FreeCAD vs Shapr3D

by Gralio Mar 10, 2025

FreeCAD and Shapr3D offer distinct approaches to 3D CAD. FreeCAD excels in its cost-effectiveness and parametric modeling capabilities, making it ideal for budget-conscious users. Shapr3D prioritizes user experience and a streamlined workflow, making it better suited for professional and collaborative design projects.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 354 reviews and 60 websites, saving 2 hours, 28 minutes of reading.

FreeCAD

Website LinkedIn

Shapr3D

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About

FreeCAD is a free and open-source software for 3D computer-aided design. It can be used to design anything from small parts to buildings. It's particularly well-suited for mechanical engineering but also finds use in architecture and other fields. FreeCAD allows you to create parametric models, meaning you can easily change dimensions and have the entire design update automatically. It also supports industry-standard file formats for easy collaboration.

Shapr3D is professional 3D CAD software that makes it easy to design and manufacture real-world products. It's known for being user-friendly, so your team can learn it quickly and start designing, even on the go with their iPads or laptops. Shapr3D helps streamline the entire process from initial concept sketches to sharing prototypes with clients and handing off detailed designs to your engineering team. It's used by various industries from consumer goods to aerospace to make product development smoother.

Summary

Main difference

FreeCAD is a free and open-source 3D CAD software suitable for hobbyists, students, and those seeking cost-effective design solutions. Shapr3D is a professional, user-friendly 3D CAD software ideal for professionals and businesses requiring a smooth, efficient design process, particularly on iPad or Mac.

Relative strengths of FreeCAD (compared to Shapr3D)

Free and open-source, offering significant cost savings.
Parametric modeling allows for flexible design changes and updates.
Large community support and resources.

Relative weaknesses of FreeCAD (compared to Shapr3D)

Steeper learning curve and less intuitive interface than Shapr3D.
Potential for bugs and crashes, especially with complex models.
Limited 2D drafting capabilities compared to Shapr3D.

Who should use FreeCAD VS. Shapr3D

FreeCAD is a free and open-source 3D CAD software. Ideal for hobbyists, students, and small businesses seeking a cost-effective solution for 3D modeling and design. Users praise its accessibility and parametric modeling capabilities but note a steep learning curve and occasional instability. Best suited for those comfortable with technical software and willing to invest time in learning its intricacies.

Shapr3D is user-friendly 3D CAD software ideal for professionals designing and manufacturing real-world products. Its intuitive interface, praised by users, makes it easy to learn and use, even on iPads. Shapr3D streamlines the design process from concept to prototype, though some users find the 2D drawing features and model export options limited.

Ideal for small businesses and hobbyists.
Suitable for manufacturing, education, and design-focused industries.

Best for small to medium businesses (1-1000 employees), with a good fit for large enterprises.
Suitable for various industries, from consumer goods to aerospace.

FreeCAD and Shapr3D features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

Real-time Precise Modeling

Partially supported

FreeCAD offers parametric modeling with real-time design updates, but real-time simulations depend on model complexity and resources.

Supported

Shapr3D allows real-time precise modeling and modifications, meeting engineering requirements.
Seamless CAD Integration

Partially supported

FreeCAD uses the Open Cascade kernel and offers parametric modeling but seamless integration with all CAD systems is not guaranteed.

Supported

Shapr3D uses the Siemens Parasolid kernel, enabling seamless integration with other CAD systems.
Cross-Device Compatibility

Not supported

FreeCAD is a desktop application and doesn't support cross-device compatibility like Shapr3D.

Partially supported

Shapr3D supports cross-device compatibility between tablets and desktops, but with a two-device subscription limit.
Drafting

Supported

FreeCAD supports creating 2D technical drawings from 3D models using the TechDraw Workbench.

Supported

Shapr3D can create 2D technical drawings from 3D models.
2D Sketching

Supported

FreeCAD supports 2D sketching via its Sketcher Workbench.

Supported

Shapr3D supports 2D sketching for defining part geometry.
CAM toolpath generation

Supported

FreeCAD can generate toolpaths for CNC machining with its built-in CAM workbench.

Partially supported

Toolpaths are generated indirectly via exporting to other CAM software.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

No data

No data
Customer Service

No data

No data
Ease of Use

No data

+0.78

Strongly positive sentiment
Reliability and Performance

No data

No data
Ease of Implementation

No data

+0.2

Neutral sentiment
Scalability

No data

No data

FreeCAD and Shapr3D Pricing

No data

User sentiment

Strongly positive

We couldn't find a pricing page for FreeCAD.

Shapr3D offers a tiered subscription model with a free Basic plan and a paid Pro plan. The Enterprise plan is available upon contacting sales. A 14-day free trial is available for the Pro plan. Shapr3D is free for students, teachers and faculty members of accredited educational institutions.

