Software directory
FR
FreeCADFree (open source)
FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeler for designing real-life objects of any size, from mechanical parts to buildings. It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, with workbenches for part design, sketching, assemblies, 2D drawings, FEM analysis and CAM.
Visit FreeCAD →
6 FreeCAD Alternatives in 2026
FreeCAD is already free. The options below are other tools in the same space for comparing features and workflow — 1 of them is a paid product, so switching would cost money rather than save it.
Considerations for FreeCAD
- Upstream edits can still break downstream features (the topological naming problem), although version 1.0 reduced it
- Each workbench has its own tools, so the interface feels less consistent than commercial CAD
- No vendor support contract; help comes from the forum and community
6 alternatives comparedConfirm current terms with providers
SO
SolveSpace
Best for: Lightweight constraint-based parametric CAD
FreeOpen Source
SolveSpace is a free (GPLv3) parametric 2D and 3D CAD tool built around a geometric constraint solver. It models parts with extrudes, revolves, helixes and Boolean operations, can simulate planar and spatial linkages, and exports STL, STEP, DXF, PDF and SVG.
- Constraint-based parametric sketches and 3D parts
- Mechanism simulation with pin, ball and slide joints
- Exports STEP and STL for CAM and 3D printing, and DXF or SVG for laser cutting
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free (open source)
ON
Onshape
Best for: Browser-based CAD with built-in version control
Free
Onshape is cloud-native parametric CAD from PTC that runs in a web browser and on iOS and Android, with nothing to install. Version history, branching and real-time collaboration are built in. The free plan is for non-commercial use only and makes every document public.
- Runs in the browser on any OS, including Linux and Chromebooks
- Built-in version control with branching and merging
- Several people can edit the same design at the same time
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free (public, non-commercial) / $1,500/yr Standard / $2,500/yr Professional
AU
Autodesk Fusion
Best for: Cloud-connected CAD, CAM and PCB design
Free
Autodesk Fusion combines parametric CAD, CAM toolpaths for CNC machining, simulation and PCB design in one cloud-connected app for Windows and macOS. A limited free personal-use licence covers non-commercial projects by individuals earning under $1,000 a year from them.
- Parametric modeling, CAM and simulation in one application
- Runs on Windows and macOS with cloud storage and version history
- Integrated electronics (PCB) design workspace
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free (personal, non-commercial) / $680/yr
OP
OpenSCAD
Best for: Script-based solid modeling for 3D printing
FreeOpen Source
OpenSCAD is a free, open-source program that builds solid 3D models from a text script instead of interactive drawing. Changing a parameter regenerates the whole model, which makes it popular for customizable 3D-printable parts. It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux.
- Models are written as code using constructive solid geometry
- Parametric by design: change a variable and the model rebuilds
- Exports STL and other formats for 3D printing
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free (open source)
LI
LibreCAD
Best for: Free 2D drafting with DXF files
FreeOpen Source
LibreCAD is a free, open-source 2D CAD application for Windows, macOS and Linux, released under the GPLv2. It began as a fork of QCad and covers technical drawings with layers, blocks and dimensions, using DXF as its native file format.
- 2D drafting with layers, blocks and dimensions
- Native DXF files, with import of DWG drawings
- Free for any use on Windows, macOS and Linux
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free (open source)
SO
SOLIDWORKS
Best for: Parametric mechanical part and assembly design
SOLIDWORKS from Dassault Systèmes is Windows desktop parametric CAD for mechanical parts, assemblies and 2D manufacturing drawings, widely used in product design and machinery. It is sold through resellers as an annual subscription or as a perpetual licence with yearly maintenance.
- Feature-based parametric modeling for parts, assemblies and sheet metal
- 2D manufacturing drawings generated from the 3D model
- Simulation and data-management add-ons in the higher editions
Free tier: Check providerPricing: $2,820/yr Standard / $3,456/yr Professional / $4,716/yr Premium (US list) / $48/yr Makers (non-commercial)