Eagle is pretty easy to learn, if you follow the tutorial. It's what I've been using since version 4.01, and works great under linux (linux version).
Some don't like it, but it does have a LOT of possibilities with it's scripts. The Autoroute is not half bad too, as long as you set up the DRC rules properly, which most people don't do and end up saying it's nothing but crap. It helps to read the manual first. ;-)
Some pcb shops also accept eagle brd files without having to output gerber first.
Whichever cad program you choose, do a google search for a tutorial for it. It'll save you tons of time on learning how to use it.
Marc
--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Slavko Kocjancic <eslavko@...> wrote:
>
> ae5ew pravi:
> >
> >
> > Hi. I'm new here. How about a list of the 'best' free programs?
> > Charles AE5EW
> >
> EaglePCB is free for 1/2 euro format board.
>