Best Beginner Cad Software For Mac Rating: 6,9/10 1562 reviews

Read everything about E-Learning Software. Compare the best E-Learning software and choose the right e-learning authoring tool. May 06, 2019  Pricing: CAD Pro Furniture Design is a premium only software that costs you a one-time fee of $99.95. Platform support: CAD Pro is Windows-only software. Download CAD Pro Furniture Design software. SketchList is a purpose designed software that lets you create any type of furniture design you want. Originally Answered: what is the best 3D CAD software for MAC? As always it depends on what you want to model. For conceptual design of non-complex geometry SketchUp is a great program. For detailed architectural modeling, design, and documentation ArchiCAD is the best there is on any platform.

Free

If you’re looking for CAD software for Mac, you’re not without options. We’ve found some standout Mac and cloud-based CAD platforms for you.

You’re likely to hit a wall if you’re searching for computer-aided design (CAD) software designed for Mac. There are plenty of CAD software options for Windows—you’ll see many of them in our list of the top AutoCAD alternatives—but only a handful offer support for Mac.

And, if you think you’ll bypass the issue by using a cloud-based CAD tool, you’ll quickly find that CAD vendors haven’t embraced the cloud as much as other types of software vendors have, so the offerings are still largely on-premise. According to Gartner’s Hype Cycle for IT Evolution (full content available to Gartner clients), cloud-native CAD applications still have five to 10 years before they reach mainstream adoption.

But fear not, Mac users. We’ve done some digging and have put together this list of the top-rated CAD software for Mac. Read more about our methodology at the bottom of this article.

5 Best CAD Software for Mac (presented alphabetically)

Jump to:


  • CorelCAD

  • FreeCAD

  • Fusion 360

  • LibreCAD

  • Onshape

1. CorelCAD

CorelCAD offers 2D drafting and 3D design capabilities, such as the drawing constraints feature for creating different geometric shapes faster and the push and pull feature for 3D direct modeling.

3D modeling in CorelCAD (Source)

Common user feedback trends

Based on analyses of user reviews on Capterra, here’s an overview of the areas of CorelCAD they like best, as well as those they feel could use improvement.

What users like:

  • The short learning curve: Users mention that the tool is easy to use and beginners don’t have to spend a lot of time learning it.
  • Compatibility with multiple file types: Users like the fact that the tool is compatible with DWG, PDF, ACIS, DXF, STL, CDR, and other file formats.

What users think could be improved:

  • Software reliability issues: Some users mention that the software tends to crash at times.
  • Better dimension functionality: Some users would like a better dimensioning feature for more accurate drawings of angles and proportions.

Who can use CorelCAD

CorelCAD can be used by construction businesses for collaborative editing on multiple devices. It offers native iOS applications, which makes it easy for field crews to add annotations in graphics and share files using their iPhones and iPads. Additionally, the tool allows team members to leave recorded messages and instructions for colleagues embedded in the graphics using a voice note tool.

2. FreeCAD

FreeCAD is an open source CAD tool that works on Mac as well as Windows and Linux. It reads many common file formats such as STEP, IGES, STL, SVG, DXF, OBJ, IFC, and DAE.

It offers different modules, including a drawing sheets module that converts 3D models into 2D views, a rendering module that can export 3D objects, and an architecture module for a BIM-like workflow.

3D model of a building in FreeCAD (Source)

Common user feedback trends

Based on analysis of user reviews on Capterra, here’s an overview of the areas of FreeCAD they like best, as well as those they feel could use improvement.

What users like:

  • Feature-richness for a free tool: Users mention that, although it’s free, the tool comes with a full set of features.
  • Reliability: Users mention that the tool does not demand a lot of CPU power and works well on devices with low RAM.

What users think could be improved:

  • Steep learning curve: Users mention that the tool is not the most user-friendly solution and can be difficult for beginners to learn.
  • Dependent on community for updates: Users mention that modules ignored by the community tend to become outdated quickly.

