Best Free Circuit Simulators in 2026 — Comparison
Finding the right free circuit simulator depends on your needs — browser-based vs desktop, beginner vs advanced, analog vs digital. This guide compares the most popular free options available in 2026 so you can choose the right tool for your project.
Quick Comparison
| Simulator | Type | Best For | Account Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| FreeCircuitSim | Browser | Students, beginners, quick simulation | No |
| Falstad.com | Browser | Education, visual learning | No |
| EasyEDA | Browser + PCB | PCB design + simulation | Yes |
| LTspice | Desktop | Advanced analog SPICE simulation | No |
| KiCad | Desktop | Professional PCB design | No |
| Tinkercad Circuits | Browser | Arduino simulation, absolute beginners | Yes |
FreeCircuitSim
Best for: Students and beginners who want instant, no-fuss simulation.
FreeCircuitSim runs entirely in your browser with no download or account required. Built on the open-source CircuitJS1 engine, it features real-time animated current flow, 50+ component types, 360+ example circuits, and an AI circuit explainer. Mobile-friendly and installable as a PWA. Free forever.
Strengths: No setup, real-time animation, AI tutor, large example library, mobile-friendly. Limitations: Simplified component models (not manufacturer-specific SPICE models).
Falstad Circuit Simulator
Best for: Visual learners who want to see current flow animated.
The original browser-based circuit simulator by Paul Falstad. FreeCircuitSim is built on the same CircuitJS1 engine. The Falstad site has a plain interface but works well. No account needed. Desktop-focused — mobile experience is limited.
LTspice (Free Desktop)
Best for: Advanced analog simulation with real component SPICE models.
LTspice by Analog Devices is the gold standard for free SPICE simulation. It uses exact manufacturer-provided SPICE models for real components, enabling accurate simulation of precision analog circuits. Available for Windows and macOS. No browser version. No account needed. Steep learning curve.
Strengths: Accurate SPICE models, waveform analysis, large component library. Limitations: No browser version, Windows UI, steep learning curve, no real-time animated simulation.
EasyEDA
Best for: Students who want to go from simulation to PCB fabrication.
EasyEDA is a browser-based tool that combines schematic capture, SPICE simulation, and PCB layout in one package. It integrates with JLCPCB for inexpensive PCB manufacturing. Requires account registration. The simulation engine is less visual than FreeCircuitSim but more capable for PCB-focused workflows.
Tinkercad Circuits
Best for: Absolute beginners and Arduino projects in education.
Autodesk Tinkercad Circuits provides a visual, drag-and-drop interface specifically designed for beginners and middle/high school education. Includes Arduino simulation with code editing. Requires a free account. Less capable for analog circuit analysis.
Which Should You Choose?
- No download, instant start, student learning: FreeCircuitSim
- Professional precision analog design: LTspice
- PCB design + simulation together: EasyEDA
- Arduino projects with code: Tinkercad Circuits
- Full PCB design suite: KiCad