These Are the Seven Best CAD Softwares for Your Mac
We show you the advantages different CAD software offer and which one suits you the best.
- What is a CAD program and what benefits does it offer?
- What are the best CAD programs for macOS?
- 1. Blender
- 2. FreeCAD
- 3. Fusion 360
- 4. AutoCAD
- 5. SketchUp
- 6. Onshape
- 7. Vectary
Thanks to CAD programs, ruler and pencil drafts are a thing of the past. From visualization to simulation to 3D printing - the benefits of CAD programs are numerous. Since there are now various CAD softwares on the market, you can find a list of the seven best tools for your Mac here.
What is a CAD program and what benefits does it offer?
CAD (Computer-Aided-Design) describes a method for creating digital 2D drawings and 3D models that has replaced manual drawing in a variety of industries. An indispensable component in this case are CAD programs. They help you develop design ideas by visualizing concepts through renderings and simulations. CAD softwares are used in a variety of industries and are particularly used in architecture, art and engineering projects.
Compare manual designs with CAD tools, the following benefits arise:
- lower production costs for drafts
- projects can end earlier, as the workflow and development process become more efficient
- You can make changes independently of other design details, avoiding recreating sketches completely
- higher quality designs with integrated documentation (like measurements and angles)
- better readability of designs and simpler interpretations by employees, as handmade images are not as clear and detailed
- simplified cooperation with colleagues using digital files
CAD programs support technical functions like generative design and solid modeling
What are the best CAD programs for macOS?
1. Blender
Blender is a free open-source 3D software, compatible with macOS, Windows and Linux. Besides its modeling features, the program offers many functions including rigging, motion tracking, animation and simulation. This software is particularly used for designing 3D scenes and models in various industries such as architecture and game design.
Blender Features
- Modeling and Sculpting: With Blender, you can create 3D models in two ways: through mesh-based or curve-based modeling. The mesh-based modeling uses polygons to create 3D models. The curve-based modeling, on the other hand, uses lines to define objects. Thanks to the integrated Sculpting feature, you can 'push' and 'pull' your 3D models - similar to how traditional artists model clay.
- Rigging and Animation: If you want to bring your 3D model to life, you should familiarize yourself with Blender's rigging and animation tools. With these, you can create an animation timeline allowing you to, for example, make models fly from point A to point B.
- Physical Simulations: Blender includes advanced physical simulations such as gravity, fabric, fire, smoke or liquid particle effects. These are particularly used for creating animations and games.
Blender Prices
Blender is a free CAD software for Mac users that can be used for private, commercial, or educational purposes. Being an open-source program, you can also modify the 3D software and distribute the changed versions.
Additional information about Blender prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Blender Alternative
An overview of Blender alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
2. FreeCAD
FreeCAD is another free 3D drawing program for Mac users. This open-source software allows you to create 2D shapes and use them as a base for your 3D models. The program also simplifies the conversion process of 3D drawings to 2D. FreeCAD is used in many industries, including product design, architecture, and mechanical engineering.
FreeCAD Features
- Parametric Environment: All objects created in FreeCAD are parametric. This means that their shapes are based on properties such as numerical values, buttons, and texts.
- Designing Real-World Objects: FreeCAD uses units from the real world such as kilometers, inches, or feet.
- Coded in Python: FreeCAD's top-level interfaces are coded in Python - a user-friendly and easy-to-learn programming language. This allows you not just to create simple one-line commands, but also to tailor FreeCAD to your needs.
- Scalable: Since FreeCAD is an open-source program, you have unrestricted access to all functions. Furthermore, you can enhance the software with plug-ins as your skills evolve.
FreeCAD Prices
Like Blender, FreeCAD is also completely free. This 3D modelling software is also available for macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Additional information about FreeCAD prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
FreeCAD Alternative
An overview of FreeCAD alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
3. Fusion 360
When it comes to free CAD programs for macOS, Fusion 360 Fusion 360 shouldn't be missed on the list. The program is developed by Autodesk and is superb for 3D modeling and product design. Fusion 360 is particularly used by professionals in the fields of manufacturing, mechanical engineering and industrial design.
Fusion 360 Features
- 3D Modeling: Fusion 360 offers you countless modeling methods to create your 3D constructions - from freeform modeling, parametric construction, to surface modeling. In addition, the software provides you with numerous sketching tools and allows for direct mesh editing.
- Manufacturing: Fusion 360 provides you with professional construction tools for subtractive and additive manufacturing. It also supports milling, turning, probing, and profile machining with two and a half to five axes.
- Data Management and Collaboration: Fusion 360 has professional management tools to improve data management and strengthen team collaboration. Access to the data is secured, regardless of where you are located and what device you use.
Fusion 360 Prices
- Fusion 360 for private users: For hobbyists and home users, Fusion 360 is free for three years. You are eligible to earn a maximum annual turnover of $1,000 and use the software for non-commercial projects.
- Paid version of Fusion 360: To exploit the full potential of Fusion 360, you can purchase the paid version of the software. Fusion offers three different payment options: monthly ($85), annually ($695), and every three years ($1,920).
Additional information about Fusion 360 prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Fusion 360 Alternative
An overview of Fusion 360 alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
4. AutoCAD
AutoCAD is another CAD program from the manufacturer Autodesk. With this software, you can create precise designs and digital images in 2D as well as in 3D. Furthermore, you have multiple views available for subtle changes and improvements. AutoCAD is used in various sectors including architecture, interior design and fashion design.
