LibrePCB
7.3#4 in electrical design softwareFree planFree planAPILinuxmacOSSelf-hosted
VisitLibrePCB vs SOLIDWORKS
SOLIDWORKS
8.3#3 in 3d cad softwareFrom $48 a yearWebmacOSWindows
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | LibrePCB | SOLIDWORKS |
|---|---|---|
| Audience | The maker describes it as suitable for makers, students and professionals, from beginners to experts. | SOLIDWORKS says its markets include industrial, medical, scientific, consumer, educational, technology and transportation organizations. |
| Founded | 2013 | 1993 |
| Offline use | The software can be used fully offline; the homepage describes its online account as unnecessary. | SOLIDWORKS Design can be used without an internet connection |
| Support | User help is provided through the forum, Matrix, issue tracker and community; paid support and feature development are available on request. | Online purchases include technical support and access to getting-started resources covering installation, onboarding and tutorials. |
LibrePCB plans
- FreeFree
- LibrePCBFree
SOLIDWORKS plans
- SOLIDWORKS Design Standard with Cloud Services$2,820 a year
- SOLIDWORKS Design Professional with Cloud Services$3,456 a year
- SOLIDWORKS Design Premium with Cloud Services$4,716 a year
- SOLIDWORKS for Makers$48 a year
Pick LibrePCB if…
LibrePCB suits makers, students, and professionals, from beginners to experts, who need schematic and PCB design tools. It may also suit users who want offline desktop software and self-contained projects.
Pick SOLIDWORKS if…
SOLIDWORKS suits people and organizations working with 3D product design, including industrial, medical, scientific, consumer, educational, technology, and transportation markets. Students can use Design Standard at no cost, while Makers is aimed at personal, non-commercial use.