Getting started with CAD software doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Many beginners feel lost when choosing their first design program—worried about high costs, complex interfaces, or picking something that won’t be useful in the real world.
Whether you’re a student taking your first steps into design, a professional looking to add new skills, or someone interested in 3D modelling, picking the right CAD programs for beginners can make all the difference.
The good news? You don’t need to jump straight into the most advanced (or expensive) programs.
Today’s CAD software comes in many forms, from free options perfect for learning to professional tools with gentler learning curves.
Some run right in your web browser, letting you start designing without complicated installations. Others are the same tools professionals use, but with special deals for beginners and students.
We’ve carefully selected 10 of the best CAD software for beginners options that are perfect for beginners.
Each one was chosen based on how easy it is to learn, available tutorials, cost, and real-world usefulness. These programs will give you the solid foundation you need, with tools that actually matter when you’re just starting out—no overwhelming features you won’t use yet.
Ready to find your perfect starter, easy-to-use CAD program?
Let’s dive into our 10 CAD software list.
AutoCAD
AutoCAD is the industry-standard CAD software widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction. Created by Autodesk, it offers comprehensive 2D drafting and basic 3D modelling capabilities. The software comes with extensive learning resources and a large user community, making it easier for beginners to find help and tutorials.
This software can be considered as the CAD software for beginners, since it offers a wide range of features that cater to both beginners and professionals, and it is also widely adopted by the industry.
- Cost: Free for students, $220/month for professionals
- Best for: Technical drawings, architectural plans, and engineering designs
- Key features:
- Precise 2D drafting tools
- Basic 3D modelling capabilities
- Extensive documentation features
- Industry-standard file formats
More on Interscale Education Blog: Best Free CAD Software for 3D Printing, Top 7 Picks for 2024
SketchUp
SketchUp is known for its user-friendly interface and intuitive tools, making it an excellent CAD software for beginners. The web-based version (SketchUp Free) allows users to start 3D modelling without installing any software, while the pro version offers more advanced features for professional use.
- Cost: Free web version, SketchUp Pro from $299/year
- Best for: Architectural visualisation, interior design, and quick 3D modelling
- Key features:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Large library of pre-made 3D models
- Web-based option available
- Extensive tutorial resources
SolidWorks
SolidWorks is a powerful parametric 3D CAD software widely used in product design and manufacturing. While it has a steeper learning curve, it offers comprehensive features for mechanical design and engineering applications.
While it may not be the best CAD software for beginners, learning SolidWorks offers valuable skills that are highly sought after in the industry since it is widely used in various industries.
- Cost: Around $4,000/year, free for students at certain institutions
- Best for: Product design, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing
- Key features:
- Parametric 3D modelling
- Assembly modelling
- Simulation capabilities
- Technical documentation tools
CATIA
CATIA is a high-end 3D CAD software widely used in aerospace, automotive, and industrial design. Created by Dassault Systèmes, it offers powerful surface modelling capabilities and complex assembly design features. While advanced, it provides structured learning paths for beginners.
- Cost: Contact vendor for pricing, educational licences available
- Best for: Aerospace design, automotive engineering, and complex surface modelling
- Key features:
- Advanced surface modeling
- Large-scale assembly design
- Integrated analysis tools
- Industry-specific workbenches
Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a modern cloud-based CAD software that combines CAD, CAM, and CAE capabilities. Autodesk’s integrated platform offers a more approachable interface while maintaining professional-grade features, making it popular among beginners and professionals alike.
- Cost: Free for hobbyists and startups, $60/month for professionals
- Best for: Product design, 3D printing projects, and hobby engineering
- Key features:
- Cloud-based collaboration
- Integrated CAM tools
- Simulation capabilities
- Regular automatic updates
OnShape
As one of the top CAD software for beginners, Onshape is a cloud-based platform that runs in your web browser, eliminating the need for powerful hardware. It offers professional-grade features while maintaining accessibility for beginners through its modern interface.
- Cost: Free for public documents, Professional plans from $1,500/year
- Best for: Collaborative design work, startup companies, and remote teams
- Key features:
- Real-time collaboration
- Version control
- Runs in web browser
- Mobile app support
Rhino
Rhino (Rhinoceros 3D) excels in free-form surface modelling and is popular in industrial design and architecture. While powerful, its logical command structure and extensive documentation make it accessible to determined beginners.
- Cost: $995 one-time purchase
- Best for: Industrial design, architectural modelling, and jewellery design
- Key features:
- NURBS-based modelling
- Grasshopper visual programming
- Extensive plugin ecosystem
- Precise surface modelling
Revit
While Revit is primarily a BIM software, it can be a useful CAD software for beginners who want to expand their skill set. As Autodesk’s leading Building Information Modeling solution, it’s widely used in modern architecture and construction. Though advanced in nature, learning Revit early can give beginners a valuable advantage in these industries.
- Cost: Free for students, $320/month for professionals
- Best for: Architectural design, building design, and construction planning
- Key features:
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- Parametric components
- Collaboration tools
- Construction documentation
FreeCAD
FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeller that offers professional-grade features without cost. Its community-driven development provides a welcoming environment for beginners while maintaining powerful capabilities. If you are looking for a best free CAD software for beginners, then this software is your go-to choice for that
- Cost: Free and open-source
- Best for: Mechanical design, product design, and 3D printing projects
- Key features:
- Parametric modelling
- Python scripting support
- Active community
- Cross-platform compatibility
Creo
Creo (formerly Pro/ENGINEER) is a powerful CAD software for beginners willing to tackle professional tools. As PTC’s parametric modelling software, it’s known for its robust features in product design and manufacturing. While advanced, it offers structured learning resources that help beginners master the platform.
- Cost: Contact vendor for pricing, educational licences available
- Best for: Product development, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing
- Key features:
- Parametric modelling
- Advanced assembly features
- Simulation tools
- Manufacturing preparation
More on Interscale Education Blog: Best CAD Software for Personal Use in 2024 for Every Skill Level
Choose Your Perfect CAD Software and Start Designing!
Now you have a clear view of the best CAD software for beginners – from free platforms to professional-grade tools. Whether you’re looking to start with user-friendly SketchUp or dive straight into industry-standard AutoCAD, your next step is learning how to use these tools effectively. Ready to turn this knowledge into practical skills? Start your journey with Interscale Education.
Interscale Education brings expert-led CAD training straight to your screen:
- Weekly live classes with certified Australian trainers
- Access to 100+ comprehensive course materials
- Learn at your own pace with 24/7 online access
- Earn international certification upon completion
- Custom training paths for various CAD software
Join a community of aspiring designers and professionals in our supportive learning environment. With over 60 years of industry experience, Interscale Education provides Australian-class training that prepares you for real-world projects and opportunities.
Take your first step into CAD mastery with our Certified CAD courses—register now!
