Alternatives to CQ-editor
Build parametric CAD models with Python scripts in CQ-editor. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
CQ-editor
Build parametric CAD models with Python scripts in CQ-editor.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as CQ-editor.
OpenSCAD
A 3D modeller you write rather than draw: a script describes the object, and the program compiles it into a solid.
OpenSCAD uses its own scripting language instead of Python, compiles scripts into CSG solids, and has a large library ecosystem and browser playground.
FreeCAD
A parametric 3D modeller for real objects: design by sketching constrained 2D shapes, then change the parameters later.
FreeCAD offers interactive sketch-based parametric modeling with a broad Python API, so scripting remains available alongside mouse-driven design.
SolveSpace
A tiny parametric 2D and 3D CAD program built around a constraint solver, for designing real parts.
SolveSpace replaces scripting with an interactive constraint solver in a small download, exporting STL, STEP and DXF.
BRL-CAD
Constructive solid geometry modelling system with ray tracing and analysis.
BRL-CAD is an LGPL-2.1 constructive solid geometry system with a scriptable command set plus ray tracing and analysis tools.
Also worth comparing
These listings name CQ-editor as their own alternative, so the relationship runs both ways.
BlocksCAD
A browser-based tool for creating 3D models with block-based visual programming, aimed at schools.
CQ-editor builds parametric CAD models from Python scripts as free, open-source desktop software, suiting older learners but requiring CadQuery and Python instead of blocks.
Dune 3D
Design constrained 3D parts with a parametric CAD editor.
CQ-editor builds parametric models from Python scripts instead of interactive constraints, under Apache-2.0 on all three desktop platforms.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
Autodesk Fusion 360
Cloud-connected parametric CAD, CAM, and CAE platform with a free personal tier.
MeshLab
The standard tool for cleaning up messy 3D scan data: fill holes, remove noise, simplify and convert between mesh formats.
Zoo Design Studio
A mechanical CAD application on Zoo's own geometry engine, with a built-in conversational CAD agent.
Mayo
An open-source 3D CAD viewer and converter for STEP, IGES, STL and other formats.
