How to Install EasyEDA on Any Platform: Linux, Mac M1, Windows, Android & iPad

As a PCB engineer who’s been using various EDA tools for over a decade, I’ve found EasyEDA to be one of the most accessible schematic capture and PCB layout tools available today. Whether you’re a hobbyist designing your first Arduino shield or a professional creating complex multi-layer boards, getting EasyEDA running on your system is the first step. This guide covers everything you need to know about installing EasyEDA Linux, EasyEDA Mac, EasyEDA portable, and accessing it on mobile devices.

Why EasyEDA Stands Out for Cross-Platform PCB Design

Before diving into installation, let’s quickly address why EasyEDA has become so popular. The software offers both browser-based and desktop client options, which means you can work on your designs from virtually anywhere. The integration with JLCPCB and LCSC component libraries makes it incredibly convenient when you’re ready to move from design to manufacture. Plus, there are two versions available: EasyEDA Standard (free, perfect for hobby projects) and EasyEDA Pro (more advanced features for complex designs).

EasyEDA Version Comparison: Standard vs Pro

Before installation, understand which version suits your needs:

Feature	EasyEDA Standard	EasyEDA Pro
Price	Free	Free
Component Library	1M+ components	1M+ components
Max Design Size	~300 devices/1000 pads	5000+ components/10000 pads
Offline Mode	Semi-offline	Full offline available
Multi-sheet Schematics	Limited	Full support
Advanced Routing	Basic	Push-shove routing
Simulation	Basic SPICE	Enhanced SPICE
Best For	Hobbyists, Students	Professional Engineers

System Requirements Overview

Platform	Minimum Requirements
Windows	Windows 7+ (64-bit recommended), 4GB RAM, 500MB disk
Linux	64-bit kernel, 4GB RAM, libgconf-2 (Ubuntu 18+)
macOS	macOS 10.10+, Intel or Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3)
Browser	Chrome, Firefox, Edge (latest versions)
Android/iPad	Modern browser with desktop mode

Installing EasyEDA on Windows

The Windows installation is the most straightforward option for most users. Here’s what I’ve found works best after setting this up on dozens of machines.

Method 1: Direct Download Installation

1. Navigate to the official download page at easyeda.com/page/download
2. Click on the Windows download button (choose 64-bit for most modern systems)
3. Run the downloaded .exe file
4. Follow the installation wizard, accepting the default options
5. Launch EasyEDA and sign in or create an account

Pro tip from my experience: Always install on your C: drive. I’ve seen issues on some machines when installed on secondary drives, particularly with the auto-backup features.

Method 2: Chocolatey Package Manager (For Power Users)

If you’re managing multiple Windows machines or prefer command-line installations, Chocolatey makes life easier:

powershell

choco install easyeda

This automatically handles updates and dependencies. To update later:

powershell

choco upgrade easyeda

Troubleshooting Windows Installation Issues

I’ve encountered a few common problems over the years:

White Screen on Startup: This usually indicates a firewall issue. Try these steps in order:

1. Temporarily disable Windows Firewall
2. If it works, add EasyEDA to your firewall whitelist
3. Run this command in an elevated Command Prompt: netsh winsock reset
4. Restart and try again

Slow Performance on Windows 7: EasyEDA Pro uses GPU rendering for PCB visualization. If you’re seeing black screens or sluggish performance, update your graphics drivers. If problems persist, Windows 10+ is recommended as EasyEDA has dropped official Win7 support.

EasyEDA Linux Installation: Ubuntu, Mint, and Other Distros

Running EasyEDA on Ubuntu or other Linux distributions requires a bit more work than Windows, but it’s absolutely worth it. Linux users tend to appreciate the lightweight nature of the app compared to alternatives like KiCad.

Method 1: Official Package Installation (EasyEDA Ubuntu)

This is the traditional method that works on most Debian-based distributions:

1. Download the Linux package from easyeda.com/page/download
2. Extract the zip file:

bash

   unzip easyeda-linux-x64.zip -d ~/easyeda   cd ~/easyeda/easyeda-linux-x64*

1. Run the installation script:

bash

   sudo bash install.sh

The script creates the application in /opt/easyeda and adds a desktop entry.

