Side by side
LeoCAD vs MagicaVoxel
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
LeoCAD provides a free desktop workflow for virtual brick design, instructions, rendering, and exports. Its reliance on LDraw and POV-Ray for ray tracing are important considerations.
Visit LeoCAD
Free plan MacWindows
MagicaVoxel combines voxel editing, animation, and rendering in a free desktop application. Its distribution restriction is relevant for anyone planning to bundle or resell the software.
Visit MagicaVoxelThe facts
| LeoCAD | MagicaVoxel | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | leocad.org | ephtracy.github.io |
| On 3d modeling software | #77 of 147 | #73 of 147 |
LeoCAD: what it does well
- Free and open source under GPL version 2
- Runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS
- LDraw library has over 10,000 parts
- Creates multi-step building instructions
- Exports OBJ, 3DS, and COLLADA
What to know first
- Ray-traced images require POV-Ray
- Desktop access only
- LEGO does not sponsor or endorse LeoCAD
- No security certifications stated
MagicaVoxel: what it does well
- Free to use for any project.
- Includes sculpting and animation tools.
- Built-in GPU-based interactive path tracing renderer.
- Exports slices, cubes, and point clouds.
- Available for Windows and macOS.
What to know first
- Selling or distributing the software in other packages is disallowed.
- The maker labels the listed version Beta.
Alternatives to LeoCAD Alternatives to MagicaVoxel The whole list