Who can use FreeCAD

FreeCAD appears to be best for hobbyists and home users. It’s also good for users who don’t have a high budget for software but still want to tinker with CAD modeling.

FreeCAD could also be a good choice for businesses on a budget looking for a free and open-source option.

3. Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is a CAD tool from Autodesk with design functionalities such as sketching and 3D modeling. It also supports project management with features such as task management, document management, and collaborative image editing.

Document management in Fusion 360 (Source)

Common user feedback trends

Based on analysis of user reviews on Capterra, here’s an overview of the areas of Fusion 360 they like best, as well as those they feel could use improvement.

What users like:

  • Comprehensive design features: User mention that the tool offers all the functionalities necessary for 2D and 3D designing.
  • Availability of training resources: Users like the fact that the tool comes with ample documentation and tutorials.

What users think could be improved:

Otherwise, you may need to do one of the following.If Disk Utility reports “overlapped extent allocation” errors, two or more files occupy the same space on your disk, and at least one of them is likely to be corrupted. You can click Show Details to see more information about the repairs. Otherwise, continue to the next step.Click Run, then click Continue.If Disk Utility reports that the disk appears to be OK or has been repaired, you’re done. Software failed to run mac.

  • System crashes: Users mention that the tool tends to crash, especially when designing and rendering large files.
  • Steep learning curve: Users mention that it can take a lot of time to learn the advanced functionalities of the tool.

Who can use Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is part of the Autodesk ecosystem designed for the AEC industry. This makes the tool suitable for construction businesses that are already using, or intend to use, other Autodesk solutions. Using a software vendor that offers multiple solutions will especially benefit larger businesses that invariably need software that can scale with their growing requirements.

4. LibreCAD

LibreCAD is an open source CAD tool that supports Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. The tool comes with 2D drawing features such as a snap tool, dimensioning, and annotations. It also supports multiple file imports and exports.

2D drawing in LibreCAD (Source)

Common user feedback trends

Based on analysis of user reviews on Capterra, here’s an overview of the areas of LibreCAD they like best, as well as those they feel could use improvement.

What users like:

  • Ease of use: Users mention that the tool offers an intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
  • Lots of tutorials: Users like the fact that there are ample video tutorials that help them get started with the tool.

What users think could be improved:

  • Software speed: Users mention that the software tends to lag, especially when trying to print designs.
  • Add support for 3D design: Users would like to see functionalities for creating 3D designs.

Who can use LibreCAD

LibreCAD is an exclusively 2D CAD tool for drawing and designing blueprints of buildings, layouts of parks, and the like. As a free tool, the solution can be used by small and midsize businesses across different industries, including manufacturing, engineering, architecture, and construction.

5. Onshape

Onshape is a cloud-only CAD solution that comes with features such as document management with version control, collaborative design creation/editing capabilities, and reporting dashboards to understand project status.

Importing documents in Onshape (Source)

Common user feedback trends

Based on analysis of user reviews on Capterra, here’s an overview of the areas of Onshape they like best, as well as those they feel could use improvement.

What users like:

  • Document version control: Users like the document management features of the tool, such as version history.
  • Intuitive interface: Users mention that the tool comes with an intuitive interface for easy image editing.

What users think could be improved:

  • Performance issues: Some users mention that the tool does not function well on non-Chrome browsers and has file loading issues.
  • Lack of features: Users mention that the tool should improve certain features such as 2D drawing and 3D surfacing.

Who can use Onshape

As a fully-cloud based tool, Onshape is ideal for businesses that need to manage design documents collaboratively with multiple stakeholders. The tool’s collaboration functionalities include document sharing, document editing, comments, and file downloads in multiple CAD formats, such as Parasolid, ACIS, STEP, and IGES.

Next steps

This report offers a mix of Mac CAD solutions—from free tools that can help you with basic 2D drawing to advanced solutions offering extensive 3D modeling functionalities.

