BRL-CAD vs OwlCAD
BRL-CAD
brlcad.orgOwlCAD
owlcad.comSide by side
| Figure | BRL-CAD | OwlCAD |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 2 |
| Spec score · 3D CAD Software | 8.1 (#29) | 8.6 (#9) |
| File formats | The documentation lists import converters for formats including DXF, IGES, NASTRAN, STL, and Unigraphics. | Import/export: STL, 3MF, OBJ, GLB, STEP, SVG and DXF; OpenSCAD .scad and .csg import |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Plans
BRL-CAD
- Free BRL-CAD distributionFree
- Full-service support distributionPriced on request
In their own words
OwlCAD
OwlCAD is a parametric CAD tool for modeling 3D objects and assemblies in a browser or on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its editor, modeling features, customizer, and file import and export are free forever, and every plan includes commercial rights to sell prints and files. The browser version requires no installation and can be opened without an account. OwlCAD imports and exports STL, 3MF, OBJ, GLB, STEP, SVG, and DXF files, and imports OpenSCAD SCAD and CSG files. Cloud projects autosave and keep version histories that can be rolled back. Projects are private by default; read-only share links, embeds, and comments can be enabled. Print preparation tools check mesh watertightness, repair geometry, estimate filament cost, and split oversized parts, with profiles for Ender 3, Prusa, and Bambu Lab. Published models can expose dimensions, counts, and text as browser sliders for downloadable print-ready versions. Pro adds AI generation and editing, monthly credits, and MCP access for use with Claude Code, Claude Desktop, Cursor, and other MCP clients.