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FreeCAD vs Onshape
September 21, 2023 | Author: Michael Stromann
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FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects of any size. Parametric modeling allows you to easily modify your design by going back into your model history and changing its parameters.
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Onshape is a FREE browser-based product development platform that brings together all the tools needed to develop a product from conception to production.
FreeCAD and Onshape are two distinct 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) solutions with notable differences in their deployment, accessibility, and collaboration capabilities.
Firstly, their deployment methods differ significantly. FreeCAD is an open-source desktop-based CAD software that is downloaded and installed on a user's local machine. It provides users with complete control over their design environment but can be limited in terms of real-time collaboration and remote access. Onshape, in contrast, is a cloud-native CAD platform accessible through web browsers. This cloud-based approach enables seamless real-time collaboration among team members working on the same project from different locations. Onshape's version control ensures that everyone is working on the most up-to-date design, making it ideal for distributed design teams and remote work setups.
Secondly, the accessibility of these tools varies. FreeCAD is a free, open-source software, which makes it highly accessible to individuals, hobbyists, and small businesses with budget constraints. However, it has a steeper learning curve, particularly for users new to parametric modeling. Onshape, although not free, offers a free plan with limited capabilities and affordable subscription tiers. Its user-friendly interface and cloud-based nature make it accessible to a broad range of users, including educational institutions and professionals, and it requires less investment in hardware and maintenance.
See also: Top 10 CAD software
Firstly, their deployment methods differ significantly. FreeCAD is an open-source desktop-based CAD software that is downloaded and installed on a user's local machine. It provides users with complete control over their design environment but can be limited in terms of real-time collaboration and remote access. Onshape, in contrast, is a cloud-native CAD platform accessible through web browsers. This cloud-based approach enables seamless real-time collaboration among team members working on the same project from different locations. Onshape's version control ensures that everyone is working on the most up-to-date design, making it ideal for distributed design teams and remote work setups.
Secondly, the accessibility of these tools varies. FreeCAD is a free, open-source software, which makes it highly accessible to individuals, hobbyists, and small businesses with budget constraints. However, it has a steeper learning curve, particularly for users new to parametric modeling. Onshape, although not free, offers a free plan with limited capabilities and affordable subscription tiers. Its user-friendly interface and cloud-based nature make it accessible to a broad range of users, including educational institutions and professionals, and it requires less investment in hardware and maintenance.
See also: Top 10 CAD software
