Side by side
FreeCAD vs QCAD Professional
Both stand on computer-aided design & manufacturing software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Choose FreeCAD if you need a free, open-source desktop modeler with parametric editing, broad open-format support, and technical simulation tools. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Look elsewhere if you need a stated built-in render engine or team administration controls.
Visit FreeCAD
Choose QCAD Professional for cross-platform 2D drafting with DWG and DXF support, a large parts library, and command-line conversion tools. Its one-time listed download price is 48.00 USD, and the included new-version updates last one year; buyers seeking a free option can consider the Community Edition.
Visit QCAD ProfessionalThe facts
| FreeCAD | QCAD Professional | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | QCAD Professional (Download): $48, paid once |
| Plans published | 4 | 2 |
| Maker | FreeCAD | QCAD Professional |
| Website | freecad.org | qcad.org |
| On computer-aided design & manufacturing software | #1 of 18 | #4 of 18 |
FreeCAD: what it does well
- Free desktop access has no sign-up, paywall, or restrictions.
- Parametric edits can use model history and parameter changes.
- Creates constrained 2D sketches and production-ready drawings from 3D models.
- Includes FEA, experimental CFD, and robot simulation.
- Reads and writes STEP, IGES, STL, SVG, DXF, OBJ, IFC, and DAE.
What to know first
- The render engine is external.
- It is desktop software, with no web platform listed.
- No team sharing or administration controls are stated.
QCAD Professional: what it does well
- Reads and writes DWG and DXF through version R32.
- Includes scaled and multipage printing tools.
- Offers over 5,000 CAD parts as free add-ons.
- JavaScript interface supports custom interactive CAD tools.
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
What to know first
- The listed download costs $48, paid once.
- New-version updates are included for one year after purchase.
- Technical questions are directed to the user forum.
Alternatives to FreeCAD Alternatives to QCAD Professional The whole list