DataCAD VS OpenSCAD

Compare DataCAD VS OpenSCAD and see what are their differences

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DataCAD

DataCAD is a computer-aided design and drafting software for 2D and 3D architectural design and drafting

OpenSCAD

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

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2021-09-23

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2021-10-19

We recommend LibHunt OpenSCAD for discovery and comparisons of trending OpenSCAD projects.

DataCAD

Website: datacad.com
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OpenSCAD

Website: openscad.org
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DataCAD features and specs

Ease of Use
DataCAD is known for its user-friendly interface. This makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced users, facilitating quick learning curves and efficient work processes.
2D/3D Integration
DataCAD offers robust support for both 2D and 3D design and drafting. This allows users to work seamlessly between different project stages without needing additional software.
Affordability
Compared to other architectural design software, DataCAD is generally more affordable, making it a cost-effective option for both small firms and individual users.
Comprehensive Toolset
The software provides a wide range of tools for architectural drafting, from basic drawing tools to advanced modeling capabilities, which are essential for creating detailed and accurate designs.
Customization
DataCAD allows for significant customization of its tools and interface, enabling users to tailor the software to their specific needs and preferences.

Possible disadvantages of DataCAD

Steeper Learning Curve for Advanced Features
While the basic tools are easy to use, some of the more advanced features can be challenging to master and may require additional training or experience.
Limited Collaboration Tools
DataCAD lacks some of the advanced collaboration features found in other architectural design software, such as real-time co-authoring, which can be a disadvantage for larger teams.
Compatibility Issues
Users have reported occasional compatibility issues when working with files from other design software, which can result in additional steps or software to ensure smooth collaboration.
Slower Updates
DataCAD doesn’t receive software updates as frequently as some of its competitors, which can lead to delays in accessing new features and improvements.
Less Industry Adoption
Although it has a dedicated user base, DataCAD is less widely adopted in the industry compared to other software like AutoCAD or Revit, which can affect interoperability and client expectations.

OpenSCAD features and specs

Parametric Design
OpenSCAD allows for parametric design, meaning that models can be easily adjusted and customized by changing parameters. This makes it highly adaptable for a wide range of applications.
Script-based Modeling
Using a scripting language for modeling allows for precise control and fine-tuning of designs. Users can write scripts to generate complex geometries that may be difficult to achieve through traditional CAD interfaces.
Open Source
Being an open-source software, OpenSCAD is freely available to download, use, and modify. This encourages a community-based approach to development and support.
Cross-Platform
OpenSCAD is available on multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux, enabling a wider range of users to access and use the software.
No GUI Overhead
Because OpenSCAD relies on text-based scripting instead of a graphical user interface, it is lightweight and less resource-intensive compared to some other CAD programs.

Possible disadvantages of OpenSCAD

Steeper Learning Curve
Users need to learn the OpenSCAD scripting language, which can be a barrier for those unfamiliar with coding or those coming from traditional CAD software background.
Limited GUI
Unlike other CAD programs that offer extensive graphical tools for creating and modifying models, OpenSCAD has a minimal GUI. This can make it less intuitive for users who prefer visual interaction.
Rendering Speed
Complex models can take a significant amount of time to render, which could be a drawback for users who need quick iterations and immediate visual feedback.
Limited Interactivity
The interactivity in OpenSCAD is relatively limited. Users need to compile or preview their designs frequently to see changes, which can slow down the design process.
Fewer Features Compared to Professional CAD Software
OpenSCAD lacks some advanced features and tools that are found in professional CAD software, limiting its use for certain complex design projects.

Analysis of DataCAD

Overall verdict

DataCAD is considered good, particularly for professionals in architecture who need a versatile and robust CAD software that doesn't have a steep learning curve. It effectively balances powerful design capabilities with accessibility.

Why this product is good

DataCAD is a computer-aided design and drafting software tailored for architects and engineers. It's known for its user-friendly interface, reliability, and comprehensive toolset designed for architectural tasks. Users appreciate its ease of use compared to other CAD software and the strong support community that provides help and add-on tools.

Recommended for

Architects seeking a reliable drafting tool.
Small to mid-sized architecture firms.
Users who prefer Windows-based CAD software.
Those looking for an affordable alternative to more expensive CAD programs.

Analysis of OpenSCAD

Overall verdict

OpenSCAD is a robust tool, especially if you have a programming background or enjoy algorithmic design. It may not be as intuitive for those accustomed to traditional CAD software interfaces, but its capabilities for parametric modeling make it a valuable tool in the right hands.

Why this product is good

OpenSCAD is a script-based 3D CAD modeler that offers a solid platform for those who prefer designing through coding rather than a traditional graphical interface. Its parametric nature allows for precise and customizable 3D models, which is ideal for complex designs.

Recommended for

Engineers and designers with programming experience
Hobbyists and makers interested in 3D printing
Users who prefer parametric and script-based design
Projects requiring precision and repetitive patterning

DataCAD videos

+ Add

Datacad 11 tutorial - 3d Ranch House

OpenSCAD videos

+ Add

Tutorial: Using OpenSCAD To Make Your Wife Happy

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to DataCAD and OpenSCAD)

OpenSCAD

44 44%

56% 56

CAD

58 58%

CAD

42% 42

Architecture

0 0%

Architecture

100% 100

Office & Productivity

100 100%

Office & Productivity

0% 0

User comments

Share your experience with using DataCAD and OpenSCAD. For example, how are they different and which one is better?

Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare DataCAD and OpenSCAD

DataCAD Reviews

We have no reviews of DataCAD yet.
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OpenSCAD is a worldwide 3D CAD modeler that allows skilled programmers and designers to create solid 3D CAD objects in the shortest time feasible. The software works with Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux operating systems. This CAD application's distinguishing feature is that it is based on programming that includes 3D modelling, ready-to-use items and designs, and the ability...

Source: www.justalternativeto.com

9 Free CAD Software to Download

For those who want to work on the specifics, especially engineers, OpenSCAD is your ideal 3D modeling platform. It does not have interactive modeling for you to design your model, but instead relies more on what you defined in the parameters through the script files.

Source: www.hongkiat.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenSCAD seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 99 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.

DataCAD mentions (0)

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

OpenSCAD mentions (99)

Visual Explanations of Mathematics
There is also Joyce's Java Version of Euclid's Elements: https://mathcs.clarku.edu/~djoyce/java/elements/elements.html and I'm still impressed by the custom Unity tools which Freya Holmér uses for her videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvPPXbo87ds Wish Geogebra was both more capable and widely used: https://www.geogebra.org/ That said, these days if I need to plot out something I just use OpenSCAD:... - Source: Hacker News / 4 months ago
Powerful, Open-Source, Programmatic CAD
Or you can download OpenSCAD. https://openscad.org. - Source: Hacker News / 9 months ago
Make a thing
As part of the task, I needed code-based CAD and I found one, probably the most popular out there - Openscad https://openscad.org/. It’s well known solution and definitely the learning curve is more gentle, but also not trivial, especially for more complex shapes. - Source: dev.to / 11 months ago
POV-Ray – The Persistence of Vision Raytracer
If you once enjoyed POV, check out OpenSCAD. It's quite similar in terms of CSG concepts and primitive animation capability, but more useful for getting actual mechanical design work done. https://openscad.org/. - Source: Hacker News / 12 months ago
Ask HN: What Underrated Open Source Project Deserves More Recognition?
There's OpenSCAD, but I don't think it's exactly what you mean https://openscad.org/. - Source: Hacker News / about 1 year ago