PCB Design Software for A Beginner

[tetwin11]

I've used Eagle once, some 10 years ago. That is the extent of my PCB design experience.
I'm looking to do a simple board now (maybe a dozen components or so, 3"x4", hopefully 2 layer) and I wanted to see if anyone had suggestions on what software I could use. The EE that has since left here used Altium.
Should I use Altium, or would that be a bit too much of a learning curve? I've heard good things about KiCad. Any other suggestions?

 

[3DDave]

Many board suppliers have a board layout program that is integrated with their ordering system. They usually already have models of all the components they sell, including the passives and many common ICs.

 

[IRstuff]

Since you already have Altium, and it presumably worked with your PCB suppliers, I would tend to think that would be the best choice.

TTFN (ta ta for now)
I can do absolutely anything. I'm an expert!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKorP55Aqvg

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[MacGyverS2000]

Altium is on a completely different level compared to Eagle, KiCAD, etc. But if you're asking such a question, my guess would be you wouldn't use the power Altium offers, and the other two are likely more appropriate for your use.

Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com

 

[3DDave]

Another suggestion is to look at the videos from Dave Jones channel EEVBlog that cover different PCB software. For example:

https://www.youtube.com/c/EevblogDave/search?query=pcb

 

[tetwin11]

I love that EEVBlog for many reasons. Thanks for the tip!
I'm starting with KiCAD, and once I get comfortable with that, I'll give Altium a try when I need to.
Thanks everyone!

 

[Rodmcm]

KCad

https://kicad-pcb.org/

Free
The main problem is that the online component libraries are not easy to navigate but it is easy to generate your own schematic and footprints of items as needed...

 

[tetwin11]

Just as a follow up, I've been using KiCAD for a few months and it's been great! Super easy to use.