30 Best Beginner CAD Software

If traditional drafting methods aren’t providing the precise drawings you want, you’ll need to upgrade to CAD software. Modern CAD software can create in both 2D and 3D, making it appropriate for your design needs. These programs offer a user interface that is simple to use, toolbars, and a big collection of 3D models. You may also print on many pages with several tools. When constructing industrial products, such as mechanical devices, CAD software is commonly utilized. The following is a hand-picked list of the best beginner CAD software, along with popular features and links to their websites. There is both open source and commercial software on the list of best free CAD software for 3d printing.

30 Best Beginner CAD Software

Below is the list of best beginner CAD software for beginners to create 2D or 3D printing.

1. TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD, a free 3D CAD program from Autodesk, is one of best free beginner CAD software for 3d printing. It is a program that allows you to create 3D designs quickly and easily.

• It may be used to create models by instructors, enthusiasts, professional designers, and children.
• You can easily move, resize, and rotate objects with this free mechanical sketching program.
• Shapes and items may be changed.
• TinkerCAD is a web-based design tool that employs a simple block-building idea and basic modeling operations to allow users to generate design models from a collection of basic forms.
• You may also use the TinkerCAD program to add and delete forms in addition to the aforementioned.
• The TinkerCAD program has a library of millions of files that allow users to select forms that they like, allowing even beginners to make remarkable CAD designs. You may use this CAD tool for laser cutting, aligning things, and rotating any shape with this tool.
• The .svg and .stl file formats may be imported.
• It includes features such as integrated 3D modeling, drag-and-drop method, 3D sculpting workspaces, rendering capabilities, shape optimization, manufacturing with lathes and CNC machines, sheet metal fabrication, structural buckling, assembly, and operation animation, STL compatibility, Mesh repair, OBJ compatible, standalone slicer, 3MF compatible, downloadable application, cloud-based platform, and more.
• TinkerCAD designs may be exported in the following formats: .stl, .vrml, .x3d, and .obj.
• It has a plethora of shortcuts for executing any action quickly.

2. SolveSpace

SolveSpace is a 2D or 3D parametric drawing tool that uses revolves, extrudes, and Boolean operations to create things. It is also one of best free CAD software for beginners.

• You may save your drawing as a PDF, SVG, or DXF file (Drawing Interchange File).
• You can quickly import and drag pieces.
• It allows you to examine the spreadsheet’s traced route.
• You may use the tool to create a solid-shaped model.
• Repeat pattern, rotate, and translate operations are all available.
• You may export your work with an adjustable canvas size with this free drafting program.

Also Read: 26 Best 3D Modeling Software

3. BRL-CAD

BRL-CAD is a robust and user-friendly best free 3d CAD software for beginners.

• This 3D auto-CAD software includes interactive geometry editing, rendering, geometric performance, and a system performance analysis.
• Assist you in developing a better CAD system.
• People from all around the world can use it for free.
• Constructive Solid geometry.
• Offers a graphical display window.

4. FreeCAD

FreeCAD is one of best free beginner CAD software for 3d printing that is an open-source program that may be used to create any size real-world object.

• It is one of the greatest free CAD applications available, and it allows you to simply edit your design.
• It allows you to make 3D designs from 2D data with ease.
• It runs as a command-line program.
• FreeCAD is CAD software that can be downloaded for free and is designed for intermediate users.
• It is a program that allows you to build 3D models of real-world things. It also allows you to change an existing 3D model using parametric modeling.
• You may easily adjust a 3D model by changing its proportions by scrolling through its history.
• In addition to the features listed above, FreeCAD has a modular design that allows users to attach plugins to the main program.
• It has features such as rendering, complete parametric modeling, robotic simulation, modular architecture, geometry kernel, path mode, sketcher, standard formats, and an easy interface.
• This CAD application has a Python terminal built-in.
• Planar geometry is created graphically.
• Graphical user interface that may be fully customized and scripted.

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5. planner5d

Planner 5D is another useful 3D alternative tool for creating realistic interior and outdoor designs in 2D and 3D modes.

• It enables you to capture your design as a realistic image using the Snapshots function.
• As you create from various perspectives, you’ll see both 2D and 3D views.
• It has become a member of a rapidly expanding community. Upload and edit projects.
• The user-friendly interface allows for a simple design process without the need for tutorials or instructions.
• Customize furniture with your colors, designs, and materials.

