Drag-and-drop design with AI helpers for everyone.
★★★★★4.6
z
zCAD
From one prompt to editable parametric CAD, assemblies, and engineering drawings.
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What is zCAD?
zCAD is an AI-native CAD platform launched in October 2026 that turns a text description or reference image into editable parametric CAD — parts and assemblies with driving dimensions, constraints, and mates, not just a static mesh. Its second product, zCAD Online, is a browser-based parametric modeling workspace where you keep editing that model, add sheet metal and weldments, and produce proper engineering drawings with dimensions, tolerances, and hole tables.
What sets zCAD apart from generic 3D generators is that the output stays engineering-grade: it reads SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Inventor, and STEP files, supports multi-level assemblies with interference detection and bills of materials, and lets teams co-edit in real time. The free AI tier includes monthly credits plus a one-time beta credit bonus, so mechanical engineers, product designers, and hardware makers can test a real part before committing to a paid plan.
Key Features
- Generate editable parametric CAD parts and assemblies from a text brief or reference image
- Driving dimensions, geometric constraints, and assembly mates preserved in the model
- Browser-based zCAD Online workspace for modeling, sheet metal, weldments, and drawings
- Reads SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Inventor, Solid Edge, STEP, and Parasolid files
- Real-time co-editing, version history, and project permissions for engineering teams
Pros
- Output is real editable CAD with constraints and mates, not a decorative mesh
- One account carries a design from AI generation through drawings and collaboration
- Free tier lets engineers test a genuine part before paying
Cons
- Free accounts have public models and are non-commercial only
- AI-generated geometry still needs an engineer to check dimensions, tolerances, and fit
- The full Online Pro module set is not available yet during beta
Pricing
- Model: Freemium
- Free AI tier: 200 credits per month plus a one-time beta credit bonus; AI Plus is $49.99 per month and AI Pro $89.99 per month. zCAD Online Personal is free (non-commercial); Online Standard is $589 per year at its beta price.
Adding Up Your AI Bill?
If you pay for zCAD alongside other AI subscriptions, the monthly total adds up quietly. Tick every tool you pay for in our free AI Tool Cost Calculator to see your real monthly and yearly bill — and spot overlaps you can cut. Still choosing? Start with our guide on how to choose the right AI tool.
How We Rated It
Scores reflect our editors’ independent assessment at the time of review.
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