KiCad is the most popular open-source tool for designing printed circuit boards. Engineers draw schematics, assign components, lay out the board with traces and layers, and generate the files that manufacturers need, such as Gerbers and drill files. A 3D viewer shows how the finished board will look, and checks for design rules help catch errors before fabrication. It handles professional designs with many layers and high-speed signals.
The project has strong community and institutional backing. It is developed by volunteers and professionals, with support from organizations like CERN, and has a large library of symbols, footprints, and 3D models. Plugins and scripting in Python extend it, and manufacturers such as PCB fabricators provide direct support. Recent releases have improved the interface, simulation, and collaboration.
KiCad is free under an open-source license. It has historically had a steeper learning curve and fewer integrated features for team collaboration than Altium Designer, though it has been closing the gap. AI tools are emerging as plugins. Alternatives include Altium, Autodesk Fusion and Eagle, EasyEDA, which is browser-based, and Cadence OrCAD. KiCad suits makers, startups, and companies that want a capable free tool.