Preview KiCad schematics and PCBs in VS Code. Bundled KiCanvas provides 2D viewing; an independent Three.js renderer provides 3D.
Features
Inspect .kicad_sch and .kicad_pcb files with zoom, pan, and layer controls.
Move and rotate unlocked PCB footprints.
Show airwires with per-net visibility, including KiCad 10 name-only nets.
View PCBs immediately in 3D, with estimated component boxes replaced by local STEP/STP and WRL models as they load.
Toggle enhanced lighting and shadows while keeping the same background color.
Export PNG images and refresh automatically after document changes.
Quick start
Open a schematic or PCB with KiCAD Viewer using VS Code's Open With… menu.
Layers controls layer visibility; Space switches the fitted view.
Select a footprint to edit its position and rotation, then Apply and save.
Use 3D or Alt+3 for a PCB's 3D preview; 2D, Alt+2, or Esc returns.
Use Export image in the lower-right toolbar to save a PNG.
3D models must be referenced by the PCB and available locally. If automatic discovery misses your library, set kilens.modelSearchPaths; external libraries require a trusted workspace. See the user guide for controls, model configuration, export behavior, and preview limitations. Use KiCad for final connectivity and mechanical checks.
