OrthoCAD vs BRL-CAD: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OrthoCAD and BRL-CAD comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OrthoCAD
Revolutionizing orthodontics and restorative dentistry with digital solutions.
Best for you if:
- • Offers the Invisalign clear aligner system for orthodontic treatment.
- • Provides iTero intraoral scanners for digital dental impressions and restorative workflows.
BRL-CAD
Open-source solid modeling system for unambiguous 3D geometry and high-performance ray-tracing.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Open-source, cross-platform solid modeling system.
- • Features hybrid CSG/B-REP kernel and high-performance ray-tracing.
| At a Glance |  OrthoCAD |  BRL-CAD |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | 3D Design | 3D Design |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | OrthoCAD | BRL-CAD |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | 3D DesignMedical Imaging | 3D DesignCAD & Simulation |
How OrthoCAD and BRL-CAD Compare
OrthoCAD
Revolutionizing orthodontics and restorative dentistry with digital solutions.
Paid
BRL-CAD
Open-source solid modeling system for unambiguous 3D geometry and high-performance ray-tracing.
Free
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
BRL-CAD is free. OrthoCAD is paid.
Go with: BRL-CAD
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: OrthoCAD
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OrthoCAD
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OrthoCAD is paid. BRL-CAD is free. Go with BRL-CAD if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are 3d design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
OrthoCAD
- Our pick for this comparison
BRL-CAD
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
OrthoCAD is our pick. That said, BRL-CAD is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OrthoCAD or BRL-CAD better?
OrthoCAD scores high/100 in our evaluation. OrthoCAD is paid and BRL-CAD is free.
What are OrthoCAD and BRL-CAD used for?
OrthoCAD: Revolutionizing orthodontics and restorative dentistry with digital solutions.. BRL-CAD: Open-source solid modeling system for unambiguous 3D geometry and high-performance ray-tracing..
What does OrthoCAD cost vs BRL-CAD?
OrthoCAD is a paid tool. BRL-CAD is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.