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What Is The Best Software For 3d Design

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  • The software you should use when designing something to be 3D printed is entirely dependent on what you are trying to make. In general, 3D design software falls into two categories. CAD software is usually used when creating industrial objects such as mechanical objects.
  • One of the most widely used 3D modeling software in both institutions and corporates, AutoCAD, is a versatile and powerful tool for creating blueprints for buildings and architectural designs. AutoCAD has a plethora of online tutorials and walkthroughs, which makes it a students' favorite.

It is mind-boggling to witness that the skip from 2D to 3D is opening up so many new arenas and possibilities in the digital world. After all, recreating the world on a computer, just the way we see it is a big deal. 3D modeling software makes this task easier. If you are a 2D designer looking to venture into the new realm of 3D or an already established 3D designer who is searching for more fuel for his creative engines, this list of the best 3D modeling software will definitely help you. Before jumping to that though, here is a gist of what a basic 3D modeling program is.

Software

What is 3D Modeling Software?

3D modeling is a mathematical method of creating designs in the virtual three dimensions (height/depth, length, and breadth) and a 3D modeling program helps one do that in an efficient and user-friendly way. 3D modeling attempts to recreate some real-world entity, or a blueprint for a future structure, or even a work of art. With 3D software, the possibilities are infinite. Nowadays, 3D modeling is used in diverse fields like medicine, architecture, entertainment, etc.

Like any trending product or service, the internet offers a vast variety of 3D modeling programs, both free and paid. Selecting the right 3D software can be a little challenging, but we'll give it our best shot. Let's go.

Best Free 3D Modeling Softwares

2D & 3D CAD SOftware. ActCAD is one of the best CAD software for creating DWG & DXF 2D Drafting and 3D modeling design. Simple to use, ASCII and other png files are also edited and uploaded and low at a cost. If your heart is bent on NURBS modeling, Rhino3D is probably the best 3D modeling software for you. In case you prefer a more intuitive approach, try MoI. Best 3D modeling software (3D Design/3D CAD software) for: Professional designers who appreciate mathematically sound designs. Back to Contents. 5 Best Free 3D Floor Plan Software For Windows Sweet Home 3D. Sweet Home 3D is a free open source software to create a home design. In it, you can create a floor plan. DreamPlan is a popular home design software. Using it, you can design the interior and exterior of a house.

Blender

Blender is an open source (free, and anyone can contribute to its code to make it better) 3D modeling software which is an excellent alternative to its paid brethren. Like any open source software, Blender has a large community of developers, artists, and designers who are always willing to help. Blender, a free 3D modeling software for Mac, works on Windows and Linux as well. If you are looking to enter the amazing world of 3D modeling, Blender is a great choice; it has impressive toolset capabilities, and the support is strong. However, this free 3D program is a little non-conventional, and jumping from Blender to other paid 3D design programs might take a little getting used to.

MakeHuman

Another one picked ripe from the basket of the best free 3D modeling software, MakeHuman targets a particular use case; character design (as the name suggests). Just like Blender, MakeHuman is one of the best 3D modeling software for beginners. Its simple UI/UX is easy to grasp, and the tools are also not very complicated to use. You can use MakeHuman to create beginner projects and small modules as a precursor to future, more complex endeavors. It's a great community of developers backing it up and a very responsive forum portal where getting support is quick and fruitful.

Autodesk Maya

The Autodesk Maya is a strong, robust, and versatile 3D program which offers a 30 day free trial (hence in the free section). If you are looking for 3D modeling software for beginners, Autodesk Maya presents an excellent opportunity to work on an actual professional platform. You cannot publish any of the projects commercially that you create in these 30 days, but you can sharpen your skills. It also has a student's license for learners and enthusiasts who are just beginning to take an interest in the world of 3D designing.

SketchupFree

It's free, says the title; this 3D modeling program is one of the most versatile free software on the internet, compatible with almost all the operating systems (great for both windows and mac users, even Chromebook). It is simple to understand and easy to use. SketchupFree is ideal for interior designers and home furnishers. This 3D software avoids the shenanigans of rigging and UV maps, which is terrific if you are just focused on completing your job quickly and correctly. It has paid versions (shop, pro, and studio) as well, which bulk up the functionalities of the toolkit that comes with it. Check for this 3D modeling software online to know more.

