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)
FR
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)
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
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)