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FreeCAD
Best for: Open-source parametric 3D CAD for engineering
FreeOpen 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.
- History-based parametric modeling with a constraint sketcher
- Assembly, TechDraw drawing, FEM and CAM workbenches built in
- Free for any use, including commercial, on Windows, macOS and Linux
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free (open source)
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
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
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)
AU
Autodesk Inventor
Best for: Mechanical design and large assemblies on Windows
Autodesk Inventor is Windows desktop CAD for professional mechanical design, covering parametric parts, large assemblies, sheet metal, frame design and 2D production drawings. It is sold only as a subscription, on its own or inside Autodesk's Product Design & Manufacturing Collection.
- Parametric part, assembly and sheet-metal modeling
- 2D production drawings that update with the model
- Frame generator and design accelerators for machinery
Free tier: Check providerPricing: $2,585/yr / $320/mo