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FreeCAD

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Company health

Employee growth
15% increase in the last year
Web traffic
4% decrease in the last quarter

Ratings

G2
4.1/5
(58)
Capterra
4.3/5
(139)

FreeCAD description

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.

Who is FreeCAD best for

FreeCAD is a free, open-source 3D CAD software praised for its parametric modeling and wide file format support. Users love its accessibility and flexibility but note the steep learning curve and occasional instability. Best for hobbyists, students, and professionals seeking a cost-effective CAD solution.

  • Best for small to medium-sized businesses seeking open-source CAD solutions.

  • Ideal for manufacturing, design, engineering, and education.

FreeCAD features

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

FreeCAD supports 2D sketching via its Sketcher Workbench.

Supported

FreeCAD supports assembly design, including defining relationships between parts.

Supported

FreeCAD supports importing STEP files, but without preserving the parametric history.

Supported

FreeCAD offers tools for 3D model creation, editing, and manipulation, including extrusions, cuts, and surface modeling.

Supported

FreeCAD supports surface modeling with its Surface Workbench and other tools.

Supported

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

Supported

FreeCAD supports creating solid models with extrusions, cuts, and revolves.

Qualities

We evaluate the sentiment that users express about non-functional aspects of the software

Reliability and Performance

Strongly negative
-1

FreeCAD reviews

We've summarised 197 FreeCAD reviews (FreeCAD Software Advice reviews, FreeCAD Capterra reviews and FreeCAD G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.

Pros of FreeCAD
  • 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.
Cons of FreeCAD
  • 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.

FreeCAD pricing

The commentary is based on 32 reviews from FreeCAD Capterra reviews and FreeCAD G2 reviews.

FreeCAD is free and open-source software. It offers various sponsorship tiers for individuals and organizations to support the project's development.

Users sentiment

Strongly positive
+1

See the FreeCAD pricing page.

  • FreeCAD has a free plan.

FreeCAD alternatives

FreeCAD FAQ

  • What is FreeCAD and what does FreeCAD do?

    FreeCAD is a free and open-source 3D CAD software suitable for designing anything from small parts to buildings. Its parametric modeling capabilities allow for easy design adjustments. While powerful and versatile, it has a steep learning curve and can be prone to bugs.

  • How does FreeCAD integrate with other tools?

    FreeCAD integrates with other tools through its support for industry-standard file formats like STEP and IGES. It also offers Python scripting and add-ons for extending its functionality and connecting with other software.

  • What the main competitors of FreeCAD?

    FreeCAD alternatives include AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, SketchUp, Onshape, Solid Edge, and Inventor. These offer varying features for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and collaboration, catering to different user experience levels and project complexities.

  • Is FreeCAD legit?

    Yes, FreeCAD is safe and legitimate open-source software. It's free to use, supported by a large community, and offers parametric 3D modeling capabilities. However, be aware of its steep learning curve and potential stability issues.

  • How much does FreeCAD cost?

    FreeCAD is open-source software, meaning it's completely free to download and use. There are no hidden costs or subscription fees associated with using this product. This makes it a cost-effective choice for those looking for CAD software.

  • Is FreeCAD customer service good?

    FreeCAD's customer service receives mixed reviews. While the community forum is generally considered helpful and supportive, some users find the limited official support and documentation challenging, especially for complex issues.

Reviewed by

MK
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.

TT
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.