Side by side
OpenSCAD vs SOLIDWORKS
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 Open source APILinuxMac+3
Choose OpenSCAD for script-driven, parameterized CAD work, particularly designs such as machine parts. Look elsewhere if sculpting tools or an artistic modeling focus are central to your work; its experimental browser build also has substantial limitations.
Visit OpenSCAD Free plan MacWebWindows
SOLIDWORKS combines locally installed design tools with cloud collaboration options and browser-based xDesign tools. Plan choice affects price and capabilities, and the Makers plan is limited to personal, non-commercial use.
Visit SOLIDWORKSThe facts
| OpenSCAD | SOLIDWORKS | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | SOLIDWORKS for Makers: $48 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | SOLIDWORKS |
| Website | openscad.org | solidworks.com |
| On 3d cad software | #1 of 79 | #4 of 79 |
OpenSCAD: what it does well
- Free software under the GNU General Public License version 2
- Parametric modeling supports configurable designs
- Reads and creates STL and OFF models
- Exports models for 3D printing
- Runs on Linux, macOS and Windows
What to know first
- It does not include sculpting tools
- The experimental browser build is slow and lacks preview, fonts and a GUI
- Modeling is script based rather than focused on artistic modeling
SOLIDWORKS: what it does well
- Supports parts, assemblies, drawings, sheet-metal, and framing.
- Design can be used without an internet connection.
- Cloud Services includes collaboration and revision management.
- Browser-based xDesign modeling requires no local installation.
- Design Standard is free for students.
What to know first
- Standard costs $2,820 a year for one device.
- Makers is limited to personal, non-commercial use.
- Makers storage is 25 GB and cannot be expanded.
- Client SOLIDWORKS products list Windows 10 and 11 support.
Alternatives to OpenSCAD Alternatives to SOLIDWORKS The whole list