Computer-aided design, or CAD software, is extremely beneficial for designers. These programs allow us to create various designs with maximum accuracy and perfection.

Everything can be constructed easily and comfortably, from complicated engineering drawings to huge architectural designs. However, you must spend a lot to attain such a perfect level as this software is costly.

Furthermore, this mostly causes trouble for students and those in the practice or learning phase, so we look for certain free CAD software.

Best Free CAD Software to Download in 2025

1. Shapr3D

Shapr3D

Shapr3D is a 3D CAD software app that works on iOS (including iPad Pro), macOS, and Windows. Its goal is to make 3D modeling as easy and efficient as possible, allowing users to swiftly move from sketches to finished models.

The integration of Apple Pencil with the program makes it simple to draw intricate designs. Product designers, architects, and those working in various other fields can all benefit from Shapr3Dโ€™s extensive feature set, which includes 3D modeling, 2D drafting, and STL export.

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2. AutoCAD

Auto CAD

AutoCAD has already set up its level to industry standards with brilliant features and performance. It has been used for a while now and comes with Autodesk, which charges a hefty amount that most students cannot afford.

However, if you are a student, you can use this software for free with your student license. Autodesk introduced this program especially for students to learn to use their software to comfortably integrate into the workforce when they become professionals.

AutoCAD is one of the best software programs for designing and 3D modeling today. With a wide range of basic and advanced tools, it is worth every penny.

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3. Fusion 360

Fusion 360

This is another elegant product from Autodesk; most importantly, it is available completely free of charge.

Fusion 360 software is entirely dedicated to students and features a beginner-friendly interface. Above all, it provides an all-in-one platform on which to perform several tasks with zero difficulties.

It emphasizes mostly the basics, such as designing, modeling, generating simulations, rendering, and more. You can create intricate designs, unify elements from other projects, and more.

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4. FreeCAD

FreeCAD

This open-source project is one of the best for beginners and professionals. However, it is better to understand the basics before using this CAD software.

Although free, it still offers many features, and its unbelievable interface makes it a tough competition for some premium CAD software. You can also use external plugins to add new, powerful features to your software.

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5. Sketch Up

Sketch Up

Many industries and enterprises use SketchUp to create architectural designs, engineering designs, 3D models, and other types of designs. Again, it is paid software, but you can still use its web platform for free.

One of the interesting facts is that other users are constantly uploading many advanced tools. You can also try the 30-day free trial of SketchUp Pro to get the softwareโ€™s actual taste.

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6. OpenSCAD

OpenSCAD

If you are a professional and want to keep manual control over your modelโ€™s minute details, you might love OpenSCAD. The unique part is that you have to work over long text languages to generate various 3D models.

No shortcuts or modules. Itโ€™s wholly based on coding, so ensure you have excellent knowledge. Moreover, it gives you centralized control over everything, and you can independently work with your model.

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7. Sculptris

Sculptris

Sculptris can be a useful pick for you if you have some knowledge about designing. It is designed very accurately, and the interface looks impressive yet professional.

This free CAD software is used for 3D modeling and sculpting. It comes with amazing tools and supports external plugins.

Above all, the most impressive part is that it has a shallow system requirement with a minimum of 1 GB RAM. Besides, anyone with some basic knowledge can quickly understand and operate the program.

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8. LibreCAD

LibreCAD is free, open-source CAD software available for Windows, Linux, and Mac. It includes almost all required features, including advanced features like snap-to-grid capabilities, layers, text, and measurements.

The beginner-friendly 2D CAD modeling provides various drawing features such as lines, dimensions, blocks, splines, text, circles, and ellipses. Its fully customizable user interface has been appreciated by many for its remarkable 2D CAD model-producing ability.

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9. Onshape

onshape

Whether youโ€™re a novice, enthusiast, or experienced CAD, Onshape is for everyone. Although itโ€™s premium software, it offers a lot in the version as well, and this is why weโ€™ve featured it on our list.

You will get unlimited public storage space. Donโ€™t underestimate its featured-packed CAD tools, it provides everything you need. Even if you want to use it to create modern CAD, all toolsets like surfacing, frames, mixed modeling, sheet metal, and others are also sorted.

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10. ThinkerCAD

ThinkerCAD

ThinkerCAD, a product of AutoDesk, isnโ€™t standalone software; itโ€™s efficient and powerful online browser-based software. You can use any working browser and start creating CAD designs. You just need to ensure that you have a stable internet speed to use.

The tool provides endless features for creating 3D designs and electronic circuits. It could be an ideal place for many to practice code blocks. So, ThinkerCAD is the perfect solution for beginners who do not need to install heavy software or pay a buck.

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Conclusion

Paying $100-$200 per month for professional CAD software is a huge deal for most students. Furthermore, if you are just a beginner, such a considerable investment might even end up as only a waste. So, you can try out these free CAD software tools to get a start on your career.

Plus, some of them are very well crafted and even suit professional use. Let us know which one you use for designing and 3D modeling; and if there is any better free CAD software we didnโ€™t include in our list.

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