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Apps with CAD & parametric modeling

5 apps

Top CAD & parametric modeling apps ranked by the community

  1. SketchUp

    4.5(18K) · App Store

    SketchUp is a 3D modeling tool from Trimble built around simple push-pull geometry, used by architects, interior designers, landscape designers and woodworkers. The 3D Warehouse offers a large library of ready-made models, and the Extension Warehouse adds plugins for rendering, layout and analysis. A free web version exists for personal use; paid plans add the desktop app, LayOut for 2D drawings and the iPad app.

    8 SketchUp alternatives

    Pros

    • Push-pull modeling is quick to pick up for beginners
    • 3D Warehouse offers a vast library of ready-made models
    • Extensions add rendering, layout and analysis tools

    Cons

    • The free web version is limited to personal use
    • Struggles with complex curved and organic shapes
    • The desktop app and LayOut require a paid subscription
    Cost / License
    FreemiumProprietary
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WebWindowsMaciPhone
    Features
    CAD & parametric modelingPlugins & extensionsTemplates
    Visit websiteMore about SketchUp

  2. Autodesk Fusion

    Autodesk Fusion, formerly Fusion 360, is a product design and engineering platform that combines parametric and freeform 3D modeling, simulation, generative design, electronics design and CAM toolpaths for CNC machining. Projects are stored in the cloud with version history and team sharing. It is used by engineers, makers and small manufacturers, and a free personal-use license with reduced features is available.

    6 Autodesk Fusion alternatives

    Pros

    • CAD, CAM, simulation and electronics design in one application
    • Cloud storage with version history makes sharing designs simple
    • Free personal-use license is a good fit for hobbyists and makers

    Cons

    • The free personal license is non-commercial and has reduced features
    • Cloud-based file storage limits offline work and control over files
    • Available on Windows and macOS only, with no Linux version
    Cost / License
    FreemiumProprietary
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WindowsMac
    Features
    CAD & parametric modelingRenderingTeam collaboration
    Visit websiteMore about Autodesk Fusion

  3. FreeCAD

    34.2Kstars

    FreeCAD is a free, open source parametric 3D modeler for mechanical engineering, product design, architecture (BIM) and 3D printing. It is organized into workbenches for part design, sketching, assemblies, technical drawings, finite element analysis and CAM, and can be fully scripted in Python. Version 1.0, released in 2024, added a built-in assembly workbench and fixes for the topological naming problem.

    6 FreeCAD alternatives

    Pros

    • Free and open source parametric CAD with no license fees
    • Workbenches cover parts, assemblies, drawings, FEM and CAM
    • Fully scriptable in Python for automation and custom tools

    Cons

    • Interface feels less polished than commercial CAD packages
    • Workflows differ between workbenches, which slows down learning
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    CAD & parametric modelingOffline modePlugins & extensions
    Visit websiteMore about FreeCAD

  4. Tinkercad

    Tinkercad is a free web app from Autodesk that teaches 3D design by combining basic shapes, making it a common first step into CAD for students, teachers and 3D printing hobbyists. Besides 3D modeling, it includes Circuits for simulating Arduino and electronics projects and Codeblocks for creating designs with block-based code. Classroom tools let teachers manage students, and an iPad app is available.

    6 Tinkercad alternatives

    Pros

    • Completely free and runs in the browser
    • Shape-based modeling is ideal for first steps in 3D design
    • Circuits simulates Arduino and electronics projects

    Cons

    • Too basic for complex or precise engineering models
    • Needs an internet connection and an Autodesk account
    Cost / License
    FreeProprietary
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WebiPhone
    Features
    CAD & parametric modelingTemplatesVisual scripting
    Visit websiteMore about Tinkercad

  5. Onshape

    3.5(412) · App Store

    Onshape is a professional 3D CAD system that runs entirely in the browser and on mobile devices, with no software to install and no files to manage. It combines parametric part and assembly modeling with Git-like branching, merging and version history, and lets several engineers edit the same design at once. Developed by PTC, it offers a free plan for hobbyists with public documents and paid plans for companies.

    6 Onshape alternatives

    Pros

    • Runs entirely in the browser with nothing to install
    • Built-in branching, merging and version history for designs
    • Several engineers can edit the same model at the same time

    Cons

    • Documents created on the free plan are public
    • Needs a reliable internet connection to work
    • Professional plans weigh heavily on small companies' budgets
    Cost / License
    FreemiumProprietary
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WebiPhoneAndroid
    Features
    API accessCAD & parametric modelingIntegrationsReal-time collaboration
    Visit websiteMore about Onshape