KiCad
A Cross Platform and Open Source Electronics Design Automation Suite.
Overview
KiCad is a powerful, open-source EDA (Electronic Design Automation) suite. It includes a schematic editor, a PCB layout tool, a 3D viewer, and tools for managing libraries and generating manufacturing files. It is used by professionals, students, and hobbyists worldwide for designing electronic circuits and printed circuit boards.
✨ Key Features
- Schematic Capture
- PCB Layout with push-and-shove router
- 3D Viewer
- Integrated SPICE simulation
- Extensive component libraries
- Gerber and other manufacturing file generation
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Completely free and open-source
- Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Active community development
- No artificial limits on board size or layer count
Unique Value: Provides a powerful, unrestricted, and completely free suite of tools for professional PCB design, backed by a strong community.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- Designing complex, multi-layer PCBs for commercial products.
- Rapid prototyping of new electronic devices.
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Industrial control panel design
- Wire harness design
- Large-scale enterprise collaboration
🏆 Alternatives
Offers capabilities that rival expensive commercial software, making it an extremely cost-effective choice for individuals and businesses alike.
💻 Platforms
✅ Offline Mode Available
🔌 Integrations
💰 Pricing
Free tier: Fully-featured, no limits.
🔄 Similar Tools in Electrical CAD
AutoCAD Electrical
CAD software for electrical controls designers, with specialized features and extensive symbol libra...
EPLAN Electric P8
A comprehensive solution for electrical project planning, documentation, and management....
SOLIDWORKS Electrical Schematics
A powerful schematic design tool with real-time collaboration and integration with SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD...
Zuken E3.series
An object-oriented ECAD tool for electrical wiring, control systems, and fluid power design....
Altium Designer
A professional PCB design software for schematic capture, layout, and manufacturing....
OrCAD
A comprehensive suite of PCB design tools for schematic capture, simulation, and layout....