If all you want to do is to view, modify, or even annotate DWG drawing files that are originally made using AutoCAD, you do not have to buy the costly AutoCAD application. There are lots of free DWG Viewers that you can download from the internet. Additionally, if you want to edit DWG drawings without having to purchase or subscribe to costly CAD applications, there are also lots of free DWG editors that you can download from the internet.

And amazingly some of these free DWG viewer apps are made by Autodesk, which is the same company that develops AutoCAD.

DWG File Format

DWG, which stands for DraWinG, is the proprietary AutoCAD file format that contains all the metadata and geometrical data.

And due to its importance in design and engineering, DWG is supported by virtually all other third-party CAD programs. 

In this post, Scan2CAD has selected the 7 best free DWG viewers that you can freely download to view and modify DWG drawing files.

Table of Contents

• 7 best free DWG Viewers to download

1. 1. 1. DWG TrueView (+Design Review)
      2. Bentley View
      3. LibreCAD
      4. DWGSee
      5. DWG FastView
      6. OnShape Free
      7. CAD Reader

7 best free DWG Viewers to download

1. DWG TrueView (+Design Review)

Figure 1. DWG TrueView (Source)

Developer: Autodesk

Latest Version: Autodesk DWG Trueview 2021

Operating System: Windows

Autodesk DWG TrueView is the official Autodesk application for viewing DWG files and it comes in two versions; the free version and the paid version. It was designed to enable CAD users to view, edit, and convert DWG files.

Design Review on the other hand is a DWG TrueView add-on that helps to extend the features of DWG TrueView to enable users to use it to measure lengths, areas, and angles. Also, with Design Review, DWG TrueView users can add comments, ideas, and other information required when communicating design changes.

DWG TrueView (+Design Review) Features and Functions

• DWG TrueView is a free stand-alone DWG viewer.
• Design Review add-on is also free.
• It facilitates collaboration when sharing AutoCAD drawing files with other CAD applications.
• By adding the Design Review, DWG TrueView users can accurately measure the distances, areas, and angles of DWG drawings.
• By integrating DWG TrueView with Design Review, users can quickly and easily review and markup DWG drawings.
• By using the DWG TrueConvert, users can convert drawing to other AutoCAD versions

Pros of DWG TrueView

• Users can view DWG drawing files for free
• Users can open DWG, DXF, DWF, and DWFx files
• Allows users to measure distances, angles, and areas in DWG drawings
• It is easy to use even for non-professionals
• It offers useful tooltips guide to enhance the users’ experience
• It is available for both 64-bit and 32-bit Operating Systems. 

Cons of DWG TrueView

• It lacks editing features

2. Bentley View

Figure 2. Bentley View (Source)

Developer: Bentley

Latest Version: Bentley View V8i SELECTseries 4

Operating System: Windows

Bentley View is a product of Bentley, which is also the official Microstation developer, a free DXF viewer. It is rated as one of the most powerful free DWG file viewers developed by a third party.

And besides supporting DWG file formats, it also supports 50 other CAD file formats and BIM features. 

Bentley View Features and Functions

• It is completely free to use.
• It supports DWG file formats and 50 other CAD file formats including DXF.
• It allows users to view 2D drawings and 3D models.
• Allows users to verify distances and areas.
• Users can also use it to print drawings to scale.

Pros of Bentley View

• It allows users to view DWG drawing for free.
• It supports 50 other CAD file formats thus saving users the need to download multiple CAD file viewers for different file formats.
• Allows users to view 2D drawings and 3D models and also measure distances and areas.

Cons of Bentley View

• It has a very limited capacity

3. LibreCAD

Figure 3. LibreCAD (Source softx64.com)

Developer: LibreCAD community

Latest Version: LibreCAD 2.2.0 RC 1

Operating System: Windows, macOS, and Linux

Besides being a free DWG viewer, LibreCAD is an open-source computer-aided design (CAD) software that CAD users can download for free rather than downloading costly CAD software like AutoCAD and the like. 

Its interface is similar to that of AutoCAD.

Besides DWG file format, you can also print your work in DXF and CXF file formats and export SVG, ICO, BMP, and PDF file formats among others when using LibreCAD.

Users can use LibreCAD to open 2D drawings and 3D CAD models.

LibreCAD Features and Functions

• It is an Open-source CAD software.
• Supports DWG, DXF, CXF, SVG, ICO, BMP, and PDF file formats.
• Allows users to open and view both 2D drawings and 3D models.

Pros of LibreCAD

• It is freely available.
• It is lightweight with a file size of only 30MB.
• Supports both 2D and 3D files.
• It has an uncluttered interface.

Cons of LibreCAD

• Users can only open existing DWG files but not draw and save new DWG drawings.

4. DWGSee

Figure 4. DWGSee DWG Viewer (Source)

Developer: AutoDWG.com

Latest Version: DWGSee 2020

Operating System: Windows, macOS, and Android

DWGSee is a light and fast DWG viewer that was developed by AutoDWG.com, which was founded in 2002. It provides users with a quick and simple way of looking at their technical drawings without having to purchase costly CAD applications like AutoCAD.

Besides DWG, DWGSee also supports other CAD file formats like DXF and DWF.

It comes in three versions; a free version, a standard version, and a pro version. However, the free version is sufficient for Viewing DWG files and verifying measurements by measuring lengths, angles, radius, and areas.

If you want to access the editing capabilities of the application, you will have to purchase the standard or Pro versions which have added functions for editing, converting, and comparing.

DWGSee Features and Functions

• The free version of DWGSee DWG viewer supports AutoCAD .dwg .dxf .dwf files, version R14 to the latest 2020, and it can also open raster image formats (.bmp .jpg .png .gif .tif).
• It allows users to save files as DWG or DXF. It has an inbuilt AutoDWG converter.
• It allows users to measure lengths, angles, radius, and areas by just clicking.
• Users can add markups to the DWG drawings.
• It allows users to compare drawings by showing two versions of the same drawing in split windows.
• It has a floating license that is great for a company with many workstations.

Pros of DWGSee

• It has a free version with lots of features.
• Allows the support of a wide range of other CAD files besides DWG files.
• Allows users to verify measurements and areas.
• The floating license allows it to be used on different workstations.

Cons of DWGSee

• The free version does not support editing and requires to purchase of the Standard or Pro versions for them to edit a drawing

5. DWG FastView

Figure 5.DWG FastView for Windows (Source)

Developer: Gstarcad

Latest Version: DWG FastView V4.5.1

Operating System: Windows

DWG FastView is a free DWG viewer that was developed by Gstarcad. 

Besides DWG files, DWG FastView also acts as a DXF viewer and it can be used for viewing 2D drawings and 3D models.

DWGSee Features and Functions

• It is free.
• It supports DWG and DXF file formats.
• Has the ability to open multiple objects simultaneously by just dragging and dropping them into the interface.
• Allows users to open and view 2d and 3D drawings.
• Allows users to export files to a wide range of image formats including BMP, JPG, PNG, and other popular file types
• Allows users to freeze, lock and unlock individual layers, and also zoom and pan as they explore individual details of the drawings.

Pros of DWG FastView

• It is free.
• It is easy to use. Users can open files by dragging and dropping them into the interface 
• It has additional sophisticated CAD viewing tools.

Cons of DWG FastView

• It has a very wide range of features and tools that may take time to learn.

6. OnShape Free

Figure 6. OnShape Free (Source)

Developer: OnShape, which was acquired by PTC Inc. in 2019

Operating System: iOS, Android, Linux, OSX, Windows

OnShape is CAD software that is delivered over the internet through software as a service model thus making extensive use of cloud computing. It can be accessed through iOS, Android, Linux, OSX, and Windows-powered gadgets.

It comes in four versions Educational, Enterprise, Standard, and Professional. The educational version is the one that is also referred to as OnShape free.

Unlike other CAD applications, Onshape Free gives everyone on the team access to the same CAD workspace and same CAD data through a central place in a cloud.

OnShape Free Features and Functions

• It is free.
• Uses cloud computing.
• Accessible to a wide range of gadgets.

Pros of OnShape Free

• It is easy to use and can be accessed even on the go since it is accessed through the internet.

Cons of OnShape Free

• One will require to subscribe to the Paid Onshape Versions (Enterprise, Standard, and Professional) to be able to create new CAD files or edit CAD FILES.

7. CAD Reader

Figure 7. CAD Reader (Source)

Developer: Glodon Company Limited

Latest Version: CADReader V3.3.2.8

Operating System: Windows

CAD Reader is a CAD file viewer that allows you to view and mark DWG CAD drawings.

CAD Reader Features and Functions

• Layer management.
• Length and area measurement.
• Coordinate and scale setting.
• Allows users to add comments to drawings.
• Users can search and find drawings on their computers.
• Allow printing.
• Export and import capabilities that allow drawings and comments can be a single file, and then sent to other devices and imported to original files.
• Supports DWG and DXF file formats

Pros of CAD Reader

• All the basic functions are free.
• It is lightweight.
• It is easy to use.
• It is fast and adaptive

Cons of CAD Reader

• It has some VIP functions that require users to pay.

Conclusion

With any of the above-mentioned free Free DWG Viewers, you can open and view any DWG CAD file without having to dig deep into your pocket to subscribe to costly CAD software like AutoCAD for the purposes of just viewing CAD files.

Besides, some of the Free DWG Viewers mentioned in this article allow you to perform more tasks than just viewing. LibreCAD, for example, is an open-source computer-aided design (CAD) software that allows you to also perform some edits on both 2D drawings and 3D models.

The rest of the mentioned DWG viewers including DWGSee, Bentley View, DWG TrueView, and CAD Reader allow you to verify measurements by measuring lengths, angles, radius, and areas. Others like CAD Reader also allow users to add comments on the drawings.

In this article, critical information on Onshape Vs SketchUp would be provided. We would first give a brief history and explain the two software’s capabilities and users. Then finally, give you annotated differences.

Onshape 

Onshape was brought into existence in 2012 by Jon Hirschtick and John McEleny, both former CEOs of Solidworks alongside a team of Engineers of Belmont Technology. The company name, Belmont Technology, was later changed to Onshape. North Bridge Venture Partners and Commonwealth Capital were the first to fund the company with 9 million USD.

With the successful testing by a thousand CAD professionals in various countries, Onshape released its cloud-based software, alongside a version for iPhone users in March 2015. By September that same year, they released a version for android users. Onshape announced its full commercial release and launched an Onshape App Store featuring CAM,  simulation, and other cloud-based engineering tools. In April 2016, the company released its educational plan with a free version for students and educators. They also released a new open-source programming language, FeatureScript, used creating and customizing CAD features.

The creators of Creo, PTC, acquired Onshape in September 2019 for approximately 470 million USD.

What does Onshape do? 

Onshape is a computer-aided design software that offers Software as a Service (SaaS) model over the internet. The software’s SaaS model makes the design process easy and convenient for users as they can work on their design at any location at any time. Provided there is a compatible web browser and a good internet connection. The users don’t need to worry about maintenance as the software updates are released directly to the web interface. Onshape is compatible with Android, OSX, Linux, iOS, and Windows Operating systems. 

Several notable capabilities make Onshape the right choice for your design. These capabilities are grouped into CAD,  Data management, collaboration, security and audit controls, analytics and reporting, and integration and partners.  

Onshape’s CAD features facilitate you to create models of different parts and assemblies. Detailed 2-dimensional drawings containing tables, dimensions, annotations, and part lists can be made with this. You can add dimensions, broken out sections, hole callouts, notes, tables, weld and surface finish symbols, and images to your drawings. The CAD feature also allows the importation and exportation of DWG and DXF file formats. 

The Collaboration feature is the feature that makes Onshape one of the outstanding CAD software. It allows multiple users to edit and view changes made on a design at the same time. Designs are done more effectively as you can share your design with your company, team, or even clients at different stages of the design for feedback. 

Data management. Most times, Engineers lose at least 25% of their design time to data management. Onshape’s PDM (Product Data Management) feature saves users time in many ways. Engineers can be more intuitive with their ideas as they can make changes in their design at any time as often as they want. The feature’s advanced search tool makes searching for design data easy and fast. Even when designs are worked on by a team simultaneously, the editings made are captured and recorded immediately by Onshape in real-time.

When it comes to security and audit control, Onshape is one of the prominent CAD software. To start, all files you’ve worked on are saved on the cloud. Also to secure your design data from unauthorized access, AES-256 and TLS v 1.2, two-factor authentication, and comprehensive audit logs are available. All modifications and editing done on your design are recorded for review, and if necessary, reveal. 

Analytics and reporting. Onshape doesn’t just only help track your document history, it also keeps a record of every interaction with your company or external suppliers. The monitoring of these can be done with the help of the following dashboards: Activity overview, Release dashboard, Project dashboard, User dashboard, Document access, and many more.

3D modeling in Onshape. (Source)

Who uses Onshape? 

Onshape is primarily used by Mechanical Engineers, design, and industries for the design of products and machine parts as it focuses on Mechanical Computer-aided design (MCAD). Onshape’s SaaS model and collaboration feature make it the right choice for users who need to work as a team or with customers. Some notable companies that employ Onshape in their design process are. XING Mobility and Voxel Innovations.

SketchUp

The journey of SketchUp began in 1999 when it was co-founded by Brad Schell and Joe Esch of @Last Software company in Boulder, Colorado. The next year, they emerged for the first time as a general-purpose 3D content creation tool. It enabled designers to have the feeling of drawing with a pen and paper. This increased their creativity. @Last Software was acquired by Google on March 14, 2006, after the software’s work in developing a plugin for Google Earth. 

In 2007, Google announced the release of a free downloadable version for SketchUp, Google SketchUp 6. Though the free version was not as functional as SketchUp Pro, it included integrated tools that can be used to upload content to Google Earth and to the Google 3D warehouse. 

From then, other versions have been released featuring the addition of features like toolbox, which allows users to view the design from different angles, layout, and many others. SketchUp was bought from Google by Trimble Inc on the first June 2012.

What does SketchUp do? 

Being one of the most commonly used, SketchUp is a 3D modeling software used in different drawing applications. It is used in interior design, film and video game design, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, and Civil Engineering. The program is available as a professional version, SketchUp Pro and has free versions, SketchUp Make and SketchUp Free. It is compatible with Windows operating system and OSX 10.9 and is available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Portuguese, and Chinese. 

The professional versions of SketchUp are SketchUp Pro for 3D modeling and SketchUp Studio for designing buildings. These versions permit you to generate models via a variety of means such as drafting, programming, and design development. Drawing of details, plans, and elevations can be done. SketchUp’s advanced camera and animation features allow users to transform their models into animated walk-throughs. 

SketchUp grants you free access to 3D warehouse, a large online open library where designers around the world can either download free 3D models or upload theirs for downloads, comments, or feedback. This opens designers to more creative ideas of designs as you can use the models to customize your work. 

Design process cannot be completed without a proper presentation. SketchUp provides the layout feature which makes the presentation of your design. It changes your model into drawings, diagrams, scales prints, and even presentations. Labels and dimensions can also be added for an easy explanation of the design. There are also SketchUp shortcuts which can help you navigate the app easily.

Onshape’s style builder helps users to create their own unique features in their design. The feature facilitates users to add sketches they have drawn right on paper or image editing app. Designers are allowed to not just make designs with common properties but to create their own style.

3D modeling in SketchUp. (Source)

Who uses SketchUp? 

The primary users of SketchUpare Civil Engineers, landscape designers, video game designers, architects, interior designers, and architects. With the software, bringing architectural plans to life hasn’t been easier. Onshape is the perfect choice for interior designers as you’re granted access to detailed models such as chairs, light bulbs, television, wood design, and many others. Compared to other 3D modeling software, Onshape is a cheaper choice. 

Onshape  vs. SketchUp

Here are the key differences between Onshape vs. SketchUp

Onshape’s SaaS model makes it different from traditional CAD software. This can make navigating the software a problem, even for experienced CAD users. For this reason, we at Scan2CAD have created this compact guide that would intimate you about Onshape’s capabilities, basic concepts, how to navigate the software’s GUI, designing and many more, in as little as one hour.

Onshape capabilities

The first things to learn about software are its capabilities and features. The main features of Onshape can be broadly classified into the following. CAD, Data management, Collaboration tools, Security and Audit controls, Analytics and Reporting, and Integration and Partners.

Using the CAD features, you can model complex parts, create well-structured assemblies, and produce highly detailed working drawings. You can also import and export data of various formats. In addition to these, the CAD features include standard content libraries.

Data management is very important in design as it can save a lot of design time. The Data management features of Onshape are so comprehensive that you don’t need a separate PDM (Product Data Management) software. These features enable you to handle release management, version control, advanced flow works, bill of materials, branching and merging and product data with ease.

Collaboration is a core aspect of Onshape and this is evident in its Collaboration tools. These tools allow several stakeholders in a project to collaborate with the lead designer in real-time. You can grant real-time access to design files to customers, design teams, business associates, and vendors. You can also share your finished designs with stakeholders or the general public for viewing, commenting, or editing. 

Security and audit control. With Onshape, every step of your design process is saved and logged. Whether it is an edit, a modification, or an alteration, the activity is tracked and recorded for review or reversal. Onshape does not store data as files, but as virtual documents in databases (cloud-hosted databases); therefore greater monitoring and control are guaranteed.

Onshape recognizes its limitations in certain aspects of design. This way, the software allows you to make up for these limitations using Integration and Partners. Using partner apps from the Onshape App Store, you can increase the functionality of Onshape to include simulation, CAM, and many other features.

Before You Get Started (Basic Concepts)

In Onshape, all data is stored in the cloud and so the software does not make use of files. Thus, Onshape has no native file format. All design data is stored in Documents. A Document is not a CAD file, rather it’s a project-level container that can contain any type of information related to one or more projects, such as assemblies, subassemblies, parts, drawings, imported parts and any other project-related data such as PDFs, images, and videos. When you open a document, all related data are arranged as tabs within the document window. If for example, you have a project to design a bicycle, you don’t need to open separate files for parts, assemblies, drawings, etc. All you need to do is open a document and utilize the different tabs to switch between interfaces.

Documents keep all your data together in one place to make projects easier for you to manage. There’s also what is known as Folders. A folder can contain more than one document. It helps to keep individual documents organized and clutter-free.

While Onshape has no native file format, the software allows you to import and export files in various industry-standard file formats. Since Onshape is cloud-based, you need to sign in on a compatible browser to start using the software.

The launch screen

The first page you see after signing in to Onshape is the Documents Page. Whatever page you are in Onshape, just click the Onshape logo (1) in the top left corner to return to the Documents page at any time. The Documents Page is where you view and manage all your Documents.  These include both documents created by you and documents shared with you by other users. Note that for documents not created by you, access may be limited by permissions as set by the creator. The Document Page layout is customizable and would remain in the last setup until it is changed.

In the middle portion (2) of the screen is displayed the Document list. This area can be collapsed or expanded if you wish. Folders can be used as one method of managing Documents. Any other Documents that are not in a Folder are displayed at the bottom, with the most recently modified appearing at the top. The Document list includes all the Documents you have access to. If you want to filter this list to show only Documents created by you, shared with you or recently opened you can use the filters explained below.

Down the left-hand side of the page, under the create icon, are your Document filters (3) with which you can limit and group the number of documents displayed at a time.

• When the “My Onshape” filter is active, every Document and Folder that you have access to (whether created by you or shared with you) is listed and divided into three sections.
• The “Recently Opened” filter makes it easy to find and open a recent Document so you carry on where you left off.
• “Created by me” lists only documents that you created yourself.
• “Shared with me” displays only documents that were created by others and shared with you.
• “Public” lists all documents that have been shared publicly by other Onshape users.
• “Trash” displays your deleted documents.

Other filters such as “Teams”, “Labels”,  “Google Drive”, and “Dropbox” would be available if/when you: are part of a team, create labels, integrate Google Drive, and Integrate DropBox respectively. In addition to the filters, there are also Sort buttons (4) that allow you to arrange the displayed documents by name, date modified, and modifier.

Each Document listing shows you a thumbnail image, the Document name, and last opened Workspace, any labels that have been added, when the Document was last modified and by whom, and the Document owner. To interact with a document, click on the document to highlight it. Once highlighted, you can share, trash, or label a document using the appropriate buttons at the top right corner (5)

Clicking a Document will also display more information in the Details panel (7) (also known as the Details flyout, as it can be toggled on or off, and can be resized) on the right, including a description and a detailed list of who the Document has been shared with and their access permissions. The Details panel also contains the Share details icon and the Versions and history icon (8).

If you right-click on a Document a menu appears allowing you to open, rename, copy, move, transfer ownership, copy workspace, or trash that Document. You can also select multiple Documents at the same time by holding down either the Control key on Windows or the Command key on Mac or the Shift key to select many at once. The right-click context menu now only allows you to set labels, move the Documents to a folder or send them to Trash

To open a Document, left-click the Document name or double-click the thumbnail image or anywhere within the highlighted area. 

You can change the way Documents are displayed in the Documents page, switching between list view and grid view using the appropriate icons (6) in the top right corner. Each tile displays the same information but in a larger format to make it easier to browse your Documents. 

At the top of the Document page is the Document search bar (9). This feature makes it very easy to find things in Onshape. To search,  type in a partial name and press enter. Search will find Documents, Parts, Assemblies, and Drawings or any file that matches the name you typed in. To streamline the search, click on the small arrow in the search bar to drop down the search menu. Here you can further limit your search by type, name, description, etc.

Note that if a filter is activated, only documents, parts, assemblies, or any other files that fall under the filter category will be displayed in the search results. For example, if you only want to search Documents that were created by you, click the filter first before entering a search term.

In the top left corner is the Create button with 4 options (10). One to create a new Document, one to upload either a 3D model from another CAD system or any of the other file types we saw earlier, one to create a new Folder and one to create a new Label.

Finally, in the top right corner, there are buttons in the title bar to access the Onshape App Store (for complementary applications such as rendering, simulation, and CAM), and the Onshape Learning Center (11). A bell icon that indicates notifications can be found on the title bar. There is also the help menu and then your profile picture and account preferences menu. These last two options may look different depending upon which level of Onshape subscription you have.

Getting started

Completing your profile and setting your default units and mouse controls is an important first step.

To set your preferences, click your name in the top right corner of the screen and select Manage Account. Here you can set your name, forum name, and nickname which is your name as it will appear in the top right corner. If you share a document or are working on the same document as someone else at the same time, then this is how your name will be seen by them. The Bio section displays more information about yourself in the forum and is optional. If you make a change and press Update profile, then those changes take effect immediately.

You can also add an image of yourself by clicking the change button under the avatar at the top of the page. Using a picture is very useful if you are collaborating on a Document with several other users at the same time.

Under the preferences menu down the left-hand side, you can set your default units and view manipulation preferences.

The unit settings here apply to new documents only, any existing documents or documents that have been shared with you will not be affected by these settings. You can also select the number of decimal places you want to see when creating sketches, features, parts, and assemblies.

The view manipulation settings alter the way you interact with a 3D model in Onshape. In Onshape, you rotate a model using the 3rd mouse button, pan a model using the middle mouse button, and zoom in by scrolling the mouse wheel up and zoom out by scrolling it down.

If you’re a seasoned user of a traditional CAD system, you can change these settings by selecting the CAD system you would like to mimic and all the mouse controls will be set to these preferences every time you use Onshape. Press save view manipulation settings when done.

All these settings apply to your account, so every time you log in to Onshape, from any device, these settings will remain until you decide to change them.

The Creation Graphical User Interfaces

To begin working in Onshape, create a Document or open an existing one. For this guide, we’ll be opening an existing document. The first interface you come across after opening a document is the Part Studio.

