Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups
Register | Login

SelfCAD VS KiCad

Compare SelfCAD VS KiCad and see what are their differences

Kimp
Kimp is an unlimited design company, specializing in graphic design (including print and digital designs, custom illustrations, landing page designs and email designs) and video design. featured
Contents:
  1. » Base Details
  2. » Videos
  3. » Reviews
  4. » Alternatives

SelfCAD logo SelfCAD

SelfCAD is an online 3D modeling​ and slicing software.

KiCad logo KiCad

A Cross Platform and Open Source Electronics Design Automation Suite
  • SelfCAD Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-02-17

SelfCAD is a comprehensive web-based 3D Modeling and Slicing tool that enables users to model, sculpt, and print with a single platform. With all features and capabilities in one place, users no longer have to open multiple programs and shift from one application to another to design, customize, and print an object. The best part is that there is no need to download or install anything.

3D designing and printing used to be a task for CAD experts. SelfCAD changes the game by enabling novice users to dabble in the world of CAD. It comes with a video training course and tutorials https://www.youtube.com/selfcad that introduce beginners to the art of 3D design and master it in a few days.

  • KiCad Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-12

SelfCAD features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    SelfCAD offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is accessible to beginners, making it easy to learn and use for those who are new to 3D modeling.
  • All-in-One Solution
    It is a comprehensive tool that combines modeling, sculpting, and slicing features, eliminating the need to switch between multiple software for different tasks.
  • Cloud-Based Platform
    Being cloud-based allows users to access their projects from anywhere with an internet connection and facilitates collaboration by sharing files seamlessly.
  • Affordable Pricing
    Compared to other professional 3D modeling software, SelfCAD offers competitive pricing which makes it accessible for hobbyists and small businesses.
  • Regular Updates
    SelfCAD frequently updates its features, ensuring that users have access to the latest tools and improvements in 3D modeling technology.

Possible disadvantages of SelfCAD

  • Internet Dependency
    As a cloud-based software, SelfCAD requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance, which can be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity.
  • Limited Advanced Features
    While it is ideal for beginners and intermediate users, advanced users might find SelfCAD lacking certain advanced features found in more sophisticated 3D modeling software.
  • Performance Issues
    When handling very large projects or complex models, users might experience slow performance or lag, which can impact productivity.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly design, there can still be a learning curve for complete beginners unfamiliar with 3D modeling concepts.
  • Limited File Compatibility
    SelfCAD supports a limited number of file formats compared to other professional software, which might require using additional tools for file conversion.

KiCad features and specs

  • Open Source
    KiCad is open-source software, which means it is free to use and its source code is available for anyone to inspect, modify, and improve.
  • Cross-Platform
    KiCad is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to users on various operating systems.
  • Comprehensive Toolset
    KiCad offers a range of tools for schematic capture, PCB layout, 3D visualization, and more, providing a complete EDA solution.
  • Active Community
    KiCad has a vibrant and active community, which means plenty of user support, resources, and shared libraries.
  • Regular Updates
    The development team frequently releases updates and new features, ensuring the software remains current with industry standards.
  • Customizable and Extensible
    Users can write custom scripts and plugins to extend the software's functionality, catering to specific needs and preferences.
  • High-Quality Documentation
    KiCad provides extensive documentation and tutorials, which help users get started and utilize advanced features effectively.

Possible disadvantages of KiCad

  • Steep Learning Curve
    For beginners, KiCad can be challenging to learn due to its comprehensive feature set and complex interface.
  • Limited Advanced Features
    While KiCad is feature-rich, it may still lack some advanced features found in other commercial EDA tools, such as high-end simulation capabilities.
  • Library Management
    Managing and updating libraries in KiCad can be cumbersome, and users may find the process less intuitive compared to other EDA software.
  • Performance Issues with Large Projects
    KiCad might show performance issues when handling very large and complex PCB designs, impacting the user experience.
  • Inconsistent Interface
    Some users find KiCad's user interface inconsistent, as different tools within the suite may have different design paradigms and workflows.
  • Third-Party Compatibility
    While KiCad supports many file formats, interoperability with some proprietary formats used by other EDA tools may be limited.
  • Initial Setup
    Setting up KiCad initially and customizing it to suit specific needs can be time-consuming and requires a fair amount of effort.

