Comparison

ST Robotics vs PCBmaker

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

ST Robotics

Features
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The ST Robotics App enables users to configure and operate various robotic kits and boards from STMicroelectronics, such as the STEVAL-ROBKIT1 robotics evaluation kit. This application facilitates the discovery, connection, and control of these robotic kits.

About

PCBmaker

Features
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PCBmaker lets you design printed circuit boards on your iPhone – from schematic to files ready to order at JLCPCB. Add modules, connect them and see how your circuit looks on a real board. The app routes the tracks for you, checks the board and prepares manufacturing files. SCHEMATIC • Library of ready-made modules: ESP32, Arduino Nano, Raspberry Pi Pico, motor drivers (TB6600, A4988), power converters, sensors, displays, relays and more • Auto-connect – the app suggests the wiring between modules • Labelled pins and microcontroller pin roles PCB • Board view in millimetres with real through-hole footprints • Autorouter – routes all connections in seconds • Manual tracks on the top and bottom layer, vias • Ground (GND) fill • Circuit inspector (DRC) – checks clearances and connections before you order READY-MADE PROJECTS 10 examples to start with, each with an explanation, parts list and Arduino sketch: Wi-Fi controlled lamp, DS18B20 thermostat, weather station with an OLED display, motion sensor alarm, WS2812B LED strip with Raspberry Pi Pico, potentiometer-controlled servo, stepper motor with A4988, CNC length stop (CYD + TB6600), ultrasonic range finder with LCD and RFID card lock. FREE Schematic design, board view, autorouter, ground fill, DRC and ready-made projects. PCBmaker PRO File exports: • Gerber and drill files in one ZIP – ready to upload to jlcpcb.com • KiCad netlist (.net) for further work in KiCad • Parts list (BOM) in JLCPCB format Monthly and yearly plans available. The subscription renews automatically unless cancelled at least 24 hours before the end of the current period. Payment is charged to your Apple ID account. Manage or cancel your subscription in your Apple ID account settings. Terms of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/ Privacy Policy: [https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/]

Screenshots

ST Robotics4 screens
PCBmaker4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: ST Robotics at none against PCBmaker's 2. PCBmaker's advantage is update cadence (every 4 days vs every 3 months). On price, ads, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. PCBmaker sells 2 in-app purchases, starting at $6.99 per month. ST Robotics asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

ST Robotics ships an update every 3 months, PCBmaker every 4 days. The most recent releases landed on October 7, 2026 and September 29, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard2 real differences · 4 level
ST Robotics versus PCBmaker: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterST RoboticsPCBmaker
PriceFreeFree
Update frequencyEvery 3 monthsEvery 4 days — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesNo — betterYes
DevicesiPhoneiPhone, iPad — better
Requires iOS16.6 — better17.0
Further details — not scored
Size34 MB12 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperSTMicroelectronicsBARTOSZ TERLECKI

In-app purchases

None

ST Robotics

No in-app purchases

2 purchases

PCBmaker

Subscriptions2
  • PCBmaker PRO Monthly$6.991 Month
  • PCBmaker PRO Yearly$49.991 Year

Questions

Is ST Robotics free?
ST Robotics is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Is PCBmaker free?
PCBmaker is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Do ST Robotics or PCBmaker have ads?
Neither ST Robotics nor PCBmaker shows ads.
Which is updated more often, ST Robotics or PCBmaker?
ST Robotics ships an update every 3 months, and PCBmaker every 4 days. Most recently, ST Robotics was updated on October 7, 2026 and PCBmaker on September 29, 2026.

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