Tried And Evaluated: 7 Best PCB Design Software I Recommend

My top 7 best PCB design software recommendations for 2025

What I look for in PCB design software

The list below contains genuine user reviews from our best PCB design software category page. To qualify for inclusion in the category, a product must:

• Modify PCB layouts and PCB circuitry
• Include a components library so users can easily implement high-quality PCB footprints
• Provide schematic editing tools for modification of electrical properties and other attributes of components, wires, nets, and pins.

This data has been pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews have been edited for clarity.

1. Altium Designer: Best for advanced design tools and an extensive component library

Altium Designer offers a unified platform that integrates different design tools, including schematic capture, layout routing, documentation, and simulation, into one environment. What I appreciate most is the ability to seamlessly move between these stages. For example, once someone creates the schematic diagram, they can easily transition to the layout-routing phase, adjusting the design while visualizing the final product. 

A feature that really impressed me is design for manufacturing (DFM). This ensures that designs are not only functional but also easy to produce. The DFM tools help identify potential issues early in the process, reducing errors and saving time during the production phase. Teams I worked with mentioned that it was reassuring for them to know that their design is optimized for manufacturing before moving on to actual fabrication.

With the 3D flex-rigid design, I observed that teams could visualize how the different layers of a PCB interacted, including both flexible and rigid parts. This was especially useful when working with more complex, multi-layered designs. I can see how seeing how each component interacts in 3D can give manufacturers better insight and help them make more informed decisions while routing the layout.

Its extensive component library offers a vast selection of parts, components, and templates, allowing teams to quickly find what they need. This feature reduces the need to manually design components from scratch, and teams can use pre-validated parts that help minimize errors. I observed how the wide selection makes the process faster and more reliable, which is always a plus. According to G2 Data, 83% users love its component libraries. 

The biggest aspect I noticed relates to system requirements. Altium Designer performs exceptionally well on high-end machines, but it does require substantial memory and processing power. From what I gathered in G2 reviews, on less powerful computers, there can be some slowdowns with larger, more complex projects. Even so, the software remains very capable for detailed PCB design.

Another area to note is adding footprints to devices. While Altium offers an extensive library, finding the right footprint can involve navigating multiple libraries. Linking the footprint to the schematic symbol isn’t always immediately intuitive, and verifying accuracy can take a few extra steps. Despite these minor inconveniences, the system still allows precise and reliable component placement once familiar with the workflow.

I also gathered from G2 reviews that the learning curve can be steep for beginners. Altium Designer is packed with features, which is a huge advantage for experienced users, though it may take some time to get comfortable with all the tools. Once you’re familiar, the platform’s depth and flexibility really shine, making it a powerful choice for professional PCB design.

What I dislike about Altium Designer:

• I noticed that Altium Designer demands substantial memory and processing power. From what I saw in G2 reviews, less powerful computers can experience slowdowns with larger projects, though on high-end machines, performance remains smooth.
• Adding footprints to devices can be a bit cumbersome. I found that navigating multiple libraries and linking footprints to schematic symbols isn’t always intuitive — a point several G2 reviewers also highlighted, but once you get the hang of it, component placement becomes precise and reliable.

What G2 users dislike about Altium Designer:

"One area for improvement is adding more features to the "Manufacturer Part Search." Additionally, navigating the software without a mouse can be challenging, especially when using a laptop. Right-clicking and dragging on a trackpad can be frustrating, though that’s partly due to the laptop design. Another suggestion relates to defining board size; for instance, when I needed a board that was exactly 50mm x 50mm, it was hard to draw precise lines. I ended up setting the grid size to 1mm and estimating the dimensions. It would be helpful to have a feature that displays the length of line drawings or the dimensions of the shapes being created."

- Altium Designer Review, Trevor M.

2. Altium 365: Best for PCB layout editing and 3D visualization

One of Altium 365's standout features is its real-time collaboration capabilities. From many G2 reviews, I observe that it has helped many circuit teams work on the same designs simultaneously. Whether reviewing schematics or making PCB layout adjustments, it ensured everyone was on the same page. The platform’s version control system ensures that every change is tracked, which allows teams to view revision histories or roll back to previous versions with ease.

It has highly efficient project management tools that have made handling complex designs much easier, especially when working on intricate designs. I found the process of creating and modifying components to be both intuitive and powerful, allowing for detailed work without feeling overwhelming. I can see how this flexibility would be a huge asset for teams, enabling them to manage large-scale projects with ease.

