Solvespace (prototyping): Parametric 2D/3D CAD for modeling, assembly, and mechanism design. SolveSpace is a free, parametric 2D/3D CAD tool designed for a variety of engineering and design tasks. It allows users to model 3D parts using extrudes, revolves, helixes, and Boolean operations, as well as create 2D parts for export in formats like DXF, PDF, and SVG. Key capabilities: Sketch sections with lines, rectangles, circles, arcs, Bezier segments, and TrueType text, Apply constraints and dimensions including distance, angle, tangency, parallel, perpendicular, and equality, Build solid models using extrude, lathe (solid of revolution), helix, and Boolean operations (union, difference, intersection), Parametric and associative assembly with six degrees of freedom, mirroring, and scaling, Analyze measurements, mechanism paths, sketch area, solid volume, degrees-of-freedom, and interference checks. Solvespace is free to use with no paid tier. Buyers most often compare Solvespace against Houdini, Cinema 4D, Maya.
TL;DR - Solvespace
Free parametric 2D/3D CAD software.
Supports modeling, assembly, and mechanism design.
Exports to various formats for 3D printing and CAM.
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
Pros & Cons
Pros
Completely free and open-source (GPLv3)
Parametric design capabilities for precise control
Robust constraint solver for mechanism design
Supports a wide range of import and export formats
Associative assembly allows changes to propagate automatically
Cons
May have a steeper learning curve compared to commercial CAD software
User interface might be less polished than paid alternatives
Community support might be smaller than for widely adopted commercial tools
SolveSpace is a free, parametric 2D/3D CAD tool designed for a variety of engineering and design tasks. It allows users to model 3D parts using extrudes, revolves, helixes, and Boolean operations, as well as create 2D parts for export in formats like DXF, PDF, and SVG. The software is particularly useful for designing 3D-printed parts, preparing CAM data for manufacturing, and simulating mechanical linkages.
Its constraint solver enables the design and analysis of planar or spatial linkages with various joint types. SolveSpace helps replace manual trigonometric calculations and spreadsheets with live, dimensioned drawings, making it suitable for engineers, designers, and hobbyists who need precise control over their geometric models and assemblies.
SolveSpace is a free, open-source parametric 2D/3D CAD software tool used for modeling 3D parts, designing 2D components, preparing data for 3D printing and CAM, and simulating mechanical linkages with a constraint solver.
How much does Solvespace cost?
SolveSpace is completely free to use, distributed under the GPLv3 license.
Is Solvespace free?
Yes, SolveSpace is free and open-source software.
Who is Solvespace for?
SolveSpace is for engineers, designers, hobbyists, and anyone needing a precise parametric CAD tool for tasks such as 3D modeling, 2D drafting, preparing files for manufacturing (3D printing, laser cutting, CNC), and designing mechanical systems.