DipTrace
PCB design software
CAD software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$75 perpetual license
Free TrialFree version
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What is DipTrace
DipTrace is an electronic design automation (EDA) application used to create schematics and design printed circuit boards (PCBs). It targets engineers, makers, and small teams that need schematic capture, PCB layout, and manufacturing outputs such as Gerber/NC drill files. The product includes integrated tools for component and pattern (footprint) creation and supports 3D PCB preview to help validate mechanical fit. It is typically deployed as a desktop application rather than a browser-based design environment.
Integrated schematic-to-PCB workflow
DipTrace provides schematic capture, PCB layout, and forward/back annotation in a single toolchain. This reduces handoffs between separate applications and helps keep connectivity consistent during iterative changes. It also includes built-in libraries and editors for creating custom symbols and footprints, which supports teams with specialized parts.
Manufacturing output support
The software generates standard fabrication deliverables such as Gerber files and NC drill data used by PCB manufacturers. It also supports common import/export formats to exchange designs and libraries with other EDA workflows. These capabilities make it practical for moving from prototype to production without requiring a separate CAM tool for basic outputs.
3D visualization for fit checks
DipTrace includes 3D PCB visualization to review component placement and board geometry. This helps identify clearance and orientation issues before ordering boards, especially when enclosures or mechanical constraints matter. The 3D view can complement mechanical CAD processes by providing a board-level representation for review.
Limited cloud collaboration features
DipTrace primarily operates as a desktop tool and does not emphasize real-time, multi-user collaboration workflows. Teams that require browser-based access, concurrent editing, or integrated review/approval flows may need additional processes and tooling. Version control and design review are typically handled outside the application.
Advanced enterprise features may lag
Compared with higher-end PCB suites, DipTrace may offer fewer options for complex constraints, advanced high-speed design rule management, and enterprise library governance. Organizations with strict compliance, large managed component libraries, or highly constrained designs may find gaps. These teams often require deeper integration with PLM/MCAD/ECAD enterprise systems than DipTrace commonly provides.
Simulation and analysis not central
DipTrace focuses on schematic and PCB layout rather than circuit simulation or signal/power integrity analysis. Users needing integrated SPICE simulation, advanced analysis, or tightly coupled verification may need separate tools. This can add steps to the workflow for designs that require extensive pre-layout or post-layout validation.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | $75 (perpetual license, one-time) | 300 pins, 2 signal layers. Perpetual license. |
| Lite | $145 (perpetual license, one-time) | 500 pins, 2 signal layers. Perpetual license. |
| Standard | $395 (perpetual license, one-time) | 1000 pins, 4 signal layers. Perpetual license. |
| Extended | $695 (perpetual license, one-time) | 2000 pins, 6 signal layers. Perpetual license. |
| Full | $995 (perpetual license, one-time) | Unlimited pins, unlimited signal layers. Perpetual license. |
Notes:
- Unlimited plane layers (power/ground) for all editions; registration key delivered by e-mail (within 24 hours stated). Upgrades: minor upgrades (5.x) free; upgrade to next major version (6.x or later) is charged at 25% of full price (per vendor notes). Volume discounts available (see separate volume pricing table). All prices listed on DipTrace online store (perpetual licenses).