One of the fundamental differences between Onshape and other CAD systems is the Part Studio. It’s called a Part Studio because you can create more than one part at a time and add robust relationships between them. When there are more than part in a Part Studio, it’s called a subassembly and all the parts are fixed relative to each other. To add motion, you need to create an actual assembly.

When you open a new Part Studio, it will contain just an origin and three orthogonal planes (12)  labeled top, front, and right. In a finished design, you will see more features below these that are the building blocks or the recipe that was used to create each part. Each feature is built in order and listed in the Feature List (13).

The origin and the planes should be used to help you add design intent to your parts. The origin can be used to locate the center of an important feature, like a bore, and the planes can be used to infer symmetry.

These features can be hidden at any time by clicking the eye icon (14) in the feature list. To hide or show all planes at once, use the keyboard shortcut, P.

Above the Feature list is the Feature toolbar (15). This shows you the available commands and is context-sensitive, so in a Part Studio it will show you feature creation tools, and in a sketch, assembly, or drawing, it will show you tools applicable to the task at hand. The wider your screen, the more tools will be shown at once. If your browser window is narrower the tools will be collapsed into groups with pull-down menus.

In the center of course is the large graphics area (16). This is where all your design work is done.

The View Cube (17) in the top right corner of the graphics area can be used to help you understand your current orientation and help you manipulate your model. First, you can see the orientation of the XYZ coordinate system, which is useful when taking measurements from your model. If you click on one of the named faces of the cube, your view will be oriented with the selected face normal to the screen. Clicking around the outside of a face selects the face behind it, so it’s a quick and easy way to rotate your model 180 degrees. Clicking one of the corners of the cube will take you to an isometric view, clicking the small arrows at the top, bottom, left, and right will rotate your model in those directions, and the two curved arrows rotate your model normal to the screen.

Below the View Cube is the View Tools icon (18). Here you can rotate your model to an isometric, dimetric or trimetric view, save a named view, zoom your model to fit the screen or zoom in, turn Perspective view on or off, and choose from a selection of shading modes.

The Part Studio is where you create parts, create assemblies, produce 2D working drawings, create folders to organize your tabs, and import files such as images and videos or 3D files from other CAD systems. The interfaces to do all these are different. To access these interfaces, all you need to do is add tabs, also known as elements, by clicking on the + icon (19) in the bottom left corner of the studio. This way, you can easily switch between interfaces using the tabs (20)  at the bottom of the screen. The Part Studio is itself a tab; the first that is encountered when a document is opened.

Learn Further

Now that you have mastered the basics of Onshape as well as how to navigate the software, your foundation is strong. Continue your journey to Onshape mastery via any of the following learning platforms.

• Onshape learning center
• Lynda
• Plural sight

While there are many highly functional CAD software available, they all have different capabilities. A package that is excellent for a particular application, may not be suitable for another, and so choosing the right one is crucial. This is why we, at Scan2CAD, regularly create intuitive comparison articles on various CAD software packages to help make the right decision.

In this article, we will be taking a comparative look at two popular CAD software; Onshape by PTC Inc and Fusion 360 by Autodesk. We will be through their histories, features, and users. We will also explore and compare their capabilities, compatibility with various operating systems, licensing options, and ease of learning.

Onshape

In 2012, Onshape was co-founded by Jon Hirschtick, a renowned CAD software developer who had earlier created SolidWorks. He founded the company in Massachusetts as Belmont technology, together with five other co-founders. This name was later changed to Onshape. During this period, Onshape relieved its first round of funding of about $9 million.

After extensive testing by thousands of CAD users, Onshape launched its app for Android in 2015. That same year, the Onshape App Store that offers cloud-based simulation, rendering, and CAM apps was released. In 2016, an educational license of the software was launched, offering a free version for students and educators. Onshape also launched an open-source programming language for creating and customizing CAD features known as Feature Script.

In October 2019, seven years after its founding, Onshape was acquired by PTC for $470 million.

What does Onshape do?

One of the first CAD applications to be delivered via a SaaS model, Onshape is a cloud-based 3D CAD modeling application that is used for CAD, data management, and collaboration. One of Onshape’s similarities with Fusion 360 is that it is cloud-based. However, unlike Fusion 360 which requires a web app, You don’t need to download, install, or update anything to access Onshape as all the software’s features are available over the internet. All you require are an internet connection and a compatible web browser. This is one of Onshape’s most outstanding features. Onshape is compatible with IOS, Android OS, Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Onshape’s capabilities are classified under the following features: CAD, collaboration, data management, analytics and reporting, security and audit controls, and integration and partners.

Using Onshape’s CAD features you can create models of standalone parts, as well as assemblies of numerous parts. These features also enable you to produce highly-detailed 2D working drawings containing dimensions, part lists, datum, annotations, and tables. You can also import & export different industry-standard file formats. In addition to these, Onshape has sheet metal tools, intelligent custom features, standard content libraries, and configuration options among the CAD features.

Data management is an important aspect of the product development process as proper management of data reduces the required time and effort for product development. The product data management (PDM) features of Onshape are so comprehensive that a separate PDM software is not required. These features enable you to handle release management, advanced workflows,  branching and merging, and version control. You can also create and manage bills of materials in real-time while simultaneously designing or modifying an assembly.

Collaboration tools enable teams of designers to collaborate, communicate, and designate tasks in real-time. These tools allow a simultaneous review of your work as you work. You can securely share projects with customers, suppliers, team members, and business associates, for live chat, commenting, and review. Access may be limited to viewing, commenting, or editing models.

Security and Audit controls. Onshape is one of the outstanding CAD applications when it comes to security and audit control as Onshape. Firstly, all your files and project data are securely stored in the cloud. In addition, AES-256 and TLS v 1.2 encryption, two-factor authentication, and comprehensive audit logs are all available to secure your design data. Using role-based control, these security measures allow you to prevent unauthorized access to your design data. Every alteration or modification of your design is recorded for review, and, if necessary, reversal. 

Analytics and Reporting. The analytics features enable you to properly monitor the statuses of projects using the following dashboards: Project, User, Release, and Activity overview. These dashboards provide in-depth reports and analysis on users, documents, projects, and many more. In addition, the analytics and reporting features include You a complete design history/changelog and news-feed-styled activity reports release reporting, and news feed styled activity reports.

Integration and Partners. Onshape, though functional, has some limitations, especially in modeling. However, you can make up for these limitations using the integrations and partners features. These features enable you to increase the functionality of Onshape through CAD, simulation, PLM, ERP, and other add-ons from the Onshape App Store. For better integration, all Onshape cloud partner apps have a  unified registration, purchase, and licensing system. These apps also require no download, installation, or maintenance.

Modeling in Onshape (Source)

Who uses Onshape?

The primary users of Onshape are mechanical engineers and designers from industries that require manufacturing. Thanks to the software’s SaaS model and its outstanding collaboration, security, and data management features, Onshape is the number one choice of many design teams, and designers that work with customers. Some of the companies that utilize Onshape in their product development process are as follows. Hirebotic, manufacturers of robots for hire; Cutsworth, manufacturers of innovative tech for the power generation industry; Dixie Iron Works, manufacturers of high-quality flow control equipment; Synapse, product development consultant company; and Taiga Motors, manufacturers of snowmobiles and watercraft.

Fusion 360

Autodesk’s journey to Fusion 360 began in 2009 with the intention to add a cloud-based CAD software to its lineup of products. On the 4th of February, 2009, Autodesk announced plans to develop a new software called Inventor Fusion. Two years later in March 2011, it was announced that the Fusion technology would be integrated into some existing Autodesk products such as AutoCAD, Inventor, and MidFlow. Later that year, Autodesk announced plans to launch a new PLM (Product Life cycle Management) product known as PLM 360. In September 2012, Simulation 360, a program that allowed simulation testing to be solved on the cloud, was released. Finally, in November 2012, Autodesk officially launched Fusion 360, a complete, cloud-based CAD software. Over the years, several updates have made the software grow to become a highly functional CAD, CAM, and CAE tool.

What does Fusion 360 do?

Fusion 360 is a cloud-based, 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE program that amalgamates design, engineering, and manufacturing into a single package.

The features and Fusion 360 are 3D design and modeling, electronics, simulation, visualization and documentation, collaboration, data management, and manufacturing.

The 3D Design and Modeling features of this package seamlessly combine mesh modeling, direct modeling, parametric modeling, surface modeling, free-form modeling, PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design, sheet metal design, and generative design to provide limitless options for creating even the most complex of models. You can create standalone components, as well as assemblies of components with the 3D modeling & design features. You can also import/export various file formats.

The Electronics features of Fusion 360 are so comprehensive that they can be considered as a package of their own. These features include schematic capture, PCB layout, and a standard library of PCB components. They cater to all the electrical and electronic needs of a model, thereby unifying MCAD and ECAD.

Fusion 360 comes with an impressive portfolio of Simulation features that enable you to analyze the behavior of a model in real-world situations. You can simulate nonlinear stress, buckling, these stress, modal frequency, and static stress. You can even simulate events such as objects falling and other scenarios.

Whether it’s for personal review or to share/present, the Visualization features enable you to create photo-realistic images, and animations of your model Also, you can also produce highly detailed 2D manufacturing drawings.

The Collaboration features create a modern collaboration environment that connects teams, customers, and other stakeholders from various departments or locations all over the world. You can communicate about projects in real-time, and centralize project activity so that all stakeholders are carried along in the product development process.

Data management features provide the necessary administrative tools to effectively manage and control project data. You can manage how other users interact with your project and export several industry-standard file formats for ease of collaboration. For security, your data is stored in the cloud. You can also reduce design errors and increase workflow efficiency by tracking any notifications to a project.

Fusion 360’s Manufacturing features cater to both 3D printing and machining. With the 3D printing features, you can preview slices, generate toolpaths, and send your model directly to a 3D printer.

For machining, you can program your CNC machine and generate tool paths for 2.5 to 5-axis milling, probing, turning, mill turning, water jet cutting, laser cutting, and plasma cutting. These features enable you to validate your design before manufacturing, thereby reducing the impact of design changes and, subsequently, production time.

Modeling in Fusion 360 (Source)

Who uses Fusion 360

This software is used by designers and mechanical engineers across numerous industries.

A few of the companies that use Fusion 360 are Swissomation, custom micro-precision machine shop; Brownlie Design, product development firm; ModBot, creators of adaptable robotics; Backhand Bikes, manufacturer of unique BMX components; and KMP Drive Train, makers of drive train components for motorsports vehicles.

Fusion 360 vs Onshape

Both software share a few similarities. They are both cloud-based 3D modeling software, capable of multi-part design. Their differences, on the other hand, are not so few. The following are some of the differences between Fusion 360 and Onshape.

Conclusion

If your design needs stop at 3D modeling and if collaboration is crucial, Onshape is the package for you. However, if you require ECAD, simulation, visualization, and more functionality in general, then Fusion 360 is best for your application.

In this article, we will be going through the various Onshape keyboard shortcuts, how to activate them, and what tasks they execute. However, before we go into the shortcuts themselves, we must learn about the software and its capabilities. This will enable us to understand the importance and purpose of each shortcut.

About Onshape

Onshape is a CAD software platform that is dedicated to product design processes. This software primarily focuses on MCAD, (Mechanical Computer-aided Design) for industries that manufacture mechanical components, consumer electronics, carry out 3D printing, and many more

One of the things that make Onshape stand out is the fact that it is one of the pioneer CAD packages that is delivered over the internet, via a SAAS ( software as a service). As a result of this, download and installation are not required as the software can be easily accessed and utilized through compatible web browsers on the Mac, Windows, IOS, and Android platforms. Also, maintenance and upgrades are not needed as updates to Onshape are immediately affected in the web interface. The software is available in English, Korean, and Chinese languages.

Onshape’s features can be classified into CAD, data management, collaboration, security and audit controls, analytics and reporting, and integration and partners.

Using Onshape’s CAD features, you can model standalone parts and also complex assemblies of several parts. Also, these features enable you to create 2D working drawings that are highly-detailed and contain annotations, dimensions, datum, tables, and part lists. Using these features, you can also import & export various industry file formats. Furthermore, the CAD features include intelligent custom features, configuration options, standard content libraries, and simultaneous sheet metal tools.

3D modeling in Onshape (Source)

Data management. The PDM (Product Data Management) features of Onshape ensure that you don’t require a standalone PDM system. These features enable you to carry out release management, advanced workflows, branching/merging, and version control. They also enable you to create and manage bills of materials while simultaneously working on an assembly in real-time. It’s crucial to get the data management part of the design process right in order to save time and effort.

Collaboration. With collaboration tools, multiple users can collaborate with the lead designer in real-time. These tools allow team members to review designs as they are created in real-time. Whether it is with customers, business associates, suppliers, design teams, you can share your project securely for live commenting and review. Also, You can assign tasks in the same project to different people. For even greater control you may limit access to only viewing, commenting, or editing models.

Security and audit controls. Few CAD platforms offer the level of security and audit control that Onshape does. First, all files are securely stored in the cloud. Also, with Onshape, you can prevent unauthorized access to your design, using role-based access controls, two-factor authentication, high-level AES-256 & TLS v 1.2 encryption, and comprehensive audit logs. Any alteration of your design is monitored and recorded for review, and, if the need arises, reversing.

Analytics and reporting. The analytics features enable you to properly monitor projects’ status with the activity overview, project, user, and release dashboards. These dashboards provide in-depth analysis and reports on projects, documents, and users. You also get news-feed-styled activity reports, as well as complete design history and changelogs

Integration and partners. Onshape recognizes its limitations in functionality and allows you to make up for them through integrations and partners. Using PLM (Product lifecycle Management), ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), CAM, and simulation add-ons from the Onshape App Store, you can increase the functionality of Onshape. These add-ons are provided by Onshape integrated cloud partner apps and have unified purchase, licensing, and sign-on mechanisms. All Onshape partner apps do not require download, installation, or updates.

Onshape Keyboard shortcuts

Onshape has various keyboard shortcuts that make your work easier. To access a full list of these shortcuts in the user interface, click on the help (question mark “?”) icon in the top right corner of Onshape to drop down the help menu. Click on “Keyboard Shortcuts” and a separate window with a list of all keyboard shortcuts will be displayed. A faster way to access this list of Onshape keyboard shortcuts is via a keyboard shortcut! Simply type “Shift” + “?” on your keyboard. As at the time of writing this blog post, Onshape’s keyboard shortcuts cannot be customized. However, the company is working to make this possible.

To activate a shortcut, type the associated key(s) on the keyboard. When two keys are involved, hold down the first then press the second. The following tables contain the Onshape keyboard shortcuts, their titles, and the tasks they execute. For shortcuts involving two buttons in these tables, the buttons are separated by a “+”. Note also that some of these shortcuts are interface-sensitive. A keyboard shortcut that executes a particular action in the part creation interface may execute another in the assembly interface. Also, the same action may require different shortcuts depending on the interface you are in.

General

These shortcuts execute general actions such as undo, redo, and toggle command. They are not interface-sensitive and so they apply to all interfaces.

Sketch

These shortcuts are for creating 2D sketches. All models and designs, no matter how complex, begin with sketches. The sketch shortcuts are usable only when sketching or creating a part.

Part studio

These shortcuts are only active in the Part Interface and are dedicated to Part creation. They are shortcuts to many of the clickable commands found in the Part creation interface.

Assembly

These shortcuts are dedicated to assembly creation and work only in the Assembly interface

Drawing

The drawing shortcuts help you create highly detailed working drawings with ease. These drawings are active in the Drawing interface

View

Like the general shortcuts, the View keyboard shortcuts are not interface-sensitive and are usable in all interfaces

In conclusion

Onshape keyboard shortcuts are very efficient in speeding up design. There are not very much when compared to keyboard shortcuts of some other CAD software. For this reason, they are relatively easy to memorize. If you are not a fan of memorizing on the spot, you have nothing to worry about as you’ll surely memorize all of them as you continue to apply them. We have also created a PDF cheat sheet which you can save on your device or print out and hang somewhere visible

In this article, we will be comparing two packages that require little introduction, SolidWorks from Dassault Systems and Onshape from PTC Inc. On the surface, SolidWorks and Onshape are similar 3D CAD modeling software. However, they both have certain crucial differences. In this article, we will be exploring these software packages’ history, capabilities, and users. We will also comparatively analyze their capabilities, features, licensing options, and compatibility with different operating systems, all in a bid to simplify the selection process.

Onshape

The histories of SolidWorks and Onshape are linked by an interesting fact. Onshape was co-founded by Jon Hirschtick in 2012, the same man who co-founded SolidWorks 19 years earlier. He co-founded Onshape with John McEleney, who was also a former SolidWorks CEO, and four others. Onshape was founded in Massachusetts as Belmont technology, a name that was later changed to Onshape. The company received its first round of funding in the tune of $9 million from North Bridge venture partners and Commonwealth. In 2015, following extensive testing by thousands of CAD professionals, Onshape released its android app. Later that same year, the Onshape App Store was launched, offering cloud-based CAM, simulation, and rendering apps among others. Between April and May 2016, Onshape introduced its educational plan with a free version of the software for students. It also released an open-source programming language, known as Feature Script, for creating and customizing CAD features. In October 2019, Onshape was acquired by PTC, software giants and makers of Creo, for $470 million.

What does Onshape do?

Onshape is a cloud-based 3D CAD modeling software that unites CAD, data management, and collaboration. It is one of the first software as a service (SaaS) CAD product development platforms. As it is delivered via a SaaS model, Onshape does not require any downloads, installations, or updates. All you require to access Onshape is a compatible web browser and an internet connection as all Onshape’s features are available over the internet.  This is one of the software’s most distinguishing features. Onshape is compatible with IOS, Android OS, Linux, OSX (Mac), and Windows.

Considering this software’s creators, you will probably be expecting it to have impressive features. Onshape’s features can be classified into CAD, data management, collaboration, security and audit controls, analytics and reporting, and integration and partners.

The CAD features of Onshape allow you to model individual parts as well as assemblies of various parts. You can also create highly detailed 2D working drawings containing dimensions, annotations, tables, datum, and part lists. These features also enable you to import/export various industry file formats. In addition to these, the CAD features include simultaneous sheet metal tools, intelligent custom features, standard content libraries, and configuration options.

Data management. With the product data management (PDM) features of Onshape, you do not need a separate PDM system. Using these features, you can handle release management, version control, branching and merging, and advanced workflows. These features also enable you to configure and manage a bill of materials in real-time while simultaneously creating or editing an assembly. Data management is a crucial part of the design process and getting it right is crucial to saving time and effort. 

Collaboration. Collaboration tools enable multiple users to collaborate with the lead designer in real-time. These tools enable simultaneous editing and review as you work. Whether it is with a customer, a business associate, your company, your suppliers or your design team, you can securely share your projects for live chat, commenting, and review. You can also add comments on a project and assign tasks to different people. For greater control, access may be limited to viewing, commenting, or editing models.

Security and audit controls. Few platforms offer as much security and audit control as Onshape. To begin with, all your files are securely stored in the cloud. Furthermore, you can protect your design data from unauthorized access using role-based access controls, AES-256 and TLS v 1.2 encryption, two-factor authentication, and comprehensive audit logs. Any edit, modification, or alteration on your design is tracked and recorded for review, and, if necessary, reversing.

Analytics and reporting. With analytics features, you can properly monitor projects’ status with the activity overview, release, project, and user dashboards. You get in-depth analysis and reports on documents, projects, and users. You also get a complete design history and change log, release reporting, and news feed styled activity reports.

Integration and partners. Onshape allows you to make up for its limitations through integrations and partners. You can extend the functionality of Onshape using PLM, ERP, CAM, and simulation add-ons from the Onshape App Store. All Onshape integrated cloud partner apps have unified purchase, licensing, and sign-on mechanisms. Like Onshape, these apps do not require download, installation, or updates.

3D modeling in Onshape (source)

Who uses Onshape?

Onshape focuses on MCAD (Mechanical Computer-Aided Design) so its primary users are mechanical engineers, designers, and industries that involve manufacturing. Onshape’s SaaS model, as well as its excellent collaboration and data management features, make it the choice of designers who work in a team or who work with customers. The following are some of the companies that employ Onshape in their design process. XING Mobility uses it to create powerful power EV trains for electric vehicles, and Voxel Innovations uses it to design for Pulsed electrochemical machining (PECM).

SolidWorks

SolidWorks was released in November 1995 as the flagship product of its parent company, SolidWorks Corporation. SolidWorks Corporation was founded two years earlier in December 1993, by MIT graduate, Jon Hirschtick, with the goal of building an easy-to-use, affordable, and windows compatible 3D CAD software. After two years of hard work by a team of engineers, and a $1 million investment, SolidWorks was born. The software made so much impact in the world of CAD that in 1997, just two years after its release, SolidWorks was acquired by Dassault Systems for $310 million in stock ($497 million in today’s money). Jon Hirschtick remained with the company in various capacities for 14 years, before leaving to co-found Onshape. Over the years, 28 versions of SolidWorks have been released. The latest, SolidWorks 2020, was released on the 18th of September, 2019.

What does SolidWorks do?

Simply put, SolidWorks is a highly functional solid modeling CAD software for all things design, engineering, and manufacturing. This software has numerous professional-grade tools for the different stages of product development. SolidWorks features are classified into 3D CAD, simulation, visualization, electrical design, collaboration, product data management, product configuration, and technical communication.

The intuitive 3D design and modeling features of SolidWorks allow you to conceptualize, create, validate, and transform your ideas into product designs. These features enable you to develop 3D models from 2D sketches using parametric modeling. Whether you are creating a part, an assembly, or a working drawing, SolidWorks has the tools to get it done, no matter how complex the design.

Simulation. To enable you to predict a product’s real-world physical behavior, SolidWorks provides an impressive portfolio of simulation and analysis tools. With these tools, you can simulate fluid flow, heat transfer, fluid forces, thermal and buckling forces, and structural forces. You can also predict and prevent manufacturing defects, and measure the environmental impact of your design from the material stage to manufacturing to product use to disposal.

Electrical design. SolidWorks’ electrical features simplify the design of electrical products through specific tools and an easy-to-use interface. These features include PCB design technology for mechatronics & electronics, electrical schematics for complex electrical systems, and electrical 3D that enables you to integrate electrical schematic designs into your 3D part or assembly model.

Visualization. Using powerful rendition tools, you can turn your model into high-quality photorealistic images, animations, and interactive AR/VR content.

Product data management. SolidWorks includes a suite of PDM tools for efficiently managing and documenting data files, to maximize productivity. PDM features include the 3D Experience cloud platform for easier management and collaboration.

SolidWorks CAM. Although SolidWorks CAM is a separately sold add-on, it is still a part of SolidWorks. The features of SolidWorks CAM enable you to prepare your design for manufacturing early on in the product development process. You can assess Fully integrated CNC programming right inside the SolidWorks interface.

Collaboration. These features facilitate sharing, viewing, commenting, and reviewing designs as a team. Engage with teammates, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders at various stages of product development.

Other features of SolidWorks are Technical Communications and Product Configurator

CAM features of SolidWorks (source) 

Who uses SolidWorks

SolidWorks’s plethora of capabilities that cater to all aspects of the product development process makes this software useful to many diverse industries and professions. It is safe to say that any industry that requires manufacturing or product creation would find SolidWorks very useful. There are currently millions of active SolidWorks users across hundreds of thousands of companies around the world. Industries that make use of the software the most include manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, robotics, construction, oil & gas, agriculture, and many others.

Electrical engineers and technicians also use SolidWorks to create and analyze complex electrical systems.

Finally, numerous companies use the software to carry out cost, feasibility, and environmental analysis of their products from the design stage.

SolidWorks vs Onshape

Let us now compare these two software side-by-side.