If these tools don’t meet your needs, expand your search and check out more options. To help you, we’ve created a CAD software comparison page where you can explore products using different filters, such as features offered and pricing options.

If you’re looking to understand the CAD software market better, we also recommend that you read the articles listed below:

Methodology

To be shortlisted, products had to fulfill the following criteria:

  • Products had to be compatible with Mac and offer core CAD software capabilities, such as:
    • 2D drawing or 3D modeling features
    • Collaborative editing of drawings
  • Products needed a minimum of 20 user reviews on Capterra (published in the last two years).
  • Products had to have a high overall rating (an average of at least 4 out of 5 on Capterra).

Note: The content in this piece that provides opinions and points of view expressed by users. It does not represent the views of Capterra.

Looking for Construction Management software? Check out Capterra's list of the best Construction Management software solutions.

What is the best free floor planner software?

The best free floor planner software is Floorplanner, an intuitive tool built for interior designers, property managers, and real estate agents. For something free, Floorplanner can do basic floor plan designing, offer an innovative cloud rendering capability, provide an auto-furnish feature, and import/export with ease.

When all you want is a general idea of how the floor will look like once the house is complete and furnished, an expensive 3D design software may be excessive for the task. So, it might be best to settle for a floor planner software instead. Unlike high-powered architecture software, this type of tool should help you visualize general spatial ideas, without including the elaborate designs, which usually require the help of a professional designer to decipher.

Luckily, there are lots of floor planning applications that you can use at no cost. To help you narrow down your options, we’ll be discussing the 10 best free floor planner software on the market. In particular, we’ve paid close attention to the real estate and architectural design functionality of these solutions. This way, once you read our analysis, you’ll have the insights to pick a software that can help you develop the best floor design.

What is the Best Free Floor Planner Software?

The real estate market has had several ups and downs in the past few years. What remains consistent is the competitive market made more difficult by the limited number of potential clients. However, the future of real estate seems bright. More than 45% of Millenials are expected to start buying their own properties with 2020 as the peak buying year for the generation.

A number of young adults are already considering investing their money on a real estate property. Currently, the majority of home buyers are Millenials making up about 37 percent of the entire potential buyers. The number is expected to rise rapidly within the next few years.

Because most buyers choose debt financing, they will be more selective before finalizing their decisions to maximize the value of their money. The combination of increasing property market prices and limited financing drives Millenial buyers to scrutinize most, if not all aspects, of a house. This includes the surrounding community, nearby schools, career opportunities in the area and more.

With new types of clients come new purchasing behaviors. Millennials prefer the web as their primary source of information. With most of them spending more than 3 hours a day on their smartphones and more than 30 minutes using a computer, having a strong online presence is essential.

Print chart
Download JPEG image
Download XLS

Information Sources Used by Home Buyers

Website

95%

Real estate agent

92%

Mobile device search

72%

Open house

50%

Yard sign

49%

Online videos

36%

Print ads (newspaper)

16%

Precedence diagram software for mac download. Home builder

14%

Real estate books/magazines

12%

Billboard

4%

Television

3%

Relocation company

3%

Source: Nar Realtor

Designed by

Hence, you have to publish compelling content to entice picky clients. Aside from photos and other media, floor plans will not only grab the attention of your leads, but it will also provide them with valuable information that can potentially compel them to buy the properties in your listing.

However, creating floor plans are usually done by artists using the best graphic design software. Fortunately, there are free floor planner software that will perfectly suit your needs without the steep learning curve and the hefty price tag. In this article, we will take a closer look at the most popular floor planner platforms. We have also outlined their key features so you can see how each one can help you and your business.

1. Floorplanner

Innovative floor planning application Floorplanner is designed primarily for real estate agents and interior designers. The solution helps users to create floor plans that give prospective homeowners how a remodeled room would look. Whether you want a quick or a detailed 2D/3D floor plan, Floorplanner has the tools to help you achieve your goal.

