SelfCAD

Active

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 2016
Developer: SelfCAD (company behind selfcad.com)
Pricing: Freemium ($15 upgrade)
Open source: No
Platforms: Web, macOS, Windows

Indexes

3D Modelling

Overview

SelfCAD is a browser-based 3D modeling software that supports designing, sculpting, sketching, rendering, animating, slicing, and printing preparation. It targets beginners, hobbyists, students, freelancers, and professionals with tools for 3D printing workflows including manifold fixing and slicing for FDM and DLP printers. Key distinctions include all-in-one functionality from sketching to slicing, support for 40+ file formats, and optional offline desktop access.⁵⁶⁴

Key Features

3D Sketch - Draw profiles using tools like Line, Spline, Arc, Text, Circle, Square, Ellipse, and Donut for creating 2D shapes in 3D space.
Cut with Profile - Engrave drawn 2D profiles onto 3D object topology without altering the base mesh directly.
Shape Generators - Basic primitives and tools for creating initial 3D models.
Modifiers - Tools to modify objects including subdivide, merge, split, stitch, and scoop.
Slicer - Slice models for 3D printing with FDM and DLP support, including manifold fixing.
Sculpting - Artistic sculpting and drawing tools for detailed modeling.
File Import/Export - Handle 40+ 3D formats, images, and SVG for flexible workflows.
3D Printing Tools - Repair, slice, and prepare models directly in the software.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	Free	Limited access to basic 3D modeling tools: shape generators, drawings, transformations, modifiers, slicer.
Premium	$15 (one-time upgrade)	Full access to all features including advanced tools.

Platforms & Requirements

Runs primarily as a browser-based web app with optional desktop downloads for macOS (DMG installer) and Windows. No Linux support mentioned. Minimum requirements not specified; web version requires modern browser, desktop enables offline use.⁵⁶

Integrations & Ecosystem

40+ 3D file formats import/export
SVG import
Image to 3D conversion
STL slicing for 3D printing
Marketplace with 45k+ 3D models
Facebook 3D post sharing

Alternatives

App	Difference
Tinkercad	Fully free web-based CAD focused on simple assemblies, lacks advanced sculpting and slicing.
Fusion 360	Professional CAD with CAM, free for hobbyists but more complex and cloud-heavy.
Blender	Free open-source with extensive modeling and sculpting, steeper learning curve, no built-in slicer.
Onshape	Cloud CAD for collaborative parametric design, subscription-based, engineering-focused.

Reputation

SelfCAD is viewed as accessible for beginners and hobbyists due to its all-in-one 3D modeling to printing workflow and low cost. Users appreciate the intuitive tools like 3D Sketch and Cut with Profile for quick designs. Criticisms include limited free plan features and less depth compared to professional tools like Blender or Fusion 360.⁴⁵⁶

Sources (10)