May not support complex or high-performance pcb design
Note: If you want to work with others or need online pcb design tools, cloud pcb software is best for teamwork. For hard designs, Altium Designer and OrCAD give you the most advanced features and best performance.
This comparison shows you should pick your pcb cad software based on your project, skill, and budget. If you want high-quality pcbs and advanced features, Altium Designer or OrCAD are good picks. For easy use and lower cost, Eagle, KiCAD, or cloud pcb software might be better.
Altium Designer
Features
Altium Designer gives you one place for all your work. You can do schematic capture, pcb layout, and FPGA design in one program. Real-time 3D visualization lets you see your pcb from every side. This helps you find mistakes early and make your design better. The software has cloud tools so your team can work together from anywhere. You get strong version control and project management to keep things organized. Altium Designer has big libraries with thousands of parts and models. Advanced features like high-speed design, HDI support, and interactive routing help your work stand out. You can set rules with an object-based editor and check your design with powerful tools. The software works with MCAD, PLM, and circuit simulation tools for a full workflow.
Usability
Altium Designer’s interface looks modern and is easy to use. The layout makes it simple to switch between schematic capture, pcb layout, and 3D views. Altium 365 lets your team share projects, track changes, and comment on designs in real time. You can keep your parts organized with library management. Draftsman tools help you make professional documents fast. Even though Altium Designer has many advanced features, you can learn the basics with tutorials and help from the community.
Pros
One platform for all pcb design jobs
Real-time 3D visualization and interactive routing
Cloud collaboration and version control
Big component libraries and strong project management
Works well with mechanical and circuit simulation tools
Tip: You can work faster by using the pcb CoDesign feature. This lets many engineers work on the same pcb at the same time.
Cons
Costs more than other pcb cad software
Hard for beginners to learn
Needs a strong computer to run well
Some advanced features may be too much if you only need basic pcb layout
Eagle
Features
Eagle has many features that make it popular. The user interface is easy to understand, so you can start fast. You can do schematic capture and pcb layout in one place. The automatic wiring tool helps you finish simple designs quickly. Modular design lets you organize your circuit and work with others. There is a big component library, and you can add custom parts. Eagle works with Fusion 360, so you can mix mechanical and electronic design. You can use scripting to make tasks faster and easier. These features make Eagle good for many pcb projects.
Usability
Eagle is simple to use, even for beginners. You can drag and drop parts and use interactive routing. It works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. There is a free version for small projects. The learning curve is not too hard, and there are many tutorials online. The community is active and helps you learn new things. Eagle is great for hobbyists and students who want to make simple or medium pcbs. Professional engineers use Eagle for prototypes, but may use other tools for big or advanced designs.
Aspect | Hobbyists / Beginners | Professional Engineers |
|---|---|---|
Cost | May need pricier, advanced tools | |
User Interface | Easy for beginners | Can feel slow for big, complex projects |
Community & Integration | Strong support, works with Arduino and Fusion 360 | Less useful; pros like more advanced tools |
Design Complexity | Good for simple or medium designs | Not great for complex, high-performance designs |
Simulation & Analysis | Few simulation tools | Pros want better simulation and analysis |
Routing & Autorouter | Basic autorouter, needs manual fixes for hard layouts | Other tools have better routing for tough designs |
Library Management | Small, community libraries, can be tricky | Pros like real-time supply chain info |
Learning Curve & Prototyping | Easy to learn, good for testing ideas | Not best for big, complex projects |
Pros
The interface is friendly and easy to use.
Automatic wiring saves time on simple layouts.
Modular design helps you organize and work with others.
There is a big library, and you can add your own parts.
The community is active and helps you learn.
Eagle works on many platforms, and there is a free version.
You can use Fusion 360 to mix mechanical and electronic design.
🟢 Eagle is flexible and stable. Many engineers, makers, and students like it because it is powerful and easy to use.
