QCAD
UnclaimedOpen-source 2D CAD software for technical drawings and computer-aided manufacturing.
Visit WebsiteReviews onG2Capterra
20 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free, no paid tier
Biggest pro
Free and open-source for basic 2D CAD functionality.
Biggest con
Advanced CAM features are part of a paid professional version.
TL;DR - QCAD
- Free and open-source 2D CAD software for Windows, Linux, and Mac.
- Supports technical drawings, including architectural, mechanical, and schematics.
- QCAD/CAM extends functionality to generate G-Code for CNC manufacturing.
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
4.3/5 across review platforms
What is QCAD?
QCAD is a free and open-source 2D CAD (Computer-Aided Drafting) application designed for creating various technical drawings such as architectural plans, mechanical parts, schematics, and diagrams. It offers an intuitive user interface, making it accessible even for users without prior CAD experience. QCAD runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing a cross-platform solution for drafting needs.
Beyond basic drafting, QCAD also offers a professional version, QCAD Professional, which includes support for DXF and DWG formats. For manufacturing applications, QCAD/CAM extends QCAD Professional with Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) capabilities. This allows users to generate toolpaths from CAD drawings and export G-Code for controlling CNC machines like milling, engraving, and laser cutting machines. The CAM module is highly configurable through an ECMAScript-based output configuration, enabling the generation of various machine-readable formats.
QCAD is ideal for engineers, designers, hobbyists, and anyone needing to create precise 2D technical drawings or prepare designs for CNC manufacturing. Its modular, extensible, and portable design, combined with a rich feature set, makes it a powerful yet user-friendly tool for both drafting and CAM processes.
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free and open-source for basic 2D CAD functionality.
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Intuitive user interface, easy for beginners to learn.
- Extensible with a powerful ECMAScript scripting interface.
- QCAD/CAM offers advanced G-Code generation for CNC machines.
Cons
- Advanced CAM features are part of a paid professional version.
- Primarily focused on 2D, not suitable for 3D design.
Ratings Across the Web
4.3(20 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
LayersBlocks (grouping)35 CAD fonts and TrueType font supportDXF and DWG input and outputPrinting to scale and on multiple pagesOver 40 construction toolsOver 20 modification toolsConstruction and modification of points, lines, arcs, circles, ellipses, splines, polylines, texts, dimensions, hatches, fills, raster images
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jun 20, 2026
Free
Free
- Layers
- Blocks (grouping)
- 35 CAD fonts included
- Support for TrueType fonts
- Various Metrical and Imperial units
- DXF and DWG input and output
- Printing to scale
- Printing on multiple pages
Reviews
$99Free with your review
Write a reviewReview QCAD, get a free AI guide
Share your experience and we will send you Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT, free.
4.3/5
Across 20 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
Add your hands-on experience using the offer above to help the next buyer.
Best QCAD Alternatives
Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.
SketchUpFreemium
Transform creative ideas into buildable 3D models with intuitive, professional-grade design software.
Bizagi ModelerPaid
Orchestrate operations, automate processes, and build enterprise apps with AI and low-code.
BluebeamPaid
Streamline construction workflows with powerful PDF markup, collaboration, and document management.
Rhino 3DPaid
Design, model, present, analyze, and realize your ideas with versatile 3D modeling software.
Still deciding?
Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.
Explore More
QCAD FAQ
How does QCAD support manufacturing workflows?
QCAD supports manufacturing workflows through its QCAD/CAM extension, which is part of the professional version. This module enables users to generate toolpaths directly from 2D CAD drawings and export G-Code for controlling CNC machines such as milling, engraving, and laser cutters.
Which teams would benefit most from using QCAD?
QCAD is well-suited for engineers, designers, and hobbyists who require precise 2D technical drawings. It also benefits teams involved in CNC manufacturing due to its CAM capabilities for generating G-Code.
How does QCAD's 2D focus compare to a tool like Rhino 3D?
QCAD is primarily focused on 2D technical drafting and manufacturing preparation, offering an intuitive interface for creating precise two-dimensional drawings. In contrast, Rhino 3D is known for its robust 3D modeling capabilities, making it suitable for different design requirements.
What kind of limitations should users be aware of with QCAD?
Users should note that QCAD is primarily designed for 2D drafting and is not suitable for 3D design tasks. Additionally, its advanced CAM features, including G-Code generation, are part of a paid professional version rather than the free open-source offering.
Does QCAD include a free tier?
Yes, QCAD offers a free and open-source version that provides basic 2D CAD functionality without requiring a paid plan. Advanced features, such as CAM capabilities and support for DXF/DWG formats, are available in the professional version.
Can QCAD be used on different operating systems?
Yes, QCAD offers cross-platform compatibility, allowing it to run on Windows, macOS, and Linux. This provides a versatile solution for users across various computing environments.
How does QCAD allow for customization and extension?
QCAD is designed to be extensible, featuring a powerful ECMAScript scripting interface. This allows users to customize and extend its functionality, particularly for configuring output in the CAM module to generate various machine-readable formats.
Source: qcad.org