ExpressPCB vs LibrePCB

Struggling to choose between ExpressPCB and LibrePCB? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

ExpressPCB is a Development solution with tags like pcb-design, circuit-board-layout, electronics-prototyping.

It boasts features such as Easy to use interface, Built-in library of common components, Real-time design rule checking, 2 layer PCB layout, Auto-routing, 3D preview, Gerber file export and pros including Free to use, No software to install, Intuitive and easy to learn, Fast turnaround time for manufactured boards, Good for simple hobbyist projects.

On the other hand, LibrePCB is a Development product tagged with pcb, eda, schematic-capture, routing.

Its standout features include Schematic editor, PCB editor, Library manager, Design rule checks, 3D visualization, Export to PDF/PNG/SVG, Import Eagle/KiCad projects, Undo/Redo, Multi-language support, and it shines with pros like Free and open source, Cross-platform (Windows/Mac/Linux), Intuitive user interface, Active development and community support, Powerful editing tools, No size/layer limits.

To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of these two products, delving into their features, pros, cons, pricing, and more. Get ready to explore the nuances that set them apart and determine which one is the perfect fit for your requirements.

ExpressPCB

ExpressPCB

ExpressPCB is an easy-to-use circuit board layout software and PCB manufacturing service. It allows hobbyists and engineers to design simple 2-layer circuit boards and get professional quality PCBs manufactured and delivered quickly.

Categories:
Development Electronics Design
pcb-design circuit-board-layout electronics-prototyping

ExpressPCB Features

  1. Easy to use interface
  2. Built-in library of common components
  3. Real-time design rule checking
  4. 2 layer PCB layout
  5. Auto-routing
  6. 3D preview
  7. Gerber file export

Pricing

  • Free
  • Subscription-Based

Pros

Free to use

No software to install

Intuitive and easy to learn

Fast turnaround time for manufactured boards

Good for simple hobbyist projects

Cons

Limited to 2 layer boards

Limited built-in component library

Only one board size option

Must use ExpressPCB for manufacturing

LibrePCB

LibrePCB

LibrePCB is an open source electronics design automation application for printed circuit boards. It allows schematic capture and PCB layout/routing with an intuitive user interface.

Categories:
Development Electronics Design
pcb eda schematic-capture routing

LibrePCB Features

  1. Schematic editor
  2. PCB editor
  3. Library manager
  4. Design rule checks
  5. 3D visualization
  6. Export to PDF/PNG/SVG
  7. Import Eagle/KiCad projects
  8. Undo/Redo
  9. Multi-language support

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Cross-platform (Windows/Mac/Linux)

Intuitive user interface

Active development and community support

Powerful editing tools

No size/layer limits

Cons

Limited library compared to proprietary options

Steep learning curve for beginners

Lacks some advanced/niche features

May have bugs due to rapid development