Houdini Apprentice

Houdini Apprentice is the free version of the popular and award-winning program, Houdini FX. Ideal for people who practice 3D designer as a hobby or are learning this wonderful art. Also, what is great is that the free version has all the features of the paid version, except the capability of publishing your designs on a commercial platform. One of the most powerful tools on this list, the Houdini Apprentice is an amazing program to learn the tricks of the trade without shelling the big bucks. Thanks to the generous developers!

OpenSCAD

There is no denying that digital 3D modeling requires a lot of creative prowess, but the fact that it is based on mathematical algorithms cannot be neglected. OpenSCAD is one such free 3D modeling software that focuses more on the technical area of 3D modeling rather than the creative portion. It is an ideal designing tool for creating digital models which are meant to be 3D printed later; toys, small gadgets, handy utilities, etc. can all be created using this 3D modeling program. OpenSCAD is also versatile and runs on all major operating systems like Mac, Windows, and Linux.

FreeCAD

Another open source 3D modeling software, which is still in its development phase is the FreeCAD. However, the features that it currently has is enough to develop stunning 3D designs and models. The primary arena where FreeCAD dominates over its competitors is its ability to create elaborate and complex shapes with ease, based on properties and relations to other shapes. If you are familiar with Object Oriented Programming, FreeCAD has a lot of relatability with it. It is a visual representation of objects and their attributes and how these objects interact with other objects. This may all sound a little technical, but it all takes a little getting used to.

Vue

It is amazing that all there are so many 3D modeling programs available in the market, both paid and free, an all of them have some advantage over the other. Vue is miles ahead of the other 3D modeling program when it comes to designing landscapes. With tons of features to give your designs a glamorous look, Vue comes with a paid version as well. With the free version, all your designs will have a watermark, and these designs won't be used commercially. However, Vue is a software for those who are interested in creating beautiful sceneries, which look almost as good as the real world.

Sculptris

Like we mentioned before, each of these 3D software has some cutting edge features, which makes them better than the rest in some area of expertise. Sculptris, as its name suggests, is ideal for developing digital sculptures. It is easy to learn and use. After a few minutes of tutorial and practice, you can start designing faces and characters. Sculptris is one of the best free 3D modeling software for beginners that are out there. After learning this tool, you can start using ZBrush, the paid 3D modeling program by the same developers to create some mind-blowing sculptures and character prototypes.

What Is The Best Software For 3d Design

What is 3D Modeling Software?

3D modeling is a mathematical method of creating designs in the virtual three dimensions (height/depth, length, and breadth) and a 3D modeling program helps one do that in an efficient and user-friendly way. 3D modeling attempts to recreate some real-world entity, or a blueprint for a future structure, or even a work of art. With 3D software, the possibilities are infinite. Nowadays, 3D modeling is used in diverse fields like medicine, architecture, entertainment, etc.

Like any trending product or service, the internet offers a vast variety of 3D modeling programs, both free and paid. Selecting the right 3D software can be a little challenging, but we'll give it our best shot. Let's go.

Best Free 3D Modeling Softwares

2D & 3D CAD SOftware. ActCAD is one of the best CAD software for creating DWG & DXF 2D Drafting and 3D modeling design. Simple to use, ASCII and other png files are also edited and uploaded and low at a cost. If your heart is bent on NURBS modeling, Rhino3D is probably the best 3D modeling software for you. In case you prefer a more intuitive approach, try MoI. Best 3D modeling software (3D Design/3D CAD software) for: Professional designers who appreciate mathematically sound designs. Back to Contents. 5 Best Free 3D Floor Plan Software For Windows Sweet Home 3D. Sweet Home 3D is a free open source software to create a home design. In it, you can create a floor plan. DreamPlan is a popular home design software. Using it, you can design the interior and exterior of a house.

Blender

Blender is an open source (free, and anyone can contribute to its code to make it better) 3D modeling software which is an excellent alternative to its paid brethren. Like any open source software, Blender has a large community of developers, artists, and designers who are always willing to help. Blender, a free 3D modeling software for Mac, works on Windows and Linux as well. If you are looking to enter the amazing world of 3D modeling, Blender is a great choice; it has impressive toolset capabilities, and the support is strong. However, this free 3D program is a little non-conventional, and jumping from Blender to other paid 3D design programs might take a little getting used to.