6. Vectary

Vectary is one of best free beginner CAD software for 3D printing.

• It may be accessed from any browser without the need to install anything.
• This web-based program generates high-resolution 3D images.
• By dragging and dropping, the application assists you in putting together your first design.
• It offers high-resolution templates.
• 3D models may be dragged and dropped.
• It provides a wide range of innovative and completely textured materials.
• This free 3D CAD program has clever shortcuts to help you get things done faster.
• With only one mouse click, you can create lifelike renderings.
• Encourages teamwork.
• On a 3d printer, you can quickly print your design.
• You may use it to add comments to your models.

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7. LeoCAD

LeoCAD is also another best free CAD software for beginners that allows you to generate new models quickly and easily.

• It allows you to download and exchange files from the internet.
• Because it is open-source, anybody may easily change the features.
• This free AutoCAD application comes with a 10,000-part library.
• Using sophisticated approaches, anybody can create a model.
• It has a user-friendly graphical interface.

8. QCAD

QCAD is best free 3d CAD software, an open-source tool for two-dimensional CAD.

• It allows you to generate technical drawings such as architectural plans, mechanical parts, interiors, and schematics, among other things.
• It supports DXF (Drawing Interchange File) and DWG (Drawing) file input and output.
• More than 40 building tools are included in this CAD application.
• More than 4800 CAD components are available in QCAD’s library.
• It comes with a simple JavaScript interface.
• You may print on many pages with this program.
• TrueType fonts are supported.

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9. Open Cascade Technology

Open CasCADe Technology is a CAD software company that develops 3D model modeling software. It is also one of best free CAD software for beginners.

• This program can handle both 3D and 2D geometric models with ease.
• It has a visualization module with advanced techniques for graphical data representation.
• It has a lot of topological and geometrical algorithms in it.
• This 3D CAD program offers a ready-to-use solution for processing data particular to a certain application.
• It has a user-friendly UI.
• Shapes’ volume and surface attributes may be calculated.

10. Adobe Substance 3D

Adobe Substance 3D comes with painter, designer, and sample being few of the clever, creative programs included with it.

• Thousands of customizable models, lighting, and materials produced by world-class guest artists are available through this collection of applications.
• Assist you in creating basic or complicated models.
• For virtual photography, you may build up assets, materials, lighting, and a camera.
• You may manipulate your model in the same way as you would in a real-world workshop.
• Allows you to build Augmented Reality (AI) experiences using elements from your favorite applications.

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11. Fusion 360

Another in the list of best free CAD software for beginners is Fusion 360. It is a 3D design program for educators and students that are hosted on the cloud. 

• You may use the program to create a variety of technical parts.
• It provides a single environment in which you may produce high-quality items.
• A sketching tool may be used to generate and edit a sketch.
• Create a quick prototype to test your concept.
• It generates manufacture-ready results that help you satisfy your design requirements.
• It’s simple to program your manufacturing process using this free drawing software.

12. LibreCAD

LibreCAD is a free 2D design CAD application.

• It enables you to construct a high-quality CAD project.
• This tool has a variety of tools for drawing forms such as lines and circles.
• Developed by seasoned staff and backed by a welcoming community.
• LibreCAD began as a project to provide CAM functionality.
• More than 30 languages are supported by this free CAD program for Mac.
• It may be used to make 2D drawings.

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13. SketchUp Free

SketchUp Free is one of best free CAD software for beginners that allows you to create objects quickly and easily.

• The program includes a 3D gallery where you may search for models and share them with other people.
• It’s one of the greatest free 3D CAD programs for visualizing your concepts.
• It allows you to personalize your 3D workstation.
• You can work along with others.
• This free CAD application allows you to easily manage layers.
• You may use Google SketchUp to create lightning effects.
• Numerous plugins are supported.

14. NanoCAD

NanoCAD also one of best free CAD software for beginners. It is a simple CAD program that provides fast performance, a traditional UI, and native support to help you create a fantastic user experience.

• This engineering design tool was created for various sectors to produce design and project documentation.
• NanoCAD has a classic-style CAD user interface that is both efficient and simple to learn.
• CAD drawings may be created, edited, and viewed.
• Multiple items may be removed with ease, and object previews are available.
• It is natively compatible with the industry-standard DWG (*.dwg) file format.
• It comes with a large number of tools for creating and altering 2D and 3D objects.
• The nanoCAD scripting engine assists you in automating daily chores.
• You may also use the plot settings dialogue to construct multi-page plots and define different plot sections.
• Improved contrast helps to reduce eye fatigue.
• Allows you to make a sketch using all local measurements.

