Best MacOS Apps / Software
Ultimate Review: 10 Best Free CAD Software for Mac 🖥️✏️
The AutoCAD app for Mac is a design and drafting software that enables users to create precise 2D and 3D drawings. The app provides tools for creating, editing, visualizing, and documenting designs in a more comprehensive, customizable work environment. Its key features include object snap, dimensioning, block library, and layer management. The app supports file formats such as DWG, DWF, and DXF. It is compatible with macOS versions 10.14 Mojave or later.
🥳 Pros
- Widespread use in the industry increases compatibility and ease of collaboration 🤝.
- Offers a huge library of pre-designed objects 📚.
🥺 Cons
- Some users find the interface difficult to navigate 🧭.
- It can be resource-heavy and might slow down older Macs 🐢.
FreeCAD is a versatile, open-source parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects. Suitable for both personal and commercial use, it’s compatible with Mac operating systems. FreeCAD for Mac lets you sketch geometry-constrained 3D shapes and use them as a base to build other objects. It offers robust architecture, a strong platform for product design, and simulation capabilities. The app supports standard file formats which help to customize your design.
🥳 Pros
- Being open-source, it’s highly expandable and customizable.
- Supports parametric modeling which allows you to easily modify your design by going back into the model history and changing its parameters.
🥺 Cons
- Complexity of features might be overwhelming for beginners.
- Graphic presentation is not as advanced as paid alternatives.
LibreCAD for Mac is an open-source 2D CAD application that allows users to design architectural layouts, mechanical parts, and other technical drawings. The software supports various file formats for import/export, including DXF, LFF, CXF, and others. It boasts a plethora of drawing tools along with layers, blocks, and line types. The software is available in over 30 languages thanks to its community-oriented development strategy.
🥳 Pros
- Excellent for those who primarily work in 2D.
- Friendly interface that’s easy to learn.
🥺 Cons
- Limited capabilities when it comes to 3D modeling.
- Lacks advanced features and tools found in professional CAD software.
SketchUp Free app for Mac is a practical tool for both professional and amateur architects, interior designers, and engineers. It offers 3D modeling, introducing a comprehensive set of design elements and tools. Users can generate geometric objects, modify 3D structures, and export or print designs. The app also features an interactive online repository of 3D models. It’s user-friendly, allowing quick learning and navigability.
🥳 Pros
- Easy-to-use interface makes it a great choice for beginners.
- Large community of users means there’s lots of support and plugins available.
🥺 Cons
- Free version lacks some advanced features of the Pro version.
- Some users find the push/pull tool to be less precise than they would like.
The Onshape app for Mac is a full-cloud CAD system that showcases powerful functionality in modeling and design. It facilitates real-time collaboration, helping users innovate faster. It offers robust version control, eliminating the risk of overwriting or losing your work. It’s versatile, enabling you to work on any platform (Mac, Windows, Linux) or device (PC, phone, tablet). Its ability to handle large assemblies without lag or crashing sets it apart from traditional CAD systems.
🥳 Pros
- Cloud-based system allows for easy collaboration and access from any device.
- Continuously updates with new features and improvements.
🥺 Cons
- Connectivity issues could disrupt work flow.
- Free version is very limited compared to the paid version.
The Tinkercad app for Mac is a user-friendly, simple-to-use tool for creating 3D models. Aimed at educators, students, designers, and hobbyists, it includes a vast library of pre-designed shapes and the ability to import custom models. It supports STL file exports for 3D printing, incorporates design and coding environments, and provides real-time collaboration capabilities for group projects. Ideal for introductory and intermediate level 3D design.
🥳 Pros
- Very user-friendly, great for beginners and children.
- Includes an intro tutorial for new users.
🥺 Cons
- Highly simplified, which might be limiting for advanced users.
- Being browser based, working with complex models can be slow.
Fusion 360 for Mac is an advanced 3D design software program, developed by Autodesk, that provides a comprehensive toolset for product development. This application combines industrial and mechanical design, collaboration, and machining in a single package. It offers freeform and solid modeling, simulation, visualization features, and CAM capabilities. In addition to its design features, Fusion 360 also supports cloud-based file sharing, version control, and import/export of common CAD file formats.
