FreeCAD vs SOLIDWORKS
Both are on the 3D CAD Software list. Here is what each maker publishes, side by side.
 FreeCAD | SOLIDWORKS | |
|---|---|---|
| Place on the list | #14 6.3 | #3 8.2 |
| Maker | FreeCAD | SOLIDWORKS |
| Starts at | On request | $48 a year |
| Free | Free plan | Free plan |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Mac, Web, Windows |
| Open source | No | No |
| Plans | Bronze sponsor: on request Gold sponsor: on request Normal sponsor: on request Silver sponsor: on request | SOLIDWORKS Design Standard with Cloud Services: $2,820 a year SOLIDWORKS Design Professional with Cloud Services: $3,456 a year SOLIDWORKS Design Premium with Cloud Services: $4,716 a year SOLIDWORKS for Makers: $48 a year |
| Verdict | FreeCAD provides parametric modeling and technical drawing tools at no licensing cost. Its desktop workflow and lack of stated team controls are worth weighing against your project needs. | SOLIDWORKS combines locally installed design tools with optional cloud collaboration and browser-based modeling. Its plans differ in included capabilities, and the listed Standard price is an annual single-device license. |
| Visit FreeCAD | Visit SOLIDWORKS |