SelfCAD videos

+ Add

Review of SelfCAD, 3D modeling software

More videos:

  • Review - SelfCAD.com 2.0 Overview | 2019 🔔 💬 | The Best Online 3D Modeling and Printing Software
  • Tutorial - SelfCad Free Tutorial & SelfCad Review 3D Modeling Software
  • Tutorial - SelfCAD 3d modeling app overview for professionals.

KiCad videos

+ Add

eevBLAB #62 - PCB Wars - The Rise Of KiCAD

More videos:

  • Review - Quickstart Intro to Kicad - Design a board in 5 minutes
  • Review - #132 Using EasyEDA and KiCAD for Improved PCB (dog deterrent)

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to SelfCAD and KiCad)

SelfCAD

KiCad

3D
100 100%
3D
0% 0
Simulation
0 0%
Simulation
100% 100
3D Modeling
100 100%
3D Modeling
0% 0
Electronics
0 0%
Electronics
100% 100

User comments

Share your experience with using SelfCAD and KiCad. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

Reviews

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

SelfCAD Reviews

  1. Sammy
    · Working at SelfCAD ·
    Easy to use and Professional 3D Modeling Software

    SelfCAD is a powerful 3D modeling software that's very easy to use. The presence of the sketching and freehand drawing tools, rendering, and even slicing tools all in a single program makes SelfCAD a powerful program for use by designers of all levels. The interactive tutorials makes it easier for anyone regardless of their experience to be able to learn how to use the software by actually creating 3D models.

    👍 Pros:    Rendering|Freehand 3d drawing tools available|Slicing software|3d modeling|3d sculpting|Affordable price|Easy to use|Simple yet powerful and efficient tool|Support team always ready
15 Best ZBrush Alternatives 2022
Another notable stronghold is its support for third-party plugins. SelfCAD users can now take advantage of the wide range of ZBrush plugins available. SelfCAD has also continued to evolve and add new features since its 2016 initial release.
Source: rigorousthemes.com

KiCad Reviews

11 KiCad Alternatives
KiCad is cross-platform, open-source CAD software that is specifically built for the Electronic Design Automation Suite. It is a complete solution that comes with a simple interface that is packed with extensive features. You may quickly access all of the tools and create any type of electrical automation design.
Source: www.justalternativeto.com
Comparing the Top 5 CAD Software for Electronics Design Development
The KiCAD software interfaceKiCAD is a free software that runs on a number of platforms: Linux, Windows, macOS. Due to its open-source nature, KiCAD is widely used by hobbyists and beginners.
Source: hackernoon.com
Our Top 10 printed circuit design software programmes
KiCad is an open source, free printed circuit design software suite. It was developed by Jean-Pierre Charras from the Grenoble IUT in France in 1992. This design software includes diagram management, PCB routing and 3D modelling possibilities for electronics engineers.
Source: www.proto-electronics.com
9 Free CAD Software to Download
Want to design your next Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and don’t know where to start? Check out KiCAD. KiCAD is a free and open source PCB design tool that includes a project manager and 4 main software such as schematic editor, printed circuit board editor, GERBER file viewer and footprint selector for component association.
Source: www.hongkiat.com

What are some alternatives?

When comparing SelfCAD and KiCad, you can also consider the following products

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

Fritzing - Fritzing is an open-source initiative to support designers, artists, researchers and hobbyists to...

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

Proteus PCB design - Proteus PCB design combines the schematic capture and ARES PCB layout programs to provide a...

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

LTspice - LTspice® is a high performance SPICE simulation software, schematic capture and waveform viewer with enhancements and models for easing the simulation of analog circuits.

Loading...