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CadQuery VS libfive Studio

Compare CadQuery VS libfive Studio and see what are their differences

CadQuery logo CadQuery

CadQuery is a parametric cad script framework

libfive Studio logo libfive Studio

A minimalist GUI for solid modeling with the libfive kernel.
  • CadQuery Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-22
  • libfive Studio Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-14

CadQuery features and specs

  • Parametric Modeling
    CadQuery allows for parametric modeling, enabling users to easily modify dimensions and regenerate models, which enhances flexibility and design iteration.
  • Scripting Language
    It uses a Python-based scripting language, making it accessible and intuitive for users familiar with Python programming, and providing powerful automation capabilities.
  • Open Source
    Being open source, CadQuery is free to use and modify, with a community-driven development process that encourages collaboration and contributions.
  • 3D Visualization
    It supports 3D visualization, allowing users to easily view and inspect their models within a dynamic environment.
  • Rich Feature Set
    The library offers a rich set of modeling functions such as Boolean operations, transformations, and many other CAD operations.

Possible disadvantages of CadQuery

  • Learning Curve
    New users may face a learning curve, especially if they are not familiar with Python or scripting-based CAD tools.
  • Limited GUI
    CadQuery primarily operates as a script-based tool with limited graphical user interface options, which might not appeal to users who prefer traditional CAD software interfaces.
  • Performance
    For highly complex models, CadQuery can experience performance slowdowns compared to some traditional CAD software.
  • Community-Dependent Support
    While it is community-driven, the support and resources available depend on community contributions, which can vary in consistency and coverage.
  • Integration Challenges
    Integrating CadQuery into established workflows that rely on traditional CAD software might present challenges due to different file formats and compatibility issues.

libfive Studio features and specs

  • Open Source
    Libfive Studio is an open-source tool, allowing users to access and modify the source code, fostering community collaboration and customization.
  • Parametric Design
    Supports parametric modeling, enabling users to create geometric objects using parameters, which can be easily adjusted and modified.
  • Compatibility
    Offers compatibility with multiple platforms, providing flexibility for users on different operating systems.
  • Simplicity
    Provides a streamlined and simple user interface, making it accessible for both beginners and advanced users interested in procedural modeling.

Possible disadvantages of libfive Studio

  • Steep Learning Curve
    For users not familiar with parametric or procedural modeling, the tool may present a steep learning curve initially.
  • Development Activity
    As an open-source project, it might not have the same level of consistent updates and comprehensive support as some commercial alternatives.
  • Limited Features
    Might lack some advanced features available in more mature and commercially developed CAD systems.
  • User Community
    Although it has a dedicated user base, the overall community might be smaller, which can limit the availability of third-party tutorials and resources.

CadQuery videos

Mach 30 Reports CadQuery CodeCAD Update 11-06-14

libfive Studio videos

No libfive Studio videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to CadQuery and libfive Studio)
3D
51 51%
49% 49
3D Modeling
64 64%
36% 36
Architecture
46 46%
54% 54
CAD
52 52%
48% 48

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, libfive Studio seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 4 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

CadQuery mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of CadQuery yet. Tracking of CadQuery recommendations started around Mar 2021.

libfive Studio mentions (4)

  • Show HN: Make 3D art in your browser using Lisp and math
    You should check out libfive! https://libfive.com/studio/. Previously discussed here: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=26930822. It is the child of Ao, previously discussed here: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=12319406. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • Fornjot – The world needs another CAD program
    Libfive does something similar but uses lisp instead of rust. https://libfive.com/studio/. - Source: Hacker News / about 3 years ago
  • Adobe Joins Blender Development Fund
    I found it confusing for a similar reason especially when you get into more complicated designs with multiple parts. I think development could be massively sped up with a little funding. I tried libfive (https://libfive.com/studio/) too which is roughly similar to OpenSCAD but faster to sketch with imo. There was a good discussion here on this topic too if you were interested:... - Source: Hacker News / almost 4 years ago
  • Massively Parallel Rendering of Complex Closed-Form Implicit Surfaces (2020)
    Super cool to see Matthew's library as well: https://libfive.com/studio/. - Source: Hacker News / about 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing CadQuery and libfive Studio, you can also consider the following products

OpenSCAD - OpenSCAD is a software for creating solid 3D CAD objects.

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

DynaMaker - Cloud service for Visual Product Configuration with parametric geometry and CAD / BIM

BRL-CAD - BRL-CAD: Open Source Solid Modeling

ImplicitCAD - ImplicitCAD is a programmatic CAD program, implemented in Haskell.

OpenJSCAD.org - OpenSCAD + JavaScript = OpenJSCAD, edit locally or remote online, preview in browser direct via...