FreeCAD

by FreeCAD project · Graphics, photo & 3D

Open sourceWindowsMacLinux

Open-source parametric 3D CAD modeller.

Official download from freecad.org (opens in a new tab)

Opens freecad.org, FreeCAD project's own site. No mirror, no bundle.

Overview

What is FreeCAD?

FreeCAD designs real-world objects with parametric modelling, sketches and constraints. It exports STEP and STL for manufacturing and 3D printing.

Key features

  • Parametric modelling
  • Sketcher with constraints
  • Assembly and FEM workbenches
  • STEP and STL export

Best for

  • 3D printing parts
  • Mechanical design
  • Engineering students

Install

How to install FreeCAD

  1. 1Open the official FreeCAD download page on freecad.org.
  2. 2Pick the build for your system (Windows, Mac, Linux; check x64, ARM or Apple silicon where offered).
  3. 3Run the installer and read each screen; decline anything you did not ask for.
  4. 4Keep it updated from the app's own updater or your package manager.

Install from the command line

  • Windows · winget

    winget install --id FreeCAD.FreeCAD -e --source winget

  • Mac · Homebrew

    brew install --cask freecad

  • Linux · Flatpak (Flathub)

    flatpak install flathub org.freecad.FreeCAD

Package IDs checked against the public winget, Homebrew and Flathub repositories on 1 Nov 2026. Build a script for several apps.

Safety

Download FreeCAD safely

  • Check the domain

    The real download lives on freecad.org. Look-alike domains and search ads are the most common trap.

  • Skip mirrors

    Download portals can wrap installers in adware or old versions. You never need them for this app.

  • Verify if you can

    If the publisher lists a checksum, compare it with our in-browser checker before running the file.

  • Watch the installer

    Untick extras, browser changes or trials you did not ask for.

Open the checksum checker

Alternatives

FreeCAD alternatives

Other graphics, photo & 3d apps, closest platform match first.

All design

FAQ

FreeCAD questions

Where can I download FreeCAD safely?

Download FreeCAD only from FreeCAD project's official site at freecad.org. Avoid mirror and "download portal" sites, which can bundle extra software with the installer.

Is FreeCAD free?

Yes. FreeCAD is open-source software and free to use.

Does FreeCAD work on Windows, Mac and Linux?

FreeCAD is available for Windows, Mac, Linux. Check FreeCAD project's download page for exact system requirements and whether your processor (x64, ARM or Apple silicon) is supported.

Can I install FreeCAD from the command line?

Yes, with winget on Windows (winget install --id FreeCAD.FreeCAD -e); Homebrew on Mac (brew install --cask freecad); Flatpak on Linux (flatpak install flathub org.freecad.FreeCAD). Package managers fetch the publisher's files and make updates easy.

What are good alternatives to FreeCAD?

See the alternatives section on this page and the full graphics, photo & 3d list on AltFTool, which shows each app's licence and platforms side by side.