Method 2: Flatpak Installation (Recommended for Easy EDA Linux)

Flatpak eliminates dependency headaches and works across virtually all Linux distributions. This is my preferred method these days:

bash

# Install Flatpak if you haven’t alreadysudo apt install flatpak# Add Flathub repositoryflatpak remote-add –if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo# Install EasyEDA Proflatpak install flathub com.easyeda.EasyEDAPro# Run EasyEDAflatpak run com.easyeda.EasyEDAPro

The Flatpak version is sandboxed and includes all dependencies, which means no more hunting for missing libraries.

Method 3: Non-Privileged Home Directory Installation

If you don’t have sudo access or prefer keeping applications in your home directory, modify the install script:

bash

mkdir -p ~/.local/opt/easyedaunzip -d ~/.local/opt/easyeda easyeda-linux-x64.zipcd ~/.local/opt/easyedachmod +x easyedacp EASYEDA.dkt ~/.local/share/applications/EASYEDA.desktop

Method 4: Arch Linux (AUR)

Arch users can install from the AUR:

bash

yay -S easyeda-bin

Fixing Common Linux Issues

Missing libgconf-2.so.4 on Ubuntu 18.04+:

This library isn’t installed by default on newer Ubuntu versions. Fix it by installing the package:

bash

sudo apt install libgconf-2-4

Alternatively, locate the library from another installed application and create a symlink in the EasyEDA directory.

Icon Not Appearing in Launcher:

Make sure the .desktop file has correct paths. Edit /usr/share/applications/EASYEDA.desktop and verify the Exec and Icon paths point to the actual installation location.

EasyEDA Mac Installation: Intel and Apple Silicon M1/M2/M3

Installing EasyEDA Mac M1 machines (and M2, M3) has gotten much better since native ARM support was added. Here’s how to get it running on any Mac.

Standard Installation for EasyEDA for Mac

1. Download the appropriate version:
   1. Intel Macs: easyeda-mac-x64.zip
   1. Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3): easyeda-pro-mac-arm64.zip
2. Unzip and drag the app to your Applications folder
3. Important for Apple Silicon users: Run this terminal command before first launch:

bash

   xattr -cr /Applications/EasyEDA.app

Or for Pro version:

bash

   xattr -cr ‘/Applications/EasyEDA Pro.app’

This removes the quarantine flag that causes macOS to report the app as “damaged.”

Homebrew Installation (EasyEDA Mac)

For Mac users who prefer package management, Homebrew offers the cleanest installation:

bash

brew install easyeda

This automatically handles Apple Silicon compatibility and updates.

Troubleshooting Mac Installation

“EasyEDA is damaged and can’t be opened” Error:

This is the most common issue on macOS Ventura and later. The xattr -cr command above should fix it. If not:

1. Open System Preferences → Security & Privacy → General
2. Look for a message about EasyEDA being blocked
3. Click “Open Anyway”

App Won’t Launch on M1 Mac:

Ensure you downloaded the ARM64 version. The Intel version will run through Rosetta but may have performance issues. Check your version by right-clicking the app → Get Info → check if it says “Apple” or “Intel” under “Kind.”

Apple Silicon Native Support Confirmation:

According to testing, EasyEDA Pro version 2.2.38+ has native Apple Silicon support. The standard edition runs via Rosetta 2 on M1/M2/M3 Macs but works fine for most projects.

EasyEDA Portable: Working Without Installation

For users who need to run EasyEDA from a USB drive or without administrative privileges, there are a couple of options.

Windows Portable Option

While there isn’t an official EasyEDA portable version, you can create a semi-portable setup:

1. Install EasyEDA on one machine
2. Copy the entire installation folder to a USB drive
3. Copy the Documents/EasyEDA-Pro folder (contains settings and local projects)
4. Run the executable directly from the USB

Note that you’ll still need internet connectivity for library access unless you’re using the full offline mode.

Browser-Based Alternative (True Portability)

The most portable option is using EasyEDA’s online editor at easyeda.com/editor or pro.easyeda.com/editor. This requires no installation and works on any computer with a modern browser.

EasyEDA Android and Mobile Device Access

This is where things get a bit tricky. There’s no native EasyEDA for Android app or official EasyEDA for Android APK. However, you can still access your designs on the go.

Browser-Based Access on Android

1. Open Chrome on your Android device
2. Navigate to easyeda.com/editor or pro.easyeda.com/editor
3. Request desktop site (three dots → Desktop site)
4. Sign in to your account

Limitations I’ve experienced:

• The interface isn’t optimized for touch
• Component placement is difficult without a mouse
• Works best for viewing designs and making minor edits
• Larger phones or tablets work better than small screens

EasyEDA Mobile Editor

EasyEDA does offer a limited mobile editor at easyeda.com/editor-mobile/. This provides basic viewing capabilities but lacks full editing features.

Using Android Tablets with External Peripherals

For a better experience on Android:

1. Connect a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse
2. Use a larger tablet (10″+ recommended)
3. Use the desktop browser version
4. Consider a Samsung DeX-compatible device for desktop-like experience

EasyEDA iPad Usage

Unfortunately, EasyEDA iPad support is officially unsupported. The EasyEDA team has confirmed in their forums that iPad support isn’t currently a priority. However, you have options.

Workarounds for iPad Users

Safari Browser Method:

1. Open Safari and navigate to easyeda.com/editor
2. Request desktop website (AA button → Request Desktop Website)
3. Sign in and access your projects

Results vary: Some users report basic functionality works, while others experience significant issues with the touch interface.

Alternative Browsers: Some users have reported better results with Chrome or Opera on iPad. The key is ensuring “Request Desktop Site” is enabled.

Remote Desktop Solution: The most reliable option for serious work:

1. Install a remote desktop app (Parsec, Jump Desktop, or Chrome Remote Desktop)
2. Connect to your Windows/Mac/Linux machine running EasyEDA
3. Use the iPad as a remote display

This gives you full functionality but requires another computer running.

Essential Downloads and Resources

Here are the official download links and resources you’ll need:

Resource	URL
EasyEDA Download Center	https://easyeda.com/page/download
EasyEDA Pro Documentation	https://prodocs.easyeda.com/
EasyEDA Std Documentation	https://docs.easyeda.com/
Desktop Client Activation	https://easyeda.com/page/desktop-client-activation
Auto Router Download	https://easyeda.com/files/EasyEDA-Router-latest.zip
Flathub (Linux)	https://flathub.org/apps/com.easyeda.EasyEDAPro
Community Forum	https://easyeda.com/forum
OSHWLab (Open Source Projects)	https://oshwlab.com/

Configuring Offline and Semi-Offline Modes

One of the most common questions I get is about offline usage. Here’s how the modes work:

Teamwork Mode (Default)

• Full cloud synchronization
• All libraries and projects on server
• Requires constant internet connection
• Best for collaboration

Semi-Offline Mode

• Projects stored locally
• Libraries still cloud-based
• Internet needed for library searches and schematic-to-PCB conversion
• Good balance of local control and library access

Full Offline Mode (Pro Only)

• All projects and libraries local
• Built-in library of 10,000+ components
• No collaboration features
• Best for secure environments or unreliable internet

To switch modes: Top Menu → Settings → Desktop Client Setting → Running Mode

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EasyEDA really free?

Yes, both EasyEDA Standard and EasyEDA Pro are free to use. There’s no catch, though the tight integration with JLCPCB for manufacturing is clearly their business model. You’re not required to use JLCPCB, and Gerber export is fully functional for any manufacturer.

Can I use EasyEDA completely offline?

EasyEDA Pro offers a full offline mode with a built-in library of commonly used components. EasyEDA Standard requires internet for most operations, including library access and schematic-to-PCB conversion. Even in offline mode, you won’t have access to the full 1M+ component library.

How do I transfer projects between online and desktop versions?

Export your project using File → Save As → Local (creates a compressed project file), then import this file into the other version. The formats are compatible between online and desktop clients.

Is my design data secure in the cloud?

EasyEDA uses SSL encryption and AWS servers for data storage. You can set projects as private, and they offer local backup options. For highly sensitive designs, use the full offline mode and keep projects locally.

Why can’t I install EasyEDA on my iPad or Android tablet?

EasyEDA is built as a complex web application optimized for desktop browsers with mouse and keyboard input. Touch interfaces don’t work well with the precision needed for PCB design. The team has stated they’re focusing on improving the desktop experience before considering mobile apps.

Post-Installation Setup Tips

After installing EasyEDA on any platform, these configuration steps will improve your workflow.

Setting Up Your Component Library

One of EasyEDA’s biggest strengths is its massive component library. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Browse LCSC Integration: Every component in the library links directly to LCSC for procurement. When you place a component, you’ll see real-time stock levels and pricing.
2. Create a Personal Library: For components you use frequently, create a personal library folder. Go to Library → New Library → Personal Library.
3. Import Existing Libraries: If you’re migrating from another EDA tool, EasyEDA supports imports from:
   1. Altium Designer
   1. Eagle
   1. KiCad
   1. LTspice
   1. CircuitMaker

Configuring Auto-Backup

Data loss is every engineer’s nightmare. EasyEDA provides automatic backup, but make sure it’s configured properly:

Desktop Client Settings:

• Top Menu → Settings → Desktop Client Setting
• Set your backup directory (avoid system folders)
• Backups save to project_backup subdirectory automatically

Recovery Process: If EasyEDA crashes mid-design:

1. Go to Advanced → Document Recovery
2. Select the timestamp closest to your last save
3. Review changes before restoring

Setting Up Local Auto Router

The local auto router provides better performance than the online version. Here’s the setup:

1. Download EasyEDA-Router-latest.zip from the download center
2. Extract to a convenient location
3. In EasyEDA: Settings → Auto Router → Local Router Path
4. Point to the extracted router executable

The local router is particularly valuable for complex boards where the online router might time out.

Comparing EasyEDA to Alternatives

Since you’re researching EasyEDA Linux or EasyEDA Mac installation, you might be considering alternatives. Here’s my honest comparison based on years of using multiple tools:

EasyEDA vs KiCad

Aspect	EasyEDA	KiCad
Learning Curve	Very gentle	Steeper
Library Size	1M+ (cloud)	~20,000 (local)
Routing	Basic/Semi-auto	Push-shove (advanced)
Price	Free	Free/Open Source
Offline Use	Limited	Full
Manufacturing	JLCPCB integrated	Any manufacturer
Community	Active forums	Massive community

My take: KiCad wins for complex, multi-layer professional boards. EasyEDA wins for rapid prototyping and beginners who want to go from idea to manufactured board quickly.

EasyEDA vs Altium Designer

Altium is the industry gold standard, but costs thousands of dollars annually. EasyEDA covers 90% of what hobbyists and many professionals need, for free. If your employer isn’t paying for Altium, EasyEDA is a fantastic alternative.

EasyEDA vs Fusion 360 Electronics

Fusion 360’s electronics module (formerly Eagle) has good mechanical integration but a steeper learning curve. EasyEDA is more focused purely on PCB design and excels at that single task.

Advanced Installation Scenarios

Running EasyEDA in a Virtual Machine

Sometimes you need isolation or a specific OS environment. Here’s what works:

VMware/VirtualBox:

• Windows guests work well with 4GB+ RAM allocated
• Enable 3D acceleration for PCB rendering
• Linux guests may need VirtualBox Guest Additions for proper graphics

WSL2 (Windows Subsystem for Linux): WSL2 with GUI support can run the Linux version:

bash

# In WSL2 Ubuntusudo apt install libgconf-2-4# Then follow standard Linux installation

Performance is acceptable for smaller designs but may lag on complex boards.

Docker Container Setup

For reproducible environments or CI/CD pipelines:

dockerfile

FROM ubuntu:22.04RUN apt-get update && apt-get install -y \    libgconf-2-4 \    libnss3 \    libatk1.0-0 \    libgtk-3-0 \    unzip# Add EasyEDA installation steps

This is useful for automated design rule checks or generating manufacturing files in a pipeline.

Network Installation for Teams

In corporate environments, you might need centralized deployment:

1. Download the installer to a network share
2. Create a deployment script with silent install flags (/VERYSILENT /SUPPRESSMSGBOXES)
3. Deploy via Group Policy or your configuration management tool
4. Consider the offline mode for air-gapped networks

Performance Optimization Tips

After installing EasyEDA, these tweaks can improve performance significantly.

Graphics Configuration

EasyEDA Pro uses GPU acceleration for PCB rendering. For optimal performance:

NVIDIA Users:

1. Open NVIDIA Control Panel
2. Manage 3D Settings → Program Settings
3. Add EasyEDA/EasyEDA Pro
4. Set preferred graphics processor to “High-performance NVIDIA processor”

AMD Users: Similar process in AMD Radeon Settings, adding EasyEDA to the Gaming profile.

Integrated Graphics: If you only have Intel integrated graphics, ensure drivers are updated. Performance will be acceptable for 2-layer boards but may struggle with 4+ layers and large copper pours.

Memory Considerations

EasyEDA can consume significant memory with large designs:

• Close unnecessary browser tabs (the desktop client is essentially a browser)
• For boards with 1000+ components, 16GB RAM is recommended
• Enable virtual memory/swap space if you’re memory-constrained

Keeping EasyEDA Updated

The EasyEDA team releases updates frequently. Here’s how to stay current:

Desktop Client Updates

Currently, auto-update isn’t implemented. Check for updates manually:

1. Visit the download center
2. Compare version numbers
3. Download and install over the existing version

Your projects and settings are preserved during updates.

Browser Version

Always current. Simply refresh your browser or clear cache if you encounter issues after an update.

Flatpak Updates (Linux)

bash

flatpak update com.easyeda.EasyEDAPro

Homebrew Updates (Mac)

bash

brew upgrade easyeda

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EasyEDA really free?

Yes, both EasyEDA Standard and EasyEDA Pro are free to use. There’s no catch, though the tight integration with JLCPCB for manufacturing is clearly their business model. You’re not required to use JLCPCB, and Gerber export is fully functional for any manufacturer.

Can I use EasyEDA completely offline?

EasyEDA Pro offers a full offline mode with a built-in library of commonly used components. EasyEDA Standard requires internet for most operations, including library access and schematic-to-PCB conversion. Even in offline mode, you won’t have access to the full 1M+ component library.

How do I transfer projects between online and desktop versions?

Export your project using File → Save As → Local (creates a compressed project file), then import this file into the other version. The formats are compatible between online and desktop clients.

Is my design data secure in the cloud?

EasyEDA uses SSL encryption and AWS servers for data storage. You can set projects as private, and they offer local backup options. For highly sensitive designs, use the full offline mode and keep projects locally.

Why can’t I install EasyEDA on my iPad or Android tablet?

EasyEDA is built as a complex web application optimized for desktop browsers with mouse and keyboard input. Touch interfaces don’t work well with the precision needed for PCB design. The team has stated they’re focusing on improving the desktop experience before considering mobile apps.

What’s the difference between EasyEDA and LCEDA?

LCEDA is the Chinese version of EasyEDA, focused on domestic Chinese users with servers in China. EasyEDA is the international version with servers optimized for global access. Projects can be transferred between them, but you’ll need separate accounts.

Can I import my Eagle or KiCad projects?

Yes, EasyEDA supports importing from Eagle (.brd, .sch), KiCad, Altium Designer, and LTspice. The import isn’t always perfect, especially for complex designs with custom footprints, but it saves significant redrawing time.

Final Thoughts

Getting EasyEDA installed is just the beginning. Once you’re up and running, take time to explore the component library integration, simulation features, and the seamless path to PCB manufacturing. Whether you’re running EasyEDA Linux, EasyEDA Mac M1, or the Windows desktop client, the experience is remarkably consistent across platforms.

The lack of native mobile apps is disappointing for those of us who occasionally want to review designs on the go, but the browser-based option provides a reasonable workaround. For serious PCB work, stick with a proper desktop setup anyway, as the precision required for component placement and routing really demands a mouse and full-size display.

If you run into issues not covered here, the EasyEDA forum community is active and helpful. Most problems have been solved by someone before, and the official support team responds to questions regularly.

The PCB design landscape has changed dramatically in the last decade. Tools that once cost thousands are now free, and browser-based solutions mean you’re no longer tied to a specific workstation. EasyEDA represents this shift well, making professional-quality PCB design accessible to everyone from students to professional engineers. Get it installed, start designing, and join the growing community of makers bringing their electronic ideas to life.