Quick Overview
- 1#1: AutoCAD Electrical - Specialized CAD software for automating electrical control system design with extensive symbol libraries and wire numbering.
- 2#2: EPLAN Electric P8 - Comprehensive CAE platform for creating electrical schematics, panels, and documentation with macro libraries and automation.
- 3#3: SOLIDWORKS Electrical - Integrated electrical CAD tool for schematic design that seamlessly connects with 3D mechanical models.
- 4#4: E3.series - Modular electrical design suite for wire harness, panel layouts, and formboard drawings with real-time collaboration.
- 5#5: SEE Electrical - Intuitive electrical CAD software for schematic diagrams, terminal strips, and manufacturing outputs at various price tiers.
- 6#6: Elecdes Design Suite - Standards-based electrical CAD for generating schematics, wiring diagrams, and reports with database-driven automation.
- 7#7: OrCAD Capture - Professional schematic capture tool integrated with simulation and PCB layout for electronic circuit design.
- 8#8: Altium Designer - Unified electronics design platform featuring advanced multi-sheet schematic capture and 3D PCB visualization.
- 9#9: KiCad - Free open-source EDA suite for professional schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D rendering.
- 10#10: Autodesk Eagle - Cloud-enabled PCB design software with schematic editor, libraries, and integration into Fusion 360.
We selected and ranked these tools based on technical robustness (feature coverage, industry standards adherence), user experience (intuitive interfaces, learning curve), performance reliability, and value, ensuring they meet diverse professional needs from hobbyists to enterprise teams.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines top electrical drawing software tools, such as AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN Electric P8, SOLIDWORKS Electrical, E3.series, SEE Electrical, and more. It breaks down key features, workflow capabilities, and industry suitability to guide readers in selecting the right solution for their design tasks.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AutoCAD Electrical Specialized CAD software for automating electrical control system design with extensive symbol libraries and wire numbering. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | EPLAN Electric P8 Comprehensive CAE platform for creating electrical schematics, panels, and documentation with macro libraries and automation. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | SOLIDWORKS Electrical Integrated electrical CAD tool for schematic design that seamlessly connects with 3D mechanical models. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | E3.series Modular electrical design suite for wire harness, panel layouts, and formboard drawings with real-time collaboration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | SEE Electrical Intuitive electrical CAD software for schematic diagrams, terminal strips, and manufacturing outputs at various price tiers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Elecdes Design Suite Standards-based electrical CAD for generating schematics, wiring diagrams, and reports with database-driven automation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | OrCAD Capture Professional schematic capture tool integrated with simulation and PCB layout for electronic circuit design. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Altium Designer Unified electronics design platform featuring advanced multi-sheet schematic capture and 3D PCB visualization. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | KiCad Free open-source EDA suite for professional schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D rendering. | other | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 10/10 |
| 10 | Autodesk Eagle Cloud-enabled PCB design software with schematic editor, libraries, and integration into Fusion 360. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
Specialized CAD software for automating electrical control system design with extensive symbol libraries and wire numbering.
Comprehensive CAE platform for creating electrical schematics, panels, and documentation with macro libraries and automation.
Integrated electrical CAD tool for schematic design that seamlessly connects with 3D mechanical models.
Modular electrical design suite for wire harness, panel layouts, and formboard drawings with real-time collaboration.
Intuitive electrical CAD software for schematic diagrams, terminal strips, and manufacturing outputs at various price tiers.
Standards-based electrical CAD for generating schematics, wiring diagrams, and reports with database-driven automation.
Professional schematic capture tool integrated with simulation and PCB layout for electronic circuit design.
Unified electronics design platform featuring advanced multi-sheet schematic capture and 3D PCB visualization.
Free open-source EDA suite for professional schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D rendering.
Cloud-enabled PCB design software with schematic editor, libraries, and integration into Fusion 360.
