Key Takeaways
- EAGLE is no longer free for new users.
- Existing users can continue using EAGLE for free until their current subscription expires.
- There are a number of free and paid alternatives to EAGLE available.
Introduction
EAGLE is a popular printed circuit board (PCB) design software. It has been used by engineers and hobbyists for over 30 years. However, EAGLE is no longer free for new users. Existing users can continue using EAGLE for free until their current subscription expires.
Why is EAGLE No Longer Free?
Autodesk, the company that owns EAGLE, decided to make the software paid in order to recoup the costs of development and support. Autodesk also believes that EAGLE provides enough value to users to justify a subscription fee.
What are the Alternatives to EAGLE?
There are a number of free and paid alternatives to EAGLE available. Some of the most popular free alternatives include:
- KiCad
- gEDA
- DesignSpark PCB
Some of the most popular paid alternatives include:
- Altium Designer
- OrCAD
- Pulsonix
Which Alternative is Right for You?
The best alternative to EAGLE for you depends on your needs and budget. If you are a hobbyist or occasional user, a free alternative may be sufficient. If you are a professional engineer, you may need a more powerful and feature-rich paid alternative.
Conclusion
EAGLE is a powerful PCB design software that has been used by engineers and hobbyists for over 30 years. However, EAGLE is no longer free for new users. Existing users can continue using EAGLE for free until their current subscription expires. There are a number of free and paid alternatives to EAGLE available. The best alternative for you depends on your needs and budget.