Cons
Eagle does not have as many advanced features as top pcb cad software.
The autorouter is good for simple jobs but not for hard layouts.
Simulation tools are basic and may not be enough for pros.
The interface can be hard to use for big or fast pcb projects.
Professionals may need other tools for advanced or large designs.
⚠️ Eagle is best for hobbyists, students, and small businesses. If you need more advanced features or want to design complex pcbs, Eagle may not be enough.
KiCAD
Features
KiCAD gives you many features for free. You do not have to pay for a license. You can use it on Windows, OSX, or Linux. KiCAD lets you design electronics from start to finish. You can draw schematics and lay out your pcb. You can look at Gerber files and see your board in 3D. The software works with Python scripting. This helps you automate jobs and change your board or library. There are big libraries with lots of symbols and models. DigiKey and other partners help keep these libraries fresh. KiCAD gets new features often because it is open-source. You can find new design rules and simulation tools being made. Many people like that you can switch from other tools to KiCAD and keep the same features.
Tip: KiCAD’s libraries are open-source. You can use and share them with anyone.
Usability
KiCAD is easy to use for multi-layer pcb projects. There are no limits on board size or layers. This makes it good for simple and hard designs. Users say KiCAD is now as good as many paid pcb cad software. You get tools like interactive routing and length matching. You can set your own hotkeys and mouse controls. This helps you work your own way. Schematic and layout tools are kept separate, so big projects are easier to manage. KiCAD keeps getting better because many groups, like CERN, help develop it.
Pros
Free and open-source with no hidden costs
Big and growing libraries of parts and models
Strong community and regular updates
Python scripting for automation and custom features
Cons
It can be hard for new users to learn
Has fewer advanced features than some paid pcb cad software
Official support is not as strong as commercial tools
Some features, like simulation, are still being worked on
If you want a flexible and low-cost tool for pcb design, KiCAD has many features and a strong community. You may need time to learn, but you get a powerful tool for both hobby and professional projects.
OrCAD
Features
OrCAD has many strong features for professional pcb design. You can test your circuits with advanced SPICE simulation. This includes Monte Carlo, worst-case, and reliability checks. High-speed routing follows your design rules with auto-routing. Real-time signal integrity analysis helps you find problems early. OrCAD lets you work together on the same pcb at once. You can use supply chain intelligence to pick good parts. The software checks for issues like impedance and placement density. OrCAD connects with MATLAB Simulink for system-level analysis. You can design flex pcbs with hug contour routing and stackup tools.
Advanced SPICE simulation helps you test circuits.
High-speed routing checks signals in real time.
Supply chain intelligence helps you choose smart parts.
Multi-user pcb co-design lets teams work together.
In-design analysis checks signal integrity and manufacturability.
Flex pcb design features help with modern electronics.
OrCAD helps you find and fix problems before building your pcb. This saves you time and money.
Usability
OrCAD works well for small businesses and big teams. The interface is easy to use for new pcb designers. The learning curve is gentle, so you can start fast. OrCAD has good features for simulation and prototyping. Small teams can use OrCAD to develop quickly. The software supports real-time collaboration for faster teamwork. You can manage pcb projects with cloud-based tools. OrCAD has strong community support for students and startups.
Aspect | OrCAD PCB Designer (Small Businesses) | PADS Professional (Large Enterprises) |
|---|---|---|
Usability | User-friendly, gentle learning curve | Streamlined for complex workflows |
Target Market | Small to mid-sized businesses, education | Large enterprises, advanced design needs |
Cost | Cost-effective for smaller budgets | Higher cost, more scalable |
Features | Strong simulation and prototyping | Advanced, scalable, 3D visualization |
Community & Support | Large, active community | Specialized support |
Collaboration | Good for small teams, rapid cycles | Cloud-enabled for large teams |
Pros
Powerful simulation and analysis features
Real-time collaboration for pcb projects
Easy to use for new and experienced users
Integrated supply chain and part selection tools
Flex pcb design support
You can trust OrCAD for simple and complex pcb designs. The software grows with your needs.