MakeHuman

Another one picked ripe from the basket of the best free 3D modeling software, MakeHuman targets a particular use case; character design (as the name suggests). Just like Blender, MakeHuman is one of the best 3D modeling software for beginners. Its simple UI/UX is easy to grasp, and the tools are also not very complicated to use. You can use MakeHuman to create beginner projects and small modules as a precursor to future, more complex endeavors. It's a great community of developers backing it up and a very responsive forum portal where getting support is quick and fruitful.

Autodesk Maya

The Autodesk Maya is a strong, robust, and versatile 3D program which offers a 30 day free trial (hence in the free section). If you are looking for 3D modeling software for beginners, Autodesk Maya presents an excellent opportunity to work on an actual professional platform. You cannot publish any of the projects commercially that you create in these 30 days, but you can sharpen your skills. It also has a student's license for learners and enthusiasts who are just beginning to take an interest in the world of 3D designing.

SketchupFree

It's free, says the title; this 3D modeling program is one of the most versatile free software on the internet, compatible with almost all the operating systems (great for both windows and mac users, even Chromebook). It is simple to understand and easy to use. SketchupFree is ideal for interior designers and home furnishers. This 3D software avoids the shenanigans of rigging and UV maps, which is terrific if you are just focused on completing your job quickly and correctly. It has paid versions (shop, pro, and studio) as well, which bulk up the functionalities of the toolkit that comes with it. Check for this 3D modeling software online to know more.

Houdini Apprentice

Houdini Apprentice is the free version of the popular and award-winning program, Houdini FX. Ideal for people who practice 3D designer as a hobby or are learning this wonderful art. Also, what is great is that the free version has all the features of the paid version, except the capability of publishing your designs on a commercial platform. One of the most powerful tools on this list, the Houdini Apprentice is an amazing program to learn the tricks of the trade without shelling the big bucks. Thanks to the generous developers!

OpenSCAD

There is no denying that digital 3D modeling requires a lot of creative prowess, but the fact that it is based on mathematical algorithms cannot be neglected. OpenSCAD is one such free 3D modeling software that focuses more on the technical area of 3D modeling rather than the creative portion. It is an ideal designing tool for creating digital models which are meant to be 3D printed later; toys, small gadgets, handy utilities, etc. can all be created using this 3D modeling program. OpenSCAD is also versatile and runs on all major operating systems like Mac, Windows, and Linux.

FreeCAD

Another open source 3D modeling software, which is still in its development phase is the FreeCAD. However, the features that it currently has is enough to develop stunning 3D designs and models. The primary arena where FreeCAD dominates over its competitors is its ability to create elaborate and complex shapes with ease, based on properties and relations to other shapes. If you are familiar with Object Oriented Programming, FreeCAD has a lot of relatability with it. It is a visual representation of objects and their attributes and how these objects interact with other objects. This may all sound a little technical, but it all takes a little getting used to.

Vue

It is amazing that all there are so many 3D modeling programs available in the market, both paid and free, an all of them have some advantage over the other. Vue is miles ahead of the other 3D modeling program when it comes to designing landscapes. With tons of features to give your designs a glamorous look, Vue comes with a paid version as well. With the free version, all your designs will have a watermark, and these designs won't be used commercially. However, Vue is a software for those who are interested in creating beautiful sceneries, which look almost as good as the real world.

Sculptris

Like we mentioned before, each of these 3D software has some cutting edge features, which makes them better than the rest in some area of expertise. Sculptris, as its name suggests, is ideal for developing digital sculptures. It is easy to learn and use. After a few minutes of tutorial and practice, you can start designing faces and characters. Sculptris is one of the best free 3D modeling software for beginners that are out there. After learning this tool, you can start using ZBrush, the paid 3D modeling program by the same developers to create some mind-blowing sculptures and character prototypes.

Daz Studio

Daz Studio is one such free 3D program that has a huge pool of tools and functionalities. The software is free for all, but some of the utilities are paid. The marketplace is full of content which you can use free of cost. With Daz Studio, 3D modeling, animating, and rendering becomes a lot easier. For software which is so rich in capabilities, it has a reasonably easy UI. Whatever you create with this easy 3D modeling software is owned only by you, royalty free! It is a highly robust program which requires only 1 GB of RAM to run. However, a RAM of more than 2 GB is recommended for optimum performance.

TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD is one of the most versatile free 3D software; it is a browser-based tool, which makes it highly accessible. Developed by the giants in 3D modeling, Autodesk, it is a beginners' software which is ideal for learning the tricks of the trade. Many 3D designing teachers prefer using TinkerCAD because of its versatility and its simple UI. It also has an excellent support team and generous contributors who make it better to use every day. If you want to create designs quickly and efficiently, TinkerCAD is a great choice.

Leopoly

Leopoly is a 3D modeling software engineered by Hungarian developers keeping in mind ease of use and robustness. It offers various plans, both paid and unpaid, and has a vast client base to show off. The free version is ideal for students and newbies who are just gaining interest in the enormous realm of 3D designing. Just like TinkerCAD, Leopoly is an online 3D modeling program that runs on browsers. It makes VR modeling and texture designing very simple and uncomplicated.

NanoCAD

NanoCAD is a Windows-only free 3D modeling program for users who are looking for a free counterpart of AutoCAD. It also has a paid version which bolsters the functionalities offered by the free version. One of the best features of this free program is that it allows you to view your previous changes and work on them to create other projects (much like branching in Github). NanoCAD is ideal for designers who pursue this art as a hobby or a side interest. Also, it is great for students who can't afford AutoCAD; the only downside is that this drawing program is not available for Mac users.

MeshMixer

Meshmixer is another software belonging to the Autodesk lineage. Unlike most of the software on this list, this free 3D modeling software is used over pre-designed projects. MeshMixer offers incredible flexibility in working with animations, texture designing, hollowing, etc. It makes your designs better and improves its quality. Available for both Mac and Windows, the MeshMixer requires a low system configuration to run. It has an almost negligible learning curve and has a great responsive UI. Excels in designing 3D meshes (the skeleton for 3D designs). You can check their website for the different use cases where this 3D drawing program is applicable.

Best Paid 3D Modeling Softwares

ZBrush

ZBrush appears first in the list of paid 3D modeling software only because of its capability of creating a stunning quality of 3D designs which are ideal for 3D printing. As you will go down the list, you will find many software which matches or are better than ZBrush in terms of toolsets and ease of use; however, the fact mentioned above makes it a prevalent choice among artists who want to print their designs in high-quality materials. It is a bit on the expensive side and is more robust to learn that many software that appears on this list, but most of the times if the output is good, it is worth spending the money and the effort.

Autodesk 3ds Max

This 3D modeling software is one of the best choices for Windows operating system. It boasts of a vast pool of tools and is comparatively easy to learn than its counterparts. The 3ds Max is moderate in price with a subscription model backing its payment structure. Since its free version offers a 30 day trial period, it is easier for amateurs to jump to this paid version, making it very popular amongst new paying users. The Achilles heel of this 3D modeling tool is that it is only available for Windows. A huge loss for Mac users, since it is one of the best tools in this list.

Modo

The Modo developed by Foundry is a versatile and powerful 3D modeling program that makes texturing and rendering very easy. Modo is developed around the idea that speed and efficiency are paramount while creating 3D designs. Therefore, Foundry has made considerable efforts to reduce technical glitches and obstacles as much as possible. As mentioned before, it is very easy to learn as compared to Maya and ZBrush. Modo is excellent at creating medium level designs, but working with extensive projects becomes complicated. Winrar 32 bit software download. Also, the toolset needs a little work if it needs to reach the level of the giants in the 3D modeling software business.

Autodesk Maya

The paid version of the same software that you saw in the free section of this blog, Autodesk Maya, is the best 3D modeling software hands down. It has an immense brand value attached to it, and it boasts of a stellar user base. Yes. Pixar uses this 3D modeling program. However, the price tag is a bit hefty, which does cut down on some potential users. Autodesk Maya has been added with amazing functionalities over the past few years, making it cross its competitors in terms of revenue and clientele. If you are serious about making 3D designing into a career, or if you are already a professional and want to add that X factor to your resume, Autodesk Maya should be your first choice, hands down!

Autodesk Mudbox

Mudbox is another fantastic product by Autodesk. It is simple to use when compared to Maya and is ideal for 3D editing and sculpting. To add animations and other features, you will need additional software. It is a great add on tool to learn though. It is a versatile tool that runs on Linux based operating systems, Mac systems, as well as on Windows. It is a heavy software requiring 4GB RAM and runs smoothly on 8GB of RAM. Use Mudbox as a complementary tool to other 3D modeling software, and you will not regret it.