I’ve also gathered from G2 reviews how beginners enjoyed working with the PCB layout editor. It’s incredibly customizable, which allows teams to make adjustments to designs quickly and seamlessly. I really appreciated the ability to effortlessly transition between schematic and PCB. It could save teams a lot of time, as they can quickly modify and export designs. For teams that need to integrate these changes into their larger platform-based projects,  I believe that this feature would make the entire process much more efficient.

The 3D visualization feature was another area where Altium 365 impressed me. I could visualize how components fit on the board with ease, especially in tight spaces. The software’s support for .step 3D bodies made it straightforward to see how everything would fit together. What stood out was the 3D rendering speed – even when working with complex components, they rendered quickly without any noticeable lag. I found the "snap points" feature particularly useful, as it helped PCB teams position even the most awkward 3D bodies with great precision.

Lastly, the draftsman tool has been an absolute highlight. Generating high-quality assembly drawings was a breeze with just a few clicks. This tool allowed G2 users to create detailed and visually appealing drawings, which I could imagine would be very beneficial for manufacturing teams that need clear documentation for assembly.

However, despite these positive experiences, I noticed a few areas where PCB routing rules could be improved. Setting them up sometimes required a bit of programming knowledge, which might be tricky for beginners. A more user-friendly interface for configuring these rules would make the process smoother; however, once familiar with the rules system, it provides precise control over design constraints.

Another aspect is the design rule system. Some custom queries, like setting up rules to ignore interfering components, didn’t always behave consistently. For instance, a "component clearance" rule might not always ignore collisions. While this has been reported by several G2 users, the system still allows complex rules to be applied effectively once properly configured.

I also observed that track length calculation could occasionally be inconsistent. Certain small segments on specific layers were sometimes ignored, which could affect impedance-controlled designs. Even so, the platform generally allows accurate track management for most standard layouts.

Lastly, the Bill of Materials (BOM) feature can take a bit longer to generate and requires updating after schematic changes. While this adds some extra steps, it ensures that the BOM remains accurate and reflects all design modifications, which is crucial for precise manufacturing and assembly.

What I dislike about Altium 365:

• I noticed that setting up PCB routing rules can sometimes require programming knowledge, which isn’t beginner-friendly. Several G2 reviewers mentioned the same, though once you’re familiar, the system still gives precise control over design constraints.
• The design rule system isn’t always consistent, rules like “component clearance” don’t behave perfectly every time. I saw this reflected in multiple G2 reviews, but once configured correctly, it still allows complex rules to be applied effectively.

What G2 users dislike about Altium 365:

"The software can be slow to start and access files, especially over a network. Some default settings, like the connection matrix, generate unnecessary warnings that make it harder to identify real issues. The Bill of Materials feature takes time to generate and requires updates when changes are made to the schematic. Additionally, the software slows down with larger designs, and while it integrates well with third-party components, occasional issues with mismatched footprints or symbol standards can arise."

- Altium 365 Review, Hemant A.

3. PADS Professional: Best for complex PCB layouts and advanced routing

What I dislike about PADS Professional:

• I noticed that the initial setup can feel a bit overwhelming. Several G2 reviewers mentioned this as well, though once configured, the platform works effectively and provides strong control over design constraints.
• Creating and reusing constraint manager templates isn’t always intuitive. I saw the same point highlighted in multiple G2 reviews, but despite the extra steps, the system still allows precise template management once you get the hang of it.

What G2 users dislike about PADS Professional:

"One downside of using PADS Professional is that it takes a significant amount of time to process and compute analyses, even for something as simple as the dashboard, which can be quite frustrating."

- PADS Professional Review, Souvik G.

4. Allegro PCB Designer: Best for high-density designs and error correction

I recently explored Allegro X PCB Designer, and I found it exceptional for creating CPU motherboards and working with high-density interconnect (HDI) PCB designs.

Its ability to develop compact, space-efficient electronics while maintaining advanced functionality is impressive. From G2 user reviews, I observed that the tool makes it possible to pack intricate components into smaller spaces, a feature that really stood out to me and felt like a significant advantage for modern electronics design.

One of my favorite features is the error correction system for schematic design. With its three-step process, it made ensuring schematic accuracy feel intuitive and simple for professionals. I noticed across multiple reviews that it flagged errors early, corrected them logically, and validated the results systematically, streamlining the design process and minimizing potential mistakes.