AutoCAD Features
- Mobile and Web Applications: As AutoCAD is cloud-based, users can work across devices. This way, you can create, edit and view designs either through the mobile app or the web version.
- Efficient Workflow: With AutoCAD, you can share drawings with your team members to receive their feedback.
- Industry-specific tools: With AutoCAD, you can download relevant plug-ins for your sector to optimize planning and productivity.
AutoCAD Prices
- AutoCAD for Education: Teachers, students, and pupils can use AutoCAD free of charge for one year. Afterward, you can extend your access as long as you're still eligible.
- Paid version of AutoCAD: AutoCAD offers one payment option: For $340 monthly, AutoCAD grants you access to the 2D and 3D core program. It also includes industry-specific packages such as AutoCAD Architecture and AutoCAD Electrical. Additional information about AutoCAD prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
AutoCAD Alternative
An overview of AutoCAD alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
5. SketchUp
SketchUp is an intuitive modeling program that lets you create and edit 2D and 3D models. It features patent-pending push-and-pull capabilities that allow flat surfaces to be transformed into 3D shapes. SketchUp is primarily utilized in the fields of architecture, interior design, and video game design.
SketchUp Features
- Online Library and Walk Tool Function: SketchUp's database includes thousands of 3D models that you can import into your design with a single click. The walk tool function also allows you to view your models in a 360-degree view. This feature is particularly useful for architects who can inspect their designs from the homeowners' perspective.
- Groupings and Components: By grouping geometric parts of your model, you can create sub-objects in SketchUp. These are not just easier to move, but they're also easier to copy and hide. SketchUp components are similar to groups but they're connected. This means that changes in one component are automatically adopted in the other components.
SketchUp Prices
- SketchUp Go: This subscription costs $129 per year and provides you with unlimited access to SketchUp's 3D warehouse and cloud storage.
- SketchUp Pro: The subscription model costs $299 per year and offers more features than the Go version. Not only can you create 2D presentations from your 3D models, but you also get design recommendations for your projects depending on the type of weather and building.
- SketchUp Studio: For more complex workflows, the Studio version is recommended. This version costs $1,199 per year.
Additional information about SketchUp prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
SketchUp Alternative
An overview of SketchUp alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
6. Onshape
Onshape is another web-based CAD program for macOS. The software includes a full set of design tools and collaboration features for professional users. Onshape is used for product and machinery design in many industries, including consumer electronics, medical devices, and 3D printing.
Onshape Features
- Open-source: Since Onshape is accessible to all users, you can get support from the rapidly growing community - be it technical questions or creative suggestions for your 3D projects.
- Live Collaboration: This function allows you and your team members to work together on projects in real time.
- Merging Designs: You're not a fan of live editing? With Onshape, you can branch designs and later merge them with the original. This allows you to experiment with models without having to undo the changes later.
Onshape Prices
- Onshape Default: Do you want to use Onshape for your commercial projects? Then you need the Default subscription which costs $1,500 a year. Besides functions for collaborations and data management, the software includes all modern CAD tools.
- Onshape Professional: If you are a designer or engineer and want to handle your projects confidentially, Onshape Professional is the right choice for you. The subscription costs $2,100 per year. However, you can request a 14-day free trial to familiarize yourself with the software.
- Onshape Enterprise: Suitable for companies that require premium product development tools, custom workflows, role-based access controls, and design analytics. The price is available on request.
Additional information about Onshape prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Onshape Alternative
An overview of Onshape alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
7. Vectary
Concluding our list is Vectary Vectary - a 3D modeling software that supports 3D printing and augmented reality applications. It was designed by a Slovakian company in 2014 for 3D printing enthusiasts and designers. With Vectary, you can create complex models from templates, even if you don't have any prior knowledge.
Vectary Features
- Real-Time Rendering: With Vectary, you don't have to wait a long time for your designs to be rendered. Using a simple keyboard shortcut, they can be rendered immediately.
- 3D Assets: Similar to SketchUp, Vectary also has a library of free assets. However, these are more intended for artistic purposes rather than the typical CAD applications.
- Photorealistic Rendering: Vectary's Photon function allows you to quickly create high-quality renderings using a locally installed plug-in.
Vectary Prices
Vectary is a free open-source CAD program. Additionally, it is cloud-based so you can use it on macOS, Windows, and Linux. Besides the free version, there are also three other subscription packages. The Pro version is available for $14 per user per month. The Business version is $25 per month and for the Enterprise version, there is a price offer on request.
Additional information about Vectary prices as well user reviews with regard to prices can be found on OMR Reviews.
Vectary Alternative
An overview of Vectary alternatives can be found on OMR Reviews. Our verified user reviews can help you find the right CAD program for your Mac.
Tim ist ein freiberuflicher Journalist / Content Writer, der OMR Reviews in den Bereichen Marketing und Softwares unterstützt. Seit seinem Onlinejournalismus-Studium schreibt er unter anderem für Computer Bild, XING und Finanzcheck.de. Wenn er nicht gerade am Texten ist, spielt er auf seiner Stratocaster die Klänge von Hendrix, Frusciante und Gilmour nach.
