Where Are LTspice Libraries Stored?
LTspice keeps symbols, models, and example schematics in library and examples folders outside the program folder. User options live in a separate ini file.
Last updated
Classic installs place user visible libraries under Documents LTspiceXVII. Newer 17.1 installs use LocalAppData for shipped libraries while keeping user files accessible.
The lib tree holds sym, sub, and cmp subfolders for symbols, subcircuits, and device models. The ini file holds search paths, recent files, and display options.
Where LTspice stores this, by platform
C:\Users\<user>\Documents\LTspiceXVII\lib
Replace <user> with the Windows account name. Examples live under Documents LTspiceXVII examples with jigs and Educational subfolders. Options live in AppData Roaming LTspiceXVII.ini. Version 17.1 stores shipped libraries under LocalAppData LTspice instead, and custom Sym and Lib Search Paths can point back to Documents.
~/Library/Application Support/LTspice/lib
Library holds sym, sub, and cmp subfolders. The folder is created on first GUI launch from the bundled lib archive. Save custom symbols and models under matching subfolders. Schematics can also keep local models in the same folder as the asc file.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the LTspice ini file?
On Windows classic installs it is AppData Roaming LTspiceXVII.ini. Use the ini command line option to point to another file. Use the registry option only when centralized management is required.
Why does LTspice not see my custom symbol?
Custom files must be under a searched location such as the local schematic folder, the sym tree, or a folder listed in Sym and Lib Search Paths. Restart LTspice after adding files. Keep model files in sub or beside the matching asy file so lib include lines resolve by name.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.