The Best CAD Software

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best CAD Software and hope the blog can help you.

Looking to take on a career or hobby with computer-aided design? Whatever the case may be, these are the best CAD software programs on the market for beginners to professionals.

Long gone are the days of sketching, erasing, and tracing designs on large drafting tables under uncomfortable fluorescent lighting. Today’s designers take a much more convenient and sophisticated approach, using CAD (computer-aided design) software to create, modify, and simulate products and structures, and the process is much faster with far more flexibility.

While computer-aided drafting is an excellent skill set to have, finding the best CAD software to fit a person’s particular needs should be a top priority. Building those skills and creating those designs comes next. This guide will help explain the best CAD software programs on the market.

BEST OVERALL: Fusion 360
RUNNER-UP: Rhinoceros
BEST FOR BEGINNERS: SelfCAD
BEST FOR ARCHITECTURE: AutoCAD
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: FreeCAD
BEST FOR BUSINESSES: CATIA
BEST USER EXPERIENCE: NX

What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best CAD Software Options

Knowing what to look for in a CAD program is incredibly important. Experienced CAD users might have an idea of what they liked or disliked about their previous software, but those who are new to the drafting world might want some guidance. The following sections will explain everything a CAD shopper needs to know to ensure they’re not paying too much for software that exceeds their needs or wasting their money on underpowered software.

Developer

Software is designed and built by developers, and there are essentially three kinds to consider: large developers, small developers, and open-source or community developers.

Large developers have the resources and teams to keep programs updated and offer top-notch customer support, but the programs are typically expensive. Smaller developers might be more affordable and more niche specific, but they don’t have the same resources that larger developers have. Finally, open-source developers or community-developed programs are usually low cost and provide access to forums, reference materials, and videos, and they’re also updated often.

Each type of developer has its merits and drawbacks. For hobbyists and freelancers, smaller developers or open-source software is usually fine. For those building high-tech products or working with powerful clients, it might be best to choose a larger developer.

Tools and Best-Use Cases

The industry the user works in or their intended use for the program will play a major role in choosing the best CAD software. Designers and engineers building parts with high-tech materials and exacting tolerances for the aerospace or automotive industries will need a more powerful CAD program than those who are designing at-home 3D printing projects. Those types of projects may require basic beginner CAD software.

One might think that upgrading to a higher-powered program would ensure that all of their needs are covered, but this might not be the case. Powerful CAD programs aren’t typically beginner-friendly, and they require some knowledge and skill to even get the drawing started. Instead, it’s best to purchase a program that fits the type of projects the user will be creating rather than splurging for all-encompassing capabilities.

Cost

The cost of CAD programs varies widely. Users can expect to pay anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a program to barely anything at all (free programs do exist). Many offer monthly subscriptions that allow for low payments, but users can often save money by paying for the year (or lifetime license) up front.

It’s usually best to find a program that fits the user’s actual needs first. Purchasing a cheap program because it’s affordable only to find out that it can’t handle the project would be a waste of money. Equally as wasteful, however, would be spending top dollar for a high-powered program with capabilities the user doesn’t need.

Operating System, Processor, and Memory Requirements

For a CAD program to work properly, the computer itself needs to have the power and speed to keep up. First, users will want to ensure that the computer’s operating system is compatible with the software. Some programs may work only with Mac iOS, while others may only be compatible with Windows.

Processor speeds and memory requirements will also impact how the program runs. Computers with underpowered processors may experience program crashes when rendering drawings or making changes. There are two approaches for a user to consider: find a program that meets their current system’s capabilities or be prepared to invest in a new machine.

Software Interoperability and Native File Formats

Different programs often need to communicate with one another through the design process. While the CAD program has its own job to do, it may need to be compatible with management software or manufacturing programs.

Also, there are times when file formats have to change during the design and manufacturing process. Whether it’s switching from one software program to another, or a machine that requires a certain file type, CAD users in manufacturing settings will want to find programs that can handle their needs.

User Resources and Support

There are times when, despite best efforts, it seems impossible to manipulate a facet of the project correctly, or a rendering just won’t come out the way it should. In those head-scratching moments, having some support to rely on can make all the difference.

Large developers often have libraries full of blog articles and videos to help users navigate the different tools and features their programs offer, as well as on-staff customer support agents to answer questions in real time. Open-source developers often have a community of folks willing to lend their expertise, acting more like a think tank or cooperative than a user manual. Smaller developers might not be able to offer immediate customer service or support, but they will often respond to inquiries within a day or two.