I also appreciated the pre-analysis and post-analysis capabilities, which allowed users to catch and resolve issues both before and after the design phase, making the entire workflow more efficient and reliable.

I was also impressed by Allegro’s flexible workspace, This adaptability was a huge plus for PCB management teams, as it made staying organized and productive much easier. Aligning the tool’s setup with design habits felt like a great way to improve efficiency and comfort.

The flexible design constraint system allowed users to easily define specific design rules, adding precision to designs and ensuring compliance with manufacturing requirements. I did notice, however, that G2 users mentioned this feature could be even more powerful if paired with improved usability for template creation, though it still provides strong control over design constraints.

I also found that the initial setup could feel a bit overwhelming. The tool offers many features, and getting it up and running isn’t as simple as some users might hope. A more streamlined setup process could help, but once configured, the platform functions effectively.

Many users noted that while the GUI works, the interface feels somewhat outdated compared to modern PCB design tools. After analyzing multiple G2 reviews, I observed that while the tool is fully functional, a more intuitive and visually engaging interface could enhance navigation, though the core functionality remains solid.

Another point is dashboard performance. For some designs, computing and processing analysis can take longer than expected. Even for simple projects, this wait can feel noticeable, though it doesn’t affect the accuracy or overall usefulness of the analysis.

I also discovered, from G2 reviews, that constraint manager template creation and reuse could be more intuitive. While the system is flexible, creating and reusing templates can feel cumbersome. Improving this workflow would enhance user experience, but the existing system still allows precise constraint management.

Lastly, support for importing legacy designs could be more robust. Importing older designs may take extra time, which could be a minor pain point for users transitioning from other tools. Even so, the platform provides sufficient functionality to handle legacy projects effectively once imported.

What I dislike about Allegro X PCB Designer:

• I found the initial setup a bit overwhelming due to the sheer number of features. Several G2 reviewers mentioned the same, though once configured, the platform functions effectively and provides strong control over design constraints.
• Creating and reusing constraint manager templates isn’t always intuitive. I noticed similar feedback in multiple G2 reviews, but despite the extra steps, the system still allows precise template management once you get used to it.

What G2 users dislike about Allegro X PCB Designer:

"The software needs to be backward compatible with older revisions. It requires switching between different toolsets, and the entire workflow isn't easily integrated. STEP export files don't work well with SolidWorks, and managing libraries and variants can be difficult."

- Allegro X PCB Designer Review, Vijay P.

5. Autodesk Fusion: Best for integrated mechanical and electrical design

During my evaluation of Autodesk Fusion, one aspect that stood out to me was the 3D design and modeling tools. These tools are incredibly powerful and allow for the creation of simple parts and complex structures.

Users often commend manufacturing integration. Fusion enables designs to be taken directly from concept to production, streamlining the process. Instead of switching between multiple platforms for design and manufacturing, everything is consolidated in one place. In fact, according to G2 Data, 86% users appreciate its catalog integration capacity.  For manufacturing teams, this feature is invaluable as it reduces the chances of errors and ensures all parts of the process are streamlined.

One of the most innovative features I evaluated was generative design. This tool allowed G2 users to input design goals and constraints, and Fusion then generated multiple design options that met those criteria. For manufacturing teams, this can be incredibly useful for exploring new design possibilities and optimizing efficiency, as the software suggests design alternatives that might not have been considered otherwise.

However, I found that assemblies in Fusion can be challenging to manage, particularly for larger designs. Organizing and navigating through different parts can feel cumbersome, and locating specific components quickly may take extra effort. Even so, once familiar with the assembly workflow, the platform allows precise control over complex designs.

Another area I noticed is 2D drawing tools. Fusion provides basic functionality for creating 2D drawings from 3D models, but many G2 users mention that options for intricate 2D designs are limited. For advanced drawings, exporting to AutoCAD is sometimes necessary. Despite this, the existing 2D tools handle standard designs effectively and support manufacturing needs for most projects.

Finally, I observed some considerations with file conversion. While Fusion supports a wide range of formats, certain intricate details and geometries may not always transfer perfectly when importing into other software. Even so, the platform maintains high fidelity for most designs, and these minor conversion issues can usually be managed with careful checks.

What I dislike about Autodesk Fusion:

• I found that managing assemblies in Fusion can be challenging for larger designs. Several G2 reviewers highlighted the same, though once you get familiar with the workflow, the platform allows precise control over complex assemblies.
• The 2D drawing tools are somewhat limited for intricate designs. I saw similar feedback in G2 reviews, but the existing tools still handle standard drawings effectively and support most manufacturing needs.

