{"id":844,"date":"2024-02-12T11:20:49","date_gmt":"2024-02-12T09:20:49","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/fractory.co\/?p=844"},"modified":"2024-07-31T11:48:03","modified_gmt":"2024-07-31T08:48:03","slug":"free-cad-software","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fractory.com\/free-cad-software\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Free CAD Software in 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"

CAD stands for computer-aided design software. Simply put, these are computer programs that allow users to create 3D models and 2D drawings of products in the design phase. CAD software is an excellent tool for visualising the product concept<\/a> and creating the necessary documentation for production.<\/p>\n

But 2D and 3D CAD programs can be expensive to buy or subscribe to. Additionally, there are so many alternatives to choose from that finding the right fit becomes a difficult task in itself.<\/p>\n

This is why we created this article listing some of the best free CAD software. Additionally, we have added some trial versions for the most well-known powerful CAD programs around.<\/p>\n

What Makes Computer-Aided Design Software a Necessity for Engineers?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Computer-aided design software has pretty much completely replaced manual drafting. From being a coveted luxury in design, CAD software is now the default design tool in all sectors of engineering.<\/p>\n

In recent years, its ability to ensure communication\/collaboration through cloud storage and seamless integration with CAM<\/a> and CAE systems<\/a> has significantly increased its proliferation and ubiquity through the design space. The software allows us to create highly complex 3D designs that can take full advantage of the CAM possibilities of today to deliver truly amazing results.<\/p>\n

Computer-aided design software further provides many additional functionalities such as analysis, modification, and optimisation of the design prior to manufacturing. The designers can rectify any design errors in the 3D models before the manufacturing phase begins. Making small changes to see how they improve the overall aesthetics and functionality of the product is made very easy.<\/p>\n

All these great advantages with little to no disadvantages have made 2D and 3D CAD software a necessity in modern design setups.<\/p>\n

How to Choose the Best CAD Software?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

There are many different types of CAD programs available in the market. The best CAD software for an application changes from case to case as it depends on many factors such as the desired capability, pricing, application, and ease of learning. One must ask himself the following questions to choose the right CAD software for himself.<\/p>\n

What is the purpose?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

This is the most important factor that will determine the best CAD software for one\u2019s needs. Companies create CAD software with a certain target audience in mind.<\/p>\n

Some software is designed with lots of functionalities that can be used in a variety of fields (general-purpose software such as SolidWorks), while others are designed with a focus on specific niches such as automobile design (e.g. CATIA).<\/p>\n

Most free CAD software does not have a specific focus but they still differ from one another.<\/p>\n

What features do you need?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Modern CAD software provides a wide range of features. Some software can get really bulky, demanding higher storage and computer processing power from the user. But if finite element analysis, topology optimisation<\/a>, generative design<\/a>, etc. are all part of your project flow, these features can be found in many CAD packages.<\/p>\n

It is best to opt for features that are most relevant to the application that the software will be subjected to. Writing down a list of your desired features can significantly narrow down the search for the perfect CAD software for you.<\/p>\n

Level of expertise<\/strong><\/h3>\n

If you are a student and\/or a beginner, it might be better to start with CAD software with a short learning curve. Features that help beginners must be given preference. These are:<\/p>\n

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  • A uniform interface throughout the program<\/li>\n
  • Free learning material<\/li>\n
  • An active online community for common questions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    If you are an advanced user, you need to give thought to features such as:<\/p>\n

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    • The CAD program’s feature set meets all your needs<\/li>\n
    • It is natively interoperable with relevant solutions such as simulation<\/li>\n
    • Can import\/export all relevant file formats<\/li>\n
    • The development team is active and regularly introduces new features to keep up with the latest trends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Free 3D CAD Software<\/strong><\/h2>\n

      We will be starting out with 3D CAD software. The advanced features of 3D CAD have become essential tools from the point of mechanical engineering. All in all, this has proven to speed up the design process by 45% compared to 2D drafting programs.<\/p>\n

      But these CAD programs can be costly. In many cases, the monthly subscription fee of 3D CAD software can be significantly higher than the lifetime fee of a 2D CAD alternative. This leads to many users looking for free 3D CAD software<\/strong> or professional-grade software with extended trial periods<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

      We have compiled a list of 3D CAD programs that are either free, have long trial periods or come at a comparatively low cost. If you’re looking for a great 3D CAD program, you can select one from here:<\/p>\n

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      • OnShape<\/li>\n
      • Fusion 360<\/li>\n
      • FreeCAD<\/li>\n
      • Sketchup<\/li>\n
      • Autodesk Inventor<\/li>\n
      • SolidWorks<\/li>\n
      • Solid Edge<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Onshape<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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