This edition of Coffee Break News is quite different because instead of our usual habit of giving you tidbits of several different stories in the areas of CAD, engineering, design, architecture, technology, and other related fields, this month we are focusing on just one major event that took place this month: PTC’s acquisition of SaaS product development platform provider OnShape.

This major acquisition by PTC was just completed at the end of October, and it puts PTC in a unique and enviable position as a leader in the industry’s rapid transition to SaaS. PTC is an international software company with a global presence, with cutting-edge and market-leading products and services offered. According to PTC’s President and CEO Jim Heppelmann, “PTC has earned a reputation for successfully pursuing new innovations that drive corporate growth. Building on the strong momentum we have with our on-premises CAD and PLM businesses, we look to our future and see a new growth play with SaaS.”

OnShape, meanwhile, delivers computer-aided design (CAD) combined with data management and collaboration tools in a Software as a Service (SaaS) product development platform that is the first in its industry. OnShape was started in 2012 by notable CAD pioneers and tech innovators, including the inventors and former executives of SolidWorks: Jon Hirschtick, Dave Corcoran, and John McEleney.

The SaaS model is becoming more and more commonplace in the industry. OnShape’s software offering, for instance, is accessible from any geographic location or device with an active connection, thus lessening the need for additional hardware and expenses, and also reducing the workforce necessity. Because the software is in the cloud, collaboration is improved, efficiency is enhanced, and the amount of time needed can be lessened. 

OnShape’s Hirschtick explained, “At Onshape, we share PTC’s vision for helping organizations transform the way they develop products. We and PTC believe that the product development industry is nearing the ‘tipping point’ for SaaS adoption of CAD and data management tools. We look forward to empowering the customers we serve with the latest innovations to improve their competitive positions.”

PTC’s Heppelmann explained further about the $470-million acquisition, “Today, we see small and medium-sized CAD customers in the high-growth part of the CAD market shifting their interest toward SaaS delivery models, and we expect interest from larger customers to grow over time. The acquisition of Onshape complements our on-premises business with the industry’s only proven, scalable pure SaaS platform, which we expect will open new CAD and PLM growth opportunities while positioning PTC to be the leader as the market transitions toward the SaaS model.”

The SaaS model has become the biggest trend in software markets and domains as manufacturers look to cloud-based solutions to support innovation-related processes, including design review, quality management, supplier cooperation, and service delivery.

The main things most users will consider when using a CAD program are its functionality and intended use. When it comes to Onshape, users will find that the program is geared for mechanical and electrical engineering uses and does its job exceptionally well.

Its main appeal is its Software as a Service – SAAS – product model, which makes it a program that can readily be used through the internet. There’s no need to download any software as Onshape will be available through any net browser, be it on Mac or Windows machines or iOS and Android mobile platforms and in English, Chinese, or Korean languages.

On importing images

Importing an Image in Onshape Source 

As with most other CAD programs, some workflows on Onshape will require users to import reference photos or images onto a file. Users of the program will do this to transfer hard copies or sketches of schematics and even photos of gaskets or cutout templates onto Onshape for either digital archiving purposes or for editing some aspects of the image. Users can output workable linework, CNC or laser-cutter ready vector files, and 3D mechanical models from this process. The key with this type raster to vector conversion is accuracy and – to an equally important degree – efficiency.

There are several ways to turn an imported image on Onshape into workable native linework. The first and often most tedious of these methods is manual tracing. This involves literally importing the image and then using the tools of Onshape to draw over the image and carefully eyeing and following the lines on the import by digital hand. On the other hand, there are software out there that can automatically convert images into importable vector files that you can then open and edit or use directly on Onshape. We’ll be discussing these two conversion methods in detail in this article, but let’s discuss image types first.

Raster and vector images

There’s been a lot of mention about raster and vector images in this post so far which might be confusing for readers who aren’t familiar with the terminology. These are the two major image types that we’ll be trying to import into Onshape.

Raster images, or bitmap images as they’re sometimes called, are images made of colored pixels. JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIF are all file formats that fall within this category. The quality of the image, as well as the file size, will depend on the image’s resolution which indicates the number of pixels in an image. The higher the resolution, the better the quality of the image and the less “blurry” it looks. Sharper and higher-quality raster images make for better source images when imported into Onshape. 

Vector images are different such that they’re images made of formulas that dictate the appearance of various lines and shapes found in the image. Instead of relying on clustered pixels to create an image of a black circle, a vector image instead has data that describes the diameter of the circle, its outline, its fill color, etc. The images of schematics that are commonly displayed on CAD programs including the ones generated in Onshape are vector image files. Common file formats that are in the vector category are DWG, DXF, AI, and PDF.

With all this said, vector images are the most convenient types of images that can be imported into Onshape since the lines and colors in the image file will be directly editable when transferred onto the program. Raster images are a bit different such that they can’t directly be usable when imported onto Onshape and some sort of raster to vector conversion has to happen whether that be in the form of manual tracing or with a piece of third-party automatic conversion software.

File formats for Onshape

Importable Formats on Onshape Source

For the rest of the post, we’ll be discussing how to go about making a raster image workable on Onshape but before all that, here’s a summary of some of the image formats that Onshape can handle.

Tracing manually on Onshape

To use a raster image as a basis for a traced sketch on Onshape, you’ll have to upload your image into your Onshape document and then open what you’ve uploaded onto a sketch. You can then sketch geometry with the image as a guide. This can be done on the browser, Android, and iOS versions of Onshape. We’ll be covering the process for the desktop browser, but the import and tracing process for the mobile versions of the software are nearly identical, so you’ll be able to follow along just as easily.

1. You’ll want to set the plane on which you’ll be importing the reference image. Like you would start any sketch-based model, click on Sketch. If you’re sketching a plan out, select the Top plane. If it’s a side-view schematic or a front-view schematic, pick the Right or Front plane respectively.
2. Click on the insert image icon found at the right part of the Sketch toolbar.
3. A dialog box will appear displaying all the images currently uploaded onto the current document. You’ll want to click on Import at the bottom of that dialog and browse for the image you want to insert and use as a reference.
4. With the image now showing up on the dialog, click on it and drag it to the position you want to put it in the graphics area while setting its approximate size.
5. Resizing: Click on the Dimension tool in the Sketch toolbar and click on the side of the image you want to resize. Again, the aspect ratio (proportions) of the image will be maintained so you only really have to resize just one edge.
6. Repositioning: By default, there’s a constraint applied to the lower edge of the image when you insert it. You can reposition the inserted image by deleting the constraint and clicking and dragging the image to its new position.
7. Rotating: You can rotate the image by fixing one corner and dragging another.
8. Sketch on the image using the tools Onshape has at its disposal. The Spline tool works wonders on tricky curved edges and the Mirror tool will be your best friend when trying to trace over a symmetrical sketch. If you’re planning to turn the sketch into a 3-D model, make sure it’s closed.
9. From here on out, you can opt to exit the Sketch and extrude the model to your desired thickness.

Converting and using a vector image

Manual tracing is perfect for quick, simple, one-off image traces, but it starts to get a bit more complicated with larger batches of images or images with greatly complex linework. This is where conversion software can come in handy.

Some 3D modeling programs will have automatic functionality for raster-to-vector conversion but seeing as Onshape isn’t quite there yet, we’ll be looking at what our options are with other software. Several online services exist that offer quick raster conversion but as with all free online services, this comes at the cost of privacy, quality, usability, or a mix of these.

Scan2CAD is a leading piece of software in the conversion industry. 20 years of software development has gotten the program far with OCR capabilities, great usability, and dependable output quality.

Let’s look at how we can use Scan2CAD to deal with image conversions for use on Onshape.

1. Start Scan2CAD and open the raster image for conversion.
2. Clean up the image and convert the raster image into a vector file. We have tons of tutorial videos to help guide you through the process of conversion using Scan2CAD, so be sure to check those out.
3. Open up Onshape. Import the files you have extracted and converted from the PDF. The specific steps to inserting vector images are largely the same as with raster images. You can refer to those steps we’ve discussed earlier on to figure if you’re a bit lost with how to insert images into the Onshape graphics area.
4. The one difference with the process of importing raster images is that you no longer have to trace the image. The imported image already comes in readily editable geometry that you can extrude directly after if you so choose.

Final thoughts

Onshape is a relatively new CAD solution that brings something innovative and deeply refreshing to the table. Its workflows and functionalities are great and are continually improving. But as with any software, the output is only as good as the input.

With reference images, there’s not much better than Scan2CAD when it comes to image conversion solutions. If you’re looking for something quick, easy to use, and results-oriented, Scan2CAD is the software for you.

Over the years, several advancements have been made in the CAD industry. Hundreds of powerful CAD software that are capable of highly complex designs and 3D modeling, now exist. However, certain packages are leading the way in terms of functionality and capabilities.

In light of this, we at Scan2CAD have compiled a list of the top 10 3D modeling software available today. In this article, we will be going through their features, capabilities, compatibility, supported file types, and other features that make them stand above the rest. Note that while some of these software programs have 2D drafting capabilities, we will only be considering their 3D modeling capabilities. That being said, let’s proceed to the list.

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD 3D modeling (Source)

AutoCAD is a highly functional 2D and 3D CAD modeling software by Autodesk – the most popular and prestigious CAD software developer. While this software was first released in 1982 as a 2D drafting software, several advancements over the years have seen AutoCAD grow to include powerful features that cater to the modeling needs of numerous industries. Although it is marketed as a single package, AutoCAD comes with many industry-specific toolsets that can be, themselves, considered as individual products. These toolsets, their features, and their capabilities are as follows.

AutoCAD classic comes with the familiar AutoCAD interface, which allows users to create 2D drafts, produce 3D models, and annotate models in 2D.

AutoCAD Architecture, as the name implies, is a toolset for the architecture industry. It contains features for the production and documentation of architectural designs and the creation of building models.

AutoCAD Mechanical is developed for DFM (Design For Manufacturing). It is used for creating, modifying, and documenting mechanical models.

AutoCAD Plant 3D allows you to model very detailed plants with complex pipe routes and numerous machinery.

Other toolsets are AutoCAD electrical and AutoCAD MEP.

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• File formats: DWG, DFX
• Interested? Check out our AutoCAD pricing.

2. Inventor

Inventor 3D modeling (Source)

Also known as Autodesk Inventor Professional, Inventor is a 3D mechanical modeling CAD software for all things product design and engineering. In line with its name, Inventor Professional comes with professional-grade tools for all your 3D mechanical design needs. These tools can be classified into product design, modeling, simulation, visualization, and collaboration. With these tools, you can easily create and edit individual 3D models, couple several parts to form an assembly, and produce detailed drawings for manufacturing. Inventor’s modeling tools also enable you to design complex sheet metal parts, build pipe and tube routes, and integrate electronics your mechanical models.

The simulation tools allow you to analyze the behavior of your model under real-life conditions of stress and applied forces.

Finally, to help you properly visualize and study tour model, Inventor includes powerful visualization and rendering tools.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: IPT, IAM, IDW, DWG
• Interested? Check out our Inventor pricing.

3. Solidworks

Solidworks 3D modeling (Source)

Solidworks is our first entry from Dassault systems, one of Autodesk’s major rivals. It is a solid modeling CAD and analysis software. Its equally impressive lineup of highly advanced modeling features makes it a worthy adversary of Inventor. Whether you are modeling an individual component, or an assembly comprising of numerous parts, Solidworks has the right features that enable you to do it. However, Solidworks didn’t earn its place on this list through its design features alone. The software has powerful simulation tools that allow you to carry out the following analysis on your model. These include high cycle fatigue, computational fluid dynamics, and endurance under stress.

Furthermore, visualization and rendering tools allow you to turn your models into animations and high-quality images. Other features of Solidworks include technical communication, electrical design, 2D CAD, product data management, and communication. Some of these features are available as add-ons.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: SLDDRW, SLDPRT, SLDASM
• Interested? Check out our Solidworks pricing.

4. Vectorworks

Vectorworks 3D modeling (Source)

Vectorworks is a multipurpose 2D drafting and 3D modeling software that caters to numerous industries. It consists of several fully functional, individual products for a variety of industries. These industries include mechanical engineering, entertainment, civil engineering, architecture, landscaping, manufacturing, and stage management. The different Vectorworks products with 3D modeling capabilities and their respective industries are as follows.

Vectorworks Fundamental is a 2D/3D modeling and documentation software that enables you to sketch, model, and analyze. Despite its name, there is absolutely nothing fundamental about this product. Its capabilities include solid modeling, simulation, and coordination.

Vectorworks Architect is used to create 3D architectural models using a suite of intuitive tools and an integrated BIM workflow.

Vectorworks Landmark is dedicated to landscape design and planning.

Other Vectorworks products are Vectorworks Spotlight, Vectorworks Designer, and Vectorworks Braceworks.

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• File formats: Vectorworks supported file formats
• Interested? Check out our Vectorworks pricing.

5. Solid Edge

Solid Edge 3D modeling (Source)

Developed by Siemens PLM Software, Solid Edge is a 2D drafting and solid modeling CAD software package for mechanical and electrical design, and product development. The software combines the flexibility and control of parametric modeling with the speed and simplicity of direct modeling. Solid Edge boasts of a complete set of features required for product development.  One of these features, mechanical and electrical design, is used for creating solid models, detailed drawings, sheet metal parts, and top-down assembly. Other features are simulation, data management, manufacturing, and technical publications.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: PAR, ASM, DFT, DTFF, CMP_XML, STL, IGES, DXF, DWG, STEP
• Interested? Check out our Solid Edge pricing.

6. Onshape

Onshape 3D modeling (Source)

Onshape is a mechanical-focused CAD software package that is capable of handling all aspects of product development. It is one of the two software packages on our list that are delivered through a SAAS model, online. This cancels out the need for downloads, installation, or upgrades as the latest version is always available through web browsers. Onshape focuses primarily on mechanical CAD, and it boasts of an impressive lineup of 3D modeling features. These features enable you to create complex solids, build detailed assemblies, and exchange files. Also, Onshape includes standard content libraries.

• Operating system: Windows, IOS, Android, Linus, OSX
• File formats: PDF, MP4, PNG, JPEG, SVG, GIF, TXT, MD
• Interested? Check out our Onshape pricing.

7. Fusion 360

Fusion 360 3D modeling (Source)

Another powerful entry on our list from Autodesk is Fusion 360. This is a fully integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE modeling software. Fusion 360 eliminates disconnected product development processes as it combines design, manufacturing, and engineering into a single package. The CAD features of Fusion 360 can be grouped into the following. 3D design/modeling, generative design, and simulation. Other features are documentation, collaboration, and manufacturing.

Fusion 360 allows you to create very complex individual or multi-component systems, using both geometric and parametric-based approaches. Its powerful simulation features include shape optimization, modal frequency, event simulation, and static stress analysis.

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• File formats: Fusion 360 file formats
• Interested? Check out Fusion 360.

8. Revit

Revit 3D modeling (Source)

Revit is a multipurpose BIM software package that is dedicated to architectural, civil engineering, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineering, landscape, and structural designs. This professional software is a complete package for all building and construction design needs. It enables design experts in these fields to design and model 3D structures while annotating with 2D. In addition, Revit’s 4D BIM tools give users the ability to not only track the chronological advancements of a project but also to envision the duration of any stage of a structure’s life cycle.

No matter how complex the infrastructure or building that you ate modeling is, Revit had the tools to help you design, analyze, and simulate your model. Its features can be classified into architectural design, structural engineering and fabrication, MEP engineering and fabrication, and construction.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: RVT, RFA, RTE, RFT, and others
• Interested? Check out our Revit pricing.

9. CATIA

Catia 3D modeling (Source)

CATIA is a multi-Industry 3D modeling software package. It is the second entry on our list from Dassault Systems. Similar to Vectorworks, Catia has a number of products that handle different fields of 3D modeling.

3DEXPERIENCE CATIA is the main product for all design and engineering activities. It enables you to create various types of 3D parts and assembly for a wide range of engineering processes.  The tools of this product are classified as construction, design/styling, engineering, and systems engineering.

With CATIA V5, users can carry out mechanical design, shape design & styling, product synthesis, equipment & systems Engineering, analysis, and machining.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: CATDRAWING, CATPART, CATPRODUCT, DLV, CGR, MODEL
• Interested? Check out CATIA.

10. Creo

Creo 3D modeling (Source)

Creo is a 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE software solution for product design and development. This software allows users to design and create their products. It has an amazing variety of tools, capabilities, and features to effectively take your products from a simple concept to a detailed digital prototype. Creo’s features can be classified into modeling and design, simulation and analysis, augmented reality, smart connected design, additive manufacturing, and model-based design.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: Creo file formats
• Interested? Check out Creo.

In this article, we will be going through all things Onshape pricing. Beginning with its features and capabilities, we will explore the different packages, licensing options, and cost of the application.

Onshape is CAD software system that is used for all things product development. It is focused primarily on MCAD, (Mechanical Computer-aided Design) for industries that produce mechanical machinery, consumer electronics, 3D printing, or even provide medical service.

What Makes Onshape Stand Out?

What makes it stand out is that it’s one of the few CAD packages that are delivered through a SAAS (software as a service) model, over the internet. This eliminates the need for any download or installation, as the software can be accessed through a web browser, on Windows, Mac, OSX, Android and iOS platforms. Also, upgrades for Onshape are released directly to the web interface; hence, maintenance is not required for the software. It is available in English, Korean and Chinese languages.

Model of a 3D cast in Onshape (source)

Onshape Features and Capabilities

The main features of Onshape can be broadly classified into the following. CAD, Data management, Collaboration tools, Security and Audit controls, Analytics and Reporting, and Integration and Partners.

The CAD features allow you to create complex parts and solids, build detailed and structured assemblies, and produce working drawings. You can also import and export data of various formats. In addition to these, the CAD features include standard content libraries.

Using Data management, you can handle release management, version control, advanced flow works, bill of materials, and product data management with ease. Because Onshape does not store data as files, but as virtual documents in databases (cloud-hosted databases), greater monitoring and control is guaranteed.

Collaboration tools allow multiple users to collaborate in real-time with the lead designer. A customer, a vendor, a business associate, or fellow designers can be granted simultaneous, real-time access to a design file. Access may be limited to viewing, commenting, or editing models.

With Onshape, every step of your design process is saved and logged. Whether it is an edit, a modification, or an alteration, the activity is tracked and recorded for review or reversing. You can also regulate access to your project.

Going through all the features mentioned above, it is evident that Onshape is very capable of getting the job done. Having ascertained its capability, we can now proceed to the actual Onshape pricing.

Onshape Plans

Onshape is available on various devices (source)

Onshape has three different plans which differ by level of functionality and intended number of users. This is to ensure that there is something for individuals, SMEs, and corporations alike. The three plans are Standard, Professional, and Enterprise.

Standard Plan

This plan is best suited to individual single-seat users who require modern CAD tools with modest collaboration and data management needs. The features of the standard plan are as follows.

• Surfacing and sheet metal
• Part and assembly modeling
• Access anywhere
• Drawings
• Direct technical support
• Unlimited versioning and branching
• Bill of materials

Professional Plan

The professional plan is tailored for small or medium scale business. Consulting firms can also use this plan. The Professional plan contains all the features of the Standard plan, alongside the following features. 

• Formal release management
• Complete data management 
• Automated part numbering
• Unlimited versioning and branching
• Bulk item management
• Custom properties and metadata
• Instant provisioning
• Consolidated billing
• Direct technical support
• Standardized approval workflows
• Limited company admin tools
• Limited centralized IP control

Enterprise Plan

This plan is for organizations that require best-in-class product development tools, customized workflows, role-based access control, and design analytics. In addition to the features of the Professional plan, the Enterprise plan has the following features.

• Single sign-on
• Priority direct technical support
• Approval workflows
• Company admin tools
• Support for multiple workflows
• Formal release management
• Complete data management
• Guided onboarding
• Role-based access control
• Advanced provisioning settings
• Centralized IP control
• Project-based reporting

Onshape License Options

Onshape only offers annual subscription licenses. These licenses may be single-user or enterprise licenses. Because the software is delivered through a SAAS method, the application requires no downloads, installations, license codes, upgrades, or maintenance. You always have access to the most recent version of the software via web, for the length of your subscription.

The single-user license gives access to only one user. It is ideal for individuals and small companies with only a few employees. This license is available for Onshape Professional and Onshape Standard and can be purchased from either the official site or from authorized resellers.

The enterprise license is best for large companies with numerous employees. Understandably, it is available for only Onshape Enterprise. Because the demands for this license type varies by customer, you’ll have to contact the sales team to purchase it. Unlike traditional offline software which requires dedicated servers and network infrastructure to manage enterprise licenses, Onshape enterprise licenses can be managed over the internet.

You can upgrade from free to Standard, and from Standard to Professional, in the middle of your billing period. If you do this, you will be refunded your unused time for the lower version and be simultaneously charged for the higher version. Your new subscription period (one year) begins on the day of the upgrade. It is also possible to cancel or downgrade your subscription in the middle of your billing period. In this case, however, you will not receive a refund but will continue to use the software till the end of the year (since you have already paid for it), after which you will be downgraded.

Onshape Pricing

Having gone through the different plans and license types, we will now look at their cost. Prices for the enterprise plan vary by customer requirements. The table below shows the prices for single-user subscription licenses.

Onshape Discounts and Free Products

Onshape offers some free products. Some of these are as follows.

Onshape Free Trial

If you are not sure whether the software is suitable for you, you can get personal experience for free using Onshape’s 14-days trial period. The trial gives you free, unrestricted access to the Professional plan. At the end of the trial period, either you subscribe to a paid plan or get downgraded to a free plan.

Education Plan (Free)

Onshape’s free Education plan is for students and educators. It comes with all the features of Onshape Standard plan modified for educational, and not commercial purposes. Education Plan Documents are permanently tagged with a small EDU icon. With this plan, no need to purchase a school license, buy specialized hardware, or download and install the software. Students and instructors can simply create a free account and begin using Onshape on any device from anywhere in minutes. The plan is available for current faculty members, school volunteers, or students pursuing a degree, diploma, or certificate at an accredited educational institution and has to be renewed yearly. The features of the Education plan include the following.

• EDU document only
• Version control
• Import and export standard CAD format
• Sharing and collaboration 
• Full CAD functionality 
• Supports Windows, Linux, mobile devices, and Chromebook.

Public Plan (Free)

Onshape Free extends fully capable modern CAD tools to non-professional designers. At no cost, hobbyists, makers, and others who are willing to share their designs freely can make use of this plan. The features of the public plan include the following.

• Version control
• Sharing and collaboration 
• Import and export common CAD format
• Limited CAD functionality 
• Supports Windows, Linux, mobile devices and Chromebook
• Public document only

Onshape Program for Startups and Entrepreneurs (Free)

Onshape also offers the Onshape Professional package to hardware startups under the Onshape Program for Startups and Entrepreneurs. This program, which is free for qualifying companies, has enabled thousands of companies and individuals to design better products and eliminate cost bottlenecks. If interested, you must fill in a form, after which Onshape will contact you to share more information about the program. The form prompts information such as your name, company, phone number, company URL, funding, lifetime revenue, and the number of CAD users working in the company.

Are There Alternatives to Onshape?

Considering that this Onshape pricing is only a consideration, you may wish to explore alternatives. The following are the alternative SAAS CAD software.

• AutoCAD web app – This is a web version of the traditional AutoCAD software. It allows you to access and use AutoCAD anywhere and anytime. Access to the web app is unlocked through a subscription to the traditional AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT.
• Vectary – This is a 3D design tool for a wide variety of design applications including Mock-ups, Typography, Logo design, Web design, Social media, Game design, Icons, and 3D Printing. It costs $144 per year, per user, billed monthly at $12.
• Fusion 360 – This is cloud-based CAD/CAM software from Autodesk. It is used for 3D modeling, simulation, documentation, rapid prototyping, and prototyping. Fusion 360 costs $495 per year, per user.
• SelfCAD – SelfCAD is a fully-featured, fully integrated, user- friendly, online 3d modeling application. The application is more streamlined to 3D printing. It costs $139.99 per year for one user.

