FreePCB vs KiCad

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

FreePCB is a Development solution with tags like pcb-design, schematics, layouts, autorouting, design-rule-checking.

It boasts features such as Schematic capture, PCB layout, Auto-routing, Design Rule Checking, Library editors, 3D view and pros including Free and open source, Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux), Good for hobbyists and students, Active community support.

On the other hand, KiCad is a Development product tagged with open-source, electronics, design, schematic, pcb.

Its standout features include Schematic capture, PCB layout, SPICE simulation, 3D visualization, Gerber file generation, and it shines with pros like Free and open source, Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux), Large component library, Active development community, Flexible customization.

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.

FreePCB

FreePCB

FreePCB is an open-source printed circuit board design software. It allows designers to create schematics and layouts for printed circuit boards. FreePCB has features like auto-routing, Design Rule Checking, and library editors.

Categories:
pcb-design schematics layouts autorouting design-rule-checking

FreePCB Features

  1. Schematic capture
  2. PCB layout
  3. Auto-routing
  4. Design Rule Checking
  5. Library editors
  6. 3D view

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Good for hobbyists and students

Active community support

Cons

Limited features compared to paid options

Steep learning curve

Lacks some advanced/professional features


KiCad

KiCad

KiCad is an open source electronics design automation software suite used for schematic capture, printed circuit board design, and more. It is cross-platform and licensed under GNU GPL v3.

Categories:
open-source electronics design schematic pcb

KiCad Features

  1. Schematic capture
  2. PCB layout
  3. SPICE simulation
  4. 3D visualization
  5. Gerber file generation

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Large component library

Active development community

Flexible customization

Cons

Steep learning curve

Limited documentation

Less intuitive UI than some paid options