Why free software is serious business
Many electricians think: "Free = unprofessional." In 2025, that's no longer true. Free and open-source tools cover 80% of an electrical designer's tasks: schematics, calculations, floor plans, BOMs. You only pay with your time — and we'll help you pick the right tool.
1. QElectroTech — schematics and symbol libraries
QElectroTech (qelectrotech.org) is a free, open-source electrical schematic editor. Comparable to EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical in basic functionality.
Pros:
- Free, no restrictions
- Cross-platform (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Own .qet format, export to DXF, PDF, PNG
- Built-in symbol library (IEC, GOST)
- Auto-numbering of conductors and terminals
- Active community: symbol collections for Siemens, Schneider, ABB
Cons: no load/S/C calculations — drafting only. No 3D panel layout.
When to choose: circuit diagrams, panel wiring diagrams, automation schematics. Ideal for 10–50 sheet projects.
2. ProfiCAD — quick schematic drafting
ProfiCAD (proficad.com) is a freemium editor (free version with watermark on print). Very simple interface.
Pros: minimal learning — 15 minutes; ready libraries for MCBs, RCDs, relays, terminals, PLCs; auto-generated BOM.
Cons: no project hierarchy (pages), no macros. Awkward for large projects.
When to choose: simple residential panel, small distribution board, quotation schematic.
3. KOMPAS-Electric Express — free CAD from Russia
KOMPAS-Electric Express (kompas.ru) is a free version of a professional product from ASCON.
Pros: full GOST symbol library, circuit diagrams + BOM, PDF/DXF export.
Cons: Windows only, limited number of components in Express. Registration required.
When to choose: projects under Russian standards (ESKD/SPDS), when client requires KOMPAS format documentation.
4. GorkyCAD Free — cloud CAD for electricians
GorkyCAD (gorkycad.pro) is a web tool for electrical design. Free plan: one project with basic features.
Pros:
- Floor plan + single-line diagram + panel + BOM — single model
- Auto-calculation: loads, cable cross-sections, S/C currents, voltage drop
- Browser-based (Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook)
- Built-in online calculators at gorkycad.pro/tools/: S/C current, lighting, voltage drop, breaker selection
- Export: PDF, Excel, JSON
Cons: internet needed (except PWA mode). No industrial-level multi-line schematics.
When to choose: apartment, house, or office electrical project. When you need engineering calculations, not just drafting.
5. Dialux evo — lighting design
Dialux evo (dialux.com) is a free professional lighting design tool. De-facto standard in lighting engineering.
Pros: illuminance calculation (lux), 3D visualization, luminaire databases from all manufacturers (Philips, Osram, LEDVANCE), reports per EN 12464-1.
Cons: Windows only, complex UI, requires training (2–5 days).
When to choose: office, warehouse, retail, or sports hall lighting design.
Comparison table
| Software | Schematics | Calculations | Floor Plan | Platform | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QElectroTech | ★★★★★ | — | — | Win/Mac/Linux | Medium |
| ProfiCAD | ★★★★ | — | — | Windows | Low |
| KOMPAS-El. Express | ★★★★ | — | — | Windows | Medium |
| GorkyCAD Free | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | Browser | Low |
| Dialux evo | — | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | Windows | High |
Which software to choose: recommendations
- Apartment / house: GorkyCAD Free — plan + calculation + schematic + BOM in one window, 20 minutes per project.
- Office / retail: GorkyCAD (electrical) + Dialux evo (lighting).
- Industrial panel: QElectroTech (circuit diagrams) + GorkyCAD (calculations & BOM).
- Strict GOST compliance: KOMPAS-Electric Express or commercial version.
- Quick schematics only: ProfiCAD.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, all articles and calculators are completely free.
The site offers 21 free calculators: cable sizing, breakers, RCD, voltage drop and more.
In GorkyCAD Pro: plans, panels, calculations and a PDF set for free.
Write to hello@gorkycad.pro — specialists will review and correct it.