The world of electronics and programming is becoming more accessible to everyone thanks to tools that allow experimentation without the need for physical components. One of the most significant advances has been the development of online simulators for Arduino, with which you can test your ideas and develop projects from the browser without having to buy a single board or cable. This is ideal for both students as well as amateurs or professionals who want to save time and avoid errors before moving on to actual prototyping.
In this article we have compiled and analyzed the best Arduino simulators online and offline, based on the most complete and detailed information from different prominent sources on the Internet. Let's see what options you have available, their advantages, disadvantages, and what features each offers so you know which one best suits your needs.
What is Arduino and why use simulators?
Arduino a hardware libre based on a series of microcontroller boards, very popular in education, robotics and automation projects. It is controlled by a development environment (IDE) from which it is programmed in a simple language, based on C/C++.
Use a Arduino simulator allows you to emulate both the behavior of the microcontroller and the components associated electronicsThis has multiple benefits:
- You avoid damaging physical components due to errors in design or programming.
- You don't need to buy plates or sensors to start learning and experimenting.
- You fix code errors before uploading it to real boards.
- Design and test your circuits from anywhere With internet access.
Advantages of online simulators over offline ones
Nowadays it is possible to find both simulators that work completely online like other locally installed (offline) simulators. Each has its strengths, but online simulators provide some clear advantages:
- You don't need to install anything: just access the browser.
- Compatible with any operating system (Windows, Linux, macOS).
- Access projects from anywhere, ideal for students or collaborative work.
- Automatic and constant updates without worrying about local maintenance.
Still, offline simulators are useful if you need to work offline, if you handle complex projects that require more power, or if you want a integration with external tools as advanced debuggers.
The best online Arduino simulators
wokwi
wokwi It is one of the most complete, modern, and powerful simulators on the market today. It allows you to work with a wide range of boards such as Arduino UNO, Mega or even ESP32, and simulate the operation of your circuit in real time.
Su interface is clean and professional, very intuitive, ideal for both beginners and experienced developers. Wokwi allows you to work with graphic components such as TFT screens or LED strips, which is not common in other simulators. You can even emulate WiFi or MQTT communications with compatible plates.
In addition, it includes features such as:
- Debugging with GDB and PulseView type logic analyzer.
- Support for C++ and MicroPython.
- Download the code for use on real hardware.
- Project sharing.
Wokwi has a very functional free version and a premium version with extras for just €7 per month. Its development is very active, and integration with VSCode and an even more advanced interactive debugger are planned.
Tinker Cad Circuits
Screenshot
TinkerCAD It is a simulator, developed by Autodesk, ideal for beginners and education. Although it was born as a 3D design tool, it includes a specific section for electronic circuits called “Tinkercad Circuits” where you can simulate projects with Arduino UNO.
Among its main advantages are:
- Completely free and browser-based.
- Intuitive and visual interface, ideal for learning from scratch.
- Block or text code editor.
- Extensive library of electrical components.
However, it has certain limitations: it only supports a limited number of motherboard models, and some advanced components are unavailable. Still, for beginners, it's one of the best options.
EasyEDA
EasyEDA It is an online platform focused on PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design, but it also includes an option to simulate circuits with Arduino. It is a very useful tool complete and professional, ideal for those who want to go beyond prototypes and manufacture their own boards.
Includes:
- Complete schematic editor.
- Compatible with libraries of other tools like Eagle.
- Online PCB simulation and creation.
- Online collaboration with other users.
Available free and paid versions, but with the free version you can already manage a good number of projects without limits.
PartQuest
PartQuest is another online simulator that allows you to create and share circuits from the browser, with a wide selection of components. Although it is aimed at professionals, it also has a free version for beginners which offers the essentials to start experimenting with Arduino.
Tips for choosing your ideal simulator
Choosing the right simulator depends largely on your skill level, your goals, and whether you'll be working online or offline. Here are some general guidelines:
- If you are starting: It is best to opt for Tinkercad or Wokwi due to their user-friendly interface.
- If you are looking for something professional: Proteus or Virtual Breadboard will give you more advanced tools.
- If you need to work offline: SimulIDE or UnoArdusim are lightweight and complete.
- If you are interested in PCB design: EasyEDA or LTSpice offer you what you need.
For those who want to take their first steps in electronics with Arduino without complicating things, tools like Wokwi or Tinkercad are really powerful. However, if you need a deeper and more detailed environment to validate your most demanding designs, Proteus, EasyEDA or Virtual Breadboard are options worth exploring.