What Are Some Free Good CAD Softwares for PC?

What Are Some Free Good CAD Softwares for PC?

If you’re in the engineering, architectural, or construction industry, you know that CAD (computer-aided design) software is a must-have tool. There are tons of CAD software on the market that professionals can leverage to develop, modify, and optimize the design process. But are all of them equal to the task? You wish! While some free CAD softwares are top-notch and reliable, others don’t have sufficient features and functionalities to help develop quality designs.

We decided to survey the market to source the best free options for professionals who aren’t looking to spend on expensive CAD software alternatives. Here are our top seven findings:

FreeCAD

If you’re looking for CAD software that’s 100% free and open-source, your search ends here. FreeCAD is an awe-inspiring program suitable for product design and mechanical engineering. However, it can also be used by architects and other engineering dockets that bank more on the 3D parametric modeler.

Despite being open-source and free, FreeCAD is almost par-level with the premium CAD software, thanks to its remarkable features and capabilities. For instance, the tool can create accurate 3D models, 2D drafting, support for meshes, among others. You’ll also love FreeCAD’s Parametric Model feature that lets you edit your work to get the best submissions. But that’s not all; the software’s modular architecture also enables users to install plugins for extra features needed.

SketchUp

SketchUp is an incredible 3D modeling and 2D documentation CAD software that’s primarily used for architectural purposes. However, other professionals in the 3D design field can find it helpful as well. While Sketchup is a professional-grade or paid tool, it offers a free version for students and personal users.

The free SketchUp comes with many essential features and capabilities available in the premium version, including 3D model templates, model viewing, cloud storage, etc. The software supports Windows and macOS, and it’s overly straightforward to use for creating models and designs. What’s more, the free version allows users to download and share prebuild 3D models from the warehouse.

OpenSCAD

OpenSCAD is the perfect 3D modeling platform for users who wish to work on the specifics, especially those in the engineering industry. The tool lacks an interactive model that users may need to design their projects. Instead, it relies on a description language, i.e., what’s already defined in the parameters via the script files.

The program also leverages the Extrusion of 2D outlines and Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG), making it super intuitive and a perfect tool for elaborated projects. Please note that while OpenSCAD is a highly innovative 3D modeling tool, not everyone may find it easy to use, especially if you don’t have a background in coding.

NanoCAD

NanoCAD is another amazing free-to-use 2D and 3D modeling CAD software with excellent functionality. It has a fantastic interface that’s straightforward to use, enabling beginners and power users alike to get the most out of the platform. What’s more, the CAD software is always keen to introduce new features and the latest updates, ensuring that it stays competitive and recent with other similar platforms.

Besides the free version, NanoCAD also offers premium packages for users and businesses who wish to upgrade to unlock more features as they grow. Some valuable resources available in the paid version include the Command Line tool, ONSAP & SNAP, several precision tools, and many more. Last but not least, NanoCAD has automation capabilities, enabling documentation and drafts to be transferred directly from the software to a database.

DraftSight

If you’re on the market for free top-quality CAD software that’s excellent for creating, editing, and viewing projects in the native DWG file format, DraftSight has got you covered. The program is a perfect fit for professionals (designers, architects, engineers), educators, and students looking to sharpen their 2D CAD editing skills.

The free version comes with several features that come in handy in developing flawless plans using text, dimension, polylines, lines, and more. However, those who wish to unlock even more capabilities and features can purchase the premium version to upgrade.

TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD is a free online solution for the best-rated 3D digital designs. The platform may not be as feature-packed as other CAD software, but that’s also what makes it effortless to use, even by greenhorns. Even more amazingly, TinkerCAD supports all kinds of file formats and integrations, thanks to its close ties with the Autodesk family.

Besides providing a platform for creating innovative 3D designs, TinkerCAD also has numerous tutorials and learning resources for newbies looking to sharpen their skills. Users can learn about code blocks, electronic designs, 3D designs, and more. Plus, there’s a ready gallery filled with other users’ designs that you can download and share online.

LibreCAD

Unlike other CAD software solutions discussed above, LibreCAD is exclusively suited for 2D modeling, and it’s compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows. Besides, it’s 100 open-source and free, meaning you can use it for both personal and business needs.

Some of LibreCAD’s capabilities and functionalities include ray-tracing for analysis and rendering, creating interactive geometric designs, exporting multiple file formats, etc. Industrial designers and graphics professionals can leverage the platform to develop geometric 2D designs, mathematical figures, circuit boards, among others. And the best? LibreCAD has a highly customizable interface, ensuring that its designs are of the best standard.

There You Go!

Hopefully, this resourceful guide on the best free CAD softwares for PC was an eye-opener, and it helped you decide the best tool for your next project. Whether you’re looking for a 2D or 3D modeling program, there’s a perfect fit for you to download and get the project up and running. What’s more, some tools like NanoCAD, DraftSight, and SketchUp provide an option to upgrade to premium versions containing more features and capabilities. So if you’re looking to expand and create more professional designs, these CAD softwares are excellent options.

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