Each of these programs has its strength in schematics or PCB layouts. PCB layouts specifically refer to the physical layout of a PCB board. They allow you to connect components like resistors, transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits into a circuit board. Schematics are the blueprints of your electronics and cover voltage, current, and other measurements. So, the first thing to consider when choosing a design program is whether you need a schematic editor or a PCB layout program. They get frequent updates (sometimes on different schedules).
These programs are available for Windows and Mac computers. They do not allow you to use open-source components or share your designs with others. On the other hand, Altium is entirely proprietary and tightly controlled by its parent company. Kicad offers a 100% open-source design platform that allows you to use any brand of components in your projects. The good news is that both programs are entirely free to use. Nowadays, some people recommend Altium – whereas others prefer Kicad – but it can be challenging to know which one is best for you and your needs. However, as the industry has grown over the last decade, multiple options are available to engineers and hobbyists alike. In the past, designing a PCB board meant that you would have to purchase expensive CAD tools from a single company that could cost thousands of dollars for an annual subscription.
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