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FreeCAD is a good program to begin parametric modeling with, but the overall feel and user interface of FreeCAD leaves much to be desired. Unlike Tinkercad, FreeCAD uses a parametric approach to modeling which allows the creation or replication of real-world objects as well as a mathematical approach to modeling. It is much more capable than Tinkercad and SketchUp, allowing users to create dimensionally accurate models and sketches. One thing to keep in mind with SketchUp – it was not designed from the ground up to be used with 3D printing, so it is possible to have a model that looks good on-screen but gets mangled with things like flipped and intersecting surfaces when you go to slice it for 3D printing.įreeCAD FreeCAD is a free open-source modeling program. I would recommend SketchUp to those who view Tinkercad as too basic but still have little to no experience with 3D design. SketchUp allows you to create designs from 2D sketches and the Pro version is great for architectural work. The free version is fairly basic but does allow for detailed design and each version adds more features.
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There are three versions of SketchUp: Free, Shop, and Pro. SketchUp also has a much steeper learning curve. SketchUp Like Tinkercad, SketchUp is a browser-based design program but it is much more in-depth than Tinkercad. Learn more about TinkerCAD on our deep dive. Tinkercad also has direct integration with Thingiverse and MyMiniFactory allowing for the printing of your model, even if you don’t have a 3D printer of your own. You won’t be able to create anything super complex but Tinkercad is capable of making some awesome basic models. This is a fantastic program to introduce the younger generation to the joys of 3D modeling and is also a great starting point for anyone looking to get into design. It allows the user to create a model using a set of preset objects and shapes.
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Tinkercad Tinkercad is a browser-based, entry-level design software revolving around basic shapes. When you begin your journey into 3D modeling the first thing to do is to find the software that suits you. Whether you just discovered the wonders of 3D printing or have been in the field for years, the ability to use 3D modeling or computer-aided design (CAD) software is a tremendously valuable skill.
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