Our Top Picks

With that background covered on how to choose a computer-aided design software program, it’s time to start shopping. The following are some of the top products on the CAD market.

Best Overall

Fusion 360

Developer: Autodesk
Best-use cases: Product/part design, 3D printing
Cost: $70/month; $545/year; $1,635/3 years; free for students and start-ups
Operating system requirements: macOS Monterey 12.0, Big Sur 11.x*, Catalina 10.15, Mojave 10.14; Windows 11, 10 (64-bit)
Processor requirements: x86-based 64-bit, 4 cores, 1.7 GHz or greater
Native file formats: .F3D
User resources: Blog, self-paced learning, YouTube channel, community forums, technical support

Pros

Fully integrated cloud-based CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB software
Facilitated real-time collaboration
3D-to-2D drawing conversion
Library of standard components available for import
Free for students and start-ups

Cons

Reports of occasionally slow operations

Why It Made the Cut: Fusion 360 is a CAD software for Mac and Windows that allows users to combine all of their design, manufacturing, and engineering software needs with one program. Product and part designers as well as 3D printing enthusiasts looking for one program that can take them from concept to manufacturing will want to consider Fusion 360 from Autodesk. This program can handle CAD, CAM (computer-aided manufacturing), CAE (computer-aided engineering), and PCB (printed circuit board) needs, all of which are available with cloud-based storage.

The software is able to take a 3D CAD software model and flatten it into a 2D drawing, which can be helpful when attempting to pull measurements for manufacturing and material ordering. It also has a library of standard components from brands like LEGO, Mitsubishi, Philips, and more that designers can use in their drawings, saving time and simplifying the design process. Fusion 360 has plenty of features and power for most users (though older computers may not run the program as efficiently). The program allows multiple users to access and work on the project at one time to optimize collaboration and limit friction.

Costs range from $70 a month to $545 a year. Autodesk provides free software to students and start-ups, helping to enrich the engineering and design world out of the developer’s pocket.

Runner-Up

Rhinoceros

Developer: Robert McNeel & Associates
Best-use cases: Part design, freeform surfacing, 3D printing, footwear design, jewelry design, data-driven design
Cost: $995 for lifetime single-user commercial access
Operating system requirements: macOS Ventura 13, Monterey 12.4, Big Sur 11.6, Catalina 10.15.7, Mojave 10.14.6; Windows 11, 10, 8.1, VDI
Processor requirements: Intel Mac or Apple Silicon Mac; 64-bit Intel or AMD
Native file formats: .3DM
User resources: Tutorials, community forums

Pros

Wide range of industry applications
Optimized project organization by way of distinctive layers feature
Active online community
Perpetual software license available

Cons

Potentially challenging to adapt to software shortcuts

Why It Made the Cut: Rhinoceros offers a wide range of design-industry applications and offers a lifetime license, making it a robust choice for almost any user. Folks looking for a flexible program that they can grow with (and get plenty of value from) will want to consider Rhinoceros. This program is suitable for part design, freeform surfacing, 3D printing, footwear design, jewelry design, and data-driven design. Rhinoceros is flexible and can help users get down to the details, thanks to optimized project organization with distinctive layers. This feature allows users to break their drawing down to track all of the elements individually. There is a community of folks creating new plug-ins that allow users to tailor their Rhinoceros program to their exact needs. With all of those plug-ins on top of the expansive program also come plenty of shortcuts and hot keys, and they take time to learn. Luckily there will be plenty of time for learning, though, as Rhinoceros users purchase lifetime licenses, which also saves them money in the long run.

Best for Beginners

SelfCAD

Developer: Aaron Breuer
Best-use cases: Learning, 3D printing
Cost: Free; $14.99/month; $139.99/year; $599 for lifetime access
Operating system requirements: macOS; Windows 7, 8, and 10
Processor requirements: 2+ GHz (2.8+ GHz recommended)
Native file formats: .STL, .MTL, .PLY, .DAE, .SVG
User resources: Interactive tutorials, blog

Pros

Straightforward, intuitive user interface
Thorough interactive tutorials available
Free and relatively low-cost versions available
Perpetual software license available
Flexible operating system and processor requirements

