Before you can print a 3D part, it must be modeled: this design step is essential and can be carried out using several tools, in particular CAD (computer-aided design) software. They allow you to imagine any shape, whether you start from nothing or an already existing model. Most of these software also offer functionalities for modifying a 3D model, visualization or even simulation before printing. As you will have understood, each CAD software has its specificities and will meet the needs of beginners or more experts. So, faced with the multiplicity of tools available on the market today, how do you choose? We offer you a selection of free CAD software which will allow you to test different options without investing anything. However, some offer a premium version: some features will be free but if you want to go further, you will have to pay a subscription. We have therefore divided our selection into two, the 100% free software and the premium ones. Note that there is also free CAD software for certain profiles (Fusion 360 for individuals, CATIA for students) but we have deliberately left them aside.
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Free CAD software
BlocksCAD
Key free CAD software, was primarily designed for beginners and the education sector. Easier to use than OpenSCAD, it is recommended to start with BlocksCAD. The operation of the platform is similar to that of LEGO parts: you have to add or remove building blocks of various shapes to obtain the final part. It then remains to export the file in STL format in order to be able to print it in 3D. Subsequently, if you want to design more technical and complex models, you will have to change the platform and go to OpenSCAD, this platform being considered the advanced version of BlocksCAD.
LeoCAD
If you are a LEGO enthusiast, then LeoCAD software is the CAD program for you. Aimed at beginners and those wishing to discover 3D modeling, this free CAD software allows you to design models using LEGO bricks. A design mode which makes the program more accessible to children, and which makes LeoCAD one of the main software for educational purposes. In addition, the program allows the creation and modeling of relatively large models, requiring a lot of parts. Finally, LeoCAD is open-source and offers the possibility to its users to share their models.
An example of a model design on LeoCAD (photo credits: LeoCAD)
3D Builder, the free CAD software from Microsoft
Created in November 2013, 3D Builder is Microsoft’s 3D modeling software. Compatible with PCs and systems using Microsoft (Windows mobiles, Xbox One and Windows Hololense), 3D Builder is 100% free. The CAD software contains a wide range of 3D models which can be downloaded for free from the interface. For the more creative among you, Microsoft’s software offers the creation of 3D models. Relatively intuitive, it suffices to add, superimpose or cross simple geometric shapes. Highly appreciated by users, 3D Builder also offers users the possibility of scanning objects that they would like to 3D print with their smartphone.
TinkerCAD
Developed by Autodesk, Tinkercad is CAD software designed for all levels. Easy to learn, and adopted by teachers, beginners and designers, Tinkercad can be used from any web browser. Released in 2011 and acquired two years later by Autodesk, it is based on the construction geometry of solids to create models. These can be saved in 3 different formats (STL, OBJ and SVG) and are therefore compatible with 3D printing. Finally, Autodesk software also allows the creation of electrical circuits and creation of computer code.
FreeCAD
Developed to design objects of any size, FreeCAD is also free modeling software. Suitable for all types of users, from beginners to designers, FreeCAD is open-source. Capable of exporting files in many formats (STEP, IGES, STL, SVG, DEX, OBJ, IFC, DAE), the free CAD software is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Linux and Mac. Mainly intended for mechanical design, other sectors such as product design or architecture have recourse to it. The latest version of the free CAD software is 0.19.1, and is released on March 20, 2021.
OpenSCAD free CAD software
Running on Linux, Mac and Microsoft Windows, OpenSCAD is a more technical software to use because it is based on its own scripts and therefore its description language. It allows users to create 2D and 3D objects, intended for 3D printing. OpenSCAD offers the possibility of exporting files in AMF, CSG, OFF, DXF and STL formats. The software is recognized for its ability to create designs for machine parts.
MeshMixer
Like TinkerCAD, MeshMixer is free CAD software offered by Autodesk. Available on Microsoft Windows and Mac, Meshmixer is intended for 3D model retouching and design. For example, it offers editing tools to hollow out models. The great quality of this software lies in its accessibility. You don’t have to be a professional to be able to use MeshMixer, and get models with precise details. Especially since in the software archives, many models are available.
Several features are available on MeshMixer
Free CAD software with a paid version
Sketchup
Initially dedicated to architects, SketchUp is free CAD software with a premium version. Previously named SketchUp Make, the free version is now called SketchUp Free and is available from any web browser. Above, you can find a library of models and a storage space of 10 GB. Regarding the specificities of the paid version, they mainly concern terrain modeling and rendering functionalities. For example, SketchUp Pro allows you to create immersive animations and has tools specific to terrain modeling. It is marketed at a cost of € 250 per year. Finally, a last version of SketchUp intended for makers and designers exists. Above, as on the pro version, you can have unlimited cloud hosting. All of these versions have the ability to export files in STL format, and are therefore compatible with 3D printing. Called SketchUp Shop, this version is available at a price of € 100 per year.
Leopoly 3D
Developed for 3D printing, virtual reality and augmented reality, Leopoly offers a free version and a paid version. The Makersleopoly platform, available on Internet browsers, is seen by many as a good way to learn about 3D modeling. Users can start from a base of modeling clay or use existing models. It is of course possible to export files in STL and OBJ formats, in order to be able to print. But if you want to go further, Leopoly offers its users to make an appointment with an expert, so that he determines your exact needs and the necessary features. This will then result in a tailor-made price.
NanoCAD
NanoCAD is a free CAD software offering various design tools to its users. By virtue of its functionalities, it makes it possible to design simple and complex models, intended for modeling or construction. For example, thanks to the principle of parametric modeling, NanoCAD makes it possible to modify old designs and model them according to the user’s needs. However, for those who want to go further and benefit from more features, the Plus version of NanoCAD is available from 150 €.
OnShape
Created in 2012 by two former CEOs of SolidWorks, OnShape is CAD software. The strong point of OnShape lies in its ability to make users collaborate on the same model thanks to web servers. The platform offers various functionalities such as nomenclature, configuration, data management and of course collaboration. Thanks to its cloud-based system, users can use it on multiple devices (Computer, tablet, phone). Available on Mac PC, Linux and Chromebook, different versions of OnShape exist. The Standard version, sold at a price of € 1,260 per year, is intended for people requiring CAD software to collaborate and manage data. And for those who wish to acquire the professional version of the software, it is available for the sum of 1766 € per year.
Which free CAD software do you prefer? Do not hesitate to share your opinion in the comments of the article or with the members of the 3Dnatives forum. Find all of our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
* Cover photo credits: Gorodenkoff / Shutterstock