AutoCAD Electrical
enterpriseSpecialized CAD software for automating electrical control system design with extensive symbol libraries and wire numbering.
Automated electrical drafting tools with real-time error checking and dynamic linking between schematics and panel layouts
AutoCAD Electrical is a specialized CAD application from Autodesk designed for electrical engineers to create schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams efficiently. It builds on the AutoCAD platform with industry-specific tools like automated wire numbering, component tagging, and extensive symbol libraries from major manufacturers. The software supports the full electrical design workflow, including error checking, report generation, and integration with PLC I/O modules and manufacturing outputs.
Pros
- Comprehensive automation for wire sizing, numbering, and cross-referencing
- Vast catalog libraries with millions of manufacturer-verified components
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem including Inventor and Vault
- Advanced reporting and error-checking tools for standards compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to AutoCAD foundation
- High subscription pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Resource-intensive requiring high-end hardware for large projects
Best For
Professional electrical designers and engineers in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors handling complex control systems.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$2,030 USD; perpetual licenses discontinued, includes updates and cloud storage.
EPLAN Electric P8
enterpriseComprehensive CAE platform for creating electrical schematics, panels, and documentation with macro libraries and automation.
EPLAN Data Portal integration for real-time access to millions of manufacturer-verified components and macros
EPLAN Electric P8 is a comprehensive CAE software suite designed for professional electrical engineers to create intelligent schematics, cabinet layouts, PLC integration, and fluid power diagrams. It automates documentation processes like wire numbering, cross-references, error checking, and generates manufacturing outputs such as NC data and parts lists. Widely used in industrial automation, machine building, and panel manufacturing, it supports international standards and enables efficient project collaboration.
Pros
- Extensive automation for schematics, numbering, and error checking
- Vast component library with over 1.7 million parts via EPLAN Data Portal
- Seamless integration for manufacturing outputs and multi-user collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High cost prohibitive for small firms or hobbyists
- Resource-intensive, demanding powerful hardware
Best For
Professional electrical engineers and engineering firms in industrial automation and panel building needing advanced, standardized design workflows.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around €5,000 for basic modules, with full suites exceeding €20,000 plus annual maintenance; subscription models from €3,000/year.
SOLIDWORKS Electrical
enterpriseIntegrated electrical CAD tool for schematic design that seamlessly connects with 3D mechanical models.
Bidirectional synchronization between 2D electrical schematics and 3D mechanical models in SOLIDWORKS
SOLIDWORKS Electrical is a comprehensive software suite for electrical schematic design, panel layouts, and wire routing. It automates tasks like wire numbering, cross-references, and error checking while supporting industry standards such as IEC and NFPA. The platform enables real-time multi-user collaboration and generates detailed reports for manufacturing. Its standout strength lies in bidirectional integration with SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD for seamless electromechanical design workflows.
Pros
- Bidirectional integration with SOLIDWORKS 3D for electromechanical design
- Extensive automation and vast manufacturer-certified component libraries
- Real-time collaboration and advanced reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users new to SOLIDWORKS ecosystem
- High subscription costs and hardware requirements
- Limited flexibility outside Windows environment
Best For
Electrical engineering teams in manufacturing firms already using SOLIDWORKS for integrated 3D mechanical design.
Pricing
Annual term license starting at ~$5,000-$7,000 per user, with bundles for full SOLIDWORKS suite; contact vendor for quotes.
E3.series
enterpriseModular electrical design suite for wire harness, panel layouts, and formboard drawings with real-time collaboration.
Integrated end-to-end design flow with automated 3D harness routing and clash detection
E3.series from Zuken is a professional-grade suite of electrical engineering software designed for schematic capture, cable harness design, panel layout, and 3D routing. It streamlines the entire electrical design process with automation, real-time error checking, and integration between 2D schematics and 3D models. Ideal for complex projects in industries like automotive, aerospace, and machinery, it supports manufacturing outputs including BOMs and wire lists.
