Computer Aided Design (CAD) software plays a pivotal role in modern product design and manufacturing. Choosing the right CAD tool ensures improved productivity, enhanced collaboration and better design quality. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the top CAD software platforms available today and how they can benefit professionals and students.
What is CAD Software?
CAD software enables engineers, architects and designers to digitally design, visualize, analyze, document and simulate their projects in 2D and 3D environments. Key capabilities include creating complex geometries, generating detailed drawings, validating designs via simulations, collaborating with team members and preparing files for manufacturing or 3D printing.
Benefits of CAD software include:
- Increased efficiency and accuracy vs manual drafting methods
- Ability to visualize, test and optimize designs digitally before physical prototyping
- Shortened product development cycles leading to faster time-to-market
- Better collaboration within teams as well as with clients/vendors
- Maintaining centralized design databases and documentation
- Reusing existing CAD models instead of reinventing the wheel
CAD software is indispensable across industries like manufacturing, aerospace, defense, automotive, consumer goods, architecture and construction. Students also vastly benefit from learning CAD software as part of their curriculum. Now let‘s discuss some of the best CAD platforms available today.
1. AutoCAD
Used by engineers, architects and construction professionals across the globe, Autodesk AutoCAD allows users to draft, annotate, design and collaborate on 2D and 3D projects efficiently. Key features include:
2D Drafting Tools: Create floor plans, elevations, sections and more with precision
3D Modeling: Design and visualize complex models with surface, mesh and solid modeling tools
Documentation: Generate detailed project drawings automatically from 3D models
Customization: Tailor the interface and capabilities as per workflows via APIs
Collaboration: Work together with team members in real-time via AutoCAD web and mobile apps
Pricing:
- AutoCAD LT – $240/Year
- AutoCAD – $1575/Year
Overall, AutoCAD sets the industry benchmark when choosing full-featured Windows-based CAD software for architecture, engineering and construction domains.
2. SOLIDWORKS
SOLIDWORKS dominates the mechanical CAD (MCAD) software market with its intuitive modeling and robust simulation capabilities. Key highlights include:
Parts and Assembly Design: Intuitively create production-ready parts and assemblies
Simulation: Validate design performance with FEA, computational fluid dynamics and more
Manufacturing: Automated design rule checks and tooling design
Technical Communication: Automatically generate detailed drawings from 3D data
Data Management: Securely store, backup and collaborate with SOLIDWORKS PDM system
Pricing:
- SOLIDWORKS Premium – $3995/Year
SOLIDWORKS accelerates the product development process for engineers while ensuring manufacturing feasibility. The integrated suite of CAD, CAE and CAM makes SOLIDWORKS stand out.
3. Onshape
As the world‘s first pure cloud-based CAD system, Onshape allows complete lifecycle management without hassles of version control or backups. Highlights are:
Cloud-Native: Access and collaborate real-time from any device with a browser
AI-Powered: context-aware productivity and learning tools
Version Control: Never lose design iterations or backup files
Team Management: Manage user access controls, activity logs and permissions
Onshape breaks away from conventions by delivering CAD entirely on the cloud without downloads or installations. The SaaS subscription model coupled with its full-cloud architecture pioneers the future of product design.
Pricing:
- Professional – $1200/Year
- Enterprise (Premium Support)
For distributed teams dealing with highly iterative designs, Onshape hits the sweet spot of convenience and capability.
4. Fusion 360
Created specifically for product design and manufacturing, Autodesk Fusion 360 is the preferred choice for designers and engineers across startups and SMBs. Notable aspects consist of:
Parametric CAD: Intuitive sketch-based 3D modeling fused with industrial-grade rendering delivers photorealistic visuals
Simulation: Validate design performance digitally via FEA simulation early in the cycle
Generative Design: Harness automation and AI to enhance designs rapidly
Manufacturing and CAM: Program, simulate and generate toolpaths for all machine types
By consolidating industrial-strength design, manufacturing and collaboration tools in one affordable cloud-based platform, Fusion 360 accelerates product development for businesses of all scales.
Pricing:
- Fusion 360 – $495/Year
Autodesk Fusion 360 has certainly captured the imagination of the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs worldwide.
5. FreeCAD
FreeCAD is a popular free and open-source CAD application for Windows, Mac and Linux. Capabilities consist of:
Feature-Based Parametric Modeling: Design precise real-life objects easily
Sketch Solver: Quickly create constrained 2D geometries for 3D operations
Modular Architecture: Customize and extend capabilities via plugins and macros
Import/Export: Compatible with all major CAD formats including STEP, IGES, STL, SVG, etc.
Despite its learning curve, FreeCAD offers powerful CAD capabilities rivaling commercial suites due to its parametric approach coupled with extensive customizability. This makes it ideal for engineers and programmers.
Pricing: Totally Free and Open-Source
For those looking to get into CAD design without spending a dime, FreeCAD is your best buddy!
