LibreCAD vs Onshape: Which Should You Use?
The verdict
LibreCAD and Onshape are both home & construction design tools, compared here side by side. LibreCAD is truly free (Free) and is a desktop install with no browser version; Onshape is free, with limits (Paid) and runs in any web browser with nothing to install. The biggest difference is cost: LibreCAD is truly free, while Onshape is free, with limits (from Paid).
Free tiers & pricing last verified Jun 23, 2026.
Pick LibreCAD if…
Truly freeFree 2D drafting and floor plans
Pick Onshape if…
Free, with limitsHobbyists and learners wanting cloud CAD
Side by side
Read the full reviews
LibreCAD
Completely free and GPLv2 open source with full 2D drafting; it is 2D-only with no 3D modeling.
Onshape
Free plan gives full browser CAD for non-commercial use, but all documents are stored publicly and visible to everyone.
LibreCAD vs Onshape: questions, answered
What is the main difference between LibreCAD and Onshape?
The biggest difference is cost: LibreCAD is truly free, while Onshape is free, with limits (from Paid).
Is LibreCAD or Onshape free?
LibreCAD is truly free and Onshape is free, with limits. LibreCAD: Completely free and GPLv2 open source with full 2D drafting; it is 2D-only with no 3D modeling. Onshape: Free plan gives full browser CAD for non-commercial use, but all documents are stored publicly and visible to everyone.
Can you export CAD files from LibreCAD or Onshape?
LibreCAD exports DXF, SVG, PDF; Onshape exports —. Only LibreCAD exports CAD (DWG/DXF).