Pros
- Comprehensive modular tools for schematics, harnesses, panels, and formboards
- Advanced automation, design rule checks, and real-time validation
- Seamless 2D/3D integration and manufacturing-ready outputs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost suitable only for enterprises
- Resource-heavy requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Engineering teams in automotive, aerospace, or heavy machinery sectors handling complex, multi-disciplinary electrical designs.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing with perpetual or subscription models starting at around $5,000-$15,000 per user annually; custom quotes required.
SEE Electrical
specializedIntuitive electrical CAD software for schematic diagrams, terminal strips, and manufacturing outputs at various price tiers.
Intelligent symbol catalog with automatic updates and real-time error navigation across multi-page schematics
SEE Electrical, developed by IGE+XAO, is a professional CAD software suite specialized in electrical schematic design, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts for industrial automation and building applications. It features an extensive library of over 1 million manufacturer-verified symbols, automatic wire numbering, cross-referencing, and BOM generation to streamline the design-to-manufacturing workflow. The software supports standards compliance (IEC, NFPA, etc.), 3D panel modeling, and integration with PLC configuration tools, making it suitable for complex electrical projects.
Pros
- Vast library of standardized symbols from leading manufacturers
- Powerful automation tools like error checking and auto-numbering
- Seamless integration for schematic, 3D panel layout, and manufacturing outputs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High cost for full modular suites
- Limited native support for Mac/Linux platforms
Best For
Professional electrical engineers and panel builders handling large-scale industrial projects with strict standards compliance.
Pricing
Modular perpetual licensing starts at ~€990 for basic edition, with advanced bundles up to €10,000+ per seat plus annual maintenance (~20%).
Elecdes Design Suite
enterpriseStandards-based electrical CAD for generating schematics, wiring diagrams, and reports with database-driven automation.
Database-driven design engine that automatically propagates changes across drawings, cross-references, and reports for ultimate consistency and efficiency
AVEVA Elecdes Design Suite is a comprehensive CAD software suite specialized for electrical, instrumentation, and panel design in industrial applications. It automates the creation of intelligent schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and reports through a database-driven approach that links drawings to a central project database. The software supports extensive symbol libraries compliant with IEC, IEEE, and other standards, facilitating error-free design and manufacturing outputs. It integrates seamlessly with other AVEVA tools and third-party systems for end-to-end engineering workflows.
Pros
- Advanced automation for schematics, wire numbering, and BOM generation
- Vast library of industry-standard symbols and macros
- Robust database integration for real-time updates and data management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to database-centric workflow
- High enterprise-level pricing with custom quotes required
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud or mobile accessibility
Best For
Electrical and instrumentation engineers in large industrial firms managing complex panel and schematic designs for sectors like oil & gas, power, and manufacturing.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing; custom quotes required, typically starting at $5,000+ per user annually depending on modules and scale.
OrCAD Capture
specializedProfessional schematic capture tool integrated with simulation and PCB layout for electronic circuit design.
Native integration with PSpice for in-schematic circuit simulation without exporting files
OrCAD Capture, from Cadence, is a professional-grade schematic capture tool designed for creating detailed electrical schematics, hierarchical designs, and netlists essential for PCB development. It excels in managing complex circuits with features like customizable parts libraries, annotation tools, and bill of materials generation. The software integrates tightly with PSpice for simulation and OrCAD PCB Designer for layout, making it a cornerstone in electronic design workflows for industries like aerospace and automotive.
Pros
- Robust hierarchical schematic design and large component library
- Seamless integration with PSpice simulation and PCB layout tools
- Advanced netlist generation and design reuse capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve with a dated user interface
- High licensing costs unsuitable for small teams or hobbyists
- Limited cloud collaboration features compared to modern alternatives
Best For
Professional electrical engineers and engineering teams handling complex, high-reliability PCB designs in enterprise environments.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$2,500/year per user; perpetual licenses from $5,000+ with annual maintenance.