6. Solid Edge
Part of Siemens‘ product lifecycle management (PLM) portfolio, Solid Edge delivers an intuitive hybrid CAD approach blending direct modeling with parametric capabilities. It offers:
Synchronous Technology: Edit models intuitively without constraints or design intent
Simulation: Validate product performance digitally with integrated FEA
Technical Documentation: Automated drawing generation from 3D CAD models
Manufacturing: NC programming and tooling design for production
Team Collaboration: Manage and share product data via cloud or on premises
By merging parametric as well as direct modeling paradigms, Solid Edge appeals to all spectrums of product designers across industries.
Pricing:
- Solid Edge Premium – $995/Year
Siemens Solid Edge excels for industrial equipment design across the value chain encompassing R&D, engineering, shop-floors and technical writers.
7. SketchUp
Favored amongst architects, engineers and construction professionals, SketchUp pioneers an intuitive push/pull approach to 3D modeling for buildings, structures and spaces. Core highlights are:
Easy to Learn: Friendly UI allows modelers to become productive quickly
Accurate: Model shapes precisely using unit types and measurements
Adapts to Workflows: Tunable templates and automated views as needed
Ecosystem: Access models, textures and plugins via integrated SketchUp warehouse
Using SketchUp Pro, anyone can convert their ideas into 3D models almost as easily as drawing with a pen on paper. No wonder it finds itself in the toolbox (literally!) of designers across architecture and construction domains.
Pricing:
- SketchUp Pro – $119/Year
When it comes to translating concepts quickly into constructible 3D deliverables, SketchUp leads from the front. Both professionals and students favor it alike.
8. Rhino
Sporting a versatile toolkit targeted at industrial designers, Rhino empowers users across automotive, product design, jewelry and CAD formats. It delivers:
Precision: Create accurate freeform and hardline surfaces
Analysis: Validate designs via optimization, FEA, tolerances and mass properties
Rendering: Create photorealistic renders showcasing products aesthetically
Cam and Nesting: Generate toolpaths for lasers, CNC mills, routers and more
Grasshopper: Algorithmic modeling environment to create generative designs
While not as intuitive as other CAD software initially, Rhino allows modelers and sculptors to expand and customize it extensively to suit unique workflows across art, jewelry and industrial design.
Pricing:
- Rhino for Windows – $1495
From prototyping custom products to reverse engineering scanned meshes, Rhino offers artists a versatile platform for creativity and accuracy.
9. ZW3D
Dedicated to the manufacturing industry, ZW3D merges CAD, CAM and CAE disciplines streamlining product design workflows. Highlights comprise:
Hybrid Modeling: Blend parametric and direct techniques for faster modeling
Smart PMI: Rapidly annotate models with accurate dimensions, callouts and more
Sheet Metal Design: Model thin-walled enclosures using flattened unfold technology
Mold Design: Quick moldbase, standard parts design and DFM analysis
Integrated CAM: Feature-based CNC programming supporting all machining methods
By closely aligning with shop-floor needs, ZW3D delivers professional CAD, CAM, CAE and mold making in a single integrated package at almost half the investment of competing platforms. Both SME manufacturers and subcontractors love it.
Pricing:
- ZW3D – $3499/Year
For press tool manufacturers and injection molding industries, ZW3D offers a value-packed proposition driving productivity from bidding to machining.
10. BricsCAD
Compatible with AutoCAD DWG files, BricsCAD packs hundreds of 2D drafting and 3D modeling capabilities at nearly one-fifth the cost of other CAD software options:
Familiar UI: Mimics AutoCAD so users feel instantly at home
Robust 2D: Industry-grade tools for drafting mechanical drawings
3D Features: Parametric-based part and assembly design
Customization: Tailor workflows via LISP, Diesel, Ruby, APIs etc.
Affordable Licensing: Run BricsCAD 24/7 across multiple machines
By replicating the coveted AutoCAD experience coupled at a budget-friendly price, BricsCAD prompts many SMB design consultancies and AEC firms to relook their software investments.
Pricing:
- BricsCAD Pro – $1620/Year
- BricsCAD Platinum (incl. Mechanical) – $2520/Year
BricsCAD erases the dilemma of choosing capabilities over budgets for many CAD professionals and businesses alike. The perpetual licensing sweetens the deal further.
11. FreeCAD vs Fusion 360 vs Onshape vs SolidWorks Comparison
Here is a quick comparison between some of the top mechanical CAD platforms for product design workflows:
| Software | Operating System | Capabilities | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| FreeCAD | Windows, Mac, Linux | Parametric Modeling, Assemblies, FEA | Free |
| Fusion 360 | Windows, Mac | Direct and Parametric Modeling, Simulation, Rendering, Manufacturing, CAM | $495/Year |
| Onshape | Pure Cloud (Browser-based) | Parametric Modeling, Collaboration, Data Management, Configurations | $1200/Year |
| SolidWorks | Windows | Parametric Modeling, Assemblies, Detailed Drawings, Simulation, Manufacturing | $3995/Year |
Key Differences
Operating System: Only Onshape runs purely on the cloud while others allow Windows and Mac installs
Scope: Fusion 360 and SolidWorks offer extensive capabilities for manufacturing and simulation compared to FreeCAD
Cost: FreeCAD and Fusion 360 are the cheapest options for different budgets
Ease of Use: Fusion 360 and Onshape simplify CAD modeling for new users via direct tools
Evaluate all factors based on your specific needs including capabilities, technology platforms, licensing models and budgets.