Cons

Somewhat limited capabilities

Why It Made the Cut: With a low barrier to entry in terms of cost and user-friendliness, SelfCAD is a top choice for beginner drafters and hobbyists. CAD software can feel intimidating, especially when it’s designed for experienced engineers and costs more than a mortgage payment. But with SelfCAD, neither of those concerns are an issue. This program is designed for new users learning how to draft and honing their 3D printing crafts. It’s straightforward and features an intuitive user interface, as well as interactive tutorials and a blog to make learning new skills or troubleshooting easier. SelfCAD doesn’t have all the capabilities of larger, more powerful programs. However, it does have a flexible operating system and processor requirements, meaning users don’t have to worry about upgrading their computers just to run the program. There is a free version as well as monthly or annual subscriptions. Users can save in the long run by purchasing a lifetime license as well.

Best for Architecture

AutoCAD

Developer: Autodesk
Best-use cases: Architecture
Cost: $235/month; $1,865/year; $5,595/3 years
Operating system requirements: Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 1809 or above (64-bit)
Processor requirements: 2.5 to 2.9 GHz (3+ or 4+ GHz recommended)
Native file formats: .DWG
User resources: Tutorials, community forums, instructor-led training

Pros

Widely used, industry-standard software
Powerful program with a wide array of commands and functions
Capable of managing large, complex projects

Cons

Only available on Windows

Why It Made the Cut: AutoCAD is the industry standard for architects, as it excels at creating and maintaining large, complex projects. Professional and aspiring architects already know that the AutoCAD program is more or less the industry standard for architecture, but it’s for good reason. If everyone in the industry is using the same software, there are very few issues with compatibility, and everyone feels like they’re speaking the same language. This program allows users access to controls and functions that many other software do not, allowing users to get into the minute details of very large projects. The software is able to organize all these details and maintain them, making it possible to design and engineer building plans without losing data and compromising the project. Unfortunately, AutoCAD is only available on Windows, but it puts a wide range of commands and functions at the PC user’s fingertips.

Best Bang for the Buck

FreeCAD

Developer: Community development project
Best-use cases: Concept and part design, 3D printing
Cost: Free
Operating system requirements: Not specified
Processor requirements: Not specified
Native file formats: .FCStd
User resources: Blog, community forums

Pros

Totally free of cost
Flexible open-source software
Active online community

Cons

Somewhat limited capabilities

Why It Made the Cut: As the name suggests, FreeCAD doesn’t cost anything and gives users the ability to create concept and part design. Whether it’s a new user who isn’t sure CAD is for them, or someone who just needs to create a one-off project, FreeCAD might be the right option. This free drafting software program is a community development project, which means multiple folks worked together to create a free program that everyone can benefit from for concept and part design, as well as 3D printing. It’s also considered to be an easy CAD software program to learn and use. FreeCAD is a 3D CAD open source program that gives users the ability to create their own animation features using Python or C++ coding languages. Also, since the program is community-based, users can share their animation or processes with other members. And while the software itself may be somewhat limited based on its open-share, free platform, the active online community and blog provide a resource for folks looking for answers, support, or new plug-ins.

Best for Businesses

CATIA

Developer: Dassault Systèmes
Best-use cases: Automotive design, aerospace design, product design, engineering, assembly
Cost: Not specified
Operating system requirements: Not specified
Processor requirements: Not specified
Native file formats: .CATPart
User resources: E-seminars, learning libraries, technical support

Pros

High level of user control
Advanced manufacturing and engineering supported
Wide array of modules available

Cons

Reports of relatively high cost
Cost, operating system requirements, and processor requirements not specified

Why It Made the Cut: With a multitude of modules for different materials and processes, CATIA is a comprehensive design program that takes the place of multiple other software programs. When it comes to tools for automotive, aerospace, and other high-tech industries, CATIA may be the best choice. This design program encompasses more than just CAD—it also handles manufacturing and engineering functions, allowing it to potentially take the place of two other software programs. CATIA gives users ultimate control, with multiple drag points that create a mesh design. This allows users to modify simple and complex geometries easily, making CATIA a fit for the aerospace and automotive industries, as well as product design, engineering, and assembly. And while reports of costs are relatively high (CATIA doesn’t list its pricing), there is a wide array of modules designed to expedite the design process. These modules include sheet metal, composite, tooling, assembly design, drafting, rendering, part repair, reverse engineering from scan data, and aerodynamics, among many others. Potential customers may have to reach out to the company for more information about processor and operating system requirements.

The Best CAD Software