Conclusion

Onshape is a versatile, cloud-based 3D modeling solution. It offers convenience since it does not require you to download or install the software locally on your computer. Thus, you do not need to have an advanced system, as is the case with a number of CAD software. In addition to the convenience offered, Onshape is priced quite competitively. It has three annual plans: Standard at $1,500 per user per year; Professional at $2,500 per user per year; and Enterprise (contact Onshape for the pricing). Moreover, there are a number of free plans for qualifying users.

With that in mind, Scan2CAD has put together a list of top 14 CAD packages for Mac. We even discuss whether it’s worth using Mac with CAD, or whether you should stick to PC. In addition, we’ll detail how beginner-friendly each of the packages is and finally list the best CAD software package for Mac based on various factors.

Can I Use a Mac for CAD?

The complexity of the Mac OS has made it difficult, in many cases, for software developers to create apps for these systems. This is no different in the CAD industry, with all software packages being compatible with systems such as Windows and Linux, but avoiding the Mac OS. Now, there are many CAD software packages that run natively in Mac. Unfortunately, however, many high-end packages are unavailable for Mac. CAD giants Autodesk and Dassault, for example, are primarily PC-based.

So, does this mean Mac users have to avoid high-end CAD software? Not necessarily. Before you start forking out for a PC, there are steps you can take. With Apple’s Bootcamp utility, you can install and run Windows applications within the Mac OS environment. You can then use either Mac OS or Windows. The second option, is to use Parallels desktop, allowing you to use both Mac OS and Windows simultaneously. In either case, you can use any CAD software package on your Mac.

Like most things in the world, however, there are downsides to this approach. The main issue is that running Windows on Mac can take up a lot of storage. For heavy CAD users, like engineers and architects, this is problematic—space is precious, after all!

Should I Use a Mac for CAD then?

It all comes down to your own preferences. Most major CAD software packages aren’t compatible with Mac OS, meaning you have to run Windows on your Mac—taking up a lot of storage—and the ones that are compatible, more often than not, come with limited capabilities.

If you’re a heavy CAD user and you require full capabilities, then it might be more advisable to stick to using a PC than a Mac. Before you make up your mind, however, check out our list of top 14 CAD software for Mac.

Top 14 CAD Packages for Mac

2D Design Software for Mac

1. AutoCAD

Image source: CADD Microsystems

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Autodesk, Inc.
• Price: $235/month or $1,865/year or $5,315 paid every 3 years (Learn more about AutoCAD pricing options)
• Industries: architecture, mechanical design, engineering
• Apple Silicon Support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of Use: User-friendly for seasoned CAD users
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of AutoCAD

• Support for both 2D drafting and 3D modeling
• AutoCAD 2023 introduced Markup, trace feature, and improved 3D graphics for 2D modeling
• Plenty of drawing and modification tools
• Floating windows
• Drawing history
• Mobile, desktop, and web apps

Pros of AutoCAD

• It is user-friendly for seasoned CAD users
• AutoCAD offers numerous features that make it a powerful software
• It is the industry standard for 2D drafting
• The software now supports 3D modeling
• AutoCAD’s Shortkeys save plenty of time and improve productivity. For more on this, check out our detailed discussion on AutoCAD commands

Cons of AutoCAD

• Users need a powerful computer to meet the minimum requirements: Autodesk continues to roll out even more features and provide better graphics, which require more advanced computing
• It has a steep learning curve for beginners because of the numerous features packed into the user interface; that said, you can easily learn AutoCAD Basics
• AutoCAD’s cost structure makes it expensive for users who are just starting out
• AutoCAD for Mac only supports a fraction of file formats (imports) than AutoCAD for Windows
• Because the 3D modeling is quite new, some users find it difficult to use; in addition, it does not support some functions that are part of the 3D modeling workflow

About AutoCAD

AutoCAD is the flagship product of Autodesk, and is arguably one of the most popular CAD packages on the market. Initially a 2D design software, it has built up 3D capabilities over the years. With AutoCAD for Mac, users can create and edit 2D geometry, along with 3D models with solids, surfaces and mesh objects. It’s also possible to annotate drawing with notes, dimensions and even tables and although it is a very comprehensive piece of software, it is possible to learn the basics of AutoCAD in an hour.

If you’re familiar with the PC version of AutoCAD, you’ll notice the difference in interface straight away. To ensure the UI is familiar for Mac users, its design is practically identical to other Mac applications. Autodesk has also included additional features to take advantage of Apple’s Trackpad capabilities and the full screen mode in OS X Lion. Additional specialized Mac features include coverflow navigation, multitouch gestures, multiview split screen and touch bar support.

As with other Mac counterparts, however, AutoCAD for Mac comes with some limitations. You’ll find that some versions miss features like advanced rendering settings, a feature finder or DWF/DGN underlays. You also won’t have access to specialist toolsets for architecture, mechanical design and so on. With the price for both PC and Mac standing the same, even with a difference in capability, you might be better off running Windows on your Mac or forking out for a PC instead.

2. DraftSight

Image source: Ricky Jordan

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Dassault Systèmes SE 
• Price: $249/year (DraftSight Professional) and $599/year (DraftSight Premium); learn more about DraftSight pricing options
• Industries: Mechanical/manufacturing, architecture
• Apple Silicon Support: Yes, through Rosetta 2
• Ease of Use: Beginner-friendly (simple to learn)
• Interested? Download now!

Features of DraftSight

• API: it offers an API that enables users to automate and customize processes with LISP routines or programming languages
• Productivity tools: these include DrawCompare, automatic layer assignment as well as layer management tools, PowerTrim, Dynamic Blocks (which enables users to view and change AutoCAD Dynamic Blocks)
• Image Tracer: users can use this feature to convert raster images to vector
• Mechanical Toolbox: this is a suite of mechanical symbols and tools that enable mechanical engineers to standardize their mechanical drafting practices
• AutoDimension command, which prompts DraftSight to automatically dimension the drawings

Pros of DraftSight

• DraftSight is available as both a desktop software for Mac as well as a cloud-based program
• It has a user-friendly interface
• The software has a somewhat similar layout and interface as AutoCAD, easing the transition for anyone looking to make the jump; this allows you to learn DraftSight basics in 1 hour
• It increases productivity thanks to the vast array of productivity tools
• The API offers compatibility with other software
• DraftSight can read and write DWG files, AutoCAD’s proprietary file format
• The Image Tracer lets users vectorize raster images

Cons of DraftSight

• DraftSight no longer offers a free package as was the case previously
• The professional package limits capabilities to only 2D design
• Users have complained that the software has poor customer and technical support

About DraftSight

Whilst Dassault might be best known for its flagship products SolidWorks and CATIA, a close runner-up has to be the freeware DraftSight. A frequent feature on the Scan2CAD blog, DraftSight is a 2D CAD software package that enables users to design, edit and view 2D drawings. A relatively simple software package, DraftSight reminds many users of AutoCAD in regards to its interface. In fact, its learning curve isn’t steep at all—allowing many CAD newbies to get to grips with it quickly.

DraftSight for Mac OS is only available as Beta in the free version. So, if you’re eyeing up its advanced Professional version, you’ll have to run Windows in your Mac OS or fork out for a PC. Whilst the free version for Mac comes with limited capabilities, it still has an abundance of features to take advantage of. With it, you can take advantage of straightforward 2D documentation—using design and drafting tools to create an abundance of 2D designs. Users also gain access to online community support and learning resources.

If you’re looking for an AutoCAD alternative, in fact, DraftSight is a decent option. It supports both DWG and DXF, meaning you can work with files created in AutoCAD—decent if you’re working with people who use AutoCAD.

Not sure DraftSight is all it’s cracked up to be? Check out our top tips and tricks for DraftSight newbies.

3. ARES Commander

Image source: Cadalyst

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Linux
• Developer: Graebert GmbH
• Price: Perpetual license from $795.00
• Industry: Architecture
• Apple silicon support: Native Apple silicon support
• Ease of use: Beginner-friendly
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of ARES Commander

• Native .dwg support
• Collaboration: it uses cloud-based and mobile platforms to synchronize files as well as share sheet capabilities using the Pack and Go feature (which packages your drawing, imports, and sheet set references, as a zip file)
• Enhanced user interface with contextual ribbon tabs
• Ability to edit .pdf and .dgn underlays as well as images and external references
• Ability to import/link spreadsheets and the data therein
• Support for BIM models generated using Revit or stored using the .ifc format
• View navigator that works in both 2D and 3D environments
• Annotation monitor
• Smart calculator palette
• ALIGNX command, which aligns different types of entities according to the position of the first entity selected

Pros of ARES Commander

• Fair pricing model
• Compatibility with AutoCAD and .dwg file format as well as integration with Onshape
• Easy to use even for beginners
• Supports 14 languages

Cons of ARES Commander

• Limited customization options

About ARES Commander

Although perhaps not the most well-known CAD package on the market, ARES Commander brings a lot to the table. A DWG-based CAD package for Windows, Mac and Linux, ARES Commander is seen by some as a viable alternative to packages like AutoCAD. With it, users can create and edit DWG drawings in both 2D and 3D no matter the system. Indeed, one of the biggest advantages to the package is its intuitive interface—familiar to any CAD user—making the learning curve easy.

ARES Commander doesn’t want to limit users to just one device. That’s why they have ARES Touch, a mobile CAD application. With it, you can keep your designs with you no matter where you are. You can make use of a complete set of 2D design and annotation tools, with the ability to add picture and voice notes. The software package also comes with ARES Kudo, which allows you to access, design and edit DWGs stored in cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive. If you save any modifications, the changes are automatically synchronized.

ARES Commander certainly comes with plenty of powerful and innovative features—did we mention it was cross-platform?! If you’re looking for a viable alternative to AutoCAD that doesn’t limit your capabilities, it’s not a bad option.

4. TurboCAD Mac Pro

Image source: AppKed

• Operating system: Mac
• Developer: IMSI Design
  
• Price: Permanent license for $699.99 or annual subscription license of $279.99
• Industry: Architectural and Mechanical design
  
• Apple Silicon Support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of use: Beginner friendly (especially for those who have previously used AutoCAD)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of TurboCAD Mac Pro

• AutoCAD-like user interface
• Panning
• 2D drafting and 3D modeling
• Ability to directly edit blocks
• Compatible with the latest DWG versions
• Some of the 3D modeling tools include 3D mapping tools, patterns,
• Support for high-end mechanical CAD formats, facilitating file imports from software such as SolidWorks, SolidEdge, Inventor

Pros of TurboCAD Mac Pro

• It has an AutoCAD-like interface, making it intuitive, user-friendly
• TurboCAD is cheaper than AutoCAD and offers more mechanical design-oriented features than AutoCAD
• Fast even when working with large files (even for files that are >80 MB in size)
• Flexible pricing that suits users’ varying needs
• Ease of use thanks to learning tools such as LogiCursor, which suggests users’ next moves
• Compatibility with numerous file formats and software
• It includes mechanical design capabilities along with 2D drafting tools
• TurboCAD can be customized

Cons of TurboCAD Mac Pro

• The 3D modeling aspect is slow and could do with some improvements
• 3D rendering and imaging are complicated as they are not standardized

About TurboCAD Mac Pro

While not a household name like AutoCAD or SolidWorks, for example, TurboCAD brings a lot to the table. A full 2D/3D CAD package, TurboCAD comes with a realm of specialist tools, ranging from drafting tools to the latest ACIS realistic rendering engine. Promising to deliver ‘unparalleled value and productivity’, TurboCAD is a great option for anyone working in the AEC industry sticking to their guns by working on Mac.

TurboCAD aims to be a robust, familiar, and cheaper alternative to AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT, especially for people who are used to the Autodesk product. For this reason, it comes with a full suite of 2D drafting tools, but it’s the software’s 3D capabilities that has our attention. With 3D surface and ACIS solid modeling tools, assembly tool and 3D printing capabilities, there’s more than enough to keep anyone interested. Those in architecture will be pleased to hear that TurboCAD comes with an entire suite of architectural design tools including symbol and material libraries, auto-dimensioning capabilities and built-in intelligence that automatically creates openings.

And that’s not all! TurboCAD also enables users to create incredible photorealistic renderings—taking care of aspects like material, special effects lighting and environmental effects. It supports High Dynamic-Range Images (HDRI) and the export of poster size images. And if you’re feeling particularly artistic, you can even add render styles to make your renderings more individual.

5. QCAD

Image source: Softpedia

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Linux
• Developer: RibbonSoft, GmbH
• Price: Free
• Industry: Civil engineering, mechanical engineering, architecture
• Apple silicon support: Native Apple silicon support (for Versions released after March 2021)
• Ease of use: User-friendly for seasoned CAD users, but not beginner-friendly
• Interested? Download now!

Features of QCAD

• Support for layers, blocks, measuring tools, object snaps
• It has various Imperial and Metrical units
• Facilitates printing to scale and printing on multiple pages
• Supports object snaps
• Its part library has over 4,800 CAD parts
• QCAD has plenty of command-line tools
• It supports nesting and G-Code export
• The software offers plenty of drawing and modification tools
• Its output and input file formats include DWG and DXF

Pros of QCAD

• QCAD is free
• It supports multiple languages, including Spanish
• QCAD does not require a powerful Mac computer for it to work well
• The software offers AutoCAD compatibility as it supports the DWG file format
• It is easy to use for people who are familiar with CAD software

Cons of QCAD

• It is not user-friendly, especially for beginners
• QCAD has an outdated user interface

About QCAD

QCAD is a free and open-source CAD application that can be used to create a wide variety of 2D designs. Technical drawings such as mechanical schematics, electrical drawings and building blueprints are a walk in the park with QCAD. Many users of QCAD have remarked on its similarity to AutoCAD’s interface—making the leap from both software packages easy enough. To make things easier, QCAD uses the AutoCAD’s DXF file format to save and import files. Users can opt to use DWG with a commercial plugin. 

With a lot of free software, capabilities tend to be lacking. With QCAD, you get a lot more than you bargained for. It comes with a library of over 4,000 CAD parts and 60 construction and modification tools. Additionally, users can make use of layers, grouping blocks and printing to scale. QCAD is certainly not the most powerful or complex CAD software out there. However, it is accessible for all users, regardless of whether they’ve used CAD before. If you’re just starting out with CAD, it’s not a bad option.

Of course, if you’re looking for heavier capabilities—such as 3D modeling—you might find QCAD to be a little bit underwhelming.

3D Modeling Software for Mac

6. ArchiCAD

Image source: InsMac

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Graphisoft
• Price: $320/month or $2545/year (for ArchiCAD full version) and $280/month or $2,250 per year (for ArchiCAD Solo Version); learn more about ArchiCAD pricing packages
• Industry: Architecture and planning
• Apple silicon support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of Use: Steep learning curve
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of ArchiCAD

• 3D modeling
• BIM
• Dynamic updating, which improves collaboration
• Visualization and rendering

Pros of ArchiCAD

• ArchiCAD supports more than 15 languages
• Customizable and intuitive user interface
• ArchiCAD offers the ability to edit models in 3D
• It offers advanced rendering capabilities

Cons of ArchiCAD

• It is expensive for hobbyists or beginners
• Steep learning curve
• The ArchiCAD library lacks many everyday items that architects and designers use
• It is slow sometimes owing to the fact that it sports many features and capabilities
• Although it is acclaimed for its rendering capabilities, some users complain that it is difficult to get surfaces and textures correctly
• The meshes are difficult to work with

About ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is developed by Graphisoft. Not familiar with the company? They’re a subsidiary of Nemetschek, the developers of  Vectorworks. A popular option for those in the AEC industry, ArchiCAD is a BIM CAD software package dedicated entirely to the realm of architecture. No matter what you’re looking to do—from looking purely at aesthetics to figuring out the workflow of design and engineering—it’s got you covered. Plus you can also learn the basics of ArchiCAD in an hour.

Unlike AutoCAD, there aren’t any limitations for Mac users with ArchiCAD. Users can take full advantage of features like ArchiCAD’s well known ‘Stair Tool’—allowing you to evaluate thousands of designs at once and pick from the most optimal designs. Meanwhile, you’ll also notice the remastered Facade Design workflow, enabling users to design and develop hierarchical curtain wall systems using modular patterns. And with parametric custom profiles, ArchiCAD combines the power of parametric design with graphical profile creation.

ArchiCAD is certainly one of the top architecture software packages on the market. With optimized workflows and coordination, everything is streamlined from design to production. And with advanced BIM capabilities, it’s easy enough to put together cost, materials and even plans for eventual demolition. Handily, there is also a number of ArchiCAD keyboard shortcuts to help you use the software quicker.

7. Vectorworks Architect

Image source: Cadalyst

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Vectorworks, Inc.
• Price: $153/month or $1,530/year or Perpetual license for $3,045; learn more about Vectorworks pricing plans
• Industry: Architecture
• Apple silicon support: Native Apple Silicon support
• Ease of use: Easy to use/beginner-friendly
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of Vectorworks Architect

• Extensive library of 2D and 3D symbols and objects, e.g., for doors, sinks, plumbing, and windows, among other objects
• 3D rendering
• Layers and classes
• BIM
• Support for IFC and openBIM
• Direct links with Cinema4D, Photoshop, Rhino, and SketchUp
• Animation such as solar animation
• Support for emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), point cloud, photogrammetry, and 360° panorama
• Cloud services

Pros of Vectorworks Architect

• Easy to use and learn – you can in fact learn Vectorworks basics in 1 hour
• Intuitive interface
• Comprehensive learning material
• Great support
• Easy to export .dwg file, PDF, or image

Cons of Vectorworks Architect

• Buggy, especially when an upgrade is introduced
• Only ideal for simple/basic designs (not ideal for complicated designs)

About Vectorworks

Vectorworks Architect is yet another favourite of Scan2CAD’s. Developed by Nemetschek, Architect is one of the many CAD software packages on offer from the German developer. Unlike other software packages that limit capabilities for their Mac counterparts, Vectorworks holds absolutely nothing back for Mac users. A full 2D/3D modeler with BIM capabilities, Vectorworks Architect is a popular package for architects and designers across the world.

Vectorworks Architect has the ability to support projects from the beginning—with conceptual design—all the way to the eventual demolition. Users can freely draw, model and document ideas with tools that have cutting-edge precision and an innovative 3D modeling engine powered by SIEMENS Parasolid. This means users aren’t constrained at all by presets or strict parameters. If you’re looking for a flexible CAD software package for your Mac OS, you can’t go too wrong with Vectorworks Architect.

With an advanced suite of NURBS-surface solutions and Parasolid-based solids, nothing’s impossible with Vectorworks Architect. Knowing how important collaboration is with architects and designers, Vectorworks also provides a multi-user environment with Project Sharing.

8. Cobalt CAD

Image source: Ashlar-Vellum

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Ashlar, Inc. dba Ashlar-Vellum
• Price: $297.50/year/single-user licence
• Industry: Mechanical design, architecture
• Apple silicon support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of use: Easy to use
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of Cobalt CAD

• Solid and surface modeling
• 2D design tools
• Parametric modeling using dimensional constraints and equations
• Associative assembly tools
• Surface analysis
• A solid-geometric engine that can handle tolerant and common edges as well as closed sets of analytic geometry and NURB surfaces
• 3D rendering and animation
• 3D printing support
• Various import and export options and translators
• 2D/3D PDF export and 3D import
• Drafting Assistant for easy 2D drafting
• Mill of materials
• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)

Pros of Cobalt CAD

• Easy to use
• Affordable
• Offers flexible modeling
• Parametric modeling
• Compatibility with SolidWorks (supports standard file formats)
• Photorealistic renderings that resemble 2D illustrations
• Seamless 3D extrusion from 2D designs
• Learning materials including tutorials, articles, and expert training

Cons of Cobalt CAD

• It does not have a dedicated support page
• No shortcut commands

About Cobalt CAD

The difficulty with CAD software is that because there are so many software packages available, we often settle for the most popular choices and miss the unseen gems. Cobalt, developed by Ashar-Vellum, is one of these gems. A parametric-based CAD and 3D modeling program, it is unique for combining direct-modeling to create objects and the history-driven parametric modeling.

If you’re tired of CAD software packages constraining your work process, you might be better suited to Cobalt’s Organic Workflow design process —letting users work in any way they want. With simple design iteration, accessible tools and a hands-on approach, you’re entirely in control. Users can create speedy designs from concept to production with Class A NURBS surfaces, ACIS solids and intuitive wireframe. And with a non-modal interface, you can switch between modeling techniques and approaches with absolutely no hassle.

Once you’re happy with your designs you can show them off using Cobalt’s full photorealistic rendering and camera-based animation toolsets. This includes realistic texture maps and procedural textures, an advanced material editor, interactive materials display and environment maps. Additionally, users can interleave wireframe geometry in photo-realistically rendered stills and animations.

9. Fusion 360

Image source: Majenta Solutions

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Autodesk, Inc. 
• Price: $60/month, $495/year, or $1,410 paid every 3 years; learn more about Fusion 360 pricing options
• Industry: Product design and manufacturing
• Apple silicon support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of use: Complex and hard for beginners
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of Fusion 360

• Parametric modeling
• Freeform, solid, surface, and mesh modeling
• Sheet metal design
• Cloud-based platform
• Integrated CAD and CAM software, meaning it has 2D drafting, milling, and 3D printing capabilities
• 3D simulation
• Generative design or automated design generation: Fusion 360 generates high-performing designs from considerations that a user inputs into the software. Some of these considerations include cost constraints, manufacturing methods, materials, and performance parameters. Then they can edit the design’s geometry
• Documentation: 2D drawings, animations, and renderings

Pros of Fusion 360

• Generative design feature promotes productivity
• Offers compatibility with Autodesk’s software products and proprietary file formats
• It supports numerous plugins, which expand its capabilities even further
• Promotes collaboration thanks to the cloud-based platform

Cons of Fusion 360

• Joints aren’t intuitive, thus complicating assemblies
• 2D drawings lack geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
• Complex user interface
• It is sometimes slow and buggy
• Affected by slow internet
• It lacks as much customization as other software

About Fusion 360

Another groundbreaking software package from CAD giant Autodesk, Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool that allows users to streamline their entire product development process in a single cloud-based platform. All user data is kept safe and secure on the cloud, with unlimited storage and access.

Whether you’re a professional or hobbyist, you’ll find everything you need in Fusion 360. It comes with freeform modeling, along with solid, parametric and mesh modeling. Users can get started on designs quickly and efficiently with a full suite of sculpting tools. To avoid having to deal with issues after production, Fusion 360 gives users access to a full suite of simulation tools that can test fit, motion and pit designs against real-world conditions. This can cut costs and speed up the entire design and manufacturing processes.

Those working with CAM can use Fusion to create toolpaths to machine components. Additionally, users can take advantage of the 3D printing workflow to create prototypes. Collaboration is an important aspect in almost every industry out there, which is why Fusion 360 makes it so easy. Users can invite as many team members to their Fusion 360 projects as they like—any changes are made simultaneously.

