Of course, if you're looking to put out detailed designs with accurate sizing and tolerances, you'll need to spend some time learning the ins and outs of the program. Even if you've never done any CAD work or 3D modeling before, you can pull together some really nice presentations in minutes.

The interface makes it easy to get up to speed on the basics. SketchUp's free web-based version has plenty of power, but if you need additional functionality, you have to buy SketchUp Pro-and pay a hefty price tag. Trimble has enhanced it and developed it further and now offers a slew of related products. In 2012, Google sold the product to Trimble. SketchUp was originally developed by Google and was one of the greatest free CAD packages ever put on the market. Once you’re more comfortable using this type of software, you can invest in a more professional-level product.Free feature is web-only with many important features hobbled. If you’re a student or a beginner, then there are options for free CAD software and free 3D model software available so that you can learn the ropes. By contrast, an engineer is probably more interested in 3D software in order to see designs more intricately when it comes to things like mechanics.įinally, your level of expertise is also a factor in choosing the right CAD software. For example, an architect is more likely to use 2D CAD software in order to create detailed floor plans. The software used by architects likely won’t be the same one used for someone who’s designing medical equipment, so taking your industry into consideration is an important first step.Īdditionally, you want to select the right type of CAD software.

But before you invest in an expensive type of CAD software, take some time to assess your needs, and really get a better understanding of what type of software you’d benefit from the most.

For most use cases you can’t just take any of the popular design tools to do 3d modeling.

2d drawing free