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FreeCAD VS LucidChart

Compare FreeCAD VS LucidChart and see what are their differences

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FreeCAD logo FreeCAD

An open-source parametric 3D modeler

LucidChart logo LucidChart

LucidChart is the missing link in online productivity suites. LucidChart allows users to create, collaborate on, and publish attractive flowcharts and other diagrams from a web browser.
  • FreeCAD Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-23
  • LucidChart Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-10

FreeCAD features and specs

  • Open Source
    FreeCAD is free to use and its source code is open to the public, allowing for customization and extension by the community.
  • Cross-Platform
    FreeCAD is available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
  • Parametric Modeling
    Users can create models with parameters that can be adjusted on-the-fly, offering a high degree of flexibility and ease of use.
  • Modular Architecture
    FreeCAD's modular design allows users to add or remove functionality through modules and extensions, catering to specific needs.
  • Community Support
    An active community of users and developers offers a wealth of tutorials, documentation, and forums for support.
  • Multi-Domain
    FreeCAD supports a wide range of engineering domains, including architecture, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.

Possible disadvantages of FreeCAD

  • Steep Learning Curve
    The software can be challenging for new users due to its complex interface and extensive features.
  • Performance Issues
    FreeCAD can be slower in terms of performance, especially when handling large or complex models.
  • Limited Documentation
    While community support is strong, official documentation can sometimes be lacking or incomplete.
  • Occasional Bugs
    Users may encounter bugs and stability issues, especially when using less stable versions or experimental features.
  • Limited Advanced Features
    Although FreeCAD covers many basics, it may not offer all the advanced features available in commercial CAD software.
  • Not Industry Standard
    FreeCAD might not be accepted as an industry standard in many professional environments, which could limit its use for certain projects.

LucidChart features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    LucidChart features a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy for users of all skill levels to create diagrams and flowcharts quickly.
  • Collaboration Features
    The platform offers robust collaboration tools, including real-time editing and commenting, which make it easy for teams to work together efficiently.
  • Integration Capabilities
    LucidChart integrates seamlessly with a variety of other tools such as Google Drive, Slack, and Microsoft Office, enhancing its utility within existing workflows.
  • Template Library
    The extensive library of templates and shapes helps users get started quickly and ensures that their diagrams maintain a professional appearance.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    LucidChart is compatible with multiple operating systems and can be accessed via web browsers, enabling users to work from any device.
  • Advanced Features
    Advanced functionalities, such as data linking and automatic formatting, provide powerful tools for creating complex and precise diagrams.

Possible disadvantages of LucidChart

  • Cost
    The subscription plans can be expensive, particularly for small businesses or individual users requiring access to premium features.
  • Learning Curve
    While the interface is user-friendly, mastering all the advanced features and capabilities may take some time and effort.
  • Performance Issues
    Some users report lag or performance issues, especially when working on very large or complex diagrams.
  • Limited Offline Access
    LucidChart is primarily a cloud-based tool, which means that users need a stable internet connection to access their work.
  • Feature Overload for Basic Users
    Some users might find the extensive range of features overwhelming, particularly if they only need to use the tool for basic diagramming tasks.

Analysis of FreeCAD

Overall verdict

  • FreeCAD is considered a good choice for users who want a versatile and cost-effective tool for 3D modeling and design, particularly where open-source flexibility and community support are valued. However, it may not be on par with professional, high-end CAD software in terms of specific advanced features and intuitive interface, which could lead to a steeper learning curve for some users.

Why this product is good

  • FreeCAD is a popular open-source parametric 3D modeler that is highly valued for its flexibility and wide range of applications in engineering and product design. Being open-source, it benefits from a community-driven development approach that continually adds new features and improvements. It supports a wide range of file formats and is compatible with many operating systems, enhancing its accessibility. It's particularly appreciated among hobbyists, makers, and those working in engineering fields who need a cost-effective CAD solution.

Recommended for

  • Hobbyists
  • Small business owners
  • Engineering students
  • Freelancers in design and engineering fields
  • Anyone looking for a cost-effective, open-source CAD solution

Analysis of LucidChart

Overall verdict

  • LucidChart is generally considered a good tool for diagramming needs, combining ease of use with powerful features. It suits both individual users and teams, offering versatile functionality that caters to various professional and educational applications.

Why this product is good

  • LucidChart is popular because it offers robust diagramming tools with an easy-to-use interface. It provides a wide range of templates and shapes, enabling users to create flowcharts, wireframes, UML diagrams, and more. The platform supports real-time collaboration, which is beneficial for teams working remotely or from different locations. Additionally, it integrates with other productivity tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and Slack, enhancing workflow efficiency.

Recommended for

  • Professionals in need of quick and versatile diagramming capabilities.
  • Teams looking for real-time collaborative features to work on diagrams together.
  • Educators and students who require a visual aid for presentations and projects.
  • Businesses that wish to integrate diagramming tools with existing software like Google Workspace or Microsoft Office.

