Architecture Software: 2D Drafting, 3D Modelling and Licensing

This article revisits five tools from the original 2022 overview: SketchUp, FreeCAD, LibreCAD, Dynamo and OpenSCAD. They serve different tasks, from 2D drafting to parametric modelling and visual programming. Comparing them requires distinguishing a free edition from open-source software, and a modelling tool from a documentation or rendering workflow.

Choose the task before the software

A 2D drawing tool records plans and technical details. A 3D modeller builds geometry, while a visual-programming environment describes operations and relationships. None of these labels alone establishes that a product includes every stage of an architectural workflow.

SketchUp: distinguish the Free edition

SketchUp supports 3D modelling. SketchUp Free runs in a browser and is a streamlined edition rather than the full desktop product. Its published terms exclude commercial use, so it should not be described as a free, unrestricted route from concept design to professional construction documentation.

FreeCAD: parametric modelling

FreeCAD is an open-source parametric design application. Its workbenches support tasks including solid modelling, 2D drawings and building information modelling. Model geometry can be driven by properties and relationships, allowing changes to propagate through the design.

LibreCAD: dedicated 2D drafting

LibreCAD is a free, open-source 2D CAD application. It belongs in a comparison of drafting tools, rather than a list limited to 3D modelling or rendering. Its focus is the production and editing of technical drawings.

Dynamo: visual programming and host applications

Dynamo is an open-source visual-programming environment. Dynamo Sandbox is a free standalone download with limited functionality; the official download page notes that access to geometry requires other Autodesk products. Dynamo for Revit is installed with Revit. The availability of an open-source component does not make every host application or workflow free.

OpenSCAD: models defined by scripts

OpenSCAD creates solid 3D CAD models from script-based descriptions. Its approach suits geometry controlled by parameters and operations such as constructive solid geometry and extrusion. It differs from direct, interactive modelling and from software primarily intended for artistic animation.