Houdini

Houdini is another excellent 3D program that is in the market at the moment. Many established corporate designers use Houdini to serve their clients. Just like other industry giants, Houdini is hard to learn and is a little harsh on the wallet. But the designs created are on another level. You can visit their official website to view their glistening portfolio. It offers more flexibility of controls than the Autodesk Maya and uses different algorithms for animations and rendering (node-based procedural). With a little bit of patience and a strong will, Houdini won't take long to be mastered and staying true to its name, after learning Houdini, you will become a magician in the field of 3D designing.

Cinema 4D

With you are more inclined toward 3D motion graphics, Cinema 4D is the software for you. It has a huge price attached to it though, so make sure your requirements match the capabilities this 3D modeling software offers. They do offer a free trial of around 40 days that will help you in making this decision. Once you start using the Cinema 4D, you will find that the learning curve attached to it is pretty undemanding and simplistic. It requires 4GB of RAM and a graphics card for smooth running and is available for Mac, Linux, and Windows operating systems.

Rhinoceros

Strength and robustness radiate from the name of this 3D modeling program, which is also very versatile when it comes to operating systems and CPU specifications. Rhinoceros focuses on creating unhindered designing with its easy to learn tools and add-ons. As mentioned before, the rendering is smooth and does not slow down the system, which ideal for complex animations and morphing 3D designs. It comes with a 90 days trial version, after which you have to pay some bucks to continue using the software. The price is a bit high, but this 3D modeling platform deserves a tryout.

Substance Designer

One of the cheapest paid 3D modeling software in the list, Substance Designer focuses on creating realistic textures. All its gadgets are engineered, keeping texturing and skinning in mind. You can use this software as a precursor to the other software in this list because indeed, the capabilities as mentioned above offered by Substance Designer are beyond par. It is one of those 3D modeling programs which are easy to learn and that create outputs quickly. Another strong point of Substance Designer is material authoring (creating different materials with a variety of textures, attributes, and properties; used as a base for other 3D models).

Revit

Revit is paid 3D modeling software developed by Autodesk. It specializes in 3D architectural design and structural engineering. It is priced a little higher than the other architectural tools but is worth it. The technical support is impressive, and the software comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. There are a lot of online tutorials and educational content available with Revit, which is great for architectural students. It is easy to share your work with team members, and the rendering features are also very efficient. Like all Autodesk products, Revit radiates quality and robustness in its operations and results. A fantastic pick for both students and industry professionals, this epitome of 3D software runs smoothly on both Mac and Windows.

SelfCAD

This is another great program released just recently. It is an online 3D modeling software that is meant for both beginners and professionals in 3D modeling. SelfCAD has a simple and intuitive interface, which makes it easier for one to get started. It is the only program that has combined technical, artistic, and 3D printing tools in one application. In addition to that, one can also animate their designs in the program using the animation feature. SelfCAD's in-built slicer allows you to slice your designs to generate the G-Code that you can send to your printer. There are many Youtube tutorials on Youtube and on the tutorial section of their website to help one get started quickly. SelfCAD has both free and paid options. With the free account, one has access to all the tools, but you can't export your designs.

AutoCAD

One of the most widely used 3D modeling software in both institutions and corporates, AutoCAD, is a versatile and powerful tool for creating blueprints for buildings and architectural designs. AutoCAD has a plethora of online tutorials and walkthroughs, which makes it a students' favorite. With its state of the art toolset and efficient rendering algorithms, AutoCAD is the best of its kind. It works great on both Mac and Windows and guarantees a glitch-free user experience. AutoCAD skills are considered as a prerequisite for many civil engineers who are applying for construction and architecture firms.

Related: You may check out open source alternatives to AutoCAD

OnShape

OnShape offers a central workspace where different team members can collaborate to create stunning 3D models. Professionals and corporate employees prefer using OnShape for their fantastic project management capabilities. Apart from this, OnShape is a 3D modeling software that works on a cloud-based SaaS model. It has a central repository which can have branches, very similar to the programming repositories like Github. It works on both Mac and Windows and is not so harsh on the budget. It has a free version too, but it does not offer many features.

Poser

Poser revolves around designing human faces and characters using algorithms that help in rapid designing via changing a ‘base figure.' Not only can you create human characters, but you can also design backgrounds importing huge materials. A poser is an independent tool that is enough to cater to all your requirements from A to Z. Like the other software in this list, you can work with cr2, pz2, and obj formats with ease. Renderosity is Poser's official marketplace.

