KiCADLinux
vs
EAGLEWindows
KiCAD as a Linux alternative to EAGLE
Updated
Our verdict
KiCad is a strong, free replacement for EAGLE, especially now that EAGLE is discontinued. It covers schematic capture, PCB layout, and manufacturing output without a subscription. For hobbyists and small teams, it is the standard choice. Professional users might miss some specific Autodesk integrations, but the core design workflow is fully functional. The open-source nature means no license fees, and the community library is extensive. If you relied on EAGLE's specific scripting or cloud features, you will need to adapt, but for standard PCB design, KiCad is a direct and capable alternative.
- License
- GPL-3.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 10.0.8 (November 11, 2011)
- Rating
- 4/5 (1)
What works the same
- Schematic capture with hierarchical sheets
- PCB layout with autorouting and manual editing
- Design Rule Checking (DRC) for manufacturing compliance
- Export to Gerber and drill files
- Large built-in component libraries
What is different
- KiCad is free and open-source; EAGLE was proprietary
- KiCad uses its own native file format; EAGLE used .sch and .brd
- KiCad includes integrated ngspice simulation; EAGLE required external tools
- KiCad has a different UI layout and workflow logic
- EAGLE is discontinued; KiCad is actively developed
Opening your EAGLE files
KiCad can import EAGLE files (.sch and .brd) directly. The import process is generally reliable for standard designs, but complex scripts or specific EAGLE-only features may not translate perfectly. You should always review the imported schematic and PCB layout carefully to ensure all connections and footprints are correct before proceeding to manufacturing. Exporting back to EAGLE format is not supported.
Switching from EAGLE to KiCAD, step by step
- Install KiCad via your package manager or Flatpak
- Import your EAGLE .sch and .brd files into KiCad
- Review the imported schematic for missing components or connections
- Check the PCB layout for footprint mismatches or DRC errors
- Update any custom libraries or footprints as needed
- Run DRC and export Gerber files to verify output
Key features of KiCAD
- Schematic capture with hierarchical sheets
- PCB layout with auto‑routing and manual editing
- Integrated ngspice simulation
- 3D preview of PCB and components
- Gerber, ODB++ and IPC‑2581 export
- Bill of Materials generation
- Component library with thousands of symbols and footprints
- Cross‑platform installation via Flatpak, DEB, RPM
How to install KiCAD on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.kicad.KiCadsudo apt install kicadsudo apt install kicadsudo dnf install kicadsudo pacman -S kicad-demossudo zypper install kicadFrequently asked questions
Can KiCad open EAGLE files?
Yes, KiCad has a built-in importer for EAGLE .sch and .brd files. It handles most standard designs well, but you should verify the import for complex projects.
Is KiCad suitable for professional PCB design?
Yes, KiCad is used by many professionals and companies for production PCBs. It supports all standard manufacturing outputs and has a robust DRC engine.
Does KiCad have autorouting?
Yes, KiCad includes an autorouter, though many designers prefer manual routing for critical signals. The autorouter is useful for simple connections or dense areas.
