PCB design editors / #8
LibrePCB
A friendly open-source start; most people outgrow it into KiCad.
20/35Ranked #8 in pcb design editors
Last reviewed
- Who it is for
- Beginners and hobbyists who want an open-source editor that is simpler than KiCad.
- Made by
- The LibrePCB project (open source)
- Runs on
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- Cost
- Free and open source.
- Poor fit for
- Complex boards, and teams that need to exchange files with other tools.
Strengths
- Free, open source and cross-platform.
- Simple, consistent interface.
- Its library ties each symbol to a specific package, which helps avoid pin-mapping mistakes.
Limits
- Smaller library, so you will draw more parts yourself.
- Fewer advanced routing features.
- Smaller community and fewer importers.
Scores and the reasons for them
| Criterion | Score | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cost and licensing | 5/5 | Free and open source. |
| Learning curve | 4/5 | Designed to be easy to learn. |
| Library and part support | 2/5 | Smaller library than KiCad or EasyEDA. |
| Board complexity | 2/5 | Best for simpler boards. |
| Output for fabrication | 3/5 | Gerber, drill and BOM outputs; check what your assembler needs. |
| File portability | 2/5 | Open, text-based format, but few other tools import it. |
| Collaboration | 2/5 | Text files work with Git; nothing built in for review. |