What’s the best/easiest to learn 3D modeling software for Windows?
As I’ve dug into 3D printing, I’ve had a great time finding models on various communities to print. I’ve created a couple of designs in TinkerCAD, but that’s so limited. I’d like to learn real legit CAD design so I can create (and contribute) my own designs.
Right now Sketchup is my preferred tool
Best? Solidworks
Easiest? Sketchup
Nothing worth doing comes easy
creo elements is a great free tool. Far less infuriating then sketchup.
Theres also Design Spark Mechanical.
If your willing to pay some Cubify Invent is FANTASTIC and models exactly like Pro-E, with editable feature history.
Looks like Creo in Windoze only.
yea, but thats what he asked for.
I use Viacad 2D/3D by punch software. It is very functional for it’s price. It may not be the right choice for everyone but I really like it.
Whatever you do, don’t use Sketchup. It was never designed to be a CAD tool and really sucks at it. I love Rhino, but it’s not free. Sketchup is a nice starting point, but it’s really just a toy. FreeCAD is powerful and open-source.
I tried em all and ended up using 123D Design after watching Ben Heck demo how easy it is.
I started with 123D Design , but gave up due it’s crazy amount of crashes and no autosave.
@Daniel_Bull Do you have a link to that demo? I tried to use 123D once, but gave up quickly, because I could not see any benefits compared to other programs.
Here you go, there’s a couple of gaps but I managed to work them out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03Ju_LJlU3U
@Shachar_Weis really? I’ve not had that problem with 123D Design. Ironically FreeCAD was really flaky for me though. I liked FreeCAD but just couldn’t keep it running long enough 
Also it felt like it had huge potential but just wasn’t finished
Really. After the third time I lost an hour of work I gave up and moved on.
@Daniel_Bull Thank you!
PTC Creo is one of my favourites and the hobby versions are fairly affordable/free depending on your level. SketchUp is not a true CAD program and as such drives me crazy. PTC has always been fantastic about providing easy to find and comprehensive tutorials online that truly help you understand how to use the programs.
I find 123D too Basic/easy. More for introduction to 3d modelling for elementary students and those who have no intention of advancing very far into 3d design.
@Lynn_Lovett yeah thats probably true but thats why I like it personally. Its just for my 3D Printing hobby and most other CAD takes too much time to learn for a hobby.
Geomagic design is very easy IMO.