Side by side
CircuitLab vs LibrePCB
Both stand on electrical design software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan ExtensionLinuxMac+2
Choose CircuitLab if you need browser-based schematic capture and analog or digital simulation, with sharing and export options. Look elsewhere if your intended use is safety-critical: its terms do not authorize that use. Commercial users need Pro or Enterprise.
Visit CircuitLab Free plan Open source APILinuxMac+2
LibrePCB brings schematic and board design tools together in a free desktop application, with offline use and project portability. Its download requirements vary by operating system, and developer support is paid; community help is available for free.
Visit LibrePCBThe facts
| CircuitLab | LibrePCB | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Extension, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | CircuitLab Micro: $24 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 9 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | circuitlab.com | librepcb.org |
| On electrical design software | #2 of 41 | #1 of 41 |
CircuitLab: what it does well
- Supports analog, digital, and mixed-mode simulation.
- Includes frequency-domain analysis and parameter sweeps.
- Exports schematics as PDF, PNG, EPS, or SVG.
- Unique circuit URLs support sharing and requests for help.
- Works offline via the Chrome Web Store.
What to know first
- Commercial use is limited to Pro and Enterprise subscriptions.
- The Student Edition requires an official .EDU email and paid school subscription.
- Enterprise has a 10-seat minimum.
LibrePCB: what it does well
- Works fully offline without an online account.
- Multi-page schematics with live electrical rule checking.
- Board editor includes a live 3D viewer.
- Projects include their relevant libraries and settings.
What to know first
- Windows binaries require 64-bit Windows 10 or later.
- macOS binaries require macOS 10.14 or later.
- Developer support is not free.
Alternatives to CircuitLab Alternatives to LibrePCB The whole list