Conclusion

We know that picking just the right software is a tough decision, especially when the prices are so high. But trust us, the money is worth the results. 3D modeling is an art on its own, which requires a highly creative approach from the artist. Along with this, a sound technical mind is also necessary. Some of the 3D modeling software (mostly the free ones) in this list will help you start this incredible journey. Once you get the hang of it, you can judge on your own and choose which software is compatible with your working style, which satiates all your requirements, and most importantly, gives the best results. Happy designing!

Ready to showcase your design skills to the world? Make an online portfolio and present your designs there. Pixpa has many visually appealing themes for you. Sign up for a 15 days free trial today.

Disclaimer: The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the final product. All images are copyright to their respective owners.

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Whenever we talk about 3D CAD software, the only term that clouds our minds is AutoCAD. CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design. It's a program that helps you frame designs with the help of a computer. If you want to know more then let's dive into this topic and learn about it.

What is CAD Software?

CAD is a useful way to create mechanical or industrial plans and blueprints. It assists you with designing 3D objects and preparing a blueprint in an orderly fashion.

CAD software is used in different industries including aerospace, architecture, 3D modeling, mechanical designs, automobile industry and many more spaces.

Several tools help you render various functions like creating, contouring, applying textures and many more. If you want to enhance your 3D design skills.

In this guide, we have compiled some of the best CAD software for 3D printing and modeling for both beginners and advanced users.

What is the Best 3D CAD Software For Beginners & Professionals?

1. Nano Cad

If you are looking for CAD tools that come with the complete '.dwg' support, then Nano CAD is what you are looking for.

You can enjoy the premium features including SNAP, ONSAP, precision tools along with Command Line Tool. Whether you are new to 3D CAD software or are a professional architect, you would find NanoCAD extremely useful.

Read More: The 11 Best Whiteboard Animation Software in 2020

The free version comes with several features and provides a good base for the new users thereby making it an excellent 3D CAD software for beginners. But if you are a professional then you need to pay to unlock the professional features.

Nano CAD supports Windows.

2. 3D Crafter

3D Crafter is a real animation and 3D modeling tool that allows you to plan out your 3D models on the computer. The easy to use drag and drop option is something that makes it a must-have tool.

It comes with built-in 3D shape crafting tools and primitive utilities that help you create complex designs and models easily.

This software also allows you to apply animation and effects on the models and shapes. You just need to place the object at each point thereby, making sure that the animations are smooth.

3D Crafter is compatible with Windows.

3. Adobe Dimension CC

Adobe Dimension CC is a part of the Creative Cloud Suite that brings new dimensions into your project and design.

The features such as lighting and high-quality models allow you to build and craft some engaging 3D models easily within seconds. The navigation options along with the drag and drop features make this app, one of the best CAD software for 3D printing.

You can easily craft superfine 3D prints using an image or vector graphics onto a model. Adobe Dimension CC delivers unbeatable performance by helping you create realistic three-dimensional images with perfect texture, contour and lighting effects.

Adobe Dimension CC is fully compatible with macOS and Windows 10.

4. Daz Studio

Daz Studio is a free-to-use 3D CAD software that is full of features and is geared more towards professionals.

Besides these features such as morphing, animation after-effects and posing, the software also enables you to enhance your skills with a list of in-app interactive tutorials and learning modules.

Daz Studio runs seamlessly well on Windows and Mac OS X platforms.

5. KiCAD

If you are looking for ways to design your next Printed Circuit Board (PCB) then KiCAD will do the job. It is one of the best free CAD software systems that is loved by engineers and electricians around the world.

It is an open-source PCB design software that comes with a built-in project manager and four powerful utilities including a printed circuit board editor, schematic editor, footprint selecting tool and the GERBER file viewer/editor.

Read More: 11 Best GoPro Editing Software For Windows & Mac in 2020

There are a few additional features that include:

  • Two library component editors that allow you to create and edit the schematic components.
  • A 3D viewer and editor to render your PCB in 3D space.

KiCAD performs smoothly on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Ubuntu.

6. Autodesk 3ds Max

It is a function rendering and modeling program that offers tons and tons of 3D modeling options and tools. You can create, design and animate 3D characters and models for HD games.

