SolveSpace — The Complete Guide: Small, Fast Free Parametric CAD for Parts and Mechanisms
SolveSpace is open-source parametric CAD software that is very small (a single executable), opens instantly and runs smoothly even on a weak computer. It is built around a strong geometric constraint solver — lengths, angles, tangency and parallelism — that updates immediately when you change a dimension.
SolveSpace
SolveSpace Project
Lightweight parametric modeller with a strong constraint solver, for mechanical parts and mechanisms.
Get it from the vendorWhat it is used for
- Simple mechanical parts — sketch, extrude, revolve and subtract, with parametric dimensions.
- Mechanism analysis — levers, four-bar linkages and slides: drag one part and see how everything else moves, with path traces.
- Export — STEP, STL, DXF and simple G-code for cutting.
- Area and volume — for a sketch or a part.
Limitations
There are no advanced fillets and chamfers, large assemblies or full production drawings. For complete design move to FreeCAD, and for modelling in code — OpenSCAD or CadQuery. Dune 3D is a newer tool in a similar spirit, with fillet support.
FreeCAD
FreeCAD Project
Open-source parametric 3D modeller with workbenches for solid modelling, FEM, drafting and BIM.
Get it from the vendor
OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD
Code-based 3D modelling where every dimension is a real parameter. Popular in 3D printing.
Get it from the vendor
CadQuery
CadQuery Project
Parametric CAD scripted in Python, on a proper solid-modelling kernel.
Get it from the vendorDune 3D
Dune 3D Project
A new parametric 3D modeller built around constrained sketching.
Get it from the vendorThe bottom line
For quickly modelling a part or checking how a mechanism moves, SolveSpace saves a lot of time. Free, light and available for every operating system.