FreeCAD videos

+ Add

Is FreeCAD any good?

More videos:

  • Review - FreeCAD vs Fusion360 - What is the Best FREE CAD Program?
  • Review - FREECAD review | the best free cad software to download for free ! | mechanical modeling program

LucidChart videos

+ Add

Lucidchart tutorial for beginners

More videos:

  • Review - Lucidchart in 90 seconds
  • Review - Lucidchart Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to FreeCAD and LucidChart)

FreeCAD

LucidChart

3D
100 100%
3D
0% 0
Diagrams
0 0%
Diagrams
100% 100
Architecture
100 100%
Architecture
0% 0
Flowcharts
0 0%
Flowcharts
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

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

FreeCAD Reviews

15 Best Sketchup Alternatives 2022
From the description “FreeCAD” you can decipher that this software is free to use. Hence, you can use it on Windows, Mac, and Linux amongst other operating systems.
Source: rigorousthemes.com
9 Free CAD Software to Download
Although it is open source and free, FreeCAD is on par with other popular CAD programs due to its capability in creating real 3D solids, support for meshes, 2D drafting, right hand coordinate system plus many more features.
Source: www.hongkiat.com
10 Free AutoCAD Alternatives
Its tools and concepts are quite similar to those of AutoCAD. So those who are already familiar with CAD will feel very comfortable using it. The FreeCAD source code can be downloaded, used and transformed as the user wants, because it is free. One of its most striking features is that by having a free source code, FreeCAD users have constantly changing software available...
Source: solidface.com

LucidChart Reviews

Top 5 Zeplin Alternative
Lucidchart is another professional application that helps designers create and share flowchart diagrams. This allows the project management teams to brainstorm on the designs and give valuable additions. This tool is suitable for anyone in any given industry playing any role due to its prowess and ease of use in creating professional flowcharts. These charts are good for...
Source: mockitt.wondershare.com
10+1 Best Workflow Management Software 2024 For Maximum Efficiency
While both Manifestly and Lucidchart are user-friendly, Lucidchart falls short in comprehensive task management tools. It works better to visualize the workflow in a chart, while Manifestly is more result-oriented making sure you don’t miss anything with its checklists and comprehensive automation.
Source: www.manifest.ly
9 Best Brainstorming Tools for Startups & Entrepreneurs in 2023
The intelligent diagramming tool Lucidchart brings people together to develop the future and make smarter decisions. Teams and individuals may quickly and easily sketch out where they are, what they need, and what comes next. Quickly picture the organisational structure, processes, and systems used by your team. Intelligent diagramming enables you to more quickly, clearly,...
Source: dhandhokaro.com
10 Best Visio Alternatives for Cost Effective Diagramming [2022]
Lucidchart is a product of Lucid Software Inc. and is designed to run on browsers that support HTML5. Nowadays Lucidchart is being used by reputed MNCs and IT industries for making data flow diagrams, mockups, flow charts, etc. There are many inbuilt shapes, floor plans, mockups, and other Android setups.
Source: todaystechworld.com
Best 8 Free Visual Paradigm Alternatives in 2022
Next, we have Lucidchart. A popular online application, the app boasts great features and is probably one of the easiest to use. Lucidchart is capable of producing simple and complex charts and diagrams. On the other hand, you can only enjoy the app for free for a limited time. After that, you will have to subscribe to its premium subscription to continue enjoying its full...
Source: gitmind.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, LucidChart should be more popular than FreeCAD. It has been mentiond 5 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.

FreeCAD mentions (2)

  • SOLIDWORKS for Linux
    Important note[0] from author: > With the help of my script, You get a way to install Solidworks on your Linux system. > Certain packages and programs that are required will be set up for You, but it's important to know, that my script only helps You to get the program to run and nothing more! Personally I may recommend try & use SolveSpace[1,2] and FreeCAD[3] — free & open-source 2D/3D... - Source: Hacker News / over 3 years ago
  • STL to Gcode for CNC Router?
    Also FreeCAD has a gcode workbench for full 3D. I've used it a little and would describe it as "usable once you work out the quirks". Https://freecadweb.org/. Source: about 4 years ago

LucidChart mentions (5)

What are some alternatives?

When comparing FreeCAD and LucidChart, you can also consider the following products

SketchUp - 3D for Everyone

draw.io - Online diagramming application

LibreCAD - An open source 2D CAD application for Windows, Apple and Linux.

yEd - yEd is a free desktop application to quickly create, import, edit, and automatically arrange diagrams. It runs on Windows, Mac OS X, and Unix/Linux.

Blender - Blender is the open source, cross platform suite of tools for 3D creation.

OmniGraffle - OmniGraffle is for creating precise graphics like website wireframes, an electrical system designs, or mapping out software class.

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