VariCAD
VariCAD: A broad mechanical CAD package for teams that want perpetual desktop licensing. Ranked #48 of 80 in 3D CAD Software by our editors (4.6/10); pricing: 30-day trial; best for budget-conscious mechanical CAD teams.
At a glance
- Editor score4.6 / 10
- Pricing30-day trial
- Best forBudget-conscious mechanical CAD teams
- Free planNo
- Assembly designYes
- Facts checked16 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Combines 3D solids, 2D drafting and multi-level assemblies
- Includes sheet-metal development, constraints and interference checking
- Supports Windows and Linux with major mechanical CAD file formats
Where it doesn't
- No free plan is available
- Desktop support is limited to Windows and Linux
- Advanced workflows may exceed the needs of simple 2D drafting
Our verdict on VariCAD
VariCAD is a desktop 3D/2D CAD system for mechanical engineering teams designing parts, assemblies and sheet-metal components. Its scope covers 3D solid modeling, 2D drawing and editing, multi-level assemblies, parameters, geometric constraints, piping and wire tools, bills of materials, title blocks, and mechanical-part and symbol libraries. The software runs on 64-bit Windows and Linux systems, making it a fit for organizations that want a focused mechanical design environment rather than a browser-based tool.
The published plan is VariCAD Professional, which provides perpetual use of the purchased version. It includes 3D modeling, 2D drafting, assembly support, sheet-metal unbending, and support for STEP, STL, IGES, DWG and DXF. A 30-day fully functional trial gives prospective buyers a way to review the package before purchase, but there is no free plan. The product is presented as a paid desktop application, so it suits teams evaluating long-term ownership more than users seeking an ongoing free tier or subscription-free entry without an initial purchase.
VariCAD’s strongest differentiator is breadth within mechanical CAD. Sheet-metal unbending and surface development sit alongside interference checking, crash tests, BOMs and title blocks, while import and export support includes STEP, DWG, DXF, STL, IGES, 3D PDF, Collada, ACIS and 3D PRC. That combination makes it appropriate for mechanical teams handling parts, assemblies and production-oriented documentation. Choose VariCAD if Windows or Linux deployment, broad mechanical tools and perpetual licensing match your workflow. Look elsewhere if you need a free plan, broader platform coverage, or a simpler tool centered only on basic 2D drafting.
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VariCAD pricing
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VariCAD fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Modeling method | Hybrid |
| Assembly design | Yes |
| Sheet-metal tools | Yes |
| Surface modeling | Not verified |
| Cloud collaboration | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Windows 10/11 (64-bit), Linux (64-bit) |
| File import and export | Import: STEP, DWG, DXF. Export: STEP, STL, IGES, 3D PDF, Collada, ACIS, 3D PRC, BMP, DWG, DXF. |
| Free trial | 30 days |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Pricing | 30-day trial (source) |
| Website | varicad.de |
| Facts checked | 16 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to VariCAD
- Siemens NXDeep hybrid CAD with Teamcenter integration for large engineering organizations.9.4
- CATIAA deep engineering suite for complex products, with enterprise pricing to match.9.3
- SOLIDWORKSFull mechanical CAD with broad design, manufacturing, simulation, and collaboration tools.9.2
See all VariCAD alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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