Open-Source Alternatives to AutoCAD

LibreCAD is an open-source, cross-platform 2D CAD application for creating and editing precise technical drawings. It functions as a full-featured drawing editor that reads and writes industry-standard DXF and DWG file formats, enabling cross-application compatibility. The software provides tools for creating 2D designs with support for layers, dimensions, and geometric primitives, along with precision features like snapping to endpoints, midpoints, and intersections. It also includes a command-line converter that can export DXF drawings to PDF, SVG, and PNG formats for batch processing or in

SolveSpace is a parametric CAD software and 3D solid modeler. It functions as a constraint-based geometry solver that allows for the creation of 2D and 3D models where positions and sizes are driven by geometric rules and mathematical relationships. The project distinguishes itself by integrating a mechanical linkage simulator for analyzing the motion of pin and ball joints and a G-code generator that produces CNC machining instructions with cutter radius compensation. It also includes tools for kinematic simulation, allowing users to trace the motion paths of components and export coordinate

FreeCAD is an open-source engineering design suite designed for parametric 3D modeling, architectural planning, and mechanical assembly. It functions as a professional-grade platform that utilizes history-based operations to allow for non-destructive design updates, enabling users to construct complex geometry through a sequence of constrained sketches and solid operations. The platform distinguishes itself through a highly modular, workbench-based architecture that allows users to tailor the interface and toolsets to specific engineering domains. It features deep Python integration, which se

CadQuery is a programmatic 3D modeling library and parametric CAD framework that allows for the generation of complex geometric solids and assemblies using a fluent Python API. It functions as a B-Rep geometry engine, enabling the construction of models through code rather than a graphical user interface. The project is built on the Open CASCADE Technology kernel and utilizes a method-chaining API to link geometric commands in sequence. It distinguishes itself through a workplane-based coordinate system and a powerful selection system that uses topological and spatial filtering to target spec

Chili3D is a browser-based parametric 3D modeling tool that uses boundary representation (B-Rep) to define and manipulate precise solid geometry. It functions as a constructive solid geometry (CSG) engine, combining primitive shapes through union, difference, and intersection operations, while also serving as a parametric constraint system that maintains geometric relationships and dimensions through adjustable parameters. The software distinguishes itself by running entirely in a web browser without requiring installation, while providing industry-standard CAD file format support for importi

OpenSCAD is a script-based 3D modeler and parametric CAD tool that generates three-dimensional solid objects from programmable scripts. It utilizes a constructive solid geometry engine to create complex shapes by performing boolean operations on basic geometric primitives. The system functions as a compiler that transforms a functional language into geometric representations, allowing for precise dimensional control through variables and functions. It features a WebAssembly implementation that enables the geometry pipeline to execute directly within web browsers. The software covers a broad

QCAD is a professional two-dimensional computer-aided drafting application designed for creating technical drawings, engineering schematics, and architectural plans. It provides a comprehensive suite of geometric construction and modification tools that allow users to draft precise layouts while managing complex project structures through layers, blocks, and part libraries. The software distinguishes itself through an integrated scripting framework that enables users to automate repetitive design tasks and develop custom tools to extend core functionality. It also functions as a manufacturing

Plasticity is a computer-aided design environment and vector-based geometry editor. It functions as a NURBS-based 3D modeling tool for constructing complex geometric shapes and spatial layouts using parametric control. The software includes an adaptive user interface layout engine that automatically rearranges and resizes elements based on screen dimensions. It provides a system for refining 3D model geometry through the manipulation of individual curve control points and surfaces. The platform incorporates spatial querying capabilities, utilizing raycasting and boxcasting to detect intersec

verlet-js is a JavaScript 2D physics engine and Verlet integration library used to simulate point masses and geometric constraints. It functions as a computational tool for calculating particle movement and structural interactions to create stable physics animations in browser environments. The project acts as a geometric constraint solver that enforces fixed distances and angles between interconnected nodes. This allows for the modeling of complex physical shapes and structures, such as cloth or rigid bodies, by iteratively adjusting particle positions. The engine includes a canvas animatio

WPF is a .NET desktop UI framework and application framework designed for creating graphical user interfaces specifically for the Windows operating system. It functions as a XAML-based UI toolkit that uses an XML-based language to define interfaces and separate design from application logic. The framework includes a vector graphics rendering engine that produces resolution-independent visuals. This system allows graphics to scale without loss of quality on high-density monitors. The project covers broad capability areas including modern UI styling, rich media content hosting, and desktop int