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FreeCAD project preview
MediaAlternative to SolidWorksAlternative to Autodesk Fusion 360Alternative to AutoCAD

FreeCAD

General purpose 3D parametric CAD modeler for mechanical engineering.

View on GitHub Visit website
LicenseLGPL-2.1
GitHub stars22.0k
Last commit1 weeks ago
Tags6 topics
Parametric CadMechanical EngineeringGraphics DesignPythonCpp3d Modeling
Overview

Why consider FreeCAD?

FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler. Made primarily to design real-life objects of any size, it offers modular workbenches for mechanical engineering, BIM architecture, and CNC toolpaths.

Guided learning

Learn FreeCAD by building

Practical setup notes, real use cases, and copy-ready examples in one focused guide.

1 min read 2 sections
In this guide2 sections

Overview of FreeCAD

FreeCAD allows parametric modification of designs by going back into model history and changing dimensional parameters.

Installation

bash
1# Ubuntu/Debian
2sudo apt install freecad
3
4# macOS via Homebrew
5brew install --cask freecad

FreeCAD is licensed under the GNU LGPL-2.1 license.

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FreeCAD FAQs

FreeCAD is listed as a Media tool on TiloBox. Review the overview, features, and official documentation on this page to decide whether it solves your specific workflow.

Start with the project's GitHub repository and official website for supported installation and deployment instructions. Test the setup with representative data or a small project before rolling it out more widely.

FreeCAD is listed under the LGPL-2.1 license. Read the complete license text and the project's notices before using, modifying, or distributing the software.

Production readiness depends on your requirements. Review maintenance activity, security practices, documentation, backup and upgrade procedures, and compatibility with your stack; then validate it in a non-production environment.

FreeCAD is listed as an alternative to SolidWorks. Compare the core workflow, deployment model, integrations, and licensing against your must-have requirements before switching.