FreeCAD is a powerful parametric 3D computer-aided design (CAD) modeler. It is free and open-source. The software is primarily aimed at mechanical engineering and product design. It is built on a modular architecture, allowing for extensive customization and extension through various workbenches and Python scripting. The software is cross-platform, supporting Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
In This Article
Quick Start & Pro Tips
Enabling GPU Acceleration for 3D View Performance
- Go to Edit > Preferences.
- Navigate to the Display section and select the 3D View tab.
- Under Rendering, ensure the OpenGL driver is selected.
- Adjust the Anti-aliasing and Complexity settings to balance visual quality and frame rate, especially when working with complex Boundary Representation (BRep) objects.
Why: Optimizing the OpenGL settings is crucial for maintaining a smooth frame rate and responsive interaction when manipulating large, complex 3D models in the viewport, which is a common challenge in CAD software based on kernels like Open CASCADE Technology.
Exporting for 3D Printing and CNC Machining
- Select the solid body or Assembly Workbench component you wish to export in the Tree View.
- Go to File > Export.
- Choose the Stereolithography (.stl) format for 3D printing or the Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (.iges) or Standard for the Exchange of Product model data (.step) formats for CNC.
- For STL, adjust the Deviation and Angular Deviation parameters in the export dialog to control the mesh fidelity.
Why: Using the correct export format (.STL for meshing,.STEP/.IGES for precise NURBS data) and tuning the mesh parameters is essential for ensuring the physical model accurately reflects the digital design, preventing errors in the 3D printing or CAM Workbench process.
Technical Specs
| Software Name | FreeCAD |
|---|---|
| Version | 1.0.2 |
| License | Free (LGPL-2.0-or-later) |
| OS Support | Windows 8/10/11 (64-bit), macOS 10.13+, Linux (AppImage, PPA, Snap, Flatpak) |
| Language | multi-language |
| Developer | The FreeCAD Team |
| Homepage | https://www.freecad.org |
| Changelogurl | https://www.freecad.org/news/2025/08/06/freecad-1.0.2-released/ |
| Last Updated | 2025-08-06 |
What Sets It Apart
- Parametric 3D Modeling: Allows users to easily modify designs by navigating the model history and changing parameters (dimensions, constraints) at any stage of the design process.
- Modular Workbench Architecture: The core application is extended via specialized workbenches, including PartDesign for solid modeling, Sketcher for geometry-constrained 2D shapes, FEM for Finite Element Analysis, and a dedicated BIM workbench.
- Open CASCADE Technology (OCCT) Kernel: Utilizes the advanced OCCT geometry engine, providing support for solids, Boundary Representation (BRep) objects, and Non-uniform rational basis spline (NURBS) curves and surfaces.
- Extensive File Format Support: Reads and writes to dozens of formats, including industry standards like.STEP,.IGES,.OBJ,.STL (for 3D printing),.DXF, and.IFC (for Building Information Modeling).
- Python Scripting and API: The software is highly customizable and extensible through an integrated Python interpreter and a comprehensive API, allowing for macro creation and custom tool development.
Changelog Highlights in Version 1.0.2
- Over 30 bugfixes and small improvements for stability.
- Fixed a crash in the Assembly Workbench when dragging a part with the fixed joint.
- Improved compatibility with third-party frameworks, including Open CASCADE 7.9 and Qt6.
- Resolved a dimension alignment issue in the TechDraw Workbench.
- Fixed BIM issues, including Arch_Level and Arch_Wall disappearing during conversion to Strict IFC mode.
- The CAM Workbench now writes post files using UTF-8 encoding.
For complete changelog, visit the official release notes.
Advantages & Drawbacks
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fully free and open-source under the LGPL license, eliminating vendor lock-in | Performance can be resource-intensive on complex models, especially with partial multi-threading support in the OpenCASCADE kernel |
| Features a powerful parametric modeling approach with a full model history | The learning curve can be steep for new users due to the extensive number of workbenches and features |
| Modular architecture with specialized workbenches for BIM, FEM, CAM, and Robot simulation | |
| Supports a wide range of open and proprietary file formats like STEP, IGES, STL, DXF, and IFC |
Getting Started
Problem Solving
FAQ
What is the core technology behind FreeCAD’s geometry engine?
FreeCAD is built around the Open CASCADE Technology (OCCT) kernel, which provides the foundation for its solid, Boundary Representation (BRep), and NURBS-based geometry modeling capabilities.
Does FreeCAD support Building Information Modeling (BIM)?
Yes, FreeCAD includes a dedicated BIM Workbench and supports the industry-standard.IFC file format for architectural and construction projects.
How can I extend the functionality of FreeCAD?
The software’s modular architecture allows for extensions via the Addon Manager, which provides community-developed workbenches and macros. Advanced users can also use the integrated Python API for custom scripting.
Similar Other Software
| Feature | FreeCAD | Blender | Autodesk Fusion 360 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ✅ Free | ✅ Free | ✅ Paid (Free for hobbyists/students) |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS (Cloud-based) |
| Open Source | ✅ true | ✅ true | ❌ false |
| Geometry Kernel | Open CASCADE Technology (OCCT) | Custom Mesh-based | ACIS/T-Splines |
| Primary Focus | Parametric Mechanical Engineering, BIM, CAE | 3D Animation, VFX, Sculpting, Rendering | Integrated CAD/CAM/CAE, Cloud Collaboration |
| Weakness vs Main | N/A (this is the main software) | Lacks native parametric/BRep modeling for precise engineering | Proprietary licensing and cloud-dependency |
| Our Pick | Best overall | Best for artistic 3D modeling, animation, and rendering | Best for professional, integrated CAD/CAM workflows and cloud collaboration |
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