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CAD · head to head

FreeCAD vs OpenSCAD

FreeCAD logo

FreeCAD

CAD

Open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler

From
Free
Rated
-
Full reviewWebsite
OpenSCAD logo

OpenSCAD

CAD

The programmers solid 3D CAD modeler

From
Free
Rated
-
Full reviewWebsite

The short version

  • Each has a real cost: FreeCAD no pricing published; product is completely free and open-source; OpenSCAD script-based workflow, not interactive design interface
  • They diverge on capability: FreeCAD covers Parametric modeling, OpenSCAD covers Script-based modeling.
  • Prices and features above were last checked on 30 August 2026.

Where they differ

Only the attributes on which FreeCAD and OpenSCAD actually diverge.

Attributes where FreeCAD and OpenSCAD differ
AttributeFreeCADOpenSCAD
Pricing modelopen-sourcefree
PlatformsWindows, macOS, LinuxWindows, macOS, Linux, WebAssembly
Founded20022009

Identical on both: starting price (Free), free tier (Yes), user rating (Not yet rated), category (CAD).

What each one covers

Drawn from each product's published feature list. An absence here means we hold no record of it - not that the product lacks it.

Only in FreeCAD

  • Parametric modeling
  • Part design
  • Assembly
  • Drafting
  • FEM simulation
  • Path/CAM
  • Architecture
  • BIM

Only in OpenSCAD

  • Script-based modeling
  • CSG operations
  • 2D to 3D extrusion
  • Parameterization
  • STL export
  • Preview
  • 3D printers
  • Slicers

Both cover

  • Open source
  • Windows support
  • MacOS support
  • Linux support

What people use each for

The jobs each tool is most often brought in to do.

FreeCAD

  • Mechanical engineering designnot OpenSCAD
  • Architectural modellingnot OpenSCAD
  • Product design and prototypingnot OpenSCAD
  • CAM/CNC path generationnot OpenSCAD

OpenSCAD

  • Parametric 3D design for manufacturing and 3D printingnot FreeCAD
  • Technical design with scripted control over geometrynot FreeCAD
  • Procedural model generationnot FreeCAD

Where each one falls short

Documented limitations, not opinions. Every one is a constraint you would hit in normal use.

FreeCAD

  • No pricing published; product is completely free and open-source
  • Donations are optional and voluntary for project support

OpenSCAD

  • Script-based workflow, not interactive design interface
  • Limited to constructive solid geometry and 2D extrusion modelling
  • Not suitable for artistic 3D modelling or computer animation
  • Complex build dependencies (Qt, CGAL, Boost)

Pricing, plan by plan

FreeCAD

Free

No published plan breakdown. See the FreeCAD review.

OpenSCAD

Free

No published plan breakdown. See the OpenSCAD review.

Which should you pick?

Choose FreeCAD if

  • You need parametric modeling.
  • You want to start without paying.
  • You work on Windows, macOS, Linux.
  • You also want part design.
FreeCAD review

Choose OpenSCAD if

  • You need script-based modeling.
  • You want to start without paying.
  • You work on Windows, macOS, Linux, WebAssembly.
  • You also want csg operations.
OpenSCAD review

Questions people ask

Is FreeCAD or OpenSCAD better?
Neither clearly leads. FreeCAD starts at Free and OpenSCAD at Free, and user ratings are close enough to be indistinguishable. Choose on capability and platform support.
Which is cheaper, FreeCAD or OpenSCAD?
FreeCAD starts at Free and OpenSCAD at Free.
Does FreeCAD or OpenSCAD run on more platforms?
FreeCAD runs on Windows, macOS, Linux. OpenSCAD runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, WebAssembly.
Can I use FreeCAD for free?
Both have a free tier, so you can try either at no cost before committing.
What is FreeCAD best used for?
FreeCAD is most often used for mechanical engineering design, architectural modelling, product design and prototyping, cam/cnc path generation. Of those, mechanical engineering design and architectural modelling are not what OpenSCAD is typically brought in for.
What can FreeCAD do that OpenSCAD cannot?
FreeCAD covers Parametric modeling, Part design, Assembly, Drafting. OpenSCAD covers Script-based modeling, CSG operations, 2D to 3D extrusion, Parameterization. Both handle Open source, Windows support, MacOS support, Linux support.

Answered from the vendors’ own pages

FreeCAD: How much does FreeCAD cost?

FreeCAD is completely free with no licensing fees, vendor lock-in, sign-up requirements, paywalls, or restrictions. The software is open-source and available for anyone to use and adapt.

Source
OpenSCAD: What is the cost of OpenSCAD?

OpenSCAD is free software with no licensing fees, subscriptions, or costs of any kind. The software is available as open-source with no restrictions on commercial or non-commercial use.

Source
FreeCAD: Does FreeCAD offer optional support or sponsorship?

FreeCAD accepts voluntary donations to support the project. Sponsorship tiers range from $1 per month (Normal Sponsor) to $200 per month (Gold Sponsor), with different visibility levels. One-time donations of any amount are also accepted.

Source
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