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Free Onshape alternatives

Top 3D Modeling & Animation like Onshape

The most popular alternative to Onshape is Autodesk Fusion, which has a free version. Other great alternatives to Onshape are FreeCAD, SketchUp, Tinkercad, and Blender.

Most alternatives to Onshape are in the 3D Modeling & Animation category, compared here by price, platform and features.

Onshape alternatives
AllFreeOpen source
5 apps

All Onshape alternatives

  1. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  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. Blender

    Blender is a free, open source 3D creation suite covering modeling, sculpting, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering with Cycles and EEVEE, compositing and video editing. Its Grease Pencil tools also allow 2D animation inside a 3D space. Developed by the Blender Foundation and a large community, it is used by hobbyists, studios and game developers and can be extended with Python add-ons.

    12 Blender alternatives

    Pros

    • Completely free and open source, with no license or subscription
    • Covers modeling, sculpting, animation, rendering and video editing
    • Large community with countless tutorials and Python add-ons

    Cons

    • Dense interface that takes newcomers time to learn
    • Less established than Maya or 3ds Max in some studio pipelines
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    AnimationPlugins & extensionsRenderingSculpting
    Visit websiteMore about Blender

Onshape vs its alternatives at a glance

Pricing, platforms and the key features of Onshape, compared with its most popular alternatives.

Onshape vs its alternatives at a glance
AppPricingPlatformsAPI accessCAD & parametric modelingIntegrationsReal-time collaboration
OnshapeFreemiumWeb, iPhone, Android
Autodesk FusionFreemiumWindows, Mac
FreeCADFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
SketchUpFreemiumWeb, Windows, Mac, iPhone
TinkercadFreeWeb, iPhone
BlenderFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux

Onshape alternatives: frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to Onshape?

The most popular alternative to Onshape is Autodesk Fusion: Cloud-connected CAD, CAM and simulation for product design and manufacturing. Other great alternatives are FreeCAD, SketchUp, Tinkercad, and Blender.

Is there a free alternative to Onshape?

Yes, 5 alternatives are free or have a free plan, including Autodesk Fusion, FreeCAD, SketchUp, and Tinkercad.

Is there an open source alternative to Onshape?

Yes, 2 open source alternatives are listed, including FreeCAD and Blender.

Is Onshape free?

Onshape has a free plan, with paid plans that unlock more features.

Compare Onshape with its alternatives

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