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15. Leopoly

Leopoly is a 3D CAD program with a completely configurable digital landscape that can be utilized for almost any project.

• It provides tools for manipulating 3D designs, shortening sales cycles, customizing product experiences, and more.
• It features 3D design templates built-in.
• This program comes with easy-to-use tools and objects that may be modified.
• Leopoly has a user-friendly UI.
• Allows you to create an STL file (stereolithography).

16. ZBrushCore

ZBrushCore is also best free CAD software for beginners that makes creating 3D sculptures simple.

• This program is simple to use even if you have never used it before.
• It comes with a variety of brushes for creating models.
• 7Offers Tessellation is a type of tessellation that (Covers a surface with a pattern).
• UV (ultraviolet light) generation is automated.
• Toolbars that are simple to use and provide quick access to frequently used tools.
• You have complete control over how the brush is optimized.
• It comes with pre-loaded materials that may be used to create items rapidly.
• Asymmetry mode in this program allows you to define an axis.

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17. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) program used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals to produce accurate 2D and 3D drawings. It is also one of best free CAD software for 3d printing.

• AutoCAD may be used to edit and produce drawings on almost any device.
• Drawings may be created, edited, and seen on almost any device.
• With Autodesk’s cloud, you may access any DWG file in AutoCAD.
• Improved contrast helps to reduce eye fatigue.
• Allows you to make a sketch using all local measurements.
• CAD drawings may be created, edited, and viewed.
• Multiple items may be removed with ease, and object previews are available.

18. Open SCAD

Open SCAD is one of best free CAD software for beginners that allows you to make solid three-dimensional things.

• It’s free and runs on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.
• You can easily preview the sections of things using this free CAD program for PC.
• You may use it to create a parametric design by altering object parameters.
• SVG, AMF, and 3MF files may all be imported and exported.
• Provides a user-friendly interface.
• It has a geometry engine called CSG (Constructive Solid Geometry).
• You have complete control over how the program is customized.
• When the rendering is finished, it can play a sound notification.
• Shortcuts are supported.

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19. BlocksCAD

BlocksCAD is a free CAD program that aids in the creation of three-dimensional models suitable for printing on a three-dimensional printer.

• Users may understand the topic by visualizing and developing models with this cloud-based application.
• Files for a three-dimensional printer may be downloaded here.
• You may use it to make lessons.
• This program allows you to make changes to your model with little effort.
• It aids with the development of math and computer science abilities.
• You can easily manage your account.

20. Wings 3D

Wings 3D is a free CAD program that allows you to create three-dimensional designs.

• This program allows you to move, scale, rotate, cut, and weld any item you choose.
• It gives you a fluid glimpse of your design.
• You may give your model texture.
• You may use Wings 3D to export any image for painting and personalize your interface with this tool.
• Hotkeys (shortcuts) are supported for convenience.
• You’ll have access to a variety of selection tools.
• It has a large number of modeling tools.
• English, Italian, French, Japanese, German, and many more languages are supported.

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21. KiCAD

KiCAD is a CAD automation package that is open-source.

• It comes with an asymmetric editor that allows you to make whatever design you want.
• You may use this program to create a PCB layout with up to 32 copper layers.
• A large number of tools are supported by this program.
• You may use the 3D viewer to evaluate your design on canvas.
• A wide library of 3D models is included in the program.
• This free CAD application allows you to change the board’s look.
• With KiCAD’s built-in scheme, you can get started on your design quickly.

22. Meshmixer

Meshmixer is another best beginner CAD software that allows you to print in three dimensions.

• Surface-lasso, brushing, and restrictions are just a few of the selecting tools it provides.
• The surface may be automatically aligned using this application.
• Stability and thickness analysis are both possible.
• Elements may be dragged and dropped.
• It has pivots for 3D positioning.
• Set the orientation for you automatically.

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23. Sweet Home 3D

Sweet Home 3D is an interior design computer-aided design program.

