Students and professionals have been using computer-aided design free CAD software to come up with technical illustrations and product designs.
These are particularly helpful to architects, designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs to make their ideas come to life in a 2D or 3D output.
CAD software maximizes operations and organization while increasing productivity without sacrificing the quality of work.
Aside from designing infrastructures and products, it’s also possible to use a design software for brand packaging.
The dilemma of most people regarding CAD is its affordability. Since several professionals utilize CAD in almost every design that they do.
There has been an increase in demand which has made it expensive over the years. This is especially challenging to students and freelancers.
The good news is that software developers have come up with CAD software that is readily available for the public without any fee.
Thanks to them, there are many benefits to enjoy which are as good as the paid versions. To help you boost your creativity and productivity, we have put together the top ten free CAD software you can use. Let’s get started!
1. AutoCAD
This is one of the best CAD software that helps architects, engineers, and construction professionals to create precise 2D and 3D drawings.
It has been in the industry for many years and is actually from Autodesk. This is a premium-grade software that students can use for free in one year with their student license.
Its features include drawing history, cloud storage connectivity, and industry-specific tool sets which are perfect for design majors and professionals.
2. Tinkercad
Compared to other CAD software, Tinkercad is an easy-to-use, online CAD program that can be used to create 3D models anywhere.
It is a great starting point for those who are still new to 3D designing. Even though it doesn’t have as many features as other CAD programs, it allows people to create their desired designs for free nonetheless.
3. FreeCAD
This open-source CAD software can match professional CAD software as it boasts an intuitive interface and multi-purpose features.
This is the best pick for those who are already familiar with the fundamentals of CAD modeling. There are a lot more features to explore especially with its ability to be incorporated into an app through Python modules.
4. SketchUp
A widely-used pro-lever software, SketchUp offers a free trial for students and personal users which is available on their online platform.
Many industries such as interior design, architecture, and video game development, maximize this software with its impressive features.
These include support for extension warehouse, ability to render 3D models and save them in DWG format, as well as a 3D library collection with other users.
This is a good alternative to Tinkercad since it has a number of advanced tools that can be accessed online without many limitations.
5. LibreCAD
If compatibility of a 2D modeling software with different operating systems is your main concern, worry no more because LibreCAD could just be the best solution to that.
This is also a free and open-source software that allows you to render geometric 2D designs, circuit boards, and many more in a highly customizable interface.
Furthermore, it has a couple of features such as benchmark suite, interactive geometry design, support for DWF and DWG files, and many more.
6. Archimedes
With a focus on architectural design, this open-source CAD software prides itself on its robust system that is built over Eclipse’s Rich Client Platform.
It offers advanced CAD functionalities and autosaves work. Its thin core makes it easy for beginners and professionals to select the features.
They particularly need, making it straightforward in addition to being a software that is extensible to use.
7. OpenSCAD
This software employs the use of textual description language to create 3D CAD objects. If you’re fine with that, this is an effective tool for you which developers approve and recommend as an excellent choice for designing since you have to deal with pure code.
This will be especially useful in the professional field as it mostly asks for the specificity of models. Therefore, this software is not really for beginners.
8. QCAD
Like the others, QCAD is an open-source and free CAD software. It can be used on all the major operating systems like Linux and Mac, developed for 2D design and drafting.
Thus, it’s particularly useful when coming up with plans such as diagrams, schematics, and interiors. Aside from being able to create technical drawings with this software.
You can also access its advanced tool sets and a part library with more than 4800 CAD parts.
9. Onshape.
In comparison with other software programs, this is a cloud-based design platform known for its impressive design repository.
It automatically safeguards your outputs which is a main concern when it comes to project development. You can create solid and surface models.
As well as highly detailed assemblies thanks to its database of architectural designs, making it a modern-day CAD software loved by many professionals.
10. Fusion360.
If AutoCAD is not fit to your budget, Fusion360 could be your next best option. This is helpful especially to students and hobbyists are still starting to dive into 3D designing.
Multiple things can be done in one place with this software with its capability to render mechanical structures, run simulations, and create prototypes among others.
Conclusion:
It will take a while to get used to CAD programs due to their complexity. But with enough perseverance, it will certainly be worth it.
Especially for professionals since it helps improve design quality and productivity. Start saving time and learn one of these now!