The application features a simple floor plan editor that works seamlessly on any web browser. This, coupled with the innovative cloud rendering capability, allows you to work on architectural visualization and deliver beautiful diagrams for building or marketing purposes. Additionally, the auto-furnish is the most salient Floorplanner’s feature. The tool enables you to quickly furnish your floor plan with just a few clicks.

Free Cad Program For Mac

FloorPlanner is available on three pricing plans, including Pay as you go, Pro plan, and Business plan. The Pay as you go pricing plan is a basic plan that allows users to create as many projects as they want and download 2D/3D floor plan designs in SD quality, for free. The level provides complete access to all Floorplanner’s features and design libraries. However, for better quality images and multiple floor plans, you have to subscribe to a paid plan.

Key Features of Floorplanner

  1. Floorplanner has an intuitive editor optimized for easy and fast floor plan creation.
  2. It comes with an Auto-furnish.
  3. Also, it makes it easy to import and export designs.
  4. Furthermore, it provides a space planner and an interactive viewer for easy publishing.

2. SmartDraw

All-in-one drawing tool SmartDraw can serve as a floor plan creator, org chart maker, and flowchart maker software for anyone who needs to create diagrams, from architects and engineers to real estate agents and project managers. It is a robust application that makes it easy to create intricate visuals from the web browser or any device, including Windows, Mac, or tablets. With over 4,500 diagram templates, file sharing, and collaboration features, SmartDraw is one of the most effective tools for creating floor plans.

SmartDraw provides a free and easy-to-use online editor. Also, with the quickstart templates and the intelligent, automatic formatting, it’s a breeze to create stunning layouts. Furthermore, SmartDraw’s floor creator boasts 34,000+ architectural design symbols and CAD-like drawing capabilities that help you create floor plans in minutes.

Key Features of SmartDraw

  1. SmartDraw provides 4,500+ templates and 34,000+ architectural symbols.
  2. It streamlines designing with its intelligent formatting.
  3. The platform has an easy-to-use online editor that is accessible anywhere, anytime.
  4. It’s easy to print diagrams to scale.
  5. Lastly, it integrates seamlessly with Box, Dropbox, OneDrive, Google Drive.

3. RoomSketcher

Cloud-based software RoomSketcher (formerly known as Home Designer by RoomSketcher) is an easy-to-use-architectural design tool for architects, real estate agents, and interior designers. It is an innovative solution that enables users to create stunning floor plans, office projects, and real estate property designs and visualize them in panoramic, 3D views. One thing you will like about RoomSketcher is that all the floor plans designed on this platform are easy to edit. You just click-and-drag to resize, move, add items, and customize the home design with different colors and textures.

Another great thing is that RoomSketcher provides interactive 3D walkthroughs. Regardless of your skill level, the walkthroughs can be of great help, especially when you want to create detailed floor plans with intricate perspectives and depth. The most exciting part is that, if you don’t have time to create your floor plan, you can request the vendor to create one for you.

Key Features of RoomSketcher

  1. RoomSketcher makes it easy to create 2D, 3D, and even Live 3D floor plans.
  2. It provides tools to create stunning 3D photos.
  3. Moreover, it makes it easy to view your home designs and real estate projects in panoramic 360-degree views.

4. SketchUp

3D design software SketchUp is built by Trimble to streamline 3D designing on the web. The solution provides a comprehensive suite of robust drafting and modeling features. Meaning, it can be used for interior, architectural, landscape, film, and civil engineering designs. SketchUp is easy to use, and it can be utilized by builders, designers, architects, and engineers at any phase of the design process.

What makes SketchUp unique is its basic version, which, despite being available for free, offers all the essential tools you need to create 3D models quickly. Moreover, SketchUp Free is a web-based application that comes with a core 3D modeler that can be accessed anywhere, anytime. Even better, SketchUp Free allows you to visualize your ideas on paper, and turn them into real projects with unprecedented expediency.

