List of the Top 5 Free Electrical Design Software in 2025

Solid Edge comprises a suite of cost-effective software tools that are user-friendly and straightforward to manage. It enhances every facet of product development, encompassing mechanical and electrical design, simulation, manufacturing processes, technical documentation, data management, and collaboration through the cloud. Grounded in Siemens' cutting-edge technologies, Solid Edge provides an extensive and imaginative methodology for product development tailored to mainstream industries. This comprehensive toolkit is designed to streamline workflows and improve efficiency across various engineering disciplines.

Cableizer is a comprehensive software solution for designing electrical, mechanical, and thermal cables. Being a web-based application, it offers an affordable, easily accessible, and customizable option for users, while also providing enhanced interoperability and simplified maintenance compared to traditional desktop software. This innovative tool allows for cable design up to an impressive voltage of 500kV. Among its many features, Cableizer performs critical calculations including the mass of the cable, the heat produced during burning, carbon dioxide emissions, and overall pricing. It also assesses cable pull and rated current, along with environmental impact evaluations such as magnetic field strength and increases in ground temperatures. The convenience of this web application eliminates the need for installation or dongles, as it comes with automatic updates, and users can easily share links with customers for seamless collaboration. In addition, the software's user-friendly interface ensures that even those less familiar with cable design can navigate its features effectively.

QElectroTech is a free, open-source application that allows individuals to create complex industrial electrical diagrams effortlessly. It supports various types of diagrams, including those related to electrical systems, plumbing, geothermal energy, air conditioning, hydraulics, pneumatics, home automation, and solar power systems. The most recent version includes over 8,000 symbols, enabling users to produce highly intricate technical diagrams across several fields. Available under the GNU/GPL license, this software can be operated on Windows, Mac OS, and Linux platforms. Users can take advantage of a flexible symbol library and user-friendly tools that aid in generating professional-grade schematics. Contributions from numerous industrial companies and engineers, such as Soliton Controles Industriais and C-Born Engineering, are essential for its continuous development and translation. Additionally, QElectroTech offers DXF export functionality, which increases its compatibility with other software tools, thereby expanding its applications in various professional environments. The collaborative efforts in its development reflect a strong dedication to providing a reliable and modern tool for all users. This strong community involvement ensures that the software remains relevant and efficient in meeting the evolving needs of its audience.

SkyCAD enhances efficiency by simplifying tasks related to wire and component numbering, managing parts lists, creating bills of materials (BOMs), updating cross-references, and designing panel layouts, among other capabilities. Its functionalities include automated numbering and parts-list management, cross-referencing, and the ability to share licenses, all of which require no user training to implement. With unique design-reuse features such as design-by-systems and configuration management, it ensures both efficiency and consistency across projects. The platform also provides intuitive tools for generating PLC and other component blocks automatically, and users can create PLC drawings directly from an Excel I/O list, making the process even easier. Furthermore, the integration of panel layout design within the software streamlines workflows significantly. SkyCAD supports both European and American drawing standards, catering to diverse user needs. To aid in user adoption, an extensive library of tutorials and active support forums are available, assisting users in quickly understanding the software's features. Users have the option to select between a standard (free) license that meets basic requirements or an advanced license that unlocks additional features at a reasonable cost. The software's adaptability ensures it can be effectively utilized across various industries and project types, making it a versatile solution for professionals. Whether for large-scale industrial projects or smaller applications, SkyCAD provides the tools necessary to enhance productivity and ensure project success.

You can effectively navigate the schematic and layout in PCBWeb Designer using either your mouse or keyboard. Zooming in and out of the active design area can be easily done with the scroll wheel or by pressing the page-up and page-down keys. To quickly return to a zoom level that displays your entire design, simply click the icon in the lower right corner or press the home key. For panning across the interface, hold down the right mouse button while moving the mouse, or alternatively, utilize the scroll bars found at the bottom and side of the application. Furthermore, PCBWeb Designer includes a robust component catalog, which enables you to search, filter, and place components that have both a symbol and footprint, thereby increasing your design efficiency. This integrated feature not only simplifies the design workflow but also ensures that users can locate necessary components quickly, enhancing productivity. Overall, PCBWeb Designer is designed to facilitate a smoother design experience for all users.