KiCad

KiCad allows users to design printed circuit boards (PCBs) using schematic capture and layout tools. It supports multi-layer designs and offers a 3D visualization feature.

Key Features

• Multi-layer PCB design capabilities
• Integrated 3D viewer for realistic visualization
• Customizable libraries for components
• Cross-platform support: Windows, macOS, Linux
• User-friendly schematic capture interface

Pros

• Completely free and open-source
• Rich community support and resources
• Regular updates and feature enhancements
• No licensing fees or restrictions

Cons

• Steeper learning curve for beginners
• Occasional stability issues with complex designs
• Limited advanced simulation features compared to paid software
• Library management can be cumbersome