The solution combines 10GB cloud storage, 3D models library, mobile viewing, and the powerful 3D modeler to facilitate floor plan creation. Factor its interoperability in, and you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you can collaborate, store, access, and illustrate 3D models anywhere, anytime.

Key Features of SketchUp Free

  1. SketchUp Free supports different import and export file formats.
  2. It has a robust 3D modeler.
  3. In addition, it offers a 10GB cloud storage space.
  4. It also provides numerous user-generated 3D models.
  5. Lastly, it supports 3D model viewing on mobile phones.

5. Civil 3D

Another product on our list is AutoDesk Civil 3D. This powerful, on-premise civil infrastructure design software is built for construction companies, architects, and civil engineers. The application is primarily designed to support Building Information Modelling (BIM). However, it comes with innovative features that enhance workflow efficiencies and collaboration, from infrastructure design to production phase. Besides, the solution provides a suite of integrated features that enable architects to improve construction and design documentation.

What you’ll notice from the first impression is that Civil 3D has a compelling suite of civil engineering tools, and its quite capable when used to support intricate civil infrastructure projects like roads, rails, lang development, and airport structures. However, upon in-depth scrutiny, you will realize that the solution offers some lightweight technical features to support the creation of floors and 3D house plans.

The only quibble is that as powerful as it is, Civil 3D is not capable of creating detailed floor plans, and it may not be the best solution for enterprise design companies. Additionally, Autodesk Civil 3D provides a 3year free version for students. If you are a professional architect or house designer, you have to subscribe to a paid plan to get access to advanced features.

Key Features of Civil 3D

  1. Civil 3D has a traverse editor
  2. It comes with a corridor overlap resolution tool.
  3. Furthermore, it supports plan sheet generation.
  4. It also features property labeling tools.
  5. It has dynamic offset profiles

6. Sweet Home 3D

Sweet Home 3D is a free interior design software built to help architects and interior designers create house plans and arrange furniture more effectively. With the solution, you can draw your plan and fiddle with aspects such as the size and thickness of the walls, the color & texture of the floor/ceiling, and even the location & orientation of the furniture. That’s not all. Sweet Home 3D allows you to easily annotate the plan, control the sunlight effect, and customize lights to create photorealistic images.

Unlike other programs on our list, Sweet Home 3D is open-source software. This means the vendor gives you access to the software’s source code, and you can modify it to suit the way you work. Moreover, you can extend Sweet Home 3D functionality using plugins. The best part is that the solution if free, whether you are using it for commercial or personal use. Lastly, it runs smoothly on Mac, Solaris, Windows, and Linux devices, and its online version works seamlessly on any browser.

Key Features of Sweet Home 3D

  1. Sweet Home 3D makes it easy to draw sloping, rounds, or straight walls.
  2. It allows you to insert windows and doors with ease.
  3. You can add and rearrange the furniture.
  4. Furthermore, it comes with a compass rose to aid plan annotation.
  5. It is accessible in 27 languages.

7. AutoCAD Architecture

AutoCAD Architecture is yet another software on our list that is designed by Autodesk. This is a unique version of AutoCAD software that is stripped-down to suit the way architects work. It is an industry-specific solution exclusively designed to streamline and accelerate architectural design and drafting.

With over 8,000 architecture, engineering, and construction objects, AutoCAD Architecture enables architects and designers to create stunning designs without a struggle. When used to design floor plans, AutoCAD Architecture delivers realistic, 3D floor plans. However, like other Autodesk products, this solution provides a student version that is free for 3 years.

Key Features of AutoCAD Architecture

  1. AutoCAD Architecture supports architectural renovation.
  2. This has a Roombook feature for useful room documentation.
  3. Moreover, it provides powerful keynoting and detail components.
  4. It also makes it easy to define walls, windows, and doors.

8. Roomle

Are you looking to create interactive floor designs, but don’t want to spend on the task? Here is the kicker, Roomle can help you achieve that and even enable you to share your designs with prospective clients.

