SelfCAD
SelfCAD is an all-in-one online 3D modeling software that allows you to design, sculpt, and slice 3D models for printing or rendering within a single, browser-based interface.
Affinity Designer
Affinity Designer is a professional-grade vector graphics software providing a fast, precise, and subscription-free solution for creating complex illustrations, branding, icons, UI designs, and high-quality typography on multiple platforms.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | SelfCAD | Affinity Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Website | selfcad.com | serif.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | One_time |
| Starting Price | Free | $99/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 10 days free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2016 | 1987 |
| Headquarters | New York, USA | Nottingham, UK |
Overview
SelfCAD
SelfCAD is a comprehensive 3D modeling solution that brings professional-grade design tools to your web browser. You can move from a blank canvas to a finished 3D print without switching between different applications, as it combines technical modeling, artistic sculpting, and 3D slicing in one place. This eliminates the need for complex software installations and allows you to manage your entire creative workflow from any computer.
You can solve common design hurdles using intuitive tools like the Magic Fix for manifold geometry and advanced generators for complex shapes. Whether you are a hobbyist, an educator, or a professional designer, the platform provides a streamlined environment to create high-quality 3D assets. It simplifies the learning curve of traditional CAD software while maintaining the power needed for intricate mechanical parts and organic characters.
Affinity Designer
Affinity Designer gives you a powerful, lag-free environment for creating professional vector art and complex illustrations. You can switch instantly between vector and raster workspaces, allowing you to add texture and brushwork to your clean paths without changing applications. Whether you are working on branding, icons, or expansive concept art, the engine handles thousands of objects with zero lag and provides live previews of every adjustment you make.
You can manage your entire creative workflow on Windows, macOS, or iPad with full file compatibility across all devices. The software is built to handle massive documents and offers advanced typography controls, professional color space support, and unlimited artboards. Because it requires no subscription, you own the software outright and can focus on your creative output without worrying about recurring monthly costs.
Overview
SelfCAD Features
- In-Browser Modeling Create and edit complex 3D designs directly in your web browser without downloading heavy software or managing updates.
- Interactive Tutorials Learn 3D design by following step-by-step interactive guides that show you exactly how to build specific models.
- Built-in Slicer Prepare your models for 3D printing with an integrated slicer that generates G-code for most standard 3D printers.
- Artistic Sculpting Shape organic forms and characters using digital clay tools that allow you to push, pull, and smooth surfaces.
- Magic Fix Tool Automatically repair your 3D meshes to ensure they are manifold and ready for successful 3D printing every time.
- Rendering Engine Generate realistic images of your 3D models with built-in lighting and material settings to showcase your final work.
Affinity Designer Features
- Vector-Raster Hybrid. Switch between vector and pixel personas instantly to add organic textures and shading to your scalable vector illustrations.
- Live Performance. Pan and zoom at 60fps while viewing live previews of transforms, blends, and effects even on massive, complex documents.
- Unlimited Artboards. Organize all your screens, pages, and branding elements in a single project with customizable artboards of any size.
- Advanced Typography. Control your text with full OpenType support, allowing you to adjust kerning, tracking, and ligatures for professional layouts.
- Precision Grids. Set up complex isometric, functional, or fixed-angle grids to ensure your icons and UI elements are pixel-perfect.
- Non-Destructive Editing. Apply adjustment layers, effects, and live filters that you can tweak or remove at any time without damaging pixels.
Pricing Comparison
SelfCAD Pricing
- Standard 3D modeling tools
- Direct 3D printing support
- Access to MyMiniFactory
- Cloud storage for projects
- Basic export options
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Advanced mesh modeling
- Interactive drawing tools
- Image-to-3D generation
- Advanced sculpting brushes
- Full export capabilities
Affinity Designer Pricing
- One-time payment only
- Full professional feature set
- No subscription required
- Free version updates
- Choice of macOS or Windows
- Professional color support
- Everything in Single License, plus:
- Access on macOS, Windows, and iPad
- Includes Affinity Photo 2
- Includes Affinity Publisher 2
- Cross-platform file compatibility
- Commercial use license
Pros & Cons
SelfCAD
Pros
- All-in-one workflow from modeling to slicing
- Very low learning curve for beginners
- Runs smoothly in most modern web browsers
- Affordable pricing compared to professional CAD suites
Cons
- Requires stable internet for the browser version
- Limited advanced mechanical engineering features
- Performance can lag with very high-poly models
Affinity Designer
Pros
- One-time purchase eliminates expensive monthly subscription costs
- Incredibly fast performance even with thousands of objects
- Seamless switching between vector and raster editing modes
- Excellent iPad app offers a full desktop-class experience
Cons
- Lacks some specialized AI-driven automation tools
- Missing a dedicated vector tracing/auto-trace feature
- Industry standard file formats occasionally require manual cleanup