This is one of the best 3D CAD software that comes with some features that help you in:

  • Modeling hard surfaces.
  • Applying contour.
  • Creating animations for 3D effects.
  • Applying after effects.
  • Texturing to create superfine designs.

This software comes with many learning modules you can use if you want to learn the basics of 3D modeling.

Auto Desk 3ds Max supports Windows, Linux, and iOS.

7. Solid Works

Solid Works is a 3D CAD software that comes with tons and tons of powerful features making it one of the best 3D modeling software.

It is a program that is developed by Dassault Systemes and runs on Windows. If you are new to three-dimensional modeling and design crafting, this software is not for you. A huge collection of tools and tons of features makes it a perfect choice for professional artists and architects.

This program is easy to use if you know the depths of designing and modeling. The PDF guides and essential options help you modify the quality of your designs and models.

Solid Works runs smoothly on Windows.

8. Blender

Blender is a free-to-use open-source CAD software that assists you with 3D designing, shaping and modeling and rendering functions, thus making it a versatile program.

You can do much more than just handling projects, animations, applying after-effects, three-dimensional printing and whatnot. This is undoubtedly an excellent CAD software for 3D printing.

Robo 3d printer software. You can also install certain add-ons to unlock several functions, options and features depending on your assignment.

Blender is highly Windows macOS and Linux.

9. FreeCAD

FreeCad is a 3D CAD program that allows you to design real objects of any size in 3D space. It is a dynamic parametric modeling program and you can easily change the dimensions and parameters of your models or designs using its model history menu.

You can use this software to create:

  • Fantastic 3D characters, locations and areas for game projects.
  • Architectural models and designs.
  • Animations and after-effects.
  • Industrial designs.

There are some primitive options and features that make FreeCAD one of the best CAD software tools for professionals:

  • Sphere
  • Cone
  • Box
  • Cylinder
  • Torus

It is a multiplatform performer and can process multiple file-formats including DAE, STEP, IFC, OBJ, DXF, STL and many more.

FreeCAD syncs well with Windows, macOS and Linux devices.

Read More: Top 11 Best GIF Maker & Editor for Windows 10/8/7 in 2020

10. Mesh Mixer

MeshMixer is a top-notch 3D CAD program that you can use for shaping and modeling excellent 3D designs. It is geared more towards handling professional models in 3D space, thereby making it a good choice for artists and architects.

You can also use it to build, edit and modify models from scratch as the program provides all the necessary tools.

If your assignment is all about 3D modeling, crafting and printing then this program will assist you in your projects. All this makes Mesh Mixer one of the best CAD software for 3D printing.

These are some features it offers:

Best Free 3d Modeling Software

  • Tools for brushing.
  • Tools for measuring thickness and stability.
  • Mesh smoothing tools.

MeshMixer works well on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.

So these are some best 3D CAD software systems to get if you are a civil engineer, architect, graphic designer or a 3D artist.

Bonus 3D CAD Software

Based on the recommendations and user ratings from our study we are also revealing an excellent CAD software for 3D printing.

3DReshaper

3DReshaper is a wonderful 3D CAD program that helps you in processing the models. If you are a professional artist with years of experience in modeling, after-effects and three-dimensional printing then this is the program you are looking for.

It is a flexible app that caters to several industries including shipbuilding, automobile, civil engineering, arts, gaming and many more sectors. It packs a punch of features and supports several scripts for hassle-free modeling.

If you are interested in getting an app that can save your time and assist you in your complex projects, then this is one of the best CAD software for 3D printing

This is a unique program that easily processes 3D point clouds from various sources including:

  • Digital devices.
  • Laser scanning.
  • 3D scanners.
  • Other sources such as UAVs.

Since point-cloud processing is the most difficult step to manage and handle, the software offers powerful tools and functions such as Automatic Segmentation to manage and process point clouds and Fusion to simplify your tasks.

3DReshaper works perfectly fine on Windows 10.

Conclusion

This brings an end to our guide and concludes the list of best CAD software. It is difficult to answer which CAD software is the best as each of the above-mentioned programs comes with its own set of advantages and useful features.

Best Free Software For 3d Design

It is worth suggesting that running animation and 3D effects on your computer require powerful hardware. Most of the apps discussed in this guide are free and are undoubtedly the best CAD software tools for professionals that will assist you in your assignments and projects. We hope that you select the program that suits your needs and works the best for you.





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