- Best 3d Printer Cad Design Software
- Best 3d Printing Cad Software
- 3d Printer software, free download
- Best Free 3d Printer Cad Software
This is a curated list of the best 3D design software suites for 3D printing. From beginners to experienced designers, this list will have something for you! The Best 3D Design Software for 3D Printing. Inventor mechanical design and 3D CAD software offers professional-grade 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation. The original professional 3D CAD software, AutoCAD was released all the way back 1982 by software legends Autodesk – when computers themselves were still in their infancy. Though known for its awesome 3D modelling properties, AutoCAD doubles up well as a 2D software tool. Meshmixer is super-advanced (and free) 3D printing software for viewing, checking, editing, and repairing STL files. It’s especially good for spotting potential problems and automatically repairing them. For example, highlighting paper-thin walls that might cause problems when 3D printing. It’s part of the Autodesk 3D printing software family.
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?
Autodesk offers some of the most popular 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software and services available today. Their AutoCAD software is a powerful 3D CAD tool that enables product engineers to design every detail and work with TrustedDWG technology, collaborate across desktop, cloud, and mobile, and access the AutoCAD mobile app for working on the go. SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD software is used by over 2 million engineers and product designers across the globe. It has 3 different packages available for the beginner, the intermediate, and the pro and is rated one of the best 3D printing software programs due to its strong design operations with intuitive user interface, which allows for a speedy design process.
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.
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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.
Best modeling software for 3d printing. 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.
![Best 3d Printer Cad Software Best 3d Printer Cad Software](https://www.planmeca.com/globalassets/planmeca-modernization/cadcam/dental-scanning/intraoral-scanning/planmeca-cadcam-intraoral-dental-scanners-mobile.jpg)
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.
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:
![Printer Printer](https://cdn.myminifactory.com/uploads/object-original-print/dd9488daf87f50021ff9aaeb93f222357b4bb98d.jpg)
- 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.
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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:
- Tools for brushing.
- Tools for measuring thickness and stability.
- Mesh smoothing tools.
MeshMixer works well on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.
Macbook format new hard drive. 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.
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.
I bet Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%, the 3D printed marathon shoes, must've motivated you to build something cool. It's only wise that you would want to try a 3D printing software before investing in a 3D printer. However, choosing a good free 3D printing software can prove to be a hassle. There are too many options where each caters to a diverse range of applications.
To make things a bit simpler, we've compiled a list of the best 3D printing software for beginners. But before we take a look at the list, there's one thing you should know. If you're already using Photoshop, then you can get started right away. Photoshop also lets you create 3D models from scratch and print them using services like Shapeways 3D.
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Read More1. TinkerCAD
Kicking off the list is TinkerCAD, an online 3D design application which is perfect for beginners. It makes use of a simple block building concept, which essentially gives you access to basic shapes using which you can make your 3D models. That makes it an excellent tool for creating geometric designs.
TinkerCAD is fairly simple to get familiar with, and it also offers a bunch of amazing tutorials to speed up the learning process. Once you're done making a model, it lets you share or export the file easily.
And if you don't own a 3D printer, you can also make use of its third-party printing service integration to get your model delivered to your doorstep in no time.
Try TinkerCAD2. Cura
Next up is Cura, another great 3D printing application for beginners from Ultimaker, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers. Unlike TinkerCAD, Cura is a slicing software for 3D printers which you can use to create a 3D model and slice it into layers as G-Code for the printer.
On top of that, you can also use Cura as a failsafe measure for your models. It can let you know if there are any problems with your model's structure that might cause issues with the printing.
Free drawing software for mac. That feature is a blessing for beginners since it ensures that you don't waste any printing material or time on creating models with structural issues.
Try Cura3. Sculptris
While TinkerCAD is great for creating geometric designs, you should give Sculptris a shot if you want to create something a bit more organic. It's quite simple to use and offers a few key features that will help you create stunning 3D sculptures.
Best 3d Printer Cad Design Software
Working on Sculptris feels a lot like working with modeling clay, which makes it one of the best options if you're looking to create 3D models of things like cartoon characters; something that you can't do with TinkerCAD.
However, you'll only be able to create very basic 3D sculptures with Sculptris. You'll need to rely on other premium software like ZBrush to refine your designs later.
Try Sculptris4. SketchUp
If 3D sculpting isn't really your cup of tea and you'd much prefer software that relies on line drawings to help you create a 3D model, then you should try using SketchUp. The software is suitable for most skill levels as it has a natural learning curve. And once you get going, the software offers a couple of advanced features as well in the paid version.
Much like TinkerCAD, SketchUp is useful for creating geometric designs. The software is most commonly used for designing architectural projects. So if that's what you're aiming for, then you just can't go wrong with it.
The best part about using SketchUP is that it's also available as a web app. You can work on your design on any system as long as you have it saved on your account.
Try SketchUp5. Meshmixer
Meshmixer is another viable option if you're going to be sculpting organic models in 3D as it makes use of a triangular mesh to help you create smooth, even surfaces.
Just like Cura, the software also includes a feature which will help you check your model for holes and fix them in real-time.
Along with that, Meshmixer is also great for preparing your designs for 3D printing. It includes tools to slice the sculpture for the 3D printer, generate supports for structural integrity and even analyzes the design's fragility before you send it over for printing.
Try MeshMixer6. 3D Slash
Now if you're aiming for a retro, blocky aesthetic for your 3D models, then you should check out 3D Slash. The software allows you to upload your 3D model which it then breaks down into 3D building blocks.
You can then make any changes to the model using a variety of different tools. However, you will face some limitations in terms of functions in the free version of the software.
Along with the ability to pixelate just about any model, 3D Slash also offers a VR mode. You can use that mode to get a clear view of how your model will turn out using a VR headset. 3D Slash comes with one of the simplest user interfaces out of all the software on this list. That's what makes it a fantastic option for people of all ages.
Best 3d Printing Cad Software
Try 3D Slash7. FreeCAD
Rounding things off is FreeCAD, a parametric 3D modeling tool which will help you create precise geometric designs like replacement parts for your gadgets. The software isn't as good for creating new designs as it is for altering existing ones because of its parametric component.
Editing existing designs is fairly simple; you just need to head to your model history and change the parameters. It's that simple.
So if you're not hell-bent on creating your 3D models from scratch, then you should try FreeCAD. However, if you'd much rather create your custom model, then you'd be better off with either of the other options.
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I hope you've got a fair idea of what you can achieve with these 3D printing software. How about you give them a shot and create your first 3D model? If you've tried your hand at 3D modeling, then I'd recommend to check out some tutorials these software have to offer to get started.
Just keep in mind that 3D printing can prove to be a pretty expensive hobby, so make sure you've inspected your designs thoroughly before you hit that print button. Why stop a shoe, when you can 3D print a dream home?
Next up: Looking to pick up another cool hobby? Check out the next article for some amazing Raspberry Pi projects that you can try.
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.Read Next4 Cool Raspberry Pi Projects That Will Awaken Your Inner InventorAlso See#printer
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