Side by side
CadQuery vs MeshInspector
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
CadQuery combines Python-based parametric modeling with rendering, notebook use, and a graphical script editor. Its documented format limitation matters when workflows require exchanging parametric data.
Visit CadQuery
Free plan APILinuxMac+3
MeshInspector spans basic viewing and repair through advanced inspection and automation, with a free Community tier and paid plans. Check which plan includes the tools required for a particular workflow.
Visit MeshInspectorThe facts
| CadQuery | MeshInspector | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Makers: $300 per user a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | MeshInspector |
| Website | cadquery.github.io | meshinspector.com |
| On 3d modeling software | #32 of 147 | #28 of 147 |
CadQuery: what it does well
- Free open-source Python library
- Parametric modeling through code
- Built-in rendering and Jupyter viewing
- Exports STEP, AMF, 3MF, and STL
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows
What to know first
- No parametric-data format import or export
- Pip dependency support may lag newer Python
- No free trial because it is free software
MeshInspector: what it does well
- Handles meshes, point clouds, volumetric data, and G-code
- Includes mesh repair, measurements, and scan inspection
- Professional adds Python automation
- Web and desktop files are stored locally
What to know first
- Professional costs $790 a year per user
- Makers costs $300 a year per user
Alternatives to CadQuery Alternatives to MeshInspector The whole list