PCB design software is a good tool to improve PCB layout design efficiency, help detect potential problems in the design phase, and avoid problems during the manufacturing process. Nowadays, there are many PCB design software options, and how to choose the right PCB design software is also a challenge. In this article, we will introduce the top 10 PCB design software and hope you can choose the right one.
Top 10 PCB Design Software Options for Efficient Circuit Board Layouts
Altium Designer
Founded in 1985, Altium has 6,000 new users each year and is the leader in PCB design software. It is a popular and comprehensive PCB design software, especially suitable for high-end circuit board designs like HDI (high-density interconnect), flexible and rigid-flex circuit boards. This software is expensive, requiring a minimum of $355/month subscription service.
Here are the key features:
- An intuitive and user-friendly interface
- Advanced 3D visualization capabilities, including support for 3D routing
- Real-time team collaboration to accelerate the design process
- Integrates with other PCB design software(MCAD and ECAD) for efficient layout creation
- Easy data transfer via conversion tools
Cadence Allegro
Cadence Allegro is a high-end PCB design software launched by Cadence that is specifically designed for high-performance and complex circuit board designs. It is a powerful tool mainly used by large enterprises, such as companies that design and manufacture CPU motherboards.
Here are the key features:
- Signal integrity analysis for ensuring optimal performance
- Multiple advanced tracing options, define various routing constraints
- A large library of pre-built, ready-to-use components for faster design
EasyEDA
EasyEDA is a free, web- and cloud-based PCB design software that supports both online and offline use. This software also supports file import with other popular design tools such as Altium, KiCad, and Eagle, with real-time team collaboration capabilities.
Here are the key features:
- Web-based tool, highly efficient, no downloading required.
- Multi-platform compatibility
- Integrate real-time component inventory to make component selection faster
- PCB layout, mixed-mode circuit simulation, and strong schematic capture
- The desktop client supports offline and semi-offline modes with local project storage
- 3D PCB visualizations
KiCAD
This is an open-source and free software developed by Jean-Pierre Charras in 1992. As a free EDA tool, it supports Linux, macOS, and Windows. This software provides all essential tools for designing low- and medium-complexity circuit boards.
Here are the key features:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- 3D Viewer displays a three-dimensional view of the circuit board and its components
- Powerful PCB routing tool with three main modes: Highlight Collisions, Shove, and Walk Around
- An active community supporting software development and design data exchange
Eagle
Eagle was first developed by CadSoft Computer GmbH in Germany in 1988 and acquired by Autodesk in 2016. The name Eagle stands for Easy Applied Graphical Layout Editor. It offers three versions for users to choose from, including Free, Standard, and Premium. Its interface and operation logic may not be intuitive enough for novices. Users need some time to get familiar with its interface and functions.
Here are the key features:
- The paid version includes automatic routing
- Extensive component libraries
- Fusion 360 integration for seamless collaboration
CircuitMaker
CircuitMaker is a free PCB design software based on Altium Designer technology. It has advanced design features and strong community support for simple to medium board designs. This is also a good program to learn in preparation for upgrading to more advanced paid PCB design software. The PCB design software is particularly well-suited for individual use and small projects. However, for large projects, CircuitMaker may not offer enough functionality.
Here are the key features:
- Access full functionality with 16 signal layers, 16 plane layers, and unlimited PCB size
- Extensive component library
- Topological autorouter to work with your design rules
- Interactive routing modes offer options like obstacle avoidance, hug, hug-n-push, and obstacle ignore
- DRC/DFM compliant outputs
DesignSpark PCB
DesignSpark PCB is a PCB design software from RS Components. It provides a comprehensive component library with direct links to the RS component catalog. Most of the features you need are available in the free version. If you need some advanced features, you need to pay for a subscription. The price of this software is relatively affordable, and the most advanced version is $17.99/month.
Here are the key features:
- Cooperatewith SnapEDA.com to get free access to millions of CAD models of electronic components and easily insert them into your PCB projects
- Use the Net Class settings to define differential pairs and change their Gap and Skew lengths
- Customize BOM templates to suit your needs and findthe changes in real-time
PADS
PADS is an affordable, intuitive, and easy-to-use PCB design software developed by Siemens. This software is an integrated solution with flexible scalability that can be adjusted according to the size and complexity of the project. It is suitable for engineers and small teams around the world.
Here are the key features:
- Analog/mixed-signal simulation
- Signal integrity analysis
- Routing automation
- RF design
- Cloud connected
Dip Trace
DipTrace is one of the simple and reasonably priced PCB design software. It is suitable for hobbyists or startups. It has a free version where you can work with simple schematics up to 300 pins and 2 layers, which is enough for simple projects. If you need more intricate designs, you have to pay for the paid edition. You can upgrade your subscription as needed, with the cheapest one costing just $75 a month.
Here are the key features:
- Multi-sheet schematic feature lets you organize subcircuits for easier navigation
- Over 160,000 components and thousands of land patterns designed based on IPC-7351 standards
- Precise manual routing with automatic path finding
OrCAD X
Developed by Cadence, the OrCAD X platform is an upgraded version of OrCAD, including schematic capture, simulation, and PCB design solutions. This software meets the evolving needs of modern design and is a comprehensive PCB design solution. It is e intuitive and efficient to use, accelerating the design of PCBs.
Here are the key features:
- Provides advanced simulation capabilities, including analog, digital, and mixed-signal simulation
- A built-in SPICE simulator with an extensive model library and compatibility for migrating designs between LTSpice and PSpice
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing PCB Design Software
There are numerous options for PCB design software. You should select the most suitable PCB design software for the requirements of your project. Below are some key aspects to consider.
User-friendly
You should choose a PCB design software that is intuitive and easy to use, which is especially important for beginners. The software offers a simple user interface and intuitive tools to reduce the learning curve and help users get started quickly. A user-friendly design software allows you to concentrate more on your project rather than operating the software.
Meet Industry Standards
PCB design software must adhere to industry standards to guarantee the dependability and manufacturability of the PCB. These standards cover aspects such as design rules, material requirements, and electrical performance. If the software is only used by a few manufacturers, its functions and design may not meet the needs of a wide range of industries.
Budget Consideration
Based on your project’s complexity and budget, you can choose between free or paid software. Free software is ideal for simpler projects, typically used by hobbyists or small businesses with limited budgets. For more complex projects, professional paid software offers significantly greater value and advanced features that justify the investment.
Design Software Functionality
You need to confirm whether the software meets your design requirements. Consider the complexity of your design. Complex PCB designs usually require more professional and powerful design software.
Free Trial Before Purchase
Finally, this is a small tip. Before you decide to use PCB design software, take advantage of the free trial and practice to make sure the software is right for your project.
Final Words
PCB design software is a key design tool before the mass production of circuit boards. It can accurately design and optimize every detail of the PCB. Each software has its unique advantages and limitations. If you need expert PCB design services, please contact us. UnityPCB offers professional solutions to meet your project requirements.
