Google Cirq
open-source
Open-source Python framework for creating, editing, and invoking noisy intermediate-scale quantum circuits.
Open source quantum computing software to evaluate in 2026
Open source quantum computing software gives teams full code access, no per-user licensing, and the freedom to self-host, but operational cost replaces license cost. These are the open source options in this category, followed by the full list for comparison.
2 of 7 products in this category match the open source filter and are highlighted below.
Back to all Quantum Computing Software tools, or browse the full software directory. You can also run head-to-head comparisons or read about our review methodology.
For background on scoring, see how rankings work. Our editorial articles add deeper analysis, the glossary clarifies vendor terminology, and our calculators help estimate ROI before the shortlist narrows further.
Open source options
PennyLane
open-source
Open-source library for quantum machine learning, automatic differentiation, and hybrid quantum-classical computing.
Other quantum computing software
The rest of the quantum computing software category, listed because the open source filter above did not select them. Worth reading when the highlighted options do not fit.
Amazon Braket
usage-based
Managed quantum computing service providing access to quantum hardware from IonQ, Rigetti, and OQC.
Azure Quantum
usage-based
Cloud platform for quantum computing with access to diverse hardware and optimization solvers.
IBM Quantum
freemium
Cloud-based quantum computing platform with Qiskit SDK, real quantum hardware access, and simulators.
IonQ
usage-based
Trapped-ion quantum computing platform accessible via major cloud providers with high qubit fidelity.
Rigetti QCS
usage-based
Quantum cloud services platform for running algorithms on superconducting quantum processors.
Common questions about open source quantum computing software
Is open source quantum computing software really free?
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The license is free, but hosting, maintenance, patching, and upgrades replace the vendor's license fee. Teams without dedicated ops resources often spend more on self-managed open source than on a managed commercial alternative.
When should I choose open source over commercial quantum computing software?
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Open source is strongest when you need full code control, on-premises deployment for compliance, or want to avoid vendor lock-in. It is weaker when your team lacks the ops capacity to maintain, patch, and scale the deployment.
What should I check before deploying open source quantum computing software?
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Check community activity (commits, issues, and releases in the last six months), commercial support options, documentation quality, and the total operational burden against a managed alternative. A dormant project with no commercial backing is a risk.