Side by side
build123d vs noBS CAD
Both stand on 3d cad software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Choose build123d if you want a free, open-source way to create parametric CAD models in Python, with manufacturing exports and several modeling styles. Consider another approach if you need cloud collaboration or if a required shape cannot be built with the underlying CAD core.
Visit build123dPick noBS CAD if you want local, free parametric CAD for mechanical parts, assemblies, or drawings and can work with pre-alpha software. Look elsewhere for production-safe CAM or strength analysis, which the project does not currently describe as available capabilities.
Visit noBS CADThe facts
| build123d | noBS CAD | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | build123d.readthedocs.io | jackcontrols.github.io |
| On 3d cad software | #17 of 79 | #13 of 79 |
build123d: what it does well
- Free Python package for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Supports builder and algebra modeling styles.
- Includes assembly, surface, and sheet-metal tools.
- Imports STEP, STL, and 3MF.
- Exports to several formats, including STEP, STL, DXF, and 3MF.
What to know first
- Some parts may not be constructible by the underlying CAD core.
- Cloud collaboration is not supported.
- Requires working with a Python package.
noBS CAD: what it does well
- Free plan has no paid tier or feature gates.
- Runs locally without an account or cloud CAD service.
- Parametric edits rebuild downstream solid features.
- Supports assemblies, joints, motion, and interference checks.
- Imports and exports STEP, STL, 3MF, and DXF.
What to know first
- The project identifies the software as pre-alpha.
- CAM is early-stage and not production-safe.
- Strength analysis is a future capability.
- Windows SmartScreen may warn while code signing is in progress.
Alternatives to build123d Alternatives to noBS CAD The whole list