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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)
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Solid Edge
Best for: Synchronous-technology mechanical CAD
Free
Solid Edge, now sold by Siemens under the Designcenter name, is Windows mechanical CAD that mixes history-based and synchronous (direct) modeling for parts, assemblies, sheet metal and drawings. A free Community Edition is offered for personal, non-commercial use.
- Synchronous technology edits geometry directly without a feature history
- Parts, assemblies, sheet metal and 2D drafting
- Free Community Edition for personal, non-commercial use
Free tier: Listed as free — verify limitsPricing: Free Community Edition (non-commercial) / paid plans — see Siemens
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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)
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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
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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
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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