10. Onshape

Image source: Onshape

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: PTC, Inc.
• Price: Standard $1,500/year, Professional $2,100/year; learn more about Onshape pricing plans
• Industries: Product design and manufacturing
• Apple silicon support: Native Apple silicon support (as it is a cloud-based platform)
• Ease of use: Easy to use and learn
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of Onshape

• Native cloud-based platform
• Mate function, which defines the movement of different types of connectors (mates are referred to as joints in other software)
• Data management: branching, merging, and unlimited undo/redo
• Drawing tools such as dimensions, surface finish and sheets, balloons, notes, tables, etc.
• Support for .dwg, .dwt, .dxf file formats (for export and import)
• Integration via REST API
• Photorealistic rendering capability with Render Studio

Pros of Onshape

• Up-to-date: it can easily and seamlessly handle new versions of different file formats, plus it is regularly updated as it runs from Onshape servers
• High accessibility because it is a web-based platform
• Reliable: as a cloud-based platform, it does not use up a lot of computer resources (it works on hardware that isn’t powerful)
• Convenient: it can be accessed from anywhere using any device
• The simple interface makes it ideal for beginners; in fact, you can learn Onshape basics in 1 hour
• Comprehensive learning center and tutorials

Cons of Onshape

• Impacted by internet downtime
• Deleting projects from Onshape servers is not straightforward as it would have been had the files been stored locally
• It is slow, especially when working with large assemblies and files
• Assemblies function is not as advanced as other 3D modeling software such as Inventor or Solidworks
• Mate function sometimes does not work as expected and can be a bit confusing

About Onshape

A direct competitor of Fusion 360, Onshape boasts of being the first completely cloud-based CAD package. If you’re familiar with the history of SolidWorks, you’ll be familiar with one of Onshape’s key founders—Jon Hirschtick, former SolidWorks CEO. The true beauty of Onshape lies in its accessibility—it doesn’t matter what system or device you’re working on, you can access and work on your designs anywhere.

Onshape is the perfect platform to increase productivity, saving users time with Parametric Modeling 2.0—a new way to model multi-part design, configurations and managed-in context design. And with open source collaboration, users can make drawings public and available for viewing and/or editing—meaning you can simultaneously collaborate with your entire design and engineering team. If you’re working on the go, you can even access your designs on iOS or Android.

In an attempt to make Onshape even more accessible, they provide self-paced training content to help users master their personal CAD skills. And with an active, bustling online community, learning is made enjoyable and practical. Get more information about this at Onshape’s learning center.

11. Rhino3D for Mac

Image source: Simply Rhino

• Operating system: Mac
• Developer: Robert McNeel & Associates
• Price: $995/single user
• Industries: Mechanical design, architecture
• Apple silicon support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of use: Steep learning curve
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of Rhino3D for Mac

• 2D drafting capabilities, complete with annotation, dimensions, text blocks, leaders, layout management, and more
• 3D object creation tools, including meshes, solids, points, curves, and curves from other objects
• Mesh creation, editing, export, and import tools
• Editing tools
• Raytracing rendering capabilities
• Digital fabrication: this feature provides designers with the ability to design computer models that can be used to digitally control fabrication equipment
• 3D data capture capability
• Analysis and inspection tools: with this feature, users can analyze and inspect point, distance, volume moments, surface curvature, working surface analysis, hydrostatics, and more
• Compatibility with multiple CAE, CAM, CAD, animation, and rendering software, with support for file formats such as .3dm, .3ds, .sat, .ai, .amf, .dwg, .dxf, .cd, .iges, .sat, .dgn, .m, .pdf, .obj, etc.
• Collaboration and file management tools such as notes, merge files, incremental save, and more
• A graphical algorithm editor called Grasshopper

Pros of Rhino3D for Mac

• It does not require over-the-top specifications
• Covers most of users’ 3D modeling needs
• Compatibility with other software, including Illustrator
• Intuitive software for seasoned users
• Thrives in parametric modeling
• The 3D data capture enables Rhino3D to accept hand sketches
• The software improves productivity by populating commands once you start typing them
• Versatility: it supports 2D drafting, although it is primarily designed for 3D modeling

Cons of Rhino3D for Mac

• Mainly optimized for 3D modeling (is not ideal for 2D design)
• Steep learning curve
• Slow when dealing with large files
• It does not work well on macOS
• Rhino3D lacks a good native rendering engine, meaning its rendering capabilities are not solid
• It easily crashes when working on large projects
• Lacks precision and exactness that is common with other 3D modeling software
• The software does not have shortcuts, so it does not boost productivity
• It is not ideal for creating reality-proof designs: users have complained that it considers complex physics that does not work in real life

About Rhino3D

Developed by Robert McNeel & Associates, Rhino3D is a commercial 3D graphics and CAD software package. An innovative package, it can be used in the processes of CAD, CAM, rapid prototyping and 3D printing—needless to say, it’s a pretty flexible package. For this reason, it’s popular in industries including industrial design, product design and architecture.

Rhino3D is based on the NURBS model, which produces freeform surfaces in graphics—as opposed to applications that focus on a polygon mesh-based approach. It’s a relatively accessible software package, with a familiar interface for any Apple user and experienced CAD modeler. If you’re a fan of customization, you’ll be pleased to hear that Rhino3D enables users to personalize the interface and create custom commands and menus. And, with a realm of plug-ins at your fingertips, you can delve into specific fields like animation, jewelry, prototyping and much more.

Unfortunately, as with other packages on this list, Rhino for Mac has more limited capabilities than its Windows counterpart. Users won’t be able to take advantage of Worksessions, which allows for efficient collaboration on large projects. Additionally, animation tools that allow for quick and easy visualizations are available on for Windows users.

12. FreeCAD

Image source: Softpedia

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Ubuntu
• Developers: Jürgen Riegel, Werner Mayer, Yorik van Havre
• Price: Free
• Industry: Product design, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture
• Apple silicon support: Yes, via Rosetta 2 
• Ease of use: Steep learning curve
• Interested? Download now!

Features of FreeCAD

• Parametric modeling
• Support for numerous file formats (read and write), including DAE, IFC, OBJ, DXF, SVG, STL, IGES, STEP, etc.
• Finite element analysis (FEA)
• Dedicated Building Information Modeling (BIM)
• Robot simulation module
• Experimental computational fluid dynamics
• CAM and CNC workbenches
• 3D printing
• It offers a large array of creation and modification tools, including Boolean operations, fillet, shape cleaning, etc.
• Support for Python scripting
• APIs for robotic control and Python
• Mesh scripting and model meshing

Pros of FreeCAD

• It supports the ability to create 3D models from 2D drawings and vice versa
• FreeCAD can read and write numerous file formats
• It is free and, therefore, affordable to even those who are starting out or hobbyists
• Users can use it to generate G-code
• It allows customization
• FreeCAD supports multiple 3D stereo visualization modes

Cons of FreeCAD

• It has a steep learning curve because its interface is not user friendly or intuitive; still, you can learn FreeCAD basics in a short time
• It is slow, especially when rendering a design
• FreeCAD does not have a lasso tool
• The software easily crashes when working with large datasets
• Slow development and update rollouts

About FreeCAD

If you’re looking for a CAD option that doesn’t require you to break the bank, you can’t exactly go wrong with FreeCAD. An open source 3D parametric modeler, FreeCAD is designed to be used across a range of industries including product design, mechanical engineering and architecture. It’s also flexible and powerful enough to be a viable option for hobbyists, programmers and experienced CAD users alike.

FreeCAD boasts of the ability to design and work with real-life objects of any size—something that’s definitely worth challenging! The modeler also enables users to modify designs and change parameters by going back into model history. Like other CAD packages out there, uses can create 3D models from 2D—sketching 2D shapes and using them as a base to build other objects.

And that’s not all! FreeCAD also comes with a variety of specialist tools to the needs of users from all types of industries. You can take advantage of FEA tools, experimental CFD and BIM. One of its most interesting features has to be its robot simulation module that enables users to study robot movements. We can certainly understand why FreeCAD boasts of being the ‘Swiss Army knife of general-purpose engineering toolkits’.

13. CorelCAD

Image source: Architosh

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Corel Corporation
• Price: $699 (perpetual license)
• Industry: Architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing
• Apple silicon support: Native Apple silicon support
• Ease of use: Steep learning curve
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of CorelCAD

• Layers
• Compatibility with all major CAD software
• 2D drawing tools such as object snaps, blocks, drawing constraints, dimensioning, multileader
• 3D design capabilities with support for solid, surface, mesh, and region modeling
• 2D drawing to 3D model conversion using tools such as extrude, sweep, and revolve
• Annotation and Markup, which facilitate collaboration
• Support for various file formats, including .dws, .shp, .sat, .stl, .dwg, .dwf, .pdf, .svg, .eps, and more
• Drawing compare, which enables users to track changes similar to AutoCAD’s version history
• Intuitive interface that bears some similarities to AutoCAD

Pros of CorelCAD

• Affordability over the long-term
• Drawing compare: with CorelCAD, users can easily track changes, with the software displaying the previous versions using different colors
• It natively supports Apple silicon chips
• Compatibility: it supports multiple file formats
• 3D printing support: you can export your 3D model as a .stl file

Cons of CorelCAD

• Poor after-sales services
• A steep learning curve for users who are unfamiliar with AutoCAD’s interface
• Slow when rendering 3D objects

About CorelCAD

A fan of image editors? Then you’ll probably be familiar with CorelDRAW, the vector graphics editor developed by Corel Corporation. You might not be, however, as familiar with its sister product: CorelCAD. It’s a 2D and 3D CAD software package, providing a great solution for drawing the detailed elements that are required in technical design. And, with the ability to work with DWG files, it’s a good option for designers working with other people using AutoCAD.

To start, CorelDRAW comes with a full suite of 2D drafting tools, including helix tools, advanced table tools and a MultiLeader tool that configures callouts. Using a range of 3D tools, users can then transition 2D drawings into advanced 3D designs—from EntityGrips to the handy Properties palette, users are more than equipped to move through each step of the design process. CorelCAD can, therefore, take users through from project sketches to 3D models to 3D printing. And, if you work with CorelDRAW, you can easily import your graphics to CorelCAD and convert them into 3D models.

If collaboration is important with your chosen CAD software, CorelCAD has got you covered. It enables users to streamline project sharing with internal teams and external suppliers. By working with AutoCAD’s native file format, DWG, you can be sure of worry-free collaboration with any other CAD user.

14. SketchUp Pro

Image source: Download cnet

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Developer: Trimble, Inc.
• Price: $695/single user; learn more about SketchUp pricing options
• Industry: Architecture, engineering, and construction
• Apple silicon support: Yes, via Rosetta 2
• Ease of use: Simple learning curve (easy to learn)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Features of SketchUp

• 2D design documentation
• Intuitive, customizable interface
• Inference system, which identifies important points, such as the origin, endpoint, or midpoint, alignments, and shapes
• PreDesign, which provides climate information to promote better designs, data that guide and improve design strategies, and insights on how to start the design process
• Instructor tool that teaches users how to use a specific feature (to use this tool, you must first turn it on)
• Various drawing and modification tools

Pros of SketchUp

• It supports more than 10 languages
• Ideal for the concept stage of the design process
• Intuitive user interface that allows you to learn SketchUp basics in 1 hour
• It is highly accurate and fast thanks to its inferencing capabilities
• Trimble offers plenty of learning material
• You can customize SketchUp to suit your needs. For instance, you can create keyboard shortcuts, modify the toolbar display, adjust templates, or modify settings
• It supports various import and export files, including .dwg, .dxf, .dae, .3ds, image file formats, .pdf and more

Cons of SketchUp

• Add-ons are required to execute additional design processes
• SketchUp’s Layout options are limited usability as well as offer low precision
• The performance slows down when working with heavy models that are imported from other 3D modeling software
• The .dwg export does not always work well

About SketchUp

Once known as Google SketchUp before acquisition by Trimble, Inc., SketchUp Pro is a 3D modeling tool that can be used to design simple models like construction structures, engineering components and so on. To be clear, it’s not a modeler that competes in the big leagues—it’s a good choice for CAD beginners and hobbyists, not for professionals in need of industry-standard software.

SketchUp Pro is popular for its intuitive and customizable interface—its learning curve, as you’d imagine, is very simple. With it, users can move from the concept stage of design all the way to the structure’s eventual demolition. Its best feature, however, has to be 3D Warehouse. Touted as ‘the world’s largest repository of free 3D models’, it works with SketchUp to help you find anything you could possible need—from furniture to equipment to case work.

In regards to collaboration, Trimble Connect enables users to invite people to view and edit models. You can reply to comments, assign to-dos and be sure that you’re always working with the most up-to-date version of your designs. If you’re ever unsure of changes, you can even view a history of changes for each of your models. And if you’re ever stuck on anything, you can get in touch with SketchUp’s online community who are always happy to help.

Conclusion

There are multiple CAD software options for macOS from which you can choose. For example, if you want a 2D design software, you can select DraftSight, AutoCAD, QCAD, ARES Commander, or TurboCAD Mac Pro. Alternatively, if you are in the market for a 3D modeling software, your options include ArchiCAD, Cobalt CAD, Fusion 360, Onshape, FreeCAD, Vectorworks Architect, Rhino3D, SketchUp, or CorelCAD. Each of these solutions is suited for a given function or industry. So, which is the best CAD software package based on different characteristics?

• Best 2D design software for beginners: ARES Commander
• Best 3D modeling software for beginners: Vectorworks Architect
• Best affordable CAD software for Mac: QCAD and FreeCAD
• Best overall 2D design software for Mac: AutoCAD
• Best overall 3D modeling software for Mac: Cobalt CAD
• Best CAD software package for product design and manufacturing: Fusion 360
• Best CAD software package for architecture and BIM: ArchiCAD

Looking for more top sites or software? Keep a close eye on Scan2CAD’s freebies page for articles like sites with free DXF designs and sites with free CAD blocks. 

In this article, we’ll explore your options when it comes to a free copy of SolidWorks. We’ll also list some alternative CAD software that offers similar functionality without the price tag.

SolidWorks for free in academic institutions

While commercial enterprises can expect to fork out thousands for CAD software, manufacturers often let students off the hook. (This isn’t quite as altruistic as it seems—after all, if you know how to use their software, you’re likely to keep using it after graduation!)

If you read up on our article about SolidWorks pricing, however, you’ll know that Dassault Systèmes don’t offer a student version for free. In fact, it comes in at a recommended sales price of $150. Though far lower than the $3,995 licensing fee for the standard edition, this is still far from free!

However, there are ways around this. The key solution is Student Access Licensing, which is available to schools that already have a number of networked seats of SolidWorks.

Here are 2 ways to qualify for SolidWorks Student Access Licensing:

• If your institution already has 45 or more networked seats, it qualifies for the Student Design Kit program. This offers student access to SolidWorks Standard that you can install on your PC.
• Over 100 networked seats means that your institution qualifies for Student Engineering Kit. With this program, students can install SolidWorks Premium locally.

To check if your institution qualifies, contact your school’s CAD Administrator. Licenses will expire either one year after activation, or November 30th of the following academic year. If you’re unable to get SolidWorks for free via this method, it’s also worth asking your school if it’s possible to borrow an existing license.

The SolidWorks Free Trial

If you’re on the fence about SolidWorks, then committing to spending thousands straight off the bat may be unwise. Luckily, you can try out SolidWorks for free via two different trial versions.

The first is a traditional free trial, which enables you to put all of SolidWorks’ functionality to the test. Trials are available for one-day, seven-day, and thirty-day periods. As is the case with standard, paid-for SolidWorks, you’ll need to contact a local reseller to download a trial. Please note that these trials are available for commercial users only.

Trials are available for:

If, however, you’re not keen on installing a hefty CAD program onto your system—especially when you may not be sure you want to keep it there—there is another option. Online free trials are now available from my.solidworks.com, requiring no installation whatsoever.

When visiting my.solidworks.com, you’ll be prompted to log in or sign up for an account. Once in, you’ll be able to use a cloud-based version of SolidWorks CAD Premium, with access to 3D CAD, simulation, MBD, CAM, and visualization tools. You’ll be able to work with sample files, as well as upload your own designs into the trial environment. It’s even possible to connect your account to cloud storage, such as Google Drive or Dropbox.

Where to find SolidWorks resellers for a free trial

Since its early days SolidWorks has been sold through a value-added reseller chain; an arrangement that has been pivotal in the success of the CAD software. The SolidWorks resellers are independent businesses that sell SolidWorks solutions.

The resellers are the primary point of contact for SolidWorks customers. They handle license sales, implementation, training, and customer support on behalf of SolidWorks.

To find a SolidWorks reseller, simply visit the SolidWorks VAR locator, enter your country and postal code and click “Find Resellers.” You shall be provided with resellers who are near your location.

Are there any other ways to get SolidWorks for free?

Unfortunately, the above choices are the only options Dassault Systèmes offers users wishing to get SolidWorks for free. There’s no equivalent of, for example, AutoCAD 360, Autodesk’s ‘lite’ version of its flagship AutoCAD software.

Downloading a SolidWorks crack is one way that some users may attempt to get around this issue. However, this is a risk that simply isn’t worth taking. Firstly, downloading cracked software is illegal, potentially landing you in hot water further down the line.

There are also a number of dangers you leave yourself exposed to by downloading a SolidWorks crack. These include downloading viruses onto your system, as well as copyright risks to the designs you create. The message is clear: avoid cracked software.

However, this doesn’t mean you should pack up and go home. If you’re looking for a way to create great things in CAD, but can’t quite face splashing the cash on SolidWorks, we have a few more tips.

Free and affordable alternatives to SolidWorks

While SolidWorks may have cemented its position as the market-leading 3D CAD suite, it’s not the only choice out there. In fact, if you’re willing to look beyond Dassault Systèmes flagship software, you may find some truly innovative software that meets your needs perfectly.

Here are just a few of the top free and affordable SolidWorks alternatives:

1. Onshape
2. FreeCAD
3. BricsCAD

Onshape

Image source: Onshape

If you’re looking for an affordable CAD choice with similar functionality to SolidWorks, you can’t go too far wrong by opting for software from the same founder. That’s what you’ll get with Onshape, a cloud-based offering from a team including Jon Hirschtick, who founded SolidWorks in 1993.

Since its first release in 2015, Onshape has won plaudits from across the industry. That’s because it hasn’t merely recreated 3D CAD in the cloud, but has pushed it forward, with new functionality such as the FeatureScript programming language.

You may expect to have to pay an arm and a leg for such innovative software—but, surprisingly, you can get Onshape for free. The free version offers full CAD functionality to users, while keeping data secure in the cloud. This ensures you’ll be able to access your designs from any device, at any time.

Please note that the free version of Onshape is for non-commercial users only. Commercial subscriptions begin from $1,500 per year.

FreeCAD

Here’s a suite that does what it says on the tin: FreeCAD. Indeed, while Onshape above offers both free and paid versions, FreeCAD is open source. This means that it’s free for all users, for all purposes, forever.

While most totally free CAD software offers only 2D functionality, FreeCAD distinguishes itself with its range of 3D features. In fact, as a parametric modeling software, FreeCAD operates in much the same way as SolidWorks. This means that experienced SolidWorks users shouldn’t have to contend with a steep learning curve when making the switch.

This flexible software is suitable for users across a range of fields, including engineering, architecture and product designs. There are even a number of advanced features, including FEA tools and a robot simulation module.

BricsCAD Shape

Image source: BricsCAD

In early 2018, Belgian CAD firm Bricsys launched BricsCAD Shape, a conceptual modeling tool. The aim of Shape is to act as the first step in a BIM workflow, with users creating models in Shape before moving onto BIM software such as BricsCAD BIM.

While Shape is a free software, this doesn’t mean that Bricsys have skimped on features. In fact, the manufacturers claim that it includes “the same fast and proven parametric, 3D direct modeling engine” as their paid solutions.

As a CAD-accurate program using the DWG file format, BricsCAD Shape is an excellent choice for those looking to create 3D designs that they can share with other designers. It also comes with a library of components that you can incorporate into your design. Best of all, you can learn to use BricsCAD Shape in just half an hour.

And if you need help comparing SolidWorks to its competitors, here are some direct comparisons to SolidWorks:

• Creo vs SolidWorks
• AutoCAD vs SolidWorks
• CATIA vs SolidWorks
• SolidWorks vs Autodesk Inventor
• Onshape vs. SolidWorks
• Solidworks vs Fusion 360

Want to learn more about this software? Check out our brief history of SolidWorks.

In September’s edition, we’ll be looking at Dassault Systèmes’ 2019 launch of flagship product SolidWorks. We’ll then move onto strong competitor Autodesk, who have plenty up their sleeve—from a new pricing structure for Fusion 360 to new features for PowerMill 2019. If that wasn’t enough to whet your CAD appetite, Vectorworks have also announced the launch of their latest version of their eponymous product, which we’ll also be exploring. 

We’ll round things off with a quick look at the first CAD business to reach the Forbes Cloud 100 list. Hint: they’re renowned for being the first cloud-based CAD software solution.

Dassault Systèmes introduces SolidWorks 2019

CAD giant Dassault Systèmes announced the launch of SolidWorks 2019 on September 14, leaving users scrambling to get their hands on its latest features. Indeed, there’s plenty to occupy all users. The main focus of this new release appears to be on improving day-to-day productivity for all customers. So, how exactly do Dassault aim to do this?

New features focus directly on improving functionality for customers. As a result, they’ll be able to take their ideas and transform them into innovative products quickly. The latest changes for SolidWorks include: 

• Improvement in quality: faster download of Installation Manager, smarter drawing updates to reduce drawings rebuilds, performance improvements in the eDrawings graphics display and a new open progress dialog for drawings. 
• Assembly performance: graphics performance gains and optimized workflows, meaning users can design complex assemblies with great ease. Additionally, users can leverage the Large Design Review Mode to open and work with assemblies in seconds. 
• New technology: the latest release includes SolidWorks Extended Reality (XR) which gives users a way to interact with their CAD models. This enables users to export files directly to AR/VR applications and virtually explore models. By opening assemblies in eDrawings Professional, users can view their models in a VR environment. 
• New attention to detail: enhancements have been made to make it easier for users to obtain a better digital representation of their designs—including, but not limited to, features like Tab and Slot, as well as new Mesh Modeling capabilities. 

We won’t spoil too much for you, though—we’ll be delving further into SolidWorks 2019 next month!

Autodesk introduces new pricing structure for Fusion 360

Fusion 360—one of Autodesk’s popular software packages—is undergoing a pricing restructure from October 7. Until now, Autodesk offered Standard and Ultimate editions of the ever-popular CAD/CAM design software, Fusion 360. So, what’s set to change for this two-tier licensing model?

To eradicate confusion, Autodesk is replacing the current pricing model with a single Fusion 360 subscription. It will cost users a much cheaper price of $495 a year. Worried that Autodesk might limit Fusion 360’s features with this new subscription? You’ll be pleased to hear that this new package will include every feature currently offered by the Ultimate edition. So, what exactly does this include? 

Generative design capabilities will be at your fingertips—putting the “aid” back in Computer Aided Design by letting designers “evaluate the trade-offs between manufacturability, materials and performance”. Users can also take advantage of advanced CAM capabilities (including 5-axis machining), simulation functionalities, and much more. Bear in mind, however, that in order to run generative design and advanced simulation studies, you will need cloud credits. 

And that’s not all! To thank current subscribers of Fusion 360 Standard, Autodesk is allowing them to maintain their subscription at their current price, for as long as they’re a subscriber. Existing Fusion 360 Ultimate subscribers will be able to enjoy the same functionality, but at a more accessible price. In short, everyone wins!

New features added to PowerMill 2019

Not content to rest on its laurels, Autodesk has also announced the introduction of new features to PowerMill 2019—the ultimate CAM solution for high-speed and 5-axis machining. The aim of these new features? To enable creators to harness the power of the cloud, streamline production processes and press ahead in the competitive industry of digital manufacturing. 

