Side by side
noBS CAD vs Shapr3D
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.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Pick 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 CAD
Free plan MacWindows
Shapr3D combines 3D CAD modeling, offline work, and broad file-format support. Review the Free plan limit and Pro trial billing terms before choosing a plan.
Visit Shapr3DThe facts
| noBS CAD | Shapr3D | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Pro: $299 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 6 |
| Maker | Not published | Shapr3D |
| Website | jackcontrols.github.io | shapr3d.com |
| On 3d cad software | #13 of 79 | #9 of 79 |
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.
Shapr3D: what it does well
- Direct and history-based parametric modeling
- Works offline and syncs designs when connected
- Built-in render engine and 3D-print export
- Imports and exports many CAD and visualization formats
What to know first
- Basic plan is limited to two projects
- Pro costs $299 a year per Editor seat
- Trial requires a credit card and charges unless canceled in time
Alternatives to noBS CAD Alternatives to Shapr3D The whole list