OT: Looking for affordable CAD software

[bulldogcountry1]

I am looking for some affordable CAD software that I can use to create some wireframe 3D models. That’s about as complicated as I am going to get. The only other must is that I need it to be able to handle DXF files.

I have experience with Autocad and Microstation. I just can’t afford them for personal use. I used to use SketchUp, but I guess it got sold to another company. It’s about $700 now.

 

[Spike 80DF]

Autodesk Fusion 360. Free if you are a “hobbyist”.

 

[MarkDallas]

SketchUp is still free if you use it on the web. Not as easy to use as the old version, but works in a pinch.

 

[MSUDawg25]

You can get a lot of autodesk software for free on an educator’s trial/license if you have a .edu email address.

 

[BossDawg78]

SketchUp is still free if you use it on the web. Not as easy to use as the old version, but works in a pinch.

Sketchup is fun, fun, fun!

 

[Spike 80DF]

Sketchup is fantastic for construction projects and quick dimensioning. You can still get a free local version (I think 2017) that I prefer over the web-based version. The local allows you to easily manage groups and components. An hour or so following along beginner YouTube videos should get you up and running.

I prefer Fusion 360 for 3D modeling. There is a lot more functionality if your end goal is CNC or 3D printing. Learning curve is a little steeper, but you should be able to handle the basics after 2 or so hours of beginner YouTube videos.

 

[bulldogcountry1]

I have SketchUp 8 on an old laptop. I’ve also dabbled with the online version, but I’m always nervous about investing time into a program like that that could render my files useless overnight if they decide it shouldn’t be free anymore.

The old SketchUp doesn’t have DXF compatibility that I can tell.

I downloaded a software called FreeCAD. I’m going to give it a try. I’ll also look into Fusion 360.

 

[archdog]

Draft Sight, it is exactly like autocad. Doesn't do 3d though. Maybe it does. Not sure.