Key changes for PowerMill 2019.1 include: 

• Introduction of surface proving: this will enable spindle mounted probes to measure parts during manufacturing. Users can also look at and share 3D inspection reports via Autodesk Drive. This makes it easier to find and address quality issues quickly. 
• Improved interactive collision management: helping programmers to identify and avoid collisions—or near-misses—with cutting tool assembly. This, in turn, will speed up production time. 
• Easier roughing toolpath calculation: enabling users to begin making chips sooner. 
• Enhanced machining setup: this new feature reduces the time needed to programme machined components that use multiple fixtures and operations. 
• Increase in efficiency with adaptive clearing: the “Vortex from Stock” roughing strategy now supports a stepover of up to 99% of the tool diameter. This means you’ll get shorter cycle times when using indexable cutters. 
• Inclusion of a “pattern-turning” toolpath type: giving programmers more choice and flexibility when driving mill-turn machinery. 

Indeed, Clinton Perry, PowerMill product manager at Autodesk, says, “This new release will serve the existing needs of PowerMill users, while also enabling them to take advantage of the power of the cloud to ensure a more efficient, safe and accurate machining”. 

Vectorworks 2019 released

September appears to be a busy month for CAD giants, with Vectorworks also releasing a 2019 edition of their flagship product. Launched on September 12, this new version includes updates to all add-ons: Architect, Spotlight, Landmark, Fundamentals, Designer, Bracework and Vision. Vectorworks certainly didn’t disappoint with this launch—looking at feedback from users to introduce “significantly faster workflows and improved software performance”. 

Time is of the essence, as any CAD user knows. That’s why the latest Vectorworks release now comes with multiple core support in the Vectorworks Graphics Module. This allows users to enjoy significantly faster workflows and improved software performance. This support enables Vectorworks to take advantage of all available CPU cores with increased usage of FPU on sheet layers. In short, workflows will feel much faster. 

Vectorworks Architect and Landmark users will now be able to experience improved BIM capabilities—with enhanced openBIM interoperability and the ability to view BIM objects with varying levels of detail in plan, elevation and section drawings. Vectorworks Spotlight users will get their hands on the new My Virtual Rig (MVR) import and export file format, and see enhancements to 3D modeling with tools and commands. Additional new capabilities include support for bridle analysis, improved user interface and more refined renderings.

Want a more in-depth look at Vectorworks 2019? Keep your eyes peeled for our article next month, focusing on the Vectorworks 2019 launch!

Onshape named on the annual Forbes Cloud 100

For the second consecutive year now, cloud-based powerhouse Onshape has been named on the annual Forbes Cloud 100—the A-list for the best and brightest of private cloud computing companies. 

Forbes compiled this list by looking at metrics like revenue and sales growth. They also took into consideration recommendations from 34 CEOs of public cloud companies. The Cloud 100 traditionally covers a range of fields including analytics, security, HR, finance, marketing and so on. Fellow companies sharing the spotlight include: Slack, Stripe, Zapier and Drift. 

Jon Hirschtick, Onshape CEO and co-founder, says “We’re honored that Onshape is the only CAD company included in the Forbes Cloud 100.” So, how did they manage this impressive feat two years in a row? Hirschtick thinks he has the answer: “it’s no coincidence that we rely on many of our fellow companies in the Forbes Cloud 100 such as Stripe, Slack, Fuze, Drift, Zapier and Looker, to work faster ourselves.” Essentially, making the most of what successful companies have to offer pays off in the long run! 

One thing’s for sure, Onshape doesn’t seem like it’s stopping to rest anytime soon. We certainly look forward to hearing more about this cloud-based giant in the near future! 

There are plenty of big stories to cover this month. To begin with, we’ll look at the release of AutoCAD 2019, which transforms a suite of programs into just one. Secondly, we’ll check out what’s new in PTC’s latest edition of Creo.

After that, we’ll move on to another innovative feature from the team over at Onshape which aims to end “design gridlock”. Finally, FloMASTER‘s new CAD connectivity comes into focus. Let’s begin!

Autodesk unveils AutoCAD 2019

In every year since 2003, Autodesk has chosen to release its latest version of AutoCAD in March. Though the exact release date always remains under wraps, the CAD community now eagerly awaits the latest version of AutoCAD right as spring rolls around, making it one of the most anticipated events of the CAD calendar. Autodesk did not disappoint this month, with AutoCAD 2019 hitting the market on March 22nd.

The key change that’s being made here is less one of increased functionality, and more one of packaging. Before, AutoCAD was a suite of products, with separate licenses for programs such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Mechanical, and so on. Now, that’s changed—the new tagline is “Only One AutoCAD”. What used to be separate products are now “specialized toolsets”: all under one roof. These include:

• Architecture
• Mechanical
• Electrical
• MEP
• Plant 3D
• Map 3D
• Raster Design

You may notice that one AutoCAD product is missing from the list: Civil 3D. This program won’t feature as a specialized toolset; instead, it will become a standalone program, retitled Autodesk Civil 3D.

Another key change is the launch of the AutoCAD web app. This sees AutoCAD join many of its competitors in making a foray into CAD in the cloud. There’s also an AutoCAD mobile app to join other iOS and Android CAD offerings.

Updates to the actual functionality of AutoCAD are less prominent here, but one key change is the introduction of DWG Compare. This allows you to identify the differences between two revisions of a drawing, including the ability to view clashes, changes, and to systematically check details in a file.

Other updates include “Share Design Views”, which lets you share designs without sharing the files themselves, plus new icons and better 2D graphics performance. Check out the full details at Autodesk.

PTC introduces Creo 5.0

If one major release wasn’t enough this March, we’ve got another one to report. This month saw the unveiling of Creo 5.0: the latest version of PTC’s CAD suite. The suite, which “enables users to go from concept to manufacturing in one design environment”, has received some key updates to help it remain competitive in a world where product design is in constant flux.

There are five important new features which set Creo 5.0 apart, including:

• Topology Optimization Extension. Taking a defined set of objectives and parameters, the Topology Optimization Extension automatically generates a number of optimized designs. This tool aims to allow users to create more efficient parts, helping to speed up the design process and introduce more innovation.
• Additive Manufacturing Plus Extension for Materialise. If you’re a regular reader, you may seen our 3D printing article. If so, you might remember that we mentioned Materialise: the Belgian 3D printing firm that offers users a variety of printing materials and colors. Users will now be able to print production-grade metal parts straight from Creo 5.0 through Materialise, as well as connecting to Materialise’s online library.
• Mold Machining. This tool offers dedicated machining capabilities for molds, dies, electrodes and prototype machining.
• Flow Analysis. This CFD solution makes it possible to use Creo 5.0 to simulate fluid flow issues. Additionally, it promises great ease-of-use, accuracy, and speed.
• Collaboration Extension for Autodesk Inventor. If you know your Autodesk software, you’ll be familiar with Inventor. Now, you can bring Creo and Inventor together thanks to this extension, which enables data reuse and resource sharing.

With everything from productivity enhancements through to tools for both additive and subtractive machining, it’s clear that this is a substantive update from PTC. Learn more about Creo 5.0 at PTC.

“Treating design gridlock”: Design Data Management 2.0 from Onshape

Ending design gridlock: from files to databases. Image source: Onshape.

Over the last few years, few CAD companies have been quite as innovative as Onshape. Not only were they the first to produce a full-cloud CAD solution, but they also hit the headlines as recently as January, when they unveiled Parametric Modeling 2.0. Now, the team at Onshape are ready to tackle their next problem: design gridlock.

Onshape compare “design gridlock” to a chronic disease, and lament its ability to “[divert] precious engineering energy into useless overhead”. In short, design gridlock refers to the inability of designers and engineers to progress because they are unable to (or are unsure if they can) access the same files. Chasing up correct files takes up precious time—and, after all, time is money.

The solution Onshape offers up is Design Data Management 2.0. Onshape identify files as the “root cause of design gridlock”; the logic goes that, if you get rid of files, you get rid of gridlock.

The alternative, therefore, is to store data in a database. Using the database, you can view all actions by all users, and every previous state of a design remains accessible forever. This means no overwriting—and no losing precious work. Another key benefit is that, because the database exists in the cloud, your data is all in one secure location, rather than being scattered across numerous discrete workstations.

Designers can also use the new functionality to collaborate instantly. Meanwhile, if you wanted different designers to take one design in multiple directions, you can—all working in parallel, whilst the original design remains intact. There are yet more reasons to get excited about Design Data Management 2.0—check them out at Onshape.

FloMASTER increases integration with CAD software

If you’ve really been paying attention to World of CAD, you may remember Siemens’ acquisition of Mentor Graphics in December 2016. Since then, we’ve covered plenty of other Siemens products, with Solid Edge featuring in our top 5 SolidWorks alternatives. Nonetheless, we hadn’t returned to Mentor—until now.

This month, Mentor announced some exciting updates to their computational fluid dynamics software, FloMASTER. Hailed as “the result of extensive years of research and development”, the new release brings CFD closer to CAD by enhancing FloMASTER’s integration with other software.

The key update here is CAD-to-FloMASTER—or CAD2FM, for short. Using this feature, engineers can quickly create representations of 3D systems. In order to do this, it takes 3D descriptions of piping networks, and automatically abstracts them into FloMASTER components. As a result, engineers have to put in less manual work.

While this feature would be newsworthy alone, there are plenty of other FloMASTER features worth talking about. Firstly, there’s new functionality for air conditioning systems, with an enhanced Enthalpy Solver and new components added to the Vapour Cycle library. Due to this, engineers can study and optimize complex systems for aerospace, automotive and building systems.

There are also new enhancements to script-based components; you can now use input and output signals and write custom results. Meanwhile, engineers can expect a better user experience: schematic annotation, a new results dashboard, more powerful parametric analysis tools, and more. If you’d like to find out more, then head over to Mentor.

Onshape kick things off this January in suitably impressive fashion, as the cloud-based CAD company claim to have revitalized the fundamental technology behind 3D CAD. Meanwhile, we’ll also be taking a look at the new version of Chinese CAD software ZW3D.

2018 also sees a continuation of last year’s artificial intelligence hype, as we report on ParaMatters’ release of a new CAD software with AI features: CogniCAD. Finally, we’ll be looking at the business side of things, and checking out Trimble’s acquisition of Stabiplan. Let’s get to it!

Onshape introduces “Parametric Modeling 2.0”

Onshape’s new configuration tools—a key part of Parametric Modeling 2.0. Image source: Onshape

With exciting developments taking place all the time in CAD and its related fields, you might think that we’ve become a difficult bunch to impress. Nonetheless, when an up-and-coming software company claims to have altered the very fundamentals of CAD, that definitely piques our attention.

The company in mind? None other than Onshape, creators of a software so forward-facing that its status as the only full featured, full cloud CAD program that runs directly from your browser remains unchallenged. But if you thought that the company—founded by Jon Hirschtick, who masterminded SolidWorks—was going to settle for ordinary, you’d be dead wrong.

That’s because, in their latest release, Onshape have decided to completely overhaul parametric modeling.

Parametric modeling lies at the base of most of today’s 3D CAD software, including SolidWorks and many of its affordable alternatives. However, Onshape looked at the technology—which has now been around for 30 years—and decided it needed an upgrade. They decided to name it Parametric Modeling 2.0.

In a launch blog post (now unpublished), Hirschtick noted that this wasn’t a total reinvention of the wheel. “All of the core elements of Parametric Modeling 2.0 existed in some form in Parametric Modeling 1.0,” Hirschtick said. “The difference is that they were clunky at best… and unusable or dangerous at worst.”

Featured in Parametric Modeling 2.0 are:

• Multi-Part Design, allowing you to design all related parts in one place
• Configurations, which allows for greater configurability, the creation of complex families of parts, and easier navigation
• Standard Content, which improves fastener design and assemblies
• Managed In-Context Design, which ensures that models update in a predictable manner
• Simultaneous Sheet Metal Tools, which synchronizes flat and folded views
• Custom Features, employing Onshape’s FeatureScript language

We’re certainly excited to try out the new features in Onshape, and are looking forward to see how its competitors respond. We’ll certainly be keeping an eye on it here at World of CAD, so watch this space!

ZWSOFT launches ZW3D 2018

Whilst it’s easy to focus on the big guns, CAD isn’t all about AutoCAD vs SolidWorks. In fact, there are a whole host of interesting software manufacturers whose releases are worth paying attention to. Case in point: China’s rising ZWSOFT, which has recently unveiled ZW3D 2018, the latest version of its product development software.

The program, which straddles the fields of CAD and CAM, aims to offer users a more intuitive way to design their products. A key enhancement in the 2018 version is the introduction of layer categories. This comes alongside an upgraded Part Attribute Form, which allows users to edit attributes in Microsoft Excel.

Meanwhile, on the CAM side of things, ZW3D 2018 allows users to generate multiple layers of tool paths in a single view, adding to the existing software’s support for 5-axis CNC machining. Additionally, ZWSOFT promise that their software’s data translation capabilities will reduce errors and speed up the design process.

With yet more features to look at, including assembly design, sheet metal design, and solid-surface hybrid modeling, it’s certainly clear to see why ZW3D is worth a look. So, if you’d like to do just that, head over to the ZWSOFT website.

Bringing AI to CAD: Paramatters releases CogniCAD

The potential of artificial intelligence in CAD is only just coming into view, but there’s already plenty to check out. Machine learning, for example, was a hot discussion point at last year’s Autodesk University London, and SolidWorks 2018, from competitor Dassault Systèmes, introduced generative design capabilities.

The newest company adding itself to that list is ParaMatters, who’ve just introduced CogniCAD. In keeping with recent trends in CAD, CogniCAD is a cloud-based application for generative design and lightweighting.

CogniCAD is targeting the aerospace and automotive sectors, and offers users the ability to create lighter parts whilst maintaining high performance. Not only that, but it also has the capability to automatically 3D print those parts.

Michael Bogomolny of ParaMatters attributed the performance of CogniCAD to “the convergence of advanced topology optimization techniques, computational geometry, infinite computing power in the cloud, and artificial intelligence”. With so many tools in its arsenal, the company’s goal of a fully automated and autonomous design-to-manufacturing process doesn’t seem too out of reach. To learn more, head over to the ParaMatters website.

Stabiplan acquired by Trimble

Finally in this month’s World of CAD, we’re turning to the business side of the industry. That’s because this month has seen British MEP firm Trimble acquiring Dutch CAD/CAE software provider Stabiplan.

Stabiplan’s best known offering is Stabicad, a software solution which integrates design, drawing, and engineering calculations and analysis. Rather than a standalone software, Stabicad is designed to work alongside Autodesk software including Revit and AutoCAD. The benefits of Stabicad include faster and more detailed drawings for AutoCAD users. In addition, Revit users can take advantage of Stabicad’s features to enhance the efficiency of their design output.

Trimble, meanwhile, provides a range of software for the construction industry, with solutions for each stage of the lifecycle of a building. Already a major player in its field, Trimble’s acquisition of Stabiplan stands to bolster its position as one of Europe’s leaders in MEP software. You can learn more about both businesses at the Stabiplan and Trimble websites.

Next, we’ll move onto hardware, as anticipation builds around MultiCam’s new product line, APEX1R. Finally, we’ll turn our attention to the new programs added to SHINING 3D‘s distribution network this month. Let’s get started!

Shapr3D brings Parasolid to iPad Pro

Shapr3D on iPad Pro. Image source: Shapr3D.

CAD isn’t just for desktops anymore. In recent years, we’ve seen a proliferation of CAD apps for Android and iOS, allowing people to view and edit their designs on the go. This month, one of the most popular iOS CAD apps, Shapr3D, got a powerful new update.

Unlike many apps, which serve as mobile extensions of existing desktop programs, Shapr3D was designed for the iPad Pro. This gives designers the ability to sketch ‘freehand’ using an Apple Pencil. The aim, according to Shapr3D founder István Csanady, is to “make 3D CAD modeling available for all creative professionals”.

The latest release, Shapr3D 3.0, is a CAD application that is not just democratic, but also even more powerful. That’s because it now includes Siemens’ Parasolid software. Parasolid is market-leading technology that also lies at the base of Siemens’ Solid Edge, one of the major competitors to SolidWorks.

Shapr 3D 3.0 also includes Tech Soft’s HOOPS Exchange. Specifically optimized for use with Parasolid, HOOPS Exchange is a CAD translation software development kit which offers access to 20 different CAD file formats.

The combination of Parasolid and HOOPS Exchange means that designers can use the program’s solid modeling functionality natively on iPad Pro. This, in turn, helps to distinguish Shapr3D from competitors such as Onshape, which require connection to the cloud to function.

With Shapr3D’s intuitive interface and increasingly powerful features, it’s no surprise to see this Budapest-based startup go from strength to strength. Better still, it offers users a great entry-level price tag, coming in at just $150/year for the Pro version (and students can get it for free!) To learn more, visit Shapr3D.

ESI Group releases SimulationX 3.9

The latest version of SimulationX is the most powerful to date. Image source: ESI.

Today’s CAD software is about more than just designing. Nowadays, the software focuses on managing every aspect of a product’s lifecycle. Simulation tools are more relevant than ever, and offer designers a way to test out how their products react to forces and stresses without the need to create a physical prototype. The result: less time, less waste; better products, made more cheaply.

One of the companies at the forefront of this is ESI Group, one of the industry leaders in virtual prototyping software. On December 14th, they released what they describe as “the most intuitive and reliable simulation software”: SimulationX 3.9.

This latest release of the company’s SimulationX software includes a number of new features that aim to make it easier for engineers to perform their day-to-day roles. These include improved calculation methods, better results visualizations, and faster modeling, calculation and analysis.

Other developments in SimulationX 3.9 include new elements in the software’s electro-mechanical and Vehicle Drives libraries. Meanwhile, the software continues to be, according to ESI, “the most customizable solution available”. Its ability to communicate with other CAE solutions, and also enables users to write their own model code.

Though SimulationX has seen two decades of use in the automotive industry, the program now targets numerous fields. These include the energy, rail, aerospace, aeronautics, mining and industrial machinery sectors. Now, it aims to provide users across these diverse fields with the ability to perform in-depth analysis and real-time testing, as well as offering reliable and speedy analysis tools within narrow parameters.

If you haven’t heard of SimulationX before, it’s clear that there are plenty of reasons to check it out. To learn more, visit ESI’s site.

MultiCam launches new, cheaper line of routers: APEX1R

APEX1R will join the existing APEX3R line of routers, pictured above.

Based in Dallas, TX, MultiCam is a manufacturer of CNC machines that’s going from strength to strength. 2017 saw the company install their 12,000th machine. If you thought they were about to slow down, though, you’d be dead wrong.

That’s because, on December 1st, MultiCam announced the launch of a new line of CNC routers: APEX1R. The new line is to act as a complement to the company’s existing APEX3R line of routers. The main difference between the two lines, however, is the price, with APEX1R aimed at entry-level users and small businesses.

Despite the more affordable price point, MultiCam have been clear that the new line of routers will still offer users the same great cutting platform. MultiCam Chairman and CEO David Morse said that “[we] expect the APEX1R to impress even the most discerning customers looking for the best value with good quality”.

The APEX1R line isn’t out yet, with a release scheduled for January 2018. There’s not too long to wait, though—and with fantastic quality CNC machining on offer at low prices, we expect these machines to rival the popularity of their bigger brothers. To view MultiCam’s full range of CNC solutions, visit their website.

SHINING 3D to distribute Rhinoceros 3D and Mesh2Surface

Rhinoceros 3D and Mesh2Surface are both coming to SHINING 3D’s distribution platform.

SHINING 3D, one of China’s leading manufacturers of 3D printers and scanners, announced this month that they would begin offering two new program lines on their distribution platform: Rhinoceros and Mesh2Surface.

The move, which comes as a result of deals with developers Robert McNeel & Associates and ADA 3D, broadens the reach of both companies. It also comes hot on the heels of SHINING 3D’s recent deals with PointShape and Geomagic, rounding off a year of expansion for the firm.

Mesh2Surface’s product manager, Kostadin Vrantzaliev, said that the deal would mean “delivering much more value at a lower cost”. Robert McNeel & Associates’ Scott Davidson, meanwhile, said that the company is “pleased to work with SHINING 3D to offer customers solutions that fit more users’ demands and professional requirements”. This is a deal, it would seem, with benefits for both the firms involved and for the 3D printing community as a whole.

Our guide will show you our top 5 affordable SolidWorks alternatives including prices, feature comparisons and much more.

Before We Start

It’s easy to see why SolidWorks is so popular across industries, hobbyists and students. With 2D, 3D and parametric capabilities, SolidWorks has a lot to offer. If you’re looking to buy if for yourself however, you might end up setting yourself back. There are three different versions of SolidWorks currently available (excluding industry-specific packages):

• Standard: $3,995
• Professional: $5,490
• Premium: $7,995

You can expect additional costs on top of these prices if you want a one-year subscription service. If you’re a CAD professional or part of a larger business, this price will be more than paid back by the high-quality output. For those of you who see themselves as a pure hobbyist or living on a tight budget, you might want to look beyond SolidWorks.

If you’re a student, you can get SolidWorks for free—see our students’ guide to CAD to find out what else you can get for free. If you’d prefer not to have to spend any money, we’ve got the perfect answer—14 top free CAD packages to download. Bear in mind that they won’t have a fraction of the capabilities offered by software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD, but that’s usually a given with free software. If you’re looking for software that offers some, if not all, of SolidWorks’ functionalities and features, then keep on reading.

1. Autodesk Inventor

• Operating System: Windows
• Price: $1,890/year or $5,670/three years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

If you like to frequent our blog, you should be more than familiar with CAD giant Autodesk. Although we tend to focus predominantly on AutoCAD, we’re going to look here at another popular Autodesk product—Inventor. Offering solutions for 3D mechanical design, simulation and communication, Inventor is a direct competitor of SolidWorks. Additionally, it comes with powerful parametric and freeform modeling tools.

Head-to-head comparison

For SolidWorks users, Inventor might be an interesting software package to get to grips with. Why? While SolidWorks is limited primarily to engineering, Inventor targets both engineering and architecture. As such, you might find yourself being able to do a bit more than you could previously with SolidWorks—especially if your interests lie in architecture. If you’ve worked with Autodesk software before, you’ll find Inventor’s interface to be relatively straightforward.

As with AutoCAD and SolidWorks, Inventor comes with a handy command line and keyboard shortcuts which speed up your entire design process. Moving beyond parametric and assembly modeling capabilities, Inventor also comes with a shape generator, enabling users to create high-performing design options in mere minutes. Users can also enjoy Inventor’s superior rendering capabilities—seeing their completed designs in a real-world capacity.

Seeing as we’ve described Inventor as a lighter product, you won’t be surprised to hear that SolidWorks has more advanced features—fastener mating, for example, is much easier to do in SolidWorks. Inventor has a smaller online presence—in tutorials and resources—which can hinder your overall learning curve.

Verdict

SolidWorks is by far the superior package—with advanced tools like motion, stress and thermal analysis—causing Inventor to fall behind slightly. That being said, Inventor has a lot to offer people looking for affordable SolidWorks alternatives. If you don’t need the heavy, advanced capabilities of SolidWorks, Inventor might be your new go-to package.

2. Rhino3D

• Operating System: Windows, Mac
• Price: $995 (Windows), $695 (Mac)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A 3D graphics and CAD software, Rhino offers SolidWorks users a different spin on modeling. Based on the NURBS model, Rhino is a free form surface modeler. Unlike SolidWorks, Rhino spans across a wide variety of (mostly creative) industries including industrial design, architecture and product design.

Head-to-head comparison

One of the first things you should bear in mind with Rhino is that it isn’t the same as mechanical engineering software. That is, it’s built primarily for creative design—spanning across a wide variety of industries. So, what makes it so popular? It’s intuitive, light and a stable software package compared to other commercial 3D modelers.