12. CorelCAD
Offering 2D drafting and basic 3D CAD at a value price point, CorelCAD packs all essential tools for many. Key aspects are:
Familiar UI: Standardized workspace including most-used toolbars
2D Drafting: Create and edit drawings adhering to CAD standards
3D Tools: Feature-based part design environment facilitating basic assemblies
Affordable: Run on multiple machines without software audits
For general-purpose design documentation encompassing architectural, mechanical and electrical domains, CorelCAD meets the demands without being too overwhelming or cost-prohibitive.
Pricing:
- CorelCAD – $699/Year
CorelCAD finds itself in the toolbox of many design consultants and SME engineering teams looking for an AutoCAD-like 2D drafting and detailing experience coupled with entry-level 3D capabilities.
13. Tinkercad
As the world‘s simplest browser-based 3D modeling platform, Tinkercad is designed to introduce beginners including kids to CAD fundamentals. Salient aspects consist of:
No Learning Curve: Intuitive drag and drop interaction optimised for touchscreens
Community: Remix designs and learn from a community of makers and educators
3D Printer Integration: Print designs using integrations with Ultimaker, Makerbot and more
Developer Platform: Create web and mobile apps leveraging Tinkercad‘s frontend API
By gamifying the journey into 3D and making modeling both fun and rewarding via 3D printing, Tinkercad opens the doors for many seeking hands-on STEAM learning.
Pricing: Free
Teachers favor Tinkercad for imparting foundational spatial and CAD skills to students from K-12 to college levels. Budding makers also love it.
14. Shapr3D
Specialised for Apple iPad Pro and iPad Air, Shapr3D helps mechanical engineers design products and create technical illustrations on the go. It consists of:
Feature-Based Modeling: Parametric approach for accurate 3D part and assembly modeling
Drawing Mode: Generate 2D drawings fully dimensioned with annotations
Collaboration: Share designs to get real-time feedback across teams
Advanced Rendering: Create vivid raster images and animations
With support for Apple Pencil coupled with multi-touch gestures, Shapr3D defines the new-age of mobile CAD modeling and collaboration.
Pricing:
- Shapr3D – $279/Year
For CAD pros and students always on the move, Shapr3D delivers a robust design experience harnessing the raw power of iPad Pro‘s metal architecture and LiDAR scanner support.
15. NanoCAD
Highly compatible with AutoCAD drawing files, NanoCAD packs hundreds of 2D drafting and detailing tools for engineers and construction professionals at an affordable price point. It offers:
Value Licensing: Low cost of entry compared to mainstream competitors
Familiar UI: Mimics industry-standard interfaces minimizing learning curves
Model Documentation: Tools to annotate and generate detailed shop drawings
LISP Support: Customize the platform as per unique needs and workflows
For majority of design tasks including architectural drawings and engineering schematics, NanoCAD serves all needs without busting small business budgets.
Pricing:
- NanoCAD Pro – $180/Year
When reliable DWG-based drafting and documentation matter more than high-end 3D functionality, NanoCAD brings a ton of bang for the buck!
Which is the Best CAD Software?
It is extremely difficult to single out one CAD platform which works ideally for every user scenario. The needs of mechanical engineers differ vastly from architects and industrial designers. Similarly, shop-floor machinists value tools uniquely from kids learning modeling basics.
However here are a few recommendations:
- For Professional ME/MCAD: SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge, Inventor, Creo, NX
- For Professional AEC Work: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, MicroStation
- For Industrial/Product Design: Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Rhino, Alias
- For Beginners & Students: Tinkercad, Fusion 360, Shapr3D, FreeCAD
- For Programming & Customization: OpenCascade, FreeCAD, PythonCAD
Evaluate software options against metrics such as features, technology (cloud vs desktop), supported workflows, target user profiles, learning resources, community support and budget. This will help identify the ideal platform fitting organizational objectives while delivering maximum ROI.
Most solutions offer free trials to take them for a spin before purchase.
Final Thoughts
CAD software has evolved from being a niche skill to an indispensable mainstream tool-of-the-trade spanning students to professionals across industries. This post aims to help readers find the right fit for their specific needs.
One parting tip – while high-end packages offer depth across domains, free or low-cost tools like Fusion 360, FreeCAD, or Tinkercad are great to get started without too steep a learning curve.
As many say – the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. Mastering CAD modeling is no different. Hope you find your perfect companion!
