Side by side
BRL-CAD vs Hew
Both stand on 3d modeling software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose BRL-CAD if you need a free, cross-platform solid-modeling system with ray tracing, geometry analysis, and broad geometry support. Look elsewhere if you require an interface update outside alpha status or need full-service support at a published price.
Visit BRL-CAD Free plan iPhoneLinuxMac+3
Hew provides solids-focused modeling, broad file exchange, organization tools, and exact-scale printing across several platforms. It remains an early-stage project, with no listed sculpting, animation, parametric modeling, or rendering features.
Visit HewThe facts
| BRL-CAD | Hew | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | BRL-CAD | Not published |
| Website | brlcad.org | hew3d.com |
| On 3d modeling software | #39 of 147 | #43 of 147 |
BRL-CAD: what it does well
- Free open source software is available in binary and source form.
- Supports CSG and B-REP geometry with boolean operations.
- Ray tracing supports rendering and geometric analysis.
- Can read and write STEP geometry files.
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows desktops.
What to know first
- The Archer/MGED interface update is labeled alpha software.
- Full-service technical assistance is available through a separate distribution with no listed price.
Hew: what it does well
- Free and open-source with no paid feature tier
- Imports SKP and COLLADA files
- Exports glTF, STL, 3MF, and USDZ
- Reports watertight and non-manifold geometry
- Prints exact-scale paper or PDF layouts
What to know first
- No sculpting, animation, or parametric modeling tools
- No render engine is listed
- Project lacks SketchUp’s established community
- Desktop versions require specified operating systems