With Rhino you get full creative licence to build whatever you want without conforming to the rigid constraints of other software. Like SolidWorks and many other CAD programs, Rhino comes with a series of command features—enabling users to do more with just a few keyboard shortcuts. Not only does Rhino provide a wide variety of customization tools, it also enables add-on plugins. Grasshopper, for example, is a visual programming language used primarily to create generative algorithms and flow-chart style commands. In short, the sky’s the limit when it comes to design in Rhino.

Unfortunately, Rhino’s flexibility can work against itself. While you can create whatever comes to mind, it’s all too easy to create a part that’s not manufacturable and might not import well into other CAD packages. Issues like intersecting lines can also occur rather frequently. It’s for this reason that Rhino might not be a preferred modeler if you’re looking for precision.

Verdict

Rhino 3D is a package that truly enables users to create all types of designs imaginable. If you’re looking for ultimate precision, however, you might want to look elsewhere. While it’s perfect for escaping the ordinary constraints of other software, Rhino isn’t really suitable for production—you can’t get solid objects, so it’s mostly useful for mocking up ideas.

3. Solid Edge

• Operating System: Windows
• Price: $99 to $299/month
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Solid Edge is a 3D CAD software developed by Siemens PLM Software. While you might not be familiar with it, that doesn’t mean you should disregard it. Not only is it a solid modeler, it also comes with synchronous technology—a feature that polarizes many users. Popular amongst mechanical engineers, Solid Edge also has links to PLM technologies.

Head-to-head comparison

To start off, Solid Edge is a lot more basic than SolidWorks. While this can be off-putting for some users, others might find it to be a welcome change. After all, what’s the point in investing in software like SolidWorks if you’re not using all of its advanced features? Coming with an easy interface and full parametric modeling, Solid Edge provides an easy learning curve for beginners and CAD experts alike.

You might find the user interface to be a little bit cluttered the first time you’re introduced to it. Once you take a closer look, however, you’ll find that the UI tends to group all necessary commands together, making it easier to find everything you need. With four types of modeling capabilities—ordered, direct, synchronous and assembly—you’ve got a lot to play around with. Solid Edge also integrates Sharepoint and Teamcenter to provide Product Lifecycle Management, not to mention full support for Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

One of Solid Edge’s most polarizing features is its synchronous technology. While it can combine the speed of direct modeling with the flexibility of parametric design, it can also be difficult to grasp. If you take the time, however, it could very well improve your overall performance and productivity.

Verdict

If you don’t need all of SolidWorks’ capabilities—or you’re tired of it burning a hole in your pocket—you might want to consider making the move to Solid Edge. Bear in mind, however, that you’ll have to put in some serious effort to get to grips with its synchronous technology.

4. Onshape

• Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android OS
• Price: Free, Professional $125/month
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

If you’re a regular Scan2CAD user, you might be familiar with Onshape—a CAD system delivered over the Internet as an SAAS model. As we’ve discussed in our guide to cloud-based CAD, Onshape enables users to create, edit and share models through just a web browser or the iOS and Android apps. There’s a free version—ideal if you want to test the waters—and a professional version. 

Head-to-head comparison

Where should we start with Onshape? As a cloud-based 3D CAD modeler, Onshape enables users to reap a wide variety of benefits. With it, you no longer have to worry about buying workstations, long installations or updating licences. If you’re constantly sharing files, you might be pleased to hear that you can even send designs to people who don’t have an Onshape licence, to view in their own browser.

In the era of the cloud, Onshape is certainly at the forefront of the CAD industry. Offering robust parametric 3D modeling, multi-part modeling and in-context editing, Onshape is intuitive and the perfect collaborative tool. It doesn’t matter if you’re collaborating with people across the world, Onshape enables you to collaborate in real-time, erasing the issue of duplicate designs. It even has an app store where you can purchase add-ons for simulation, rendering, CAM and much more.

There isn’t currently an offline version of Onshape, which can be a pain if you’ve not got access to the internet. That being said, WiFi is pretty widespread nowadays, so it shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Some users have noted that there can be long loading times, however this is an issue that most CAD programs are susceptible to.

Verdict

SolidWorks is a powerful package; however, it can’t do anything to combat against bad team workflows. Onshape, by comparison, is able to create a seamless workflow between teams and clients. While it might take you a while to get used to it, you might want to consider moving out of the Dark Ages and embracing cloud-based CAD.

5. Fusion 360

• Operating System: Windows, Mac
• Price: $40/month, $300/year, $600/2 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Citing itself as the first 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool of its kind, Fusion 360 is certainly a powerful tool to consider. While not one of Autodesk’s most well-known products, Fusion 360 is another cloud-based tool that you should test out as a viable, affordable SolidWorks alternative.

Head-to-head comparison

An all-in-one design and mechanical engineering package, Fusion 360’s interface might be a little bit overwhelming for new users at first. Once you get the hang of it, however, you’ll find it to be an intriguing alternative to SolidWorks. With everything available in a single package, you can easily go from design to prototype in a matter of hours or days—as opposed to months.

You’ll find some of Fusion 360’s tools to be familiar, especially if you’re a SolidWorks user. Bear in mind that it is a lighter package however, so aspects like assembly functions are relatively limited compared to SolidWorks. Like Onshape, Fusion 360 offers parametric modeling, rapid prototyping and speedy rendering. Some users have also been pleased to note that it comes with a history tree and a fluid workflow—courtesy of the cloud.

As with most software however, the larger your model, the more cumbersome the process. If you’re working with large-scale models, you might struggle with using Fusion 360. Additionally, it lacks more powerful design generators, mechanical simulations and documentation tools.

Verdict

Fusion 360 offers the same kinds of benefits as Onshape. With it being cloud-based, you’re not constrained to a single, desktop package. You might, however, end up sacrificing the more powerful functionalities you’re used to with SolidWorks. The main difference between Fusion 360 and Onshape lies in the price and interface—Fusion 360 is cheaper and offers a more familiar ground for previous Autodesk users.

Want to become a CAD expert? Keep an eye on our CAD section for our latest tips, tricks and advice. 

As a student, you have access to dozens of professional CAD packages for free—whether you know it or not. You can also get further discounts off other CAD packages. With that in mind, Scan2CAD has compiled a list of the top discounted and free CAD software for you to enjoy. Plus, extra learning resources and freebies for you to take advantage of. 

Table of Contents

• Importance Of Free Software
• What’s A Student License?
• Free CAD Software
  • Autodesk Software
  • Onshape
  • PTC Creo
  • Solid Edge
  • ARCHICAD
  • DraftSight
• Discounted CAD Software
  • SolidWorks
  • CATIA
  • NX Resources
  • TurboCAD
  • Rhinoceros 3D
• Extra Resources and Freebies

The Importance Of Free CAD For Students

Whether you’re a student of engineering or architecture, you’ll find that many disciplines are becoming increasingly reliant upon digital tools. These types of tools take the form of CAD, CAM and CAE software applications. If you’re interested in bringing skills into internships or CAD careers, you need to have a good understanding of this type of software. 

With the rise of technological innovations and advancements, CAD packages are becoming increasingly more expensive to purchase. As a student, you’re already racking up the costs with your education—you don’t want to be spending more money trying to learn the skills that you’ll need in your future job. Of course, most colleges will already provide this software in their campus computer labs. If you don’t have 24 hour access however, free software is a lifesaver. 

Free Student Software

Free software is a growing trend in the CAD industry for students. Of course, free or discounted student software comes with restrictions such as low storage or a set length of license term. When you sign up for a student license, you have to stipulate that you’ll only use it for academic or non-commercial purposes. The software comes with the same functionality as professional versions, except your projects will have a small watermark so it’s clear you’re using an academic version. 

What’s A Student License?

There are two types of licenses that enable students access to free CAD software. 

Academic Institution Software Licenses

Most academic institutions offer students software on machines on campus or in computer labs. Some institutions even have licensing agreements that allow students to download software to their personal machine. Usually, the school will purchase the software which can then be downloaded by students for free with a license key. 

Of course, these licenses are usually limited to term times—once you’re no longer a student, you can’t use the software. The licenses are also for academic, non-commercial use only. 

Individual Download through a vendor

Outside of academic institutions, many software vendors have started to offer free student software through their own websites. Students need to register to prove they’re eligible for the software. This is usually done by using an academic email address or a student ID number.

Like the academic license, this is limited to a termly or yearly basis—you have to renew the license at the end of the term in order to keep using the software. 

Free CAD 

Without further ado, below you’ll find a list of the top free CAD software that you should be taking advantage of right now. Be aware that you can only use them while you’re a student. While you do however, you’ll be saving thousands of dollars a year. If you can’t find the CAD software you’re looking for, you might find it in the discounted CAD section. Alternatively, if you’re not a student why not check out 14 top CAD freeware? 

We have included software descriptions, operating systems and commercial price comparisons. It’s important to note that some software vendors don’t publish their prices, so the price we have included may be an approximation. 

Autodesk Software

Autodesk is the giant of all giants in the world of CAD. It offers an extensive range of CAD, CAM and CAE software that thousands of professionals and hobbyists use on a daily basis. One of the issues with Autodesk however, is that the software can be rather expensive. 

Fortunately, Autodesk offers most of its major packages to students and educators for free. This includes packages like AutoCAD, Fusion 360 and Revit. All you have to do is apply for a 3 year education license—just prove that you’re a student and off you go. The only limitation is that your designs will have watermarks on them so that it’s clear the file was created with a non-professional version. Take a look at the top Autodesk packages that you should be taking advantage of below. Be aware that this is just the tip of the iceberg—there are dozens more products available for students. 

AutoCAD

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $11,470/year
• OS: Windows, Mac

Starting with Autodesk’s flagship product, AutoCAD is one of the most popular CAD packages out there. Released in 1979, AutoCAD is a 2D and 3D CAD software used in a range of industries including architecture, construction and manufacturing. 

Designers can use AutoCAD throughout the entire design process to bring ideas to life, produce designs and perform simulations. Autodesk offers specialized versions of AutoCAD including Architecture, Civil 3D and Electrical. The software uses the popular file format DWG—approximately 2 billion DWG files were in existence by 1988! AutoCAD comes with 2D documentation and 3D modeling tools. It can also be used on mobile with AutoCAD 360. 

Fusion 360

• Type: 3D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $300/year (standard), $1,500/year (ultimate)
• OS: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Fusion 360 is a 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool. It covers the entire production process from planning to testing to executing. Hailed as the ‘first tool of its kind’, Fusion 360 enables designers to work in a single cloud-based platform that works on both Mac and PC. 

It comes with sculpting and modeling tools that bring your designs to life, alongside FEA capabilities to perform simulations and test a product’s viability. Its key advantage is in its collaborative capabilities—with Fusion 360 you can bring design teams together from across the world. 

Revit

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $2,000/year
• OS: Windows and Mac

This BIM software is popular among architects, structural engineers and designers. A key player in the BIM market, Revit enables users to design and build 3D structures and access building information from the model’s data. It comes with 4D BIM which gives users the ability to plan and track the stages of a building’s lifecycle. 

It enables full collaboration across multiple project contributors, resulting in better coordination and management. 

Learning Resources

Autodesk’s learning resources are just as extensive as its range of software. Autodesk Academy gives students the ability to develop their skills and prepare for careers through free online courses and webinars. Students can also create their own portfolios on Design Academy to show off their work. They can then connect to fellow students, enter into design challenges for industry professionals and sign up for Autodesk’s Student Experts program. 

Autodesk University Online is a learning platform that helps Autodesk users educate themselves on all of the products on offer. There are hundreds of online classes available, held by industry experts. Users can browse these classes by feature topic (3D printing, cloud services, sustainable design), by product (AutoCAD, Revit, Maya), or by industry (AEC, infrastructure, media). 

Not to mention, there’s an education community where students can share projects, questions and ideas. 

Onshape

Using named views in Onshape

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $100/month
• OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android

If you missed our article covering cloud-based CAD, you might not have tried out this innovative CAD package. Onshape is a fully cloud-based CAD package that enables you to take the software anywhere you want, on any device. 

It’s delivered over the cloud as a Service, offering real-time data management and a collaborative mode that enables everyone on a team instant access to the same CAD files and workspace. Onshape’s education subscription is completely free for students and educators. Documents created with the Education Plan are tagged with a small EDU icon. The subscription lasts for one year after you sign up, but you can upgrade once more if you still qualify. 

Learning Resources

Onshape’s learning center offers students self-paced training in the form of courses called Learning Pathways. These courses are designed to help users accelerate their transition to full-cloud CAD. The pathways can vary from Onshape fundamentals to data management, and each pathway rewards learners with a completion certificate at the end. It’s also possible to register for live training provided virtually by Onshape instructors. 

The introduction to CAD series is a short online course that is perfect for people unfamiliar with CAD—it takes you through everything from basic features to collaboration and PDM. Onshape also provides a variety of tutorials that are essentially quick lessons for students who are familiar with CAD. 

PTC Creo

Parametric modeling in PTC Creo

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $2,200/year
• OS: Windows

Released in 1987, PTC Creo, formally Pro/ENGINEER, was one of the first major solid modelers in the CAD industry. Creo is an integrated 3D CAD, CAM and CAE solution predominantly used for mechanical engineering, design and manufacturing—often for large scale products like airplanes or ships. It’s a complex program to get to grips with, but it pays off with incredible precision.

PTC Creo is a parametric feature-based modeler that provides an extensive range of tools for solid and surface modeling capabilities. It has a range of analysis tools that cover thermal, static and dynamic finite element analysis to help with the development of a product. Creo also comes with collaborative features that enable large teams of designers and engineers to work on the same product easily and efficiently.

Learning Resources

If you’re new to Creo, you’ll find the solution to most of your problems in the PTC University Exchange. This online resource gives students the chance to explore thousands of tutorials for all PTC products. With it, you can learn anything from using the geometry selection filter to synchronizing orientation—whether your interest lies in parametric modeling or simulation, you’ll find everything you need here. 

PTC Services Academy gives recent graduates the chance to learn a variety of topics that can help them become a successful PTC consultant and future leader. Training includes instruction by PTC management and employees as well as learning through group work and practical experiences. 

The PTC Community gives students, educators and professors the chance to seek support for anything PTC-related. Students can share projects or issues and look for professional tips along the way. 

Solid Edge

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $2,300/year
• OS: Windows

Solid Edge is a 3D CAD software developed by Siemens PLM Software. It’s a parametric feature-based and synchronous technology solid modeling software. This means that users can apply parametric relationships to solid features without having to depend on 2D sketch geometry.

It provides solid modeling, assembly modeling and a 2D orthographic view functionality. Users can customize the interface and work with fully intuitive design and sculpting tools. Solid Edge also comes with analysis tools that enable users to calculate the weight of materials for example, and even show errors when you try to design something that’s impossible to build.

Learning Resources

Siemens offers students the chance to select their own learning paths. These paths can vary depending on your level of experience—if you’re new to CAD, experienced with other systems or transitioning to synchronous technology. Siemens also provides a variety of tutorials that cover topics ranging from modeling parts with ordered features to modeling ordered contour flanges. 

You can also choose your own self-paced course, such as the fundamentals course. Alternatively, you can choose an instructor-led course from the library. 

ARCHICAD

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $3,900/year
• OS: Windows, Mac

ARCHICAD is an architectural BIM and CAD software. It’s recognized as the first CAD product on a personal computer able to create both 2D and 3D geometry. It’s also hailed as the first commercial BIM product for personal computers. The product comes with 2D and 3D drafting capabilities, visualization and BIM functions.

ARCHICAD makes large teamwork projects easy—with advanced collaboration capabilities, teams can work on the same project in one platform. It features a fairly intuitive interface and an end-to-end BIM workflow. The product also offers solutions for calculations regarding factors such as climate, energy and materials. It even offers extensive libraries for architects.

Learning Resources

Graphisoft offers a series of approved training resources that are made for users with different levels of knowledge and interest. Each training volume includes a step-by-step PDF manual, narrated video clips and ARCHICAD project files for a more hands-on approach. 

DraftSight

• Type: 2D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $99/year professional version
• OS: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu, Fedora

DraftSight comes from Dassault Systèmes’ large portfolio—if you don’t know much about the company, check out Dassault Systèmes – Everything You Need To Know. It’s a 2D design and drafting solution that enables users to create, edit and view DWG files. There’s a free version, and a professional version that costs $99/year.

DraftSight has all of the essential functionality of AutoCAD including vector graphics, layers, blocks and dimensions. It’s easy to use and very intuitive—it can be a nice alternative to ‘heavier’ CAD packages that have a steep learning curve. It doesn’t have 3D capabilities but considering it’s free, you can’t really complain about that.

Learning Resources

Dassault is all about training which is why it has a host of learning resources to help maximize the DraftSight experience. You can begin with the getting started guide covering everything from tutorials on line commands to basic dimensioning. With almost 200 pages, you’ll be sure to find everything you need. 

If not, Dassault has also provided a series of Draftsight video tutorials. Needless to say, if you put in the effort you’ll be a DraftSight pro in no time at all. 

Discounted CAD Software

If the list of free CAD software isn’t enough for you, we’ve even included some packages that offer exclusive student discounts. You might be reluctant to spend any money on CAD, but you should definitely take advantage of these discounts while you can. 

SolidWorks

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $150 or less
• Commercial: $5,290 (standard with subscription)
• OS: Windows

SolidWorks is a renowned solid modeling CAD and CAE program used by millions of people across the world. In fact, Dassault Systèmes released it as the first significant 3D modeler for Windows—a huge landmark in the evolution of CAD. It’s used across a range of industries including aerospace, engineering and product design. 

SolidWorks is a parametric feature-based 3D modeling software. It can be used for auto-generated 2D drawings and advanced 3D modeling. Users can perform simulations and analyses like Finite Element Analysis to test their products before creating a physical prototype. It’s all about faster modeling and enhanced collaboration with SolidWorks. 

Learning Resources

SolidWorks gives students access to a resource center which includes exclusive tutorials ranging from full video tutorials to PDF guides and project files. It’s designed to help students become professional SolidWorks users. You can start from the beginning by looking at parts and assemblies, or go straight to the more advanced lessons. 

MySolidWorks is a learning platform with over 400 training videos. Students can learn SolidWorks at their own pace by accessing individual learning modules with explanations, videos and quizzes. It’s also possible to search for and get answers to questions. Not to mention, you can download free 2D/3D CAD models of user-contributed and supplier-certified parts and assemblies. You can even connect with the SolidWorks community via the education forum. 

CATIA

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $99/year
• Commercial: starting from $12,000
• OS: Windows, Unix

Another of Dassault’s products, CATIA is a 3D Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software suite that supports the entire process of product development. It comes with CAD, CAM and CAE capabilities to take users through the entire design process. CATIA started out in the aerospace industry, but has since branched out to others including architecture and design.

The product supports multiple stages of product design regardless of whether it’s started from scratch or from a 2D sketch. It also facilitates collaborative engineering—large teams can design these products in a real-life behavioral context. CATIA provides a wide range of applications for tooling design and enables users to create complex parametric objects.

Learning Resources

Dassault provides users with a resource center for CATIA-related topics. This center includes a variety of e-seminars on topics ranging from improving electrical design productivity to achieving fast fluid systems design. Students can also take advantage of the knowledge base which is essentially a forum where you can exchange questions, projects and find more tutorials. 

Another helpful feature is the CATIA user communities which connect you to communities in design, systems engineering, composites and much more. You can connect to fellow students and users to discuss any challenges you have and exchange ideas with your peers. 

NX Resources

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $98.95/year
• Commercial: $7,500/year
• OS: Windows, Mac, Unix

Another Siemens PLM Software product, NX Resources is an advanced CAD, CAM and CAE software package. It offers advanced solutions for conceptual design, 3D modeling and documentation. It also employs synchronous technology for flexible design in an open environment.

NX Resources is used for parametric and direct solid or surface modeling. It comes with engineering analysis tools that include Finite Element Method and Finite Volume Method. Users can also take advantage of simulation capabilities that come with structural, motion and thermal applications.

Learning Resources

Siemens offers self-paced training for free through Learning Advantage. This is an easy-to-use learning platform that provides students with online library access to more than 1,000 courses and assessments. It also includes augmented classroom experiences through online interactive learning. These self-assessment tools allow you to train at your own pace whilst tracking and recording your progress. 

If you want to connect with fellow users, check out the Siemens PLM Community. This gives you the ability to discuss projects, problems and ideas. In addition, you can take advantage of NX quick tips on YouTube. 

TurboCAD 

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $99.95/year
• Commercial: $109.95/year
• OS: Windows, Mac

TurboCAD is a 2D and 3D design and drafting software. There are three versions of the software: deluxe, professional and platinum. The further up this scale you go, the more capabilities you get and the more expensive the software is. You can get a student discount for any version. If you haven’t heard of TurboCAD, you’ve missed out on a user-friendly and affordable software package.

The product comes with general drafting tools as well as 3D architectural and mechanical design tools. Users can enjoy time-saving features like command lines which make the production process even shorter. TurboCAD also comes with customizable tool palettes and an intuitive user interface.

Learning Resources

TurboCAD has a variety of training packages on offer, however they’re not free. For basic training in TurboCAD 2D/3D it will cost you $49.99 whereas training for TurboCAD Pro Platinum will set you back $129.99. 

If you’re not willing to pay up for training, you can take advantage of the TurboCAD forum where you can share your own drawings and get feedback from other students. You can also discuss ideas, share problems and browse through plug-ins. The TurboCAD Wiki page also provides a host of incredible resources from tips and tricks to extensions. 

Rhinoceros 3D

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $128.95/year
• Commercial: $789.95/year
• OS: Windows

Rhinoceros 3D is a computer graphics and CAD application software. It’s based on the NURBS model which produces mathematically precise representations of curves and freeform surfaces. It’s popular in CAD, CAM, rapid prototyping and 3D printing. In addition, it’s used in a range of industries including architecture, product design and industrial design.

Rhinoceros 3D comes with advanced capabilities for creating and transforming 2D shapes for vector graphics. Users can even customize the interface and create custom commands and menus—not to mention take advantage of four different view angles. The product is even simple to use with a connected CNC machine.

Learning Resources

Rhinoceros has a resources page which gives users the chance to browse through websites that offer free 2D and 3D models in jewelry, architecture and much more. 

Students can access a range of video and PDF tutorials—from freeform modeling to visual tips. These tutorials are even categorized into ‘grasshopper classes‘ and ‘master classes‘ so you can learn at a pace suited to your experience level. If you like the sound of live instruction, you can find a class in your time zone and take it in the comfort of your own home. 

Extra Resources and Freebies

If you’re looking to become an expert in the world of CAD, you’ll need to take advantage of the best resources and freebies out there. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the top Scan2CAD resources that you should be using—you don’t even need to be a student!

Scan2CAD is a market-leading raster-to-vector conversion software. Its primary focus is converting technical drawings to usable editable vector images. The software comes with a raster and vector editing suite, batch processing and Smart OCR. You can get Scan2CAD for free—regardless of whether you’re a student or not—in a 14-day trial. 

For a better look at Scan2CAD’s capabilities, take a look at Scan2CAD: the ultimate vectorization software. 

If you love freebies, you’ll love Scan2CAD’s free DXF packs. These cut-ready DXF designs are ready for use in CNC—a huge advantage if you’re looking to start your own CNC projects. You get 6 or 7 designs in a DXF or JPG format each week if you subscribe. Want more? Check out 13 sites with free DXF designs. 

If you want to stay updated on all things CAD, CNC and CAM-related, Scan2CAD’s blog is the place to be. We cover topics ranging from SolidWorks tips and tricks, to how to build the ultimate CAD PC, to CNC machines compared. 

