FreeCAD vs Onshape: catalog facts
 FreeCAD |  Onshape |
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Free Free and open source, funded by donations and sponsorship. |
Freemium Free tier available; paid plans add private documents and more storage. |
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Windows, macOS, Linux |
Web |
- Parametric: change a dimension and the model updates through its history
- Sketch constrained 2D geometry and build 3D objects on top of it
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- No desktop install needed since the entire CAD environment runs in the browser
- Real-time collaboration and built-in version history simplify team design work
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- Workbenches vary a lot in polish and consistency
- CAD concepts plus FreeCAD’s own conventions make for a long learning curve
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- Requires a stable internet connection since there is no offline desktop mode
- Free tier makes projects publicly viewable, which is not suitable for private work
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Downloadable app |
Web application |
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Open source |
Closed source |
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License: LGPL-2.1 |
License not stated |
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No account needed |
Not stated if an account is needed |
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Works offline |
Not stated if it works offline |
Checked September 20, 2026 | Checked September 22, 2026 |
Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.
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