Cons
Advanced modules cost a lot
Only works on Windows, so some users are limited
Some features may be hard for beginners
Big projects may need extra training
OrCAD gives you many features, but learning all the tools takes time. If you want a flexible pcb design tool with strong support, OrCAD is a smart choice.
Fusion 360
Features
Fusion 360 has strong tools for both mechanical and electronic design. You can work on pcb layout and mechanical parts together. The software lets you check if your pcb fits in your product before building it. There are ready-to-use component libraries and helpers to make new parts fast. Fusion 360 supports different ways to model shapes, so you can design almost anything. You can use simulation tools to test your designs in real-life situations. The cloud lets your team work together and keep all project data in one place. You can set design rules to make sure your designs are ready for manufacturing.
You can design pcb and mechanical parts in one workspace.
It has tools for simple and complex pcb layouts.
You can use built-in simulation to check if your product works well.
Teams can work together and manage files in the cloud.
The software connects design and manufacturing for easy production.
Companies using Fusion 360’s built-in features finish products on time more often and spend less money when launching new designs.
Usability
Fusion 360 is easy to use, even for beginners. The interface is simple and helps you find tools quickly. You can share your designs with a link and choose who can see or edit them. The cloud saves your work automatically and keeps track of changes. You can work from any computer with internet. Fusion 360 also works with Altium Designer, so teams can update both mechanical and pcb designs at once. This teamwork helps you finish projects faster and make fewer mistakes.
Many people say Fusion 360’s teamwork tools make pcb projects easier and better than older programs.
Pros
One platform for both mechanical and pcb design
Teams can work together in real time using the cloud
Has strong simulation and analysis tools
Easy to share and work with others anywhere
Makes it simple to go from design to making the product
Cons
You need a subscription to use all features
Some advanced pcb tools take extra time to learn
You must have internet for cloud features
Big projects may be slow on old computers
Best Cloud PCB Software
Features
Cloud pcb software lets you design from any computer with internet. Top choices are EasyEDA, CircuitMaker, and Altium 365. You do not need to install anything to start. These tools help you make schematics, layout pcbs, and share right away. Altium 365 is special because it keeps all your project data together. You can see 3D models and BOM in one spot. You can look at your pcb online and send a link to others. Most cloud pcb software lets teams work together and see changes as they happen. You also get version control and comments to keep things neat.
Cloud PCB Software | Key Features | Collaboration Tools | Security Measures |
|---|---|---|---|
EasyEDA | Schematic, pcb layout, library | Real-time collaboration | Encrypted cloud storage |
CircuitMaker | Community libraries, sharing | Live editing, comments | Role-based access |
Altium 365 | Full project data, 3D viewer | Instant sharing, links | Advanced encryption |
Tip: Online pcb design tools help you start fast and invite friends to join.
Usability
Cloud pcb software makes designing easy for you and your team. You do not need a strong computer. Just log in and work from anywhere. Teams can edit the same pcb at once. You can leave comments and see changes, so mistakes are less likely. The interface is simple, so you learn fast. If your team works from different places, cloud pcb software saves time and cuts down on meetings. You can share your pcb with a link and pick who can see or change it.
Pros
You can open your pcb projects on any device with internet.
Teams work together in real time and get more done.
No need to install or update software.
Sharing is easy and version control keeps work safe.
Security like encryption and access control keeps designs safe.
Online tools help you start projects quickly.
Cons
Cloud pcb software can have trouble with very hard pcb designs.
You need good internet to use it well.
Some advanced features cost money.
There are some risks for security and privacy, especially for secret projects.
Learning cloud pcb software on old computers can be slow.
Note: Cloud pcb software is great for simple and medium projects. For very hard pcb designs, you might need stronger tools.
