Eagle
Autodesk EAGLE was one of the most widely used EDA packages for schematic capture and PCB layout. Autodesk ended standalone EAGLE sales in June 2021 and merged its schematic and board technology into Fusion 360 Electronics. Legacy EAGLE projects open directly in Fusion 360, and new designs should start there instead of EAGLE.
Full Pricing Breakdown
Key Capabilities
Electronics
Technical Audit
The Pros
- Fusion 360 MCAD link
- Massive library support
- Cross-platform
The Cons
- Subscription only
- Interface quirky
- Replaced by Fusion Electronics
CADGuide Verdict
Final Professional Conclusion
"The standard for mid-level professional PCB design."
Expert Q&A
?What is Eagle used for?
PCB design software integrated with Fusion 360. Eagle is an EDA solution widely adopted in Electronics, IoT, Education.
?How much does Eagle cost?
EAGLE is no longer sold. Autodesk ended standalone EAGLE subscriptions in June 2021; the former $680/year plan was replaced by Fusion 360, which now includes the former EAGLE electronics functionality.
?Is there a free version of Eagle?
Eagle is a commercial product without a free permanent tier. Most vendors offer a 15-30 day evaluation on request; verified educational seats are typically free for students.
?What operating systems does Eagle support?
Eagle runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
?Which file formats does Eagle support?
Eagle works with standard EDA interchange formats including Gerber, IPC-2581, and ODB++. Check the vendor's official documentation for the complete list of supported import and export options.
?What are the best alternatives to Eagle?
The closest alternatives within the EDA space are Altium Designer, EPLAN Electric P8, Synopsys Fusion Compiler. The right fit depends on whether you prioritise file-format compatibility, geometry kernel, ecosystem of plugins, or pricing model — compare them side-by-side using the CADGuide comparison tool.