Plans

User sentiment

Strongly negative

-1

See full Pricing page

FreeCAD and Shapr3D review insights

354 reviews analysed from and

Users love

Free and open-source, making it accessible to everyone.
Parametric modeling allows for easy design modifications.
Supports a wide range of file formats for import and export.
Large and active community provides support and resources.
Extensible through Python scripting and add-ons.

Intuitive and user-friendly interface, especially with Apple Pencil.
Excellent iPad compatibility for designing on the go.
Fast and efficient workflow for 3D modeling.
Helpful tutorials and responsive customer support.
Regular updates with new features and improvements.

Users dislike

Difficult to learn for new users, with a steep learning curve.
Prone to bugs and crashes, especially with complex or large models.
Unintuitive interface and workflow can be frustrating.
Limited documentation and support compared to commercial CAD software.
Topological naming issues lead to design instability when modifying models.

Lack of copy/paste functionality between projects.
Limited options for creating basic shapes like cones.
Difficulty exporting models for use in other rendering software.
2D drawing features are not as robust as some other CAD programs.
High subscription price can be difficult to justify for hobbyists.

FreeCAD and Shapr3D Ratings

G2

4.1/5

(58)
Capterra

4.3/5

(139)

G2

4.9/5

(157)
Glassdoor

4.2/5

(33)

Company health

Employee growth

20% increase in the last year

13% increase in the last year

Web traffic

14% decrease in the last quarter

7% increase in the last quarter

Financing

No data

June 2022 - $22M

How important is iPad compatibility for 3D modeling?

iPad compatibility is a significant advantage for 3D modeling, particularly for professionals who value mobility and on-the-go design capabilities. Being able to design and modify 3D models on an iPad, potentially with the added precision of an Apple Pencil, allows for greater flexibility and can streamline workflows for users who are not always at their desks.

Which product offers a more intuitive user interface for beginners?

Shapr3D offers a more intuitive user interface for beginners. User reviews consistently praise Shapr3D's user-friendliness and intuitive interface, particularly when used with an Apple Pencil. While FreeCAD offers robust features, its user reviews frequently mention a steep learning curve and unintuitive workflow, making it less suitable for beginners.

What are the advantages of FreeCAD?

FreeCAD's primary advantages are its cost (free and open-source) and its parametric modeling capabilities, allowing for flexible design changes. It also boasts a large and active community, providing valuable support and resources. Finally, its wide range of supported file formats ensures easy collaboration and compatibility with other software.

What are the disadvantages of FreeCAD?

FreeCAD has a steep learning curve and can be difficult for new users to grasp. It is known to have bugs and can crash, particularly with complex models. The user interface and workflow are sometimes considered unintuitive. Furthermore, the documentation and support are less comprehensive than commercial CAD software, and topological naming issues can cause design instability when modifying models.

Alternatives to FreeCAD and Shapr3D

Inventor

Inventor is a 3D design software for professionals who need to create, simulate, and document mechanical designs. It's used across various industries by engineers and designers to build a digital prototype before physical production. Inventor helps reduce development costs and speed up time to market by letting you test form, fit, and function virtually. It offers powerful tools for 3D modeling, including standard 2D drawings, and can be integrated with existing design data.

AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a design and drafting software to create 2D and 3D models. It offers industry-specific tools for fields like architecture and manufacturing. AutoCAD stands out with its web and mobile apps, enabling work from anywhere. It promises increased productivity through specialized features and a familiar interface.

SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is a popular computer-aided design (CAD) software primarily used by engineers and designers. It offers a range of tools for 3D modeling, design validation, and product data management. SOLIDWORKS is known for its user-friendliness and caters to various industries, with a strong focus on manufacturing. It helps businesses design better products faster by streamlining the design process and improving collaboration.

Onshape

Onshape is a cloud-based design platform for creating and managing product designs. It combines powerful 3D modeling tools with built-in collaboration and version control features. This means your design team can work together in real-time, from any location, without worrying about file compatibility or data loss. Onshape aims to speed up the design process, improve collaboration, and eliminate the headaches of traditional design software.

SketchUp

SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that's easy to use, yet powerful enough for professionals in architecture, interior design, and construction. Visualize projects of any size, create detailed 2D drawings from your models, and share your vision with colleagues and clients through presentations and immersive visuals. SketchUp is known for its intuitive interface and is used by individuals and companies worldwide, from small design studios to large architectural firms.

Solid Edge

Solid Edge is a suite of software designed to help businesses create and manage product designs. It offers tools for 3D modeling, simulating product performance, and managing the manufacturing process. Solid Edge aims to be user-friendly and affordable, making it suitable for mid-sized companies looking for a comprehensive product development solution.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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