Computer Aided Design is an important part of our everyday lives. Nearly everything we use and interact with has been through this design process. Thanks to products like 3D printers, more and more people are getting interested in CAD and trying out the software. Here is a quick guide to the big three CAD tools and how they differ from each other.
Solidworks
This software is one of the most popular in the industry. It is a full 3D design program that has a range of built-in features like reverse engineering and design validation tools that save CAD technicians time and their projects money.
One of its most popular features is its portability. The software works well on a lightweight laptop, making it perfect for designers who are on the move or work from home. These Lenovo Solidworks Laptops have been built for the software and make it easier to find a portable PC solution.
The modelling in Solidworks can be incredibly detailed and allows designers to create fine curves and resize elements easily. You can design everything from small and intricate machine parts to large industrial pieces all on the same software.
AutoCAD
This oldie is a goldie. It is undeniable that AutoCAD is an incredibly powerful design tool, and its early popularity means many people are comfortable using it. Over time it has begun to show its limitations, and pretenders to its throne have found niches to exploit that siphon off its customer base.
Though there are more powerful options available, AutoCAD is a solid choice for 3D modelling and CAD design. Its user interface is simple and intuitive, which makes it popular with amateurs as well as professionals. It is widely used in the at-home 3D printing market and by professional 3D printing services because it is easy to use, and designs can be mocked up quickly.
It is a lack of features that can let this software down sometimes. Other CAD software can offer better design validation and cut down on the need for practical prototyping. This is fine for 3D printers, but professionals that work on a larger scale cannot afford to repeatedly prototype to fine-tune designs. This is why many are switching to other CAD tools.
OpenSCAD
This open-source, free-to-use CAD program should not be underestimated. It is an incredibly powerful Computer Aided Design tool that has been built from the ground up by enthusiasts. This is a unique selling point for the free software; the program has been designed by CAD users for CAD users.
It does have its drawbacks of course. It is a professional-level program and requires a lot of knowledge and experience from other programs to be used efficiently. People who persevere, and get to grips with the user interface, often become evangelical about the software later. You can tailor it to your needs when you know how and begin speeding up the design process.
Which software is the best for you depends greatly on your needs and the products you are planning to design, as well as your budget. With free software available, there is nothing stopping anyone from beginning a CAD career.