Roomle is an innovative 3D configurator primarily designed to help furniture designers to create beautiful product displays. However, Roomle comes with a floor planner with excellent floor plan designing capability. You can also use the floor planner online or on your iOS devices to create stunning floor plans and share them with ease. The ability to share floor plans can be an indispensable feature to real estate agents and project managers.

One thing you’ll like is Roomle’s Virtual Reality (VR) Functionality. The VR feature utilizes innovative technology to deliver interactive, virtual walkthroughs. Moreover, the walkthroughs inspire creativity and simplify floor plan creation.

Key Features of Roomle

  1. Roomle has a VR functionality for virtual walkthroughs.
  2. This application lets you share designs with family, teams, and prospective clients.
  3. It easy to white-label your design before sharing them online.
  4. Lastly, it allows you to embed design into your website.

9. AutoCAD LT

AutoCAD LT is a reliable 2 dimension (2D) drawing and documentation CAD software built by Autodesk. Architects, designers, and engineers trust this platform for all sorts of projects. Looking at this solution from an expert perspective, you’ll notice that it is a stripped-down version of AutoCAD. That aspect aside, AutoCAD LT is still a capable solution so you can easily use it to create detailed floor plans and other technical diagrams

The application features a simple, intuitive interface, and a suite of advanced annotation, design, and editing tools. This makes it one of the best tools for creating detailed technical drawings and documentation. Besides, AutoCAD LT relies on the innovative TrustedDWG technology to facilitate the storage and sharing of drawings. The best part is that with AutoCAD LT, you can create, edit, and view drawings on any device -web, desktop, or mobile. However, like Civil 3D, AutoCAD LT is free for three years for students.

Key Features of AutoCAD LT

  1. AutoCAD LT provides powerful 2D, annotation, and documentation tools.
  2. The platform works seamlessly with the AutoCAD suite of solutions.
  3. Moreover, it supports web and mobile use.
  4. It offers advanced features such as enhanced DWG compare, purge redesign, and block palette.

10. PlanningWiz Floor Planner

PlanningWhiz Floor Planner is a 2D/3D floor planning software for interior designers, real estate agents, property developers, and furniture retailers. It is an easy-to-use floor planning tool that enables users to convey floor plan concepts to customers. The solution is available on both free and paid versions. Its limited free plan allows you to create five 2D/3D projects and, depending on the type of project; you may not print or even export the plans.

Even though the tool boasts a set of lightweight design tools, it still creates high-quality floor plans and is the best for planning outdoor spaces. One highlight is that PlanningWhiz Floor Planner allows you to embed your logo into finished projects. Moreover, adding your identity to finished plans can influence brand credibility and boost property marketing strategies.

Additionally, property developers can use the tools to create presentations that give property buyers an accurate and realistic view of the proposed property. Furthermore, the tool provides an edition tailored to help fitness trainers show potential buyers how to arrange gym equipment. Lastly, PlanningWhiz Floor Planner enables landscape designers to create the perfect layouts for parks, recreational facilities, and playgrounds.

Key Features of PlanningWhiz Floor Planner

  1. It provides industry-specific drafting and designing tools.
  2. The platform supports outdoor and indoor space planning
  3. It can produce both 2D and 3D designs.
  4. It features a WYSIWYG editor.

Which is the Best Free Floor Planner Software for You?

There is no clear-cut answer to this. After all, each company has a different set of needs. Hopefully, with our analysis of the 10 best free floor planner software, you were able to get the data you need to make an informed decision. We’ve even gone a step further by listing the key features of these solutions.

If you are still undecided about which free floor planning tool to pick, we recommend trying out Floorplanner. This platform is easy to use and has a free version that gives you access to all its floor planning features. Plus, it comes with advanced features like the auto-furnish tool and the cloud rendering capability that lets you create stunning, photorealistic images and share them online with ease.

In case you feel that this still isn’t the right fit for you, perhaps you might be interested in checking out architecture software instead. To help you get started, feel free to check out our list of top architecture solutions for beginners.