Best Free PCB Design Software for Download: A Comprehensive Guide

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are at the heart of nearly all electronic devices, from simple gadgets to complex machines. Designing PCBs requires specialized software that can translate circuit schematics into functional boards. Whether you are a hobbyist, a student, or a professional engineer, having access to high-quality PCB design software is crucial. Fortunately, several free tools are available that can meet your needs without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we will explore the best free PCB design software options available for download, focusing on their features, ease of use, limitations, and more. Whether you are working on your first PCB or looking for a powerful tool for advanced designs, this article will help you find the perfect solution.

1. KiCad

KiCad is one of the most popular open-source PCB design tools available. It offers a complete suite of tools for designing complex PCBs, including schematic capture, PCB layout, and even a 3D viewer to inspect the final design. KiCad has been widely adopted by both hobbyists and professionals due to its extensive feature set and active community.

Key Features:

• Schematic Editor: A powerful tool to create complex circuit designs.
• PCB Layout Editor: Supports up to 32 copper layers with advanced design rules.
• 3D Viewer: Visualize your board in 3D to check for design errors.
• Libraries: Extensive libraries with thousands of components.
• Cross-Platform: Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Limitations: While KiCad is feature-rich, the learning curve can be steep for beginners. However, there is extensive documentation and community support available to help you get started.

2. EasyEDA

EasyEDA is a web-based PCB design tool that is ideal for beginners and those who prefer not to download and install software. It offers a simple and intuitive interface with enough features to handle most PCB design tasks. Being web-based, it allows for easy collaboration and access from any device.

Key Features:

• Schematic Capture: Simple drag-and-drop interface for circuit design.
• PCB Layout: Offers auto-router functionality to speed up the design process.
• Component Library: Access to a large library of components and symbols.
• Integration with JLCPCB: Direct integration with JLCPCB for quick prototyping and manufacturing.
• Cross-Platform: Works on any device with an internet connection.

Limitations: As a web-based tool, EasyEDA may not be as powerful as some desktop applications. Advanced users might find it lacking in some features, especially for very complex designs.

3. Fritzing

Fritzing is a unique tool designed for makers and hobbyists who want to quickly create PCBs for small projects. It offers a more visual approach to PCB design, making it easy to go from breadboard to PCB. Fritzing also emphasizes educational use, making it a great choice for students and educators.

Key Features:

• Breadboard View: Easily replicate breadboard circuits in the software.
• Schematic View: Automatically generated from the breadboard design.
• PCB View: Design your PCB with drag-and-drop simplicity.
• Part Library: Includes many common components, with the option to create custom parts.
• Export Options: Generate Gerber files for manufacturing or create a Bill of Materials (BOM).

Limitations: Fritzing is not as powerful as some other PCB design tools and is best suited for simple projects. It is also not open-source, although the source code is available for modification.

4. Altium Designer (CircuitMaker)

CircuitMaker is a free PCB design tool offered by Altium, a leading provider of professional PCB design software. CircuitMaker is designed to provide powerful features for makers and hobbyists while maintaining a user-friendly interface. It offers many of the same features as Altium Designer, making it an excellent choice for those who want to transition to professional tools later.

Key Features:

• Schematic Editor: Professional-grade schematic capture tools.
• PCB Layout: Advanced layout tools with support for multi-layer boards.
• Community Collaboration: Share and collaborate on designs with the CircuitMaker community.
• Simulation: Perform basic simulations to test your designs.
• Manufacturing Outputs: Generate industry-standard manufacturing files.

Limitations: CircuitMaker requires an internet connection and has some limitations compared to Altium Designer. Additionally, your projects are publicly available to the CircuitMaker community, which might not be ideal for proprietary designs.

5. DesignSpark PCB

DesignSpark PCB is a free PCB design tool from RS Components, designed to offer professional-grade features without the cost. It is ideal for small to medium-sized projects and is well-suited for both hobbyists and professionals.

Key Features:

• Schematic Capture: Intuitive interface for designing circuits.
• PCB Layout: Unlimited board size and layers, with powerful design rule checks.
• Component Library: Extensive library with access to RS Components parts.
• 3D Viewer: Visualize your PCB in 3D.
• Export Options: Generate Gerber files, BOMs, and other manufacturing outputs.

Limitations: DesignSpark PCB requires registration to use, and the component library is closely tied to RS Components, which might limit flexibility for sourcing parts elsewhere.

6. Autodesk Eagle

Eagle is a well-known PCB design tool that has been used by engineers and hobbyists for decades. Autodesk acquired Eagle and now offers a free version with some limitations. Despite these limitations, Eagle remains a powerful tool, particularly for those familiar with its interface.

Key Features:

• Schematic Capture: Advanced tools for complex circuit design.
• PCB Layout: Supports multi-layer designs with high precision.
• Component Library: Extensive library with access to millions of parts.
• Design Rule Checks: Ensures your design meets manufacturing standards.
• Integration with Fusion 360: Seamless integration with Autodesk’s 3D design software.

Limitations: The free version of Eagle is limited to two schematic sheets, two signal layers, and a board area of 80 cm². This may be restrictive for more complex projects.

7. ZenitPCB

ZenitPCB is a lightweight PCB design tool that is ideal for beginners and those working on simpler projects. It offers a user-friendly interface with enough features to design basic PCBs without the complexity of more advanced tools.

Key Features:

• Schematic Capture: Simple and easy-to-use interface.
• PCB Layout: Supports single and double-sided boards.
• Component Library: Basic library with essential components.
• Export Options: Generate Gerber files for manufacturing.

Limitations: ZenitPCB is limited in functionality compared to more advanced tools, and it is Windows-only. It is best suited for simple designs and learning purposes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right PCB design software depends on your needs, experience level, and the complexity of your projects. For beginners, tools like Fritzing and EasyEDA offer a gentle introduction to PCB design with simple interfaces and helpful features. For more advanced users, KiCad and CircuitMaker provide powerful tools with extensive capabilities, making them suitable for both hobby and professional use. No matter your level of expertise, one of these free tools will meet your PCB design needs without the expense of commercial software.

Remember, the best way to choose is to try a few and see which one fits your workflow and project requirements. Happy designing!