Quick Answer: Which software to choose?
For homeowners and DIYers: Electro Planner - free, simple, automatic protection selection, works online
For electricians and designers: Electro Planner or ProfiCAD - depending on drawing needs
For large design firms: AutoCAD Electrical - full CAD capabilities, but high price
Comparison of best electrical installation software
Comparison table
| Criterion | Electro Planner | ProfiCAD | AutoCAD Electrical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | ~$100 | ~$2,000/year |
| Works online | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Automatic protection selection | ✓ | ✗ | Partial |
| Automatic phase distribution | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Visual distribution board editor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| PDF export | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Local standards | ✓ | ✓ | Configurable |
| CAD schematic drawing | Basic | Advanced | Full |
| Ease of use | 5/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
1. Electro Planner - best free choice
Electro Planner is the best software for creating electrical projects for home users and professionals looking for a quick solution. It works entirely online, without installation.
Electro Planner advantages:
- Completely free - no hidden costs
- Automatic B10/B16/C16 circuit breaker selection
- Intelligent phase distribution in 3-phase installations
- Visual distribution board editor (DIN rail)
- Complete PDF documentation export
- Works in browser - no installation
Best for:
Homeowners planning installation, electricians needing a quick documentation tool, people without CAD software experience.
2. ProfiCAD - for advanced drawings
ProfiCAD is a popular desktop program for drawing electrical schematics. It offers more drawing features than Electro Planner but requires installation and license purchase.
Advantages:
- Advanced schematic drawing capabilities
- Large electrical symbol library
- One-time fee (no subscription)
Disadvantages:
- Requires Windows installation
- No automatic protection selection
- Cost ~$100
3. AutoCAD Electrical - for large firms
AutoCAD Electrical is a professional CAD tool from Autodesk. It offers full design capabilities, but its price and learning curve make it suitable mainly for large design firms.
Advantages:
- Full CAD capabilities
- Integration with other Autodesk products
- Industry standard in large design offices
Disadvantages:
- High price (~$2,000/year)
- Steep learning curve
- Requires powerful computer
Try the best electrical installation software
Join thousands of users who chose Electro Planner. Start designing for free - no registration, no installation.