OwlCAD vs Shapr3D

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.

Shapr3D is a 3D CAD application for direct and history-based parametric modeling. It has a built-in render engine and supports 3D-print export, while sculpting and animation tools are not included. The Free plan allows two projects and includes 20 generations. Pro costs $299/user/yr, billed annually and excluding VAT, and allows unlimited projects. Shapr3D runs natively on Windows, macOS, iPadOS and visionOS, works offline, saves designs locally and syncs them to Shapr3D Cloud when connected. It imports and exports native CAD formats, including XT, STEP, IGES, DWG, STL and 3MF. Browser-based Review Links let people view and comment on models, drawings and visualizations. Pro supports shared team projects, contributors, centralized storage and secure review links. Its 14-day Pro trial gives access to all features, but requires a credit card and charges on day 14 unless canceled at least 24 hours before. Listed requirements include Windows 10 version 2004 or later, macOS Sonoma 14.0 or later, and iPadOS 17 or later.