Side by side
ASCEND vs ngspice
Both stand on physics simulation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
ASCEND provides modeling, solving, unit handling, and thermodynamics capabilities in a free desktop package. Its equation-focused purpose and identified current version are worth considering before adopting it.
Visit ASCEND Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
ngspice provides circuit simulation and model integration through netlist-based input, with no schematic capture. Download options differ by platform, so Linux and macOS users should note the stated release guidance.
Visit ngspiceThe facts
| ASCEND | ngspice | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | ASCEND | Not published |
| Website | ascend4.org | ngspice.sourceforge.io |
| On physics simulation software | #7 of 89 | #3 of 89 |
ASCEND: what it does well
- Free and released under the General Public License.
- Supports several equation and optimization problem types.
- Includes unit handling and conversions.
- Python scripts can automate model loading and solving.
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
What to know first
- The homepage identifies version 0.9.8 as current.
- The tool is focused on modeling and solving equations.
ngspice: what it does well
- Simulates analog, digital, and mixed-signal circuits.
- Supports PSPICE and LTSPICE models and netlists.
- Offers Verilog and VHDL co-simulation options.
- Can be compiled as a shared library or DLL.
- Free and open-source.
What to know first
- Does not provide schematic entry.
- Input is command-line or file-based.
- The project's macOS release is unavailable on its stable download page.
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