• It allows you to sketch house layouts, arrange furnishings, and view in three dimensions.
• Smartphones, laptops, and tablets may all use this program.
• You may add things to the plan by dragging them there.
• It lets you alter the color, size, texture, placement, and orientation of your furniture.
• With room sections, texts, arrows, and more, the tool automates the layout.
• You can change the lighting and regulate the sunshine impact.
• It allows you to save your work as a bitmap, PDF, video, or 3D file.
• Sweet Home 3D includes several Java-based plugins.

24. SculptGL

SculptGL is a cloud-based application that allows you to create 3D sculptures with tools such as brush, flatten, smooth, inflate, and more.

• It enables you to apply symmetry and import/export 3D printable file types.
• UV detection is possible with this instrument.
• This program may be used in real-time.
• You can undo and redo things using it.
• Each tool has an alpha texture support.
• Color, metalness, and roughness are all things you can control.
• The pre-and post-transform cache may be optimized with this utility.

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25. DraftSight

DraftSight is a powerful 2D and 3D CAD program.

• This program is a serious rival to SketchUp.
• To guarantee your design is structured and adheres to layering standards, use this simple tool to generate, format, and arrange layers.
• You’ll be able to create 2D designs and documentation.
• With only one command, you can quickly move, rotate, copy, and scale things.
• Create new blocks or import existing blocks from your libraries to utilize as repeating components in your projects.
• With tools like PDF Underlay to reference your PDFs, it can help you boost your efficiency.

26. 3D Slash

3D Slash is best beginner CAD software that allows you to make three-dimensional models. This is an excellent program for anyone who has never worked with 3D drawings before.

• This best beginner CAD software allows you to make a design in a fun way.
• You don’t need any training to utilize this software.
• It allows you to use color palettes to paint models.
• It’s so easy to use that even youngsters can make 3D creations with it.
• Some of the software’s features have been created with children and schools in mind.
• A variety of tools, including the ability to import and alter existing 3D designs, interaction with a variety of online model repositories and printing services, and the capacity to change 3D models quickly, are just a few of the features.
• In only one click, you may create 3D text or a logo.
• Make an extremely accurate model.
• You can easily copy-paste, move, resize, and combine models.
• Your models can have shapes added to them.
• It allows you to color-code portions of objects.
• Make a social media post about your artwork.
• It may be accessible over the internet.
• Using a photograph or image, create shapes.

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27. SelfCAD

SelfCAD is also best beginner CAD software that allows you to create a three-dimensional sketch, sculpt, and model.

• It comes with a variety of artistic drawing tools.
• You may share your work with a coworker using this feature.
• Objects from photographs may be imported, exported, converted, and edited.
• 3D printing is supported.
• Use social media to spread the word about your design.
• You can create printable items without difficulty.

28. Blender

Blender is a 3D modeling program used to create visual effects, animated movies, games, and other projects. It is also one of best free CAD software for 3d printing.

• Beginners may use this utility to import and export video files in MPEG, QuickTime, and AVI formats.
• It’s one of the greatest free 3D CAD programs available, with keyboard shortcuts for ease of use.
• A path tracer is included for realistic rendering.
• It provides a live view of the 3D scene as well as tracked film.
• Shortcuts can be customized.
• This program allows you to transform static characters into stunning animations.
• Your design may be saved as a picture.
• You may use it to draw a polygon form.

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29. DesignSpark

DesignSpark is another best free beginner CAD software for 3d printing that enables engineers to reduce the time it takes to complete a design cycle.

• It allows users to build files for use with three-dimensional printers by drawing solid models in a 3D environment.
• It uses a suite of tools that allow for infinite and rapid design revisions.
• You may modify the line thickness using this free AutoCAD software.
• You may use it to upload DWG files.
• The program is compatible with 4K, UHD, and Full HD monitors.

30. MicroStation

MicroStation is also one of best free CAD software for beginners. It has advanced parametric 3D modeling capabilities.

• It enables infrastructure to deliver BIM-ready, data-driven models.
• True 3D parametric modeling is used in the design process.
• It assists you in ensuring that organizational and project-specific standards and content are applied correctly.
• Using a full collection of drafting tools, create accurate drawings.
• You may see and collaborate with other people’s design information in real-time.
• Work with confidence in the appropriate context for each project, with all needed settings and standards applied automatically.

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We hope that this guide was helpful and you were able to know about best beginner CAD software. Let us know which one of the above best free CAD software for 3d printing you liked the most.  Feel free to reach out to us with your queries and suggestions via the comments section below.