What G2 users dislike about Autodesk Fusion:

"Two aspects of Autodesk Fusion 360 that I find less favorable are its reliance on an internet connection and its CAD file compatibility. While being cloud-based offers significant benefits, features like real-time collaboration and automatic saving can be challenging in areas with limited connectivity. Additionally, although Fusion 360 supports many file formats, the conversion process during export is often limited, leading to the loss of details or geometries when importing files into other software."

- Autodesk Fusion Review, Juan M.

6. Altium CircuitMaker: Best community-driven, open-source PCB design tool

After evaluating Altium CircuitMaker, I can confidently say that this tool has a lot to offer, particularly for those working on circuit design. 

One of the features I appreciated the most was the cloud integration. This allowed teams to store all designs securely in the cloud, making them accessible from anywhere. It was incredibly convenient, as they didn't have to worry about losing their work or managing storage space on my local machine.

Additionally, the ability to collaborate easily with others I think is a huge plus. Whether you're working remotely or on a team-based project, this cloud feature makes it seamless to share and work on designs together. 

I also noticed that many users mention the Fusion 360 plugin made a significant difference. This plugin allowed teams to effortlessly bridge the gap between electronic and mechanical designs. They can work on circuit design in CircuitMaker and then seamlessly transition to Fusion 360 to refine the mechanical components, or vice versa. This fluid integration between the two platforms saved them hours of reworking and resolving alignment issues, ensuring that their electronic and mechanical designs aligned perfectly.

I also gathered that the 3D technology for visualizing schematics was a game-changer. Seeing designs in 3D helped them understand how the circuits would interact once they were physically built. It provided a much clearer picture than the traditional 2D view.

I also really appreciated the ability to easily assign properties to components. Adding comments or specific attributes to parts helped teams stay organized and keep track of changes throughout the design process. It was particularly useful for leaving reminders about specific design decisions or particular parts, ensuring that nothing was overlooked.

However, I noticed a few considerations with simulator accuracy. While the simulator works well for basic circuits, some G2 reviewers noted that it may not always accurately reflect real-world behavior for more complex designs. Even so, the platform provides reliable simulation for most standard projects, and these occasional inaccuracies are generally limited to highly intricate circuits.

While cloud integration works smoothly and enables easy collaboration, I observed that projects cannot be saved offline. This means an internet connection is required, which could be inconvenient in areas with poor connectivity. Despite this, the cloud-based workflow offers seamless access and version control for teams.

I also found that community sharing is heavily relied upon. While many users enjoy the collaborative aspect, some prefer more control over their own projects. Even so, the shared resources can be a valuable starting point and inspiration for many designs.

Lastly, I noticed that Linux and macOS support is limited. CircuitMaker is primarily designed for Windows, so non-Windows users need a virtual machine to run the software. While this adds an extra step, the platform functions well within the virtual environment, allowing users outside Windows to still access its core features.

What I dislike about Altium CircuitMaker:

• I noticed that the simulator doesn’t always reflect real-world behavior for complex circuits. Several G2 reviewers mentioned the same, though it still provides a reliable simulation for most standard projects.
• Projects can’t be saved offline, requiring an internet connection. I saw this noted in multiple G2 reviews as well, but the cloud-based workflow still enables seamless access and version control for teams.

What G2 users dislike about Altium CircuitMaker:

"CircuitMaker enforces cloud saving and allows only two private projects, which can be limiting. The community component library is unmoderated, containing many unusable footprints (though it's recommended to create your own, as the component wizard makes it easy). The software can be somewhat unstable, so saving frequently is important. Additionally, the keyboard shortcuts differ from those in Altium Designer, which may take some time to adjust to."

- Altium CircuitMaker Review, Alberto V.

7. Autodesk EAGLE: Best for intuitive interface and schematic capture

One feature of Autodesk EAGLE that stood out to me almost immediately was the built-in user language programs (ULP). Many users mention how it helps them save time by automating repetitive processes, which is helpful when working on multiple designs or making frequent adjustments. 

The autoroute function is another tool that simplifies the design process. In a manufacturing context, where time is critical, the ability to quickly route paths with minimal manual effort was invaluable. I observed that it allowed users to generate quick prototypes, focusing more on refining the core design rather than dealing with routing issues.

After reading numerous reviews, I gathered that the tool reportedly works smoothly for schematic capture, which is crucial in manufacturing for ensuring accuracy. It helped spot potential issues early in PCB workflows, reducing the likelihood of errors during production.

