TinyCAD

TinyCAD is a free, open-source schematic-capture program for drawing circuit diagrams. It suits students, hobbyists, and engineers who need structured schematics and exportable netlists without a software fee. Its shared desktop and browser formats are a practical advantage, but the project’s as-is status means it is best for users prepared to keep backups and verify designs themselves.

Overview

TinyCAD combines a v4 desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux with TinyCAD Web, which runs in a browser without installation and is intended for Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, and Linux. Both use the same .dsn drawing and .tclib library formats, so moving a project between a workstation and a browser does not require a format conversion. That makes it a sensible fit for people who work across devices or cannot install software.

The browser’s local-file mode keeps work on the device and sends no work or other files to TinyCAD servers. Google Drive mode stores drawings in the user’s Drive and requires permission to access Google files; TinyCAD says it likewise sends no work or other files to its servers in that mode. The site uses Google Analytics to measure usage volumes, which matters to organizations with strict analytics policies.

TinyCAD is community-driven and supplied as-is. Bugs or incomplete features are possible, so important projects warrant independent backups and a careful review before fabrication or release.

Key features

Core schematic tools include multi-sheet drawings, labels, buses, shapes, annotations, drawing search, undo and redo, and automatic junction placement. Together they cover the organization and editing work expected in a focused circuit-diagram application, with multi-sheet support helping larger designs stay navigable.

The Design Rules Check looks for common wiring and pin-type errors. That can catch routine connection mistakes early, but it does not establish that a circuit functions correctly; engineering review and other validation remain necessary.

Netlist generation supports downstream PCB and design tools in PADS, Eagle SCR, Protel, and gEDA PCB formats. SPICE output works in both desktop and browser versions, extending the same schematic into simulation workflows. VHDL output is available only from the desktop app, so browser-only users cannot use that export. Both versions export SVG images, while TinyCAD Web also exports PDF. Browser and desktop editions can import symbols from KiCad, which is useful when existing symbol libraries are part of a project.

Pricing

TinyCAD: free. This is a free-of-charge, open-source project with no paid tier described. The zero-cost model suits learners, hobby projects, and teams that can accept community-driven software, while organizations needing contractual support or guaranteed completeness may prefer a commercial product.

Platforms

The desktop edition runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux and supports offline work. TinyCAD Web runs in a browser on Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, and Linux without installation. Its shared .dsn and .tclib formats make switching between desktop and browser practical. Local-file mode is the better choice when files should remain on a device; Google Drive mode is preferable when Drive storage and access across devices are more important.

A Discord support community is linked from the TinyCAD Web quick-start page. Support therefore fits a community project rather than a guaranteed commercial help desk.

Who it's for

TinyCAD is a strong match for people drawing electrical schematics who want netlists, SPICE output, SVG or PDF exports, and KiCad symbol importing at no cost. It is particularly useful for mixed-device workflows, classroom use, and open-source projects where installing a desktop application is not always convenient.

It is less suitable as the sole safeguard for safety-critical or production designs. The rules checker is deliberately limited, VHDL export requires the desktop edition, and the as-is project status puts responsibility for backups and final verification on the user.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Free and open source: there is no software charge for personal or organizational use described by the plan.
• Desktop and browser continuity: matching .dsn and .tclib formats simplify moving projects between installations and devices.
• Useful downstream exports: netlists, SPICE, SVG, and browser PDF output support handoff and documentation.
• Privacy-conscious browser options: local-file mode keeps drawings on the device, while Drive mode stores them in the user’s own Drive.

Cons

• Checks are not functional validation: Design Rules Check can miss behavior and circuit-level faults.
• As-is project: possible bugs or incomplete features make backups and manual review essential.
• Browser export gap: VHDL output is desktop-only.
• Community support: assistance is centered on Discord rather than a stated commercial support contract.

Alternatives

Browse 2D CAD Software if you want a broader directory of drafting tools. Choose RoomSketcher instead for floor plans and 3D snapshots on mobile, desktop, and web, with a freemium credit model. CMS IntelliCAD is the better direction for paid DWG, DXF, and DWF-focused CAD, including an Android and Windows viewer.

LiberoDraft offers free browser-based 2D CAD with local saves and registration to unlock its start link. Pick LibreCAD for a free open-source 2D CAD application without subscriptions or annual fees. ProfiCAD suits readers who want a freemium electrical-CAD option with a 30-day full-feature trial.

QElectroTech is another free GNU/GPL option for Linux, macOS, and Windows. OpenPlan3D is a free, MIT-licensed open-source editor for iOS and the web. Draft it is a Windows alternative with an indefinitely usable free edition and paid upgrades.

Verdict

Choose TinyCAD when you need no-cost schematic capture, cross-platform access, and practical netlist or simulation exports. Its strongest case is the combination of desktop and browser workflows with shared formats and local storage options. Look elsewhere when you need assured feature completeness, commercial support, or design validation beyond common wiring and pin-type checks.