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AutoCAD vs FreeCAD

FreeCAD is a capable free option for parametric 3D work, but it is not a drop-in replacement for AutoCAD's 2D drafting and industry toolsets.

Pick AutoCAD if…

Pick AutoCAD if you work in a firm that standardises on Autodesk, or you need its Architecture, Electrical, MEP or Plant 3D toolsets.

Pick FreeCAD if…

Pick FreeCAD if you want parametric 3D modelling at no cost, need Linux support, or are a student or maker who does not want a subscription.

Price

  • Paid
  • Free
  • Open source

Starting price

—
—

Free plan

No
Yes

Open source

No
Yes

Works on

Windows, macOS
Windows, macOS, Linux
Try AutoCAD (opens the AutoCAD website in a new tab)Try FreeCAD (opens the FreeCAD website in a new tab)

AutoCAD is Autodesk's subscription CAD program. Its 2026 system requirements list Windows 10 and 11 and recent macOS versions, with the specialized toolsets (Electrical, Architecture, MEP, Plant 3D and others) on Windows only. Autodesk's pricing pages blocked automated access, so we have not confirmed a price here.

FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeller under the LGPL-2.1. The current stable release is 1.1.4, and it runs on Windows, macOS and Linux with no licensing fees. It reads and writes formats such as STEP, IGES, STL, DXF and IFC, and has FEA, BIM and CAM/CNC workbenches.

The main difference is workflow. FreeCAD builds 3D objects from constrained sketches and edits them through the model history; it is described as a 3D modeller first. Expect to learn a different interface if you come from AutoCAD.

If cost or Linux support matters, try FreeCAD first. If you depend on Autodesk's toolsets or need to match what your clients and colleagues use, AutoCAD is the safer fit.

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Last updated 16 October 2026. How we make money