Which 3D CAD software? - Newbie
I am just getting started in 3D printing and realize I will need to select and learn a 3D CAD software package.
Question: Which free 3D CAD software program do people recommend for Windows 11, and why?
RE: Which 3D CAD software? - Newbie
This is what I use.
"Your milage may vary" as "they" say...
1)
To generate a design and then transfer it to the Prusa slicer I use Autodesk Fusion 360.
This is for technical stuff and general use.
Steep learning curve but powerful. With my background physics and engineering I used AutoCAD regularly so the transition was easy when I retired.
Free when used not commercially, but with restrictions on the number of active projects. Also it is a cloud service too. But the price is right if you qualify but that could change at any time so make sure you keep backups locally.
2)
Blender.
Suited for more artistic designs. Pretty complete with lots of users. Free (got mine from Steam).
3)
FreeCAD.
Also a steep learning curve. Pretty popular. Open source and some support.
4)
Meshroom.
Used to generate 3D views from photos.
Got some good results and some mixed bag. Fun to play with as an amateur.
Hope that helps.
Cheers and have fun.
REPAIR, RENEW, REUSE, RECYCLE, REBUILD, REDUCE, RECOVER, REPURPOSE, RESTORE
RE: Which 3D CAD software? - Newbie
Not CAD in the traditional sense, but these can function to make simple parts and allows you to get use to a 3d environment.
https://www.tinkercad.com/ by Autodesk; cloud based, free.
3d Viewer and 3d Builder are Windows apps. 3d Builder can create simple models, and pretty sure 3d Builder is what Prusa Slicer calls to fix bad STL's.