New to the world of CAD? Check out our ‘7 things you need to know’ series, covering everything from DXF files to vectorization and 3D printing. 

With that in mind, Scan2CAD has created a list of the top 14 CAD freeware packages, so you can enjoy CAD without having to spend a single penny. We’ve included operating systems, supported file types and even a list of extra packages that didn’t quite make the list. Read on… 

We’ve separated this list into two sections:

• → Jump to 2D drafting software
• → Jump to 3D modelling software

Free 2D Drafting Software

We begin our list with some of the most popular and free options for 2D drafting. If you’re new to CAD, you probably want to start here. 

1. DraftSight

Image Source: razorleaf.com

Draftsight used to be a proprietary freeware 2D CAD software until December 31, 2019, when its developer, Dassault Systèmes, put an end to all free versions of the software. Still, Draftsight is available for free for a 30-day trial period. Upon the elapse of the free trial, you will have to choose among three main pricing plans:

• DraftSight Professional at $249/year
• DraftSight Premium at $599/year
• DraftSight Enterprise (pricing available on inquiry)

Other than the change that effectively ended the software’s freeware status, DraftSight is still a 2D CAD design solution. However, the DraftSight Premium package unlocks full 3D capabilities and parametric constraints.

Generally, DraftSight is a professional 2D design and drafting program that lets you create, edit, view, and markup any kind of 2D drawing (or 3D file). It’s a rather simple and minimal program, so it’s easy to make the transition from another type of CAD application to DraftSight. The only requirement to use the program is to activate it via an email address. This CAD program does have an AutoCAD feel to it—in fact, it even uses AutoCAD’s native file format DWG.

It comes with a range of drafting tools that make it the best-in-class 2D CAD program. It has a number of vector entities available, including lines and polylines, dimensions, layering capabilities, and text. Additionally, it enhances collaboration by providing access to Dassault Systèmes’ 3DExperience platform.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu, Fedora
File Formats: DWG, DXF, JPEG, PDF, PNG, SLD, STL, SVG, TIF
Interested? Download now!

2. QCAD

Image Source: Wikimedia

Developed by RibbonSoft, QCAD is a free, open-source application for CAD in 2D. It can be used to create technical drawings such as buildings and their interiors, mechanical parts, diagrams, or schematics. The software was designed with modularity, extensibility, and portability in mind, and it comes with an intuitive user interface. In addition, QCAD is simple to use, so you don’t necessarily need any CAD experience to start with QCAD immediately—which is a great advantage.

It also comes with a variety of useful features. QCAD’s features include:

• Layers
• Bocks
• 35 CAD fonts and support for TrueType fonts
• A library with over 4800 CAD parts
• Support for DWG and DXF (input and output), DGN, DWF, CXF font format, raster image formats (TIFF, BMP, PNG, JPEG, ICO, PPM, XBM, XPM), SVG, and PDF
• Ability to create and modify points, arcs, circles, raster images, fills, dimensions, text, polylines, and more
• Measuring tools
• Support for computer-aided manufacturing: nesting, G-code export, GERBER import,
• Object snaps
• Printing to scale and printing on multiple pages
• Command-line tools and more

In addition to the freeware offering, QCAD users can opt for the paid version named QCAD Professional. This premium version is available for a one-time fee of $39.00 (as of May 2022). It is worth pointing out that installing QCAD for the first time opts you into the free trial for the Pro version. To use the free version, you first have to delete several program files.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: BMP, DGN, DWG, DWF, DXF, ICO, JPEG, PDF, PNG, PPM, SVG, TIFF, XBM, XPM
Interested? Download now

3. LibreCAD

Image Source: Wikimedia

LibreCAD is a free open-source 2D CAD modeling platform. The software began as a project intended to add CAM capabilities to QCAD. During the early months of the project’s existence, the software was known as CADuntu before it was eventually renamed LibreCAD. It comes with a GPLv2 public license, so you can use it, customize it, hack it, and copy it with free user and developer support. It’s a community-driven project, so it’s constantly being improved with new ideas.

LibreCAD comes with high-quality features like snap-to-grid capabilities, which means that you can create straight lines and align objects as you go. It also comes with layers, text, and measurements. Additionally, it is capable of reading DXF and DWG files. Users can then export the 2D drawings using file formats such as PDF, SVG, and DXF. It supports various drawing tools, including blocks, hatches, dimensions, text, polylines, splines, lines, ellipses, and circles. LibreCAD boasts a highly customizable user interface, elaborate snapping system, and custom menus and toolbars.

All these capabilities are packaged in a light downloadable file that will take up less than 30 megabytes. So, you don’t need to have a strong internet connection to start using the software.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: DXF, DWG, JPG, PDF, PNG, SVG
Interested? Download now!

4. Draft IT Systems

Image Source: Softpedia

Draft IT is a 2D system developed by CADLogic. It is primarily most useful for people who are just starting out with CAD. It has no 3D and/or modeling capabilities, so you shouldn’t be expecting anything too complex. It’s essentially a system that is useful for creating plans and diagrams. It also enables users to save and print the resultant drawings. The free version also enables you to use drawing tools such as arcs, lines, rectangles, offset, polar and linear arrays.

That being said, some of its features are disabled in the free version, e.g., dimensioning, layering, and additional drawing tools such as polylines, curve fit, ellipse, hatch, and polygons. The free version also limits supported file formats; for instance, you cannot import AutoCAD DWG and DXF files  

To be able to do more, you would have to upgrade to the Plus or Pro version. So, if you’re looking to do serious, detailed work, you might want to consider other software.

Operating System: Windows
File Formats: DWG, DXF
Interested? Download now!

Free 3D Modeling Software

The world of free CAD software is no-longer limited to 2D drafting applications. As we’ll discover below, there is a wealth of exciting 3D Modelling options available and many of these new solutions are focussing on making a previously complex solution much simpler and easier to use.

5. SketchUp Make and SketchUp Web App

Image Source: SketchUp Community

SketchUp Make is the free open-source 3D modeling version of the popular SketchUp software. However, Trimble, the developers of SketchUp, discontinued the free offering, with the last version of the software being SketchUp Make 2017. As at the time of updating this article, in 2022, the company had also stopped offering the ability to officially download SketchUp Make 2017, although it supported it as of early 2021. The move, the official website explains, was motivated by the fact that the last free version is outdated. This made it vulnerable to security issues that may arise from the outdated open-source libraries.

In this regard, if you want to enjoy the perks of the freeware, you have to download it from third-party websites, which may or may not be safe. But, as we’ll detail shortly, an alternative exists. Firstly though, what is SketchUp Make 2017?  

SketchUp Make 2017 covers a range of applications such as architecture, interior design, civil engineering, and even video game design. It comes with an open-source library of models and a 3D warehouse which is the world’s biggest library of free 3D models. The software is incredibly easy to use, and the SketchUp website provides extra help with tutorials and videos. You can even customize your SketchUp with extensions or by upgrading to SketchUp Pro. If you’re interested in creating more advanced projects, you will have to upgrade to the Pro version, which gives you access to features like simulated film cameras and solid modeling tools.

If you are not ready to jeopardize your computer’s security by downloading the outdated SketchUp Make 2017, you can opt for another free offering from Trimble. The developer offers SketchUp for Web at absolutely no cost. However, you first have to create an account/sign-in in order to use it. After that, you can operate SketchUp Web App using any operating system, computer, smartphone, or browser. It offers numerous drawing and editing tools such as line, arc, move, paint, rotate (orbit), erase, measure, etc.

SketchUp Web App (source)

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Browser-based (Web)
File Formats: 3DS, OBJ, DAE, DWG, DXF, FBX, KMZ, WRL, XSI
Interested? Download now!

6. OnShape

Image Source: OnShape

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux (Runs in most web browsers excluding IE and Edge)
File Formats: STP, IGS, 3DM, STL, OBJ & more.
Interested? Visit OnShape

7. FreeCAD

Image Source: DIWO

FreeCAD is a 100% open-sourced 3D parametric modeler. It’s predominantly aimed at mechanical engineering and product design users because its features are adapted to mechanical engineering. Some of these features include modern finite element analysis (FEA) tools, CNC/CAM workbenches, robot simulation, and experimental computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Still, it can be used by professionals in the architecture field. To back this up, FreeCAD offers dedicated building information management (BIM).

The software enables users to design real-life objects regardless of their perceived size. What makes the software pretty handy is the fact that you can easily edit your drawing by entering your model history and modifying some of its components. This makes it similar to the latest versions of AutoCAD, which support version history.

As a 3D modeler, FreeCAD can be used by anyone interested in creating 3D models – in fact, you don’t even need to have had any CAD experience to use the program comfortably. As with other 3D modelers, FreeCAD does come with 2D components – it allows you to sketch 2D shapes that you can then use as a base to create 3D objects. In this regard, direct 2D drawing is not its focus. Instead, it has a variety of features ranging from 3D solids and support for meshes to a robot simulation module that allows you to study robot movements. If you’re comfortable with SolidWorks, you’ll find FreeCAD easy to use. 

Furthermore, being an open-source platform, FreeCAD allows you to contribute by helping fix bugs, update the documentation, or implement upgrades to the software.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu
File Formats: DAE, DXF, Fcstd, IFC, IGES, OBJ, OFF, NASTRAN, STEP, STL, SVG, VRML
Interested? Download now!

8. Sweet Home 3D

Image Source: Wikimedia

Sweet Home 3D is a free interior design application distributed under GNU General Public License. It gives users the chance to draw floor plans, arrange furniture, and look at the final results in 3D by following a simple three-step process. 

First, in order to draw the floor plans, Sweet Home 3D requires you to import the vector version of a pre-existing drawing. This import acts as a template that you can then use to draw walls, place windows and doors, and add room floors. Any changes made to the 2D plan are simultaneously reflected in a 3D view, which is displayed within the software’s workspace.

Next, decorate and furnish the house. With Sweet Home 3D, you can add color and texture to the floors and walls as well as add furniture, import objects that are drawn using other 3D software – the software supports formats such as 3DS, DAE, OBJ, and KMZ – and customize the color and size of the imported objects.

The software lets you view the 3D model by taking a virtual tour or viewing the 2D design aerially. To make the 3D virtual tour even more realistic, you can set the time and orientation of the house relative to the sun’s position. This allows Sweet Home 3D to include shadows within the virtual tour. Finally, you can render the 2D drawing and 3D model as a photo or video before exporting it as an OBJ, SVG, PDF, or PNG file.

Sweet Home 3D is available for download as desktop software. You can also use it online with any WebGL browser.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux, Browser-based (Web)
File Types: JPEG, OBJ, PDF, PNG, SVG
Interested? Download now! 

9. TinkerCAD

Image Source: 3D Drucken

TinkerCAD is a 3D design and 3D printing web application offered by software giant Autodesk. It bills itself as a “free online collection of software tools that help people all over the world think, create, and make.” It allows users to place a pre-existing or imported shape on a work plane. Placing a shape as a solid or hole enables you to respectively add or remove material to and from the shape you had originally added. With TinkerCAD, you can also adjust shapes by rotating or moving them, as well as combining shapes to create intricate 3D models.

In addition to creating the models, TinkerCAD supports all 3D printers. It also enables users to order 3D prints online from the platform’s 3D printing partners. Additionally, the software enables you to export a section of your model as an SVG file that you can then feed into a laser cutter.

Generally, TinkerCAD is used to create everything from toys and prototypes to home decor and even jewelry. It’s a web-based application, so no downloads are necessary. It’s predominantly used for simple projects – it comes with three basic tools to create basic shapes. Its biggest advantage is that it can create 3D models for immediate 3D printing – with its CSG (Constructive Solid Geometry) feature, you can get a 3D model in 10 minutes! Users can design models from scratch or use ready-made models. The application is limited however, as it cannot be used for complex projects.

Operating System: Browser-based (Web)
File Formats: OBJ, STL
Interested? Check it out here! 

10. 3D Crafter

Image Source: decapod99

3D Crafter is an intuitive, real-time 3D modeling and animation freeware program. It incorporates a drag-and-drop approach to 3D modeling, meaning you can drag an object created using another software to 3D Crafter’s interface. It can create complex models from simple 3D primitives or by using its shape-building tools. In addition, it provides modeling tools that allow users to paint, sculpt, and deform 3D shapes. But that’s not all.

The program can also be used to create animated scenes by simply placing shapes at various timestamps. The scenes can then be viewed in real-time and recorded to a video (AVI) file. It is designed to ensure that the animation you create runs smoothly. Generally, the free version of 3D Crafter offers features such as key-frame manipulation, standard skeletal animation bones, pipe engineer, scene details, and the ability to duplicate, normalize groups, shift the center on selection, reset animation position, and crease all shapes. Furthermore, the software supports multiple import and export formats.

Developed by Amabilis Software, the program also packs additional punches. For instance, you can use the tool roll-up groups feature to customize the program’s interface in such a way that only the tools and items you utilize most regularly are visible. This feature also allows you to access the less frequently used features by just clicking a single button. Whileit has many capabilities, you might need to upgrade to 3DCrafter Pro for more advanced features. The paid version is available for a one-time fee of $39.95, which is a fraction of the cost of animation software such as Autodesk Maya.

Operating System: Windows
File Formats: 3DMF, AC, ASC, COB, DXF, GEO, LP, LWO, NFF, OBJ, MA, RAW, RBS, RWX, STL, VRMLL, XGL, ZGL
Interested? Download now!

11. Sculptris (Now ZCoreBrushMini)

Image Source: Efalinefalin

Formerly Sculptris, ZBrushCoreMini is a 3D modeling freeware program created by industry expert Pixologic. It’s not a general-purpose drafting program; instead, it was designed for 3D sculpting. It was created with the intention to be accessible for every type of artist—from beginner to expert. The program comes with a professional user interface, alongside two main navigation methods: right-click navigation and free moving navigation.

Not only that, but it comes with a number of sculpting tools such as symmetry mode and dynamic tessellation and rendering features, including real-time preview ambient occlusion and turntable movie rendering. There’s also a variety of sculpting brushes that draw, grab, smooth, and flatten. Needless to say, there’s a lot to take advantage of! To use the software, start with a stone block or fear and then use an assortment of 12 digital sculping brushes to remove or include material, creating the sculpture you originally had in mind.

Once you are done with the creation process, you can share your work through the iMage3D GIF and PNG formats, which, when opened using the ZBrushCoreMini, appears in 3D. On any other website, such as a social media platform, however, the model will appear as a regular flat image. You can also use the software to export your model to a 3D printer.

Pixologic offers ZBrushCore, a paid, subscription-based version that boasts more features. For instance, it supports 40 brushes and mesh editing.

Operating System: Windows, Mac
File Formats: OBJ
Interested? Download now!

12. OpenSCAD

Image Source: Peak 5390

OpenSCAD is a 3D modeling CAD freeware platform released under the second version of the General Public License. Unlike most 3D modeling software, it doesn’t focus on the ‘artistic’ aspects of 3D modeling. Instead, it’s more suitable for creating 3D models of machine parts. It works as a 3D compiler that reads a script file that describes an object, rendering the file as a 3D model. In this regard, it does not feature an interactive graphical user interface (GUI) that is synonymous with conventional 3D modeling software.

The compiler-based approach accords the designer complete control over the modeling process. They can make changes on the fly as well as make designs that are designed by configurable parameters. OpenSCAD offers two primary modeling techniques: CSG and the ability to extrude 3D models from 2D outlines that are imported as DXF files.

However, while the software is very intuitive, it’s still too limited for complex projects—so you might have to go elsewhere if you want more advanced features. But its official website has an elaborate documentation section with written and video tutorials, user manuals, articles/blogs, and links to books on how to use OpenSCAD.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux, Ubuntu, Fedora
File Formats: AMF, CSG, DXF, OFF, PNG, SCAD, STL, SVG
Interested? Download now!

13. Blender

Image Source: DRT

Blender is a free and open-source 3D modeling program available under the GNU General Public License. It’s more of an artistic 3D modeling program than a general-use drafting program. It comes with a comprehensive set of capabilities ranging from photo-realistic rendering and fast modeling to realistic materials. Blender even allows designers to make use of an extensive animation toolset to turn still characters into animations. This toolset offers capabilities such as motion tracking, compositing, rendering, simulation, animation, rigging, and modeling, i.e., the entire 3D pipeline. In addition, the software also supports game creation and video editing. These capWhile it is a steep learning curve with Blender, it’s worth it.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: 3DS, BVH, DAE, DFX, FBX, LWO, OBJ, PLY, STL, SVG, VRML/97, x, X3D
Interested? Download now! 

14. LeoCAD

Image Source: LeoCAD

LeoCAD is a CAD freeware program used for creating virtual LEGO models. While you might think that the software is geared towards children, you would be very wrong. This piece of software allows users to create anything from the simplest to the most complex of projects—the above screenshot is a model of the Tower Bridge with over 4,000 pieces! It comes with an intuitive interface that makes the creation process easy and time-efficient. Plus, it comes with over 10,000 different parts and pieces to create 3D models from – these parts are regularly updated, so there are no limits to what you can create! Obviously, the LEGO angle is very niche, but it’s perfect for those wanting to create something a little bit different.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: LDR, DAT
Interested? Download now! 

Honorable Mentions

There’s a huge variety of CAD freeware available, so there are many that didn’t make our final list—but that certainly doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t check them out! Take a look at our list below for even more free software applications to take advantage of:

• NanoCAD
• 3D Slash
• Art of Illusion
• Wings 3D
• ProgeCAD Smart!
• MeshLab

As an added bonus, the following 3 picks are only free for students—but they include some of the most well-known programs on the market:

• Fusion 360
• AutoCAD

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a free AutoCAD version?

AutoCAD is the most popular CAD software around. Boasting plenty of features already packed into it, with Autodesk striving to introduce new features and tools every year, the software comes at a premium. But the value it offers users makes the investment worthwhile. That said, depending on your requirements, you can get AutoCAD for free. For example, the Autodesk Education & Student Access program allows educators and students to download and use AutoCAD for free. Alternatively, you can use the software for free during the free trial period. We have answered this question more elaborately in our article.

Is there a free SketchUp version?

Our discussion above explores SketchUp Make, Trimble’s freeware that has since been discontinued because it is outdated and, therefore, poses a security risk. That said, there is a free up-to-date SketchUp version: SketchUp Web App. But as the name suggests, it is not available as desktop software. To download and install a desktop version, you have to choose a paid tier. There are various paid SketchUp products and license options from which to choose. More on this in our roundup of SketchUp’s pricing model.

What is the best 2D drawing/drafting software for beginners?

LibreCAD offers an intuitive interface that is simple, organized, and easy to understand. This, coupled with the fact that it does not require the user to follow unnecessary procedures as is the case with QCAD – which requires users to delete some program files to use the free version – makes it ideal for beginners.

What is the best 3D modeling software for beginners?

SketchUp Web App. If you are starting out, you may not have a powerful computer that enables you to install certain software. You may not even have a computer in the first place. With SketchUp Web App, which is available for free, you can begin your 3D modeling journey on a less powerful computer or mobile phone. The application also has plenty of tools.

What is the best artistic 3D modeling software?

Blender. It offers a selection of powerful tools for free. According to the developer, VFX professionals even claim that the software’s motion tracking capability is probably the best in the market. Moreover, it outperforms other programs in this list by not reserving some features for paying users.

Parting Shot

Some of the set prices for popular CAD software may be off-putting to hobbyists and beginners. Fortunately, there are plenty of free alternatives designed to suit their needs and preferences. The freeware programs fall into a wide range of categories, including sculpting, CAM, 2D drafting, animation, 3D modeling, etc. And based on our discussion, each category has its standout solution. Here is a summary:

• Best free 2D modeling software: LibreCAD
• Best free 3D modeling software: SketchUp Web App
• Best free web-based 3D modeling software: SketchUp
• Best free artistic 3D modeling software: Blender
• Best free interior design-focused 3D modeling software: Sweet Home 3D
• Best free mechanical engineering-focused 3D modeling software: FreeCAD

Don’t forget to try out Scan2CAD’s blog for the latest news—covering everything from CAD Freelancers to Top 3D CAD Models to Try Out to Sites with Free DXF Designs! 

Recent years, however, have seen a more general move towards cloud-based software, and CAD programs are no exception. More and more, software leaders have moved towards innovative fully cloud-based software. This means CAD is now available in-browser – no downloads required.

Current Impact

Several current leading CAD software companies have already launched cloud-based software, as noted in our recent news roundup.

Onshape is the most notable developer of cloud-based CAD. They boast of being the first full-cloud 3D CAD application. This means no downloads and no updates – everything is in the cloud. You can even download the Onshape app, meaning you can now make edits on-the-go. It doesn’t matter where you are or which device you’re using – as long as you’re online, you can use Onshape.

Long the big beast of desktop-based CAD software, Autodesk too is making a foray into cloud-based programs. We’ve previously covered the launch of AutoCAD 2017, and its embrace of the SaaS (Software as a Service) model. Now, there’s also Fusion 360. Unlike Onshape, this software does require a download. However, it is available across a range of devices, and is fully cloud-enabled, allowing you to edit and collaborate from anywhere. Thanks to the download, it’s also possible to make offline edits, giving you the best of both worlds.

Whilst these are two of the most notable cloud-based CAD programs, they’re far from the only ones out there. In fact, most CAD software developers are moving more and more towards the cloud.

For more interesting CAD trends, click here.

What Are The Pros And Cons?

Pros

• • Accessibility… You can access your files anywhere, on any device. Teams can work simultaneously using real-time editing.

• • Low Cost… You can pay for monthly subscriptions, which may be more cost-effective than an annual subscription.

• • One License… You won’t have to buy multiple licenses for multiple devices – it’s available on any device via cloud.

• • Continuous Improvement… Updates are automatic, so the application is constantly improving without any need for your input.

Cons

• • Depends on The Internet… If your internet is unreliable, or suddenly goes down, you won’t be able to access any of your files.

• • Security Issues… The cloud isn’t immune to security risks, which can be worrying if you’re dealing with confidential files.

• • Provider Issues… If the provider wants to increase pricing, or goes out of business, you run the risk of losing your files.

• • No Control… Updates and re-configurations are out of your control. You can’t revert back to older versions.

Despite the debate over the pros and cons of cloud-based CAD, it has already had a huge impact in the CAD industry, and will continue to do so in the future.

Trends and Impact

Business Advantage, a market research consultancy firm, anticipates a significant growth of 164% within the next 5 years for cloud-based CAD applications. This is found in their Worldwide CAD Trends 2016 survey.

Despite this projected growth, the survey found that the application has a below average importance ranking of 3.8 out of 10. In addition, its popularity is attributed predominantly to users in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) sector. These users have a greater need for mobility, and thus rate it 4.5 out of 10.

Cloud-based CAD certainly has potential, particularly in the AEC sector. Onshape founder, Jon Hirschtick believes that it is the future of CAD. Yet even he notes that this application shouldn’t be your choice ‘if you have an unreliable internet connection’.

It’s this type of issue that makes the idea of a complete switch to cloud-based CAD applications seem uncertain, and further fuels resistance from some in the CAD industry.

So How Will The Cloud Impact on CAD?

It seems clear that despite its projected growth and growing popularity within the CAD industry, there’s still a lack of confidence for this type of application at the moment.

Old habits die hard, and many designers will prefer to continue using software they are most familiar with. Others may have issues with security, or the inability to make edits offline. So traditional CAD is far from dead.

This said, cloud-based CAD is growing. The possibilities are still becoming clear, and the technology is still evolving. Over the next few years, cloud-based CAD has the potential to have a huge impact on the design landscape.

No matter whether you’re using desktop-based or cloud-based software, Scan2CAD is still guaranteed to get you the best image results. Try out Scan2CAD’s full range of features completely free for 14 days with our free trial.