On the library management side, Autodesk EAGLE impressed me with its extensive selection of pre-loaded CAD packages. This meant less time spent searching for components, allowing for faster assembly and prototyping in manufacturing.

One area I noticed with the 3D visualizer is that, while functional, it doesn’t always provide the level of accuracy some users expect when visualizing a PCB’s final look. In manufacturing, precision is crucial to ensure a proper fit, but even with this limitation, the visualizer still provides a good overall representation of the board layout.

I also observed some reports regarding the net listing feature. For complex power PCBs, it doesn’t always behave as expected, which can lead to minor delays in design verification. Despite this, the feature generally helps maintain proper electrical connections across most standard projects.

Another consideration is the layer restriction in the downloaded version of EAGLE, which limits designs to two layers. This can be challenging for multi-layer boards, but the limitation is mainly relevant for high-density designs. Teams working on simpler boards will still find the platform very effective.

Lastly, I noticed feedback about routing intelligence. Currently, EAGLE uses standard routing paths, and some users suggest that AI-based routing could improve efficiency. Even so, the existing routing tools allow users to create reliable, precise designs, and enhancements like AI integration would be a welcome improvement.

What I dislike about Autodesk EAGLE:

• I noticed that EAGLE’s 3D visualizer doesn’t always provide the level of accuracy some users expect. Multiple G2 reviewers mentioned this too, though it still gives a good overall representation of the board layout.
• The net listing feature can behave inconsistently for complex power PCBs. I saw similar feedback in G2 reviews, but despite this, it generally helps maintain proper electrical connections for most standard projects.

What G2 users dislike about Autodesk EAGLE:

"The system’s session timeout is quite restrictive, as the platform prompts session expiration after a short period. It would be helpful if there were an option to extend the session duration, giving users more flexibility to complete tasks without the concern of losing their progress." 

- Autodesk EAGLE Review, Aryan K.

Best PCB design software: frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q. How do I design a PCB?

To design a PCB, start by creating a schematic diagram that outlines the circuit components and their connections. Then, use PCB design software to convert the schematic into a PCB layout, placing components and routing the traces. After completing the layout, generate the necessary files for manufacturing, such as Gerber files, and ensure design rules and electrical constraints are met.

Q. Can I design a PCB on mobile?

Yes, some PCB design apps are available for mobile devices; however, they tend to have fewer features compared to their desktop counterparts. These mobile apps are suitable for basic design tasks and simple projects, but for more complex designs that require advanced functionality, desktop software is recommended due to its greater precision and comprehensive toolsets

Q. How do I learn PCB design?

You can learn PCB design through online courses, tutorials, and books that cover electronics and circuit design. Begin by understanding basic concepts, such as circuit schematics and component placement, and then practice using free PCB design software. Start with simple circuits to build your skills before progressing to more complex projects. Engaging with online forums or communities can provide valuable feedback and guidance, helping you gain confidence before using advanced design tools.

Q. How do I choose the right PCB layout design for my project?

Choosing the right PCB layout design depends on factors like the project’s size, complexity, and required functionality. Consider the number of layers, the type of components used, thermal management, and signal integrity. For high-speed circuits, pay special attention to routing and grounding. Additionally, ensure the layout meets any industry-specific requirements (e.g., automotive or medical standards).

Q. Which is the best free PCB design software?

Most high-quality PCB design software tools are paid, but many offer free trials to help you get started. Altium Designer, for example, is widely regarded as one of the best tools in the industry, offering powerful features for complex designs. Its free trial can be a good starting point. Explore more free PCB design software that offers basic features, which can be useful for simpler projects or beginners.

Keep things grounded

Choosing the right PCB design software can be a game-changer for your projects. When evaluating these tools, it’s essential to consider factors like usability, performance, and features that best align with your specific needs, whether that’s handling complex designs, improving signal integrity, or ensuring smooth collaboration.

Based on my evaluation and user feedback, I’ve outlined the top tools that offer the best combination of efficiency, flexibility, and power. The best tool is the one that works for you and helps you bring your PCB designs to life without any hiccups.

Don’t be afraid to dive in, experiment with different options, and see what clicks. Remember, even the most sophisticated software can’t help if you don’t press the right buttons (unless you have a “design wizard” on your team, in which case, please share their contact information with me).

Reduce errors by using simulation and test suites before moving your PCB design to production.