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SolveSpace

A small, free parametric 2D/3D CAD tool with a constraint solver.

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About SolveSpace

SolveSpace is a lightweight, open-source parametric CAD program. You draw sketches with geometric and dimensional constraints, then extrude, revolve, sweep and combine them into solid parts, and the constraint solver keeps everything consistent as you change dimensions. It can also model simple assemblies and mechanisms, check for interference and run basic motion analysis, and it exports STEP, STL, DXF and other formats for 3D printing, laser cutting and CNC work. The whole program is a small download that runs without installation on Windows and starts instantly, making it ideal for quick brackets, enclosures and mechanical parts. It is much less capable than FreeCAD or commercial CAD for large or complex designs, with limited fillets and surfacing. SolveSpace is free software under the GPLv3 and runs on Windows, macOS and Linux.

Best for: Makers who want quick parametric parts without a heavy CAD install.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Tiny, fast program with no installation on Windows
  • Constraint-based parametric sketches
  • Free and open source

Why people leave

  • Limited fillets, surfacing and large-assembly support
  • Basic interface and documentation
  • Not suited to complex products

Top SolveSpace alternatives

See all 4
  1. 1FreeCAD logo
    FreeCAD

    Free and open source with far more workbenches for complex projects.

    66.5
  2. 2OpenSCAD logo
    OpenSCAD

    Free code-based CAD for fully scripted parametric parts.

    62.6
  3. 3Onshape logo
    Onshape

    Professional parametric CAD in the browser, free for public projects.

    59.6
  4. 4Autodesk Fusion logo
    Autodesk Fusion

    Polished CAD with CAM, free for personal use.

    46.7

Why people left SolveSpace

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SolveSpace: common questions

Is SolveSpace free?

Yes. SolveSpace is free, open-source software.

Is SolveSpace open source?

Yes. The source code is on GitHub at solvespace/solvespace.

What platforms does SolveSpace run on?

SolveSpace is available for Windows, macOS and Linux.

What are the best alternatives to SolveSpace?

The highest-ranked SolveSpace alternatives right now are FreeCAD, OpenSCAD and Onshape. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 4 SolveSpace alternatives