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FreeCAD vs Autodesk Inventor: catalog facts
FreeCAD	Autodesk Inventor
Free Free and open source, funded by donations and sponsorship.	Paid Sold as a subscription from Autodesk or an Autodesk partner.
Windows, macOS, Linux	Windows
Parametric: change a dimension and the model updates through its history Sketch constrained 2D geometry and build 3D objects on top of it	Parametric modelling for mechanical parts and assemblies Includes simulation and documentation tools
Workbenches vary a lot in polish and consistency CAD concepts plus FreeCAD’s own conventions make for a long learning curve	Subscription only, no free tier Closed-source commercial software
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Closed source
License: LGPL-2.1	License not stated
No account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 20, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 23, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.