🥳 Pros
- Allows for both parametric and direct modeling.
- Seamlessly integrates CAD/CAM and CAE tools.
🥺 Cons
- Requires an internet connection for full functionality.
- Can be challenging to understand for beginners.
SolveSpace is a 3D CAD program specifically designed for Mac users. The application excels at modeling 3D and 2D designs for mechanical parts, plans, and illustrations. It supports parametric design, letting users define geometric and dimensional constraints to their designs. Furthermore, SolveSpace offers features like rigid group solver mode, analyze and export linear static stress, and sketch in plane. A user-friendly interface with customizable toolbar and an extensive manual makes it accessible to both beginners and seasoned users.
🥳 Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle for simple models.
- Has a fast and responsive development team.
🥺 Cons
- Limited resources and tutorials available.
- Interface can seem a bit outdated.
QCAD is a cross-platform application available for Mac, providing a well-organized interface for 2D and 3D technical drafting. Equipped with a rich set of tools, it enables precise drawing work, permitting both common drafting designs and more complex CAD operations. Its advanced features include layering, schematics, measurements, and printing support. QCAD also supports the DXF and DWG formats, ensuring compatibility with other CAD software.
🥳 Pros
- Excellent for creating and editing 2D drawings.
- Multi-platform support (available for Windows, Mac and Linux).
🥺 Cons
- Doesn’t support 3D modeling.
- Limited export and import options.
NanoCAD for Mac is a professional-grade, feature-rich CAD software application. It’s designed for precise and detailed 2D and 3D design and drafting. Offering a user-friendly interface, the app supports various file formats like .dwg, .dxf, .dwf, and more. Furthermore, it provides a range of design tools and commands, as well as performance-enhancing APIs. It becomes a reliable tool for developers, engineers, and design professionals.
🥳 Pros
- Full .dwg support ensures optimal compatibility.
- Has a classic interface familiar to many CAD users.
🥺 Cons
- Some users report occasional crashes.
- Complex user interface.
🏁🏁 Conclusion 🏁🏁
Choosing the best free CAD software for Mac largely depends on your specific needs 🧩 and level of expertise 👩🏭. From the powerful AutoCAD and Fusion 360, to the beginner-friendly SketchUp and Tinkercad, there’s an option available for everyone 🎁. The primary factor to consider is what you intend to use the software for, and your comfort level with learning new programs 🎯. Don’t hesitate to download a few of the options and see which one feels the best for you 👍. Happy designing! 🔧💡
FAQ
What is CAD software?
CAD, or Computer-Aided Design software, is a type of program that architects, engineers, and artists use to create precise 2D and 3D models and designs.
Is CAD software free?
While some CAD software requires a paid subscription, there are many free options available that provide a wide range of functionality.
What are some free CAD software options for Mac?
FreeCAD, LibreCAD, and AutoCAD (student version) are among the popular free CAD software options for Mac. More can be found in our article ‘Ultimate Review: 10 Best Free CAD Software for Mac’.
Is FreeCAD really free?
Yes, as the name suggests, FreeCAD is a completely free, open-source CAD software.
What are the limitations of LibreCAD?
LibreCAD is a free 2D CAD software. It doesn’t support 3D modelling, but for 2D design, it’s a pretty versatile tool.
Can I use AutoCAD for free?
Yes, Autodesk provides free access to AutoCAD for students and educators for educational purposes.
Is CAD software hard to learn?
The difficulty in learning CAD software depends on the complexity of the tasks you wish to accomplish. Some software has a steeper learning curve than others, but with tutorials and practice, it can be learned effectively.
How long does it take to learn CAD?
The time it takes to learn CAD can vary greatly depending on the specific software and your previous experience. It could take anywhere from several weeks to several months to become proficient.
Can I use CAD software professionally?
Yes. Many professionals in the fields of engineering, architecture, and design use CAD software on a daily basis.
What advantages does CAD software provide?
CAD software provides several advantages including increased accuracy, easier design modifications and iterations, increased productivity, and better visualization of the final product.
Can I use CAD software on other operating systems?
Yes, most CAD software is available for multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and MacOS.