Altium Designer
enterpriseUnified electronics design platform featuring advanced multi-sheet schematic capture and 3D PCB visualization.
Seamless single-project-file workflow that unifies schematics, PCB layout, simulation, and outputs without file imports/exports
Altium Designer is a professional-grade electronic design automation (EDA) suite primarily used for schematic capture, PCB layout, and full-circuit board design. It provides an integrated environment for creating electrical schematics, routing high-speed boards, performing simulations, and generating manufacturing outputs. With Altium 365 integration, it supports cloud-based collaboration, version control, and supply chain management, making it suitable for complex electronics projects.
Pros
- Unified platform eliminates data handoffs between schematic and PCB design
- Advanced tools for high-speed design, signal integrity analysis, and 3D PCB visualization
- Robust collaboration via Altium 365 for team workflows and component management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High subscription cost prohibitive for freelancers or small teams
- Resource-intensive, requiring powerful hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Professional electrical engineers and design teams handling complex, high-speed PCB projects that demand integrated tools and cloud collaboration.
Pricing
Subscription-based; Pro license starts at ~$7,245/user/year, with NX version higher; 30-day free trial available.
KiCad
otherFree open-source EDA suite for professional schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D rendering.
Fully integrated schematic-to-PCB workflow with automatic netlist generation and Python scripting for custom automation
KiCad is a free, open-source electronic design automation (EDA) suite for creating professional schematics, PCB layouts, and Gerber files. It includes Eeschema for schematic capture, Pcbnew for PCB design with an interactive router, a 3D viewer, and library editors for symbols and footprints. Suitable for hobbyists to professionals, it supports complex multi-layer boards and integrates with external simulators.
Pros
- Completely free with no licensing fees or limitations
- Cross-platform support and active community libraries
- Professional-grade tools including 3D rendering and DRC
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Dated user interface compared to commercial alternatives
- Limited built-in simulation compared to paid tools
Best For
Budget-conscious engineers, hobbyists, and educators needing powerful, unrestricted EDA tools for schematic and PCB design.
Pricing
Free (open-source, donations encouraged)
Autodesk Eagle
specializedCloud-enabled PCB design software with schematic editor, libraries, and integration into Fusion 360.
Deep integration with Fusion 360 for real-time 3D PCB visualization and mechanical-electrical co-design
Autodesk Eagle is a robust PCB design software that enables schematic capture, board layout, and autorouting for electronics engineers and hobbyists. Acquired by Autodesk, it integrates seamlessly with Fusion 360, allowing users to combine 2D PCB design with 3D modeling for comprehensive product development. It supports a vast library of components and scripting for custom automation, making it a staple in the electronics design workflow.
Pros
- Extensive component libraries and integration with Ultra Librarian
- Powerful autorouting and simulation capabilities
- Seamless Fusion 360 integration for MCAD-ECAD collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to dated UI
- Free version limited to 2-layer boards and 80cm² size
- Subscription model required for advanced professional features
Best For
Electronics hobbyists, makers, and small engineering teams seeking affordable PCB design with 3D CAD integration.
Pricing
Free for personal/hobbyist use with board size limits; subscriptions via Fusion 360 Electronics start at $70/month or $545/year for commercial use.
Conclusion
The top 10 tools reviewed showcase diverse solutions for electrical design, with AutoCAD Electrical leading as the best choice, excelling in automating control system design and offering extensive symbol libraries. EPLAN Electric P8 and SOLIDWORKS Electrical stand out as strong alternatives—EPLAN with its comprehensive CAE platform and macro libraries, and SOLIDWORKS for seamless integration with 3D mechanical models. Together, they highlight the breadth of options available, catering to varied professional needs.
Begin your electrical design project by trying AutoCAD Electrical; its specialized features and proven automation capabilities make it a top pick for creating efficient, accurate electrical control systems.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison