NI Multisim
NI Multisim is the long-standing educational and engineering SPICE simulator (formerly Electronics Workbench) — used in thousands of universities for analog and mixed-signal circuit instruction and prototyping.
Full Pricing Breakdown
Key Capabilities
Technical Audit
The Pros
- Best-in-class interactive analog simulation UX
- Strong educational pedigree — used in many universities
- Virtual instruments mimic real lab benches
The Cons
- Windows-only
- PCB layout (Ultiboard) is the weak partner
- Now under Emerson — future roadmap uncertain
CADGuide Verdict
Final Professional Conclusion
"Still the friendliest way to teach circuits — and a fine bench-side simulator for analog designers."
Expert Q&A
?What is NI Multisim used for?
Schematic capture with SPICE-based circuit simulation, popular in education and analog design. NI Multisim is an EDA solution widely adopted in Electronics, Education, Aerospace.
?How much does NI Multisim cost?
NI Multisim starts at $600 per seat on a subscription license. Volume, network, and educational tiers are typically available — contact the vendor for an enterprise quote.
?Is there a free version of NI Multisim?
NI Multisim 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 NI Multisim support?
NI Multisim runs on Windows.
?Which file formats does NI Multisim support?
NI Multisim 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 NI Multisim?
The closest alternatives within the EDA space are Altium 365, Eagle, Altium Designer. 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.
