FreeCAD: a free 3D modeller for designing real objects
FreeCAD is a 3D modelling program for designing real objects. Its pages call it Free Software and its privacy page says the application collects no personal data.
Official model example
What it is
FreeCAD is a 3D modelling program. Its website calls it "your own 3D parametric modeler". "Parametric" means a shape is driven by numbers and settings, so you can go back and change a size and the model updates. The features page says it is made "primarily to design objects for the real world", using real units, and it can export models for 3D printing or CNC machining and make 2D drawings. It is not an AI tool. We included it as a free tool for people who want to design real objects on a computer.
Is it free?
The official homepage now explicitly says "no licensing fees" and "No sign-up, no paywall". The project licence documentation also says anyone can download, use and redistribute FreeCAD free of charge. Donations are optional and separate from downloading or using the program; this guide does not quote a current donation amount or currency conversion.
What the site says it can do
- Parametric models. Objects are driven by numbers, and changes are recorded in a history you can undo.
- Many file formats. It lists import and export for STEP, STL, OBJ, DXF, DWG, SVG, IFC and more.
- 2D sketches. A constraints-based 2D sketcher for drawing shapes you then turn into 3D parts.
- Assemblies and buildings. A built-in assembly workbench and a BIM workbench for building projects came with version 1.0, per the features page.
- Python. You can script it and record macros.
How to get it
- Open the project's download page.
- The page says the current stable version is 1.1.4, all downloads are 64-bit, Windows 10 is the minimum for Windows and macOS 12 Monterey is the minimum for Mac. Linux has AppImage downloads.
- Pick your system. Windows has an installer and a portable version.
The site has a getting started section and a user manual. We did not read them.
What to watch out for
- It is a serious tool. The features are aimed at engineering and design work. Expect to spend time learning. We did not test how steep the learning curve is.
- Development builds. The download page says weekly development builds are "not suitable for production use". Use the stable version.
- Add-ons and macros. The privacy page says add-on workbenches are not checked for malicious content, and macros are Python scripts that can do anything you can on your computer. Only run ones you trust.
- Files may carry metadata. The privacy page says files can contain local folder paths, which may include your user name. Check before sharing a file.
- Hardware needs. We did not find system requirements beyond the minimum operating systems.
Privacy and data
- The privacy page says: "The FreeCAD application does not collect, transmit, share or use any Personal Data."
- It says the software has no advertisements or trackers, and that the website has no trackers.
- It says your IP address or other data might be shared if you choose to load or save a file from a remote server, and when the add-on manager fetches add-ons.
- It adds that other people may package FreeCAD with extra software, and the project cannot vouch for those copies. Get it from the official download page.
India
- We saw no region limit. We did not test download speed from India.
Frequently asked questions
Is FreeCAD free?
Yes. The official homepage says "no licensing fees" and "No sign-up, no paywall"; its licence documentation says it can be downloaded, used and redistributed free of charge.
Can I 3D print what I make?
The features page says you can export models for 3D printing.
Does it collect my data?
Its privacy page says the application does not collect or send personal data.
Sources: FreeCAD home, Features, Download, Privacy policy. Checked 18 October 2026.
Independent guide, not affiliated.
Scoped recheck 23 October 2026: official homepage, download page, privacy page and website-content licence statement. Stable 1.1.4, 64-bit downloads, Windows 10 and macOS 12 minimums remain listed. Corrected the earlier uncertainty about whether use is free and removed an unverified donation-currency estimate. The image is a publisher model illustration, not a hands-on CAD or privacy test. Other claims retain their original source-check date. Original publication date unchanged.