Can I create 3D models with free CAD software?
Yes, some free CAD software options like FreeCAD and TinkerCAD allow for 3D modelling.
Do I need a powerful computer to run CAD software?
The hardware requirements for CAD software vary on the complexity of the projects. More advanced 3D modelling software typically requires a powerful computer, but for basic 2D design tasks, a regular computer should suffice.
Can I use CAD software for 3D printing?
Yes. In fact, 3D printers often require a CAD file of the model to be printed. Therefore, knowing how to use CAD software can be very useful for 3D printing applications.
Are there online communities or forums for CAD software users?
Yes, there are numerous online communities and forums dedicated to CAD software. These communities can be a great resource for learning tips and tricks, troubleshooting problems, and connecting with other CAD software users.
Can I collaborate with others on a CAD project?
Many CAD software options have built-in features that facilitate collaboration among team members. Some even provide cloud-based platforms for real-time collaboration.
Is there mobile CAD software available?
Yes, some CAD software manufacturers have developed mobile versions of their applications. These allow you to view and edit your CAD designs on a mobile device.
Can I convert CAD files into different formats?
Yes, conversion of CAD files into different formats, such as PDF or SLDPRT, is usually possible and often very straightforward within the software.
Are updates for CAD software free?
In the case of free CAD software, updates are typically also free. Regarding paid software, access to updates usually depends on the terms of your license or subscription.
What is the best CAD software for beginners?
Tinkercad is considered a great starting point for beginners in CAD software. It has a user-friendly interface and a good range of basic tools that allow beginners to create simple and complex models alike.
What are some recommended free CAD software for mac?
There are several recommended free CAD software for Macintosh users. These include Fusion 360, which has extensive modeling capabilities and is preferred by many professionals. Another option is FreeCAD, an open-source 3D modeler that’s great for product design and mechanical engineering. LibreCAD is also worth considering, especially for 2D design. It’s a more basic option than Fusion 360 and FreeCAD, but it’s straightforward and user-friendly. Another choice is SketchUp Make, which is designed with architecture and interior design in mind. It’s more of a specialist tool than the others, but it’s intuitive and opens up a world of possibilities for design in these areas.
What features should the best free CAD software for mac provide?
Firstly, the best free CAD software for Mac should provide comprehensive drawing capabilities, including 2D and 3D modeling. It should offer parametric modeling to easily modify designs and simulation capabilities to understand how designs will function in real life. It’s also essential the software provides a user-friendly interface and good technical support for users, as this will make the design process smoother. Lastly, look out for software that provides a strong community of users for shared tips, tricks, and resources.
How does Fusion 360 perform as a free CAD software for Mac?
Fusion 360 is a highly rated CAD program from Autodesk. It’s one of the most comprehensive free offerings available for Mac users, with both 2D and 3D design capabilities. It integrates well with other Autodesk products and allows for cloud-based collaboration, which is a big plus for many users. Its high-level modeling capabilities can handle complex designs, and it offers tools for simulation and manufacturing. While it might be overkill for simple projects, it’s an excellent choice for professional-grade work. It is, however, subscription-based, and while there is a free plan, it is limited to startups, hobbyists, and education use.
Is FreeCAD a good free CAD software for mac users?
Yes, FreeCAD is a recommended CAD software for Mac users. Although it might not be as polished or feature-rich as some commercial offerings, it is quite capable for many design tasks. It supports parametric modeling, which means you can easily modify your design by going back into your model history and changing its parameters. FreeCAD is a good option if you’re a beginner looking to learn more about CAD or if you’re a more experienced designer who wants a free tool that can handle 3D design.
Can I use SketchUp Make as a free CAD software on my Mac?
Yes, SketchUp Make is a free version of SketchUp, a popular 3D modeling program with a focus on architectural designs. It’s user-friendly and offers an extensive library of free 3D models, making it a good choice for beginners. While SketchUp Make may not have all the advanced features of professional CAD software, it’s good for small projects and learning the basics of 3D modeling. Keep in mind that SketchUp Make is the last free desktop version of SketchUp, and for more recent updates, the company has moved to a web-based freemium model with SketchUp Free.