LibreCAD is a two-dimensional CAD application for creating technical drawings with layers, dimensions, and standard drafting tools. It serves users who need editable 2D geometry without a subscription, while remaining distinct from full parametric 3D modeling systems.
2D drafting
Layers
Dimensions
DXF drawings
Is it a good fit?
Best suited to
Users creating 2D technical drawings
Before you choose
Does not provide full 3D modeling. File compatibility needs checking with collaborators.
Editorial assessment based on the provider’s published information. Our method
Know what you're signing up for.
The GPLv2 software is available without a license subscription and includes 2D drafting and Layers. This covers the downloadable application, while optional support, third-party services, and separately licensed materials have their own terms.
Open-source software
$0software license
No software subscription; hardware, support and any separately licensed extras are not included.
File compatibility needs checking with collaborators
How to use it well
Set drawing units and layer conventions before adding geometry, then build a small dimensioned example to confirm output scale. Keep construction geometry separate from final outlines and test a file exchange with collaborators early. Check printed dimensions and line weights instead of assuming the screen view matches the final drawing.
This is best suited to users creating 2D technical drawings. Before committing a larger project, account for these trade-offs: does not provide full 3D modeling; file compatibility needs checking with collaborators.
A few things you might be wondering.
Is LibreCAD free?
The GPLv2 software is available without a license subscription and includes 2D drafting and Layers. This covers the downloadable application, while optional support, third-party services, and separately licensed materials have their own terms.
Can LibreCAD create parametric 3D solids?
Its main purpose is 2D drafting.
What should I check when sharing a drawing?
Verify file compatibility, units, dimensions, and layers in the receiving application.
Where can I check the latest prices?
Use the provider link on this page. Billing period, location, team size, promotions, taxes, and optional extras may affect the amount you pay.
How should I compare this tool with alternatives?
Choose tools for the same task, then compare their feature limits, platform support, and total cost for your team. The Compare button helps you keep a shortlist.
Are the user reviews moderated?
Yes. New reviews are submitted for moderation. We show published user reviews separately from the editorial overview and never assign a default user rating.
SolveSpace is a parametric CAD tool for constrained sketches, simple solid models, and mechanical assemblies. It offers a compact environment for dimension-driven design, helping users explore geometry and relationships without the overhead of a larger engineering suite.
Free open-source software
No software subscription; hardware, support and any separately licensed extras are not included.
OpenSCAD creates solid 3D models from scripts that describe geometry and transformations. It is particularly useful for dimension-driven parts and repeatable variants, offering a code-centered modeling workflow rather than a conventional interactive sculpting or drawing interface.
Free open-source software
No software subscription; hardware, support and any separately licensed extras are not included.
BRL-CAD is a solid-modeling system with geometry editing, ray tracing, and analysis tools. Its long-established constructive geometry workflow serves technical users who need explicit solid models and computational geometry capabilities rather than a purely artistic modeling interface.
Free open-source software
No software subscription; hardware, support and any separately licensed extras are not included.
