Interscale Content Hub – If you’re new to CAD, you might find the software options in the market a bit too much to take in. Learn more about best free cad software for beginners through this article.
Yup, there are lots of powerful and user-friendly free CAD software options out there, making it easier than ever to get started in design and engineering.
That’s why, free CAD software is a great way to get your learning journey off to a strong start.
With all that in mind, this guide will look at the best free CAD software for beginners, focusing on usability, functionality and support.
The 7 Best Free CAD Software for Beginners
1. Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a web-based 3D design application developed by the well-known software company Autodesk. It’s celebrated for being simple and beginner-friendly.
The block-based design system lets users create complex 3D models by combining and modifying basic shapes.
Tinkercad’s simple drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to use, even for beginners, students and educators.
Tinkercad is also used in lots of Australian schools because it’s so easy to use.
This is particularly relevant as Australian schools are placing an increasing emphasis on STEM education, with tools like Tinkercad making 3D design more accessible.
2. FreeCAD
FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeller for those looking for a more advanced and versatile CAD experience.
It’s got all the tools you need for 2D drafting, 3D modelling, assembly design and even finite element analysis (FEA).
FreeCAD’s parametric modelling capabilities let users tweak designs by adjusting parameters, which is great for flexibility and precision.
It might take a bit of getting used to, but FreeCAD’s got some great features and there’s a lot of support out there, so it’s a good choice for serious designers looking for something long-term.
3. SketchUp Free
SketchUp Free strikes a good balance between simplicity and functionality. Therefore, it has become a popular choice for those interested in architectural and interior design.
It’s a web-based version of SketchUp, so there’s no need to install it. You can access it directly from any browser, just like Tinkercad.
SketchUp Free is known for its user-friendly interface, which is designed to be simple and easy to use, making it ideal for beginners who want to learn the basics of 3D modelling.
One of the best things about SketchUp Free is how it works with the 3D Warehouse, which is a huge online collection of ready-made models.
For instance, if you’re designing a home, you can check out the 3D Warehouse for furniture, fixtures, and other bits and pieces, which will really speed up the design process.
So, you might find it helpful to take a look at “Best Easy CAD Software for 3D Printing, Factors To Consider When Choosing“
4. Blender
Blender is well-known for its work in animation and game design, but it also has some great CAD capabilities, especially for those who need a free and open-source solution.
Blender’s got a whole range of tools for modelling, rendering, animation and simulation, so it’s a great choice for lots of different projects.
Blender is open source, so it’s completely free to use for commercial purposes.
This is a big plus for users who want to move from hobbyist projects to professional work without having to spend a fortune on software.
The Blender community is huge and really helps to develop the software. There are loads of tutorials and resources out there for beginners, which is great.
5. LibreCAD
LibreCAD is a dedicated 2D CAD application with all the tools you need for drafting. As it’s open source, LibreCAD is completely free and users can modify it to suit their needs.
The software’s focus on 2D design makes it much easier to learn than 3D CAD tools, so it’s a great choice for beginners who need to create technical drawings without getting bogged down in 3D modelling.
LibreCAD has a similar interface to AutoCAD, which is a big plus for users who might eventually move on to more advanced paid software.
6. Onshape
Onshape is a more modern approach to CAD. It’s cloud-based and designed for real-time collaboration.
Unlike traditional CAD software, which needs to be installed on specific devices, you can access Onshape from any device with a web browser.
This cloud-based system is great for teams working remotely, as it allows multiple users to work on designs together at the same time.
Onshape’s parametric modelling capabilities are just as good as those of more established CAD software, but with the added benefit of version control and collaboration features that are built into the platform.
7. Fusion 360 for Personal Use
Fusion 360, which Autodesk offers in a limited “for personal use” version, is a powerful, cloud-based CAD platform that brings together design, engineering, and manufacturing functionalities.
While the free version has a few limitations, it still offers a lot of power and versatility for those looking for a comprehensive CAD solution.
Fusion 360’s parametric modelling capabilities let users design with a high degree of flexibility, adjusting parameters as needed.
This feature, along with its simulation and analysis tools, lets users test and validate designs before manufacturing, which helps avoid errors and make things more efficient.
For hobbyists and students in Australia, Fusion 360’s free version is a great way to get started with professional-grade CAD software.
It’s also a great choice for manufacturing pros looking to 3D print, CNC machine, or otherwise make things.
As another point of reference, you also need to read “The Best CAD Software for Beginners to Help You Not Break the Bank.”
Which CAD is Easiest to Learn?
Among those best free CAD software for beginners, Tinkercad and SketchUp Free are the ones that stand out in terms of ease of learning.
Their user-friendly interfaces and simple workflows make them feel like digital playgrounds for aspiring designers.
Tinkercad’s drag-and-drop building block approach and SketchUp Free’s intuitive push/pull tools make it really easy for anyone to get started with 3D modelling, even if you’ve never done it before.
What’s more, these platforms come with lots of educational resources like tutorials and interactive lessons, which make it even easier to learn.
If you’re just starting out in CAD, these tools are a great place to begin. However, as your skills and ambitions grow, you might want to move on to more powerful software.
The good news is all the skills and concepts you learn with Tinkercad or SketchUp Free can be used with more advanced programs like FreeCAD or the full version of SketchUp.
Tips for Mastering CAD as a Beginner
The first thing you need to do is get yourself familiar with the tutorials, which you’ll find all over the place.
Most CAD software has built-in tutorials or links to online resources. Another great source of quality materials is the Autodesk Gold Partner.
For example, the Interscale YouTube channel has a series of step-by-step guides that are a great resource for beginners.
These tutorials introduce users to the basic functions, which helps them build confidence as they gradually move on to more complex projects.
And do not forget how Reddit, Facebook Groups, Quora, and other CAD forums are great places for beginners to ask questions, share their progress and get feedback from more experienced users.
In Australia, local forums can be a great source of region-specific advice and support, helping users navigate unique challenges like software accessibility or local standards.
And of course, regular practice is essential for developing skills. Starting with simple designs and gradually increasing the complexity is a great way to really get to grips with CAD principles.
It can also be helpful to explore open-source software like FreeCAD and Blender.
These platforms not only give users free access to powerful tools but also offer lots of community support, so users can tailor their learning experience.
And if you want to really boost your CAD skills or get your team up to speed, you can always opt for specialised training.
These training sessions are designed to meet specific needs and keep users up to date with the latest features and best practices in CAD.
Companies in Australia, such as Studio Tate, have seen the benefits of these targeted sessions, which have helped boost team productivity and proficiency in CAD software.
Now it’s time for you to do your own research and due diligence to see what we can do for you.
You might want to start with our Interscale BIM Management page.
Or if you are ready for a coffee and croissants, let’s meet up. We’re happy to chat through any issues you’re having with your CAD project.
In Closing
The great thing is that there are lots of these tools with local communities and resources to help you get started and find support when you need it.
If you think about how you learn, what you need to do the project, and what you want to achieve, you’ll start to see the pattern of the software and industries.
As you gain more experience, you might find yourself looking for more feature-rich software to meet your growing needs.
Ultimately, it’s becoming simpler to get the best free CAD software for beginners, then for experts, and then for professionals in the industry.