Choosing Printed Circuit Board PCB Design Software
Picking the right pcb design software is important. The tool you choose affects your work and results. You need software that fits your skills, project, budget, and support needs. Here are some tips to help you decide.
Skill Level
How much you know about pcb design software matters. If you are new, try easy tools like Eagle or CircuitMaker. These programs have simple screens and lots of help. You can find many guides and get help from other users. When you get better, you can use advanced tools like OrCAD or Altium Designer. These have more features but are harder to learn. Many designers use online groups and resources to solve problems and learn quickly.
Beginners should pick software that is easy and has lots of help.
If you know a bit, try open-source tools like KiCad or free versions with more features.
Experts can use pro tools like Altium Designer for big projects and teamwork.
Project Type
Think about what kind of pcb you want to make. Simple school or hobby projects work well with free or online tools. If you want to make fast, multi-layer, or car boards, you need software with special features. Look for programs with simulation, 3D views, and strong routing. For group projects, cloud tools help you work together and share files.
Tip: For car or fast designs, pick software with signal checks, heat tests, and mechanical tools.
Budget
How much money you have changes your choice. Some pcb design software is free, but others cost a lot. Free tools like KiCad, EasyEDA, and CircuitMaker are good for students and hobbyists. Paid tools like Altium Designer or OrCAD have more features but cost more. Check the table below to see prices for popular software:
Software | Pricing Details |
|---|---|
Altium Designer | Subscription: $358/month; Perpetual License: $11,870 |
Eagle | Free version for small projects; Standard: $15/month or $100/year; Premium: $70/month or $545/year |
DipTrace | Starter: $75; Lite: $145; Standard: $395; Extended: $695; Full: $995 |
Fritzing | $10 per month |
Free Tools | CircuitMaker, KiCad, EasyEDA, ExpressPCB, DesignSpark PCB, PCBWeb Designer |
Note: Always check if you can get a free trial or student license to save money.
Support
Good support helps you fix problems fast. Pick pcb design software with clear guides, busy forums, and helpful tech support. Community tools have lots of guides and videos. Paid software often gives direct help and updates. If you work with others or on hard projects, look for cloud support and teamwork features.
Find user guides, video help, and busy forums.
Choose software with updates and tech support.
A strong community helps you learn and fix problems faster.
You can pick from lots of pcb design software. EasyEDA and KiCad are good for beginners and hobbyists. They do not cost money and are simple to use. These tools also have helpful communities. Altium Designer and OrCAD are better for professionals. They have more advanced features and strong support. Big teams like using cloud-based tools. These let people work together at the same time. Make sure your software fits your project and skill level. Think about how easy it is to use, what features it has, and the support you get. Comparing these things helps you stay happy with your choice for a long time. Take your time before you pick one.
FAQ
What is the easiest PCB design software for beginners?
You can start with EasyEDA or Eagle. These tools have simple interfaces and many tutorials. You will find it easy to draw circuits and make your first PCB. Both have free versions for small projects.
Can I use PCB design software on a Mac?
Yes, you can use KiCad, Eagle, and Fusion 360 on Mac. These programs work on Windows and Linux too. Always check the system requirements before you download.
Do I need to pay for good PCB design software?
You do not need to pay for basic PCB design. KiCad and EasyEDA are free and offer many features. Paid tools like Altium Designer give you more advanced options for complex projects.
How do I share my PCB design with my team?
You can use cloud-based tools like Altium 365 or EasyEDA. These let you invite team members, share links, and work together in real time. You can also export files and send them by email.
What file formats do PCB design tools use?
Most PCB design tools use Gerber files for manufacturing. You may also see formats like .brd, .sch, or .pcb. Always check what your manufacturer needs before you export your files.
See Also
In-Depth Comparison Between PCBWay And Other PCB Makers
Simplifying Quick PCBA Solutions For Electronics Projects
Important Factors To Consider When Selecting PCB Or PCBA