nanoCAD vs EXScan S Comparison: Reviews, Features, Pricing & Alternatives in 2026

Detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right solution for your team

Updated Apr 2026 8 min read

nanoCAD

0.0 (0 reviews)

nanoCAD is a professional-grade CAD platform that provides a familiar interface and native DWG support for creating, editing, and sharing complex 2D and 3D design documentation across engineering disciplines.

Starting at Free
Free Trial 30 days
VS

EXScan S

0.0 (0 reviews)

EXScan S is a dedicated 3D scanning software designed to work with Shining 3D EinScan desktop scanners to capture high-resolution digital models for engineering and design.

Starting at --
Free Trial NO FREE TRIAL

Quick Comparison

Feature nanoCAD EXScan S
Website nanocad.com shining3d.com
Pricing Model Subscription One_time
Starting Price Free Custom Pricing
FREE Trial ✓ 30 days free trial ✘ No free trial
Free Plan ✘ No free plan ✘ No free plan
Product Demo ✓ Request demo here ✓ Request demo here
Deployment desktop desktop
Integrations Microsoft Excel ActiveX LISP VBA SolidEdge Geomagic Essentials Autodesk Fusion 360
Target Users freelancer small-business mid-market enterprise small-business mid-market freelancer
Target Industries construction engineering architecture education manufacturing engineering
Customer Count 0 0
Founded Year 2008 2004
Headquarters Berlin, Germany Hangzhou, China

Overview

N

nanoCAD

nanoCAD provides you with a high-performance CAD environment that feels instantly familiar if you have ever used traditional drafting software. You can create complex 2D drawings and 3D models using a native DWG format, ensuring your files remain compatible with partners and clients without data loss. The platform is designed to handle large-scale projects efficiently, offering a professional toolset for engineers, architects, and designers who require precision and reliability.

You can customize your workspace with an open API and specialized modules for mechanical design, construction, and topography. Whether you are drafting simple floor plans or developing intricate mechanical components, the software provides the speed and accuracy you need. It serves as a cost-effective alternative for teams of all sizes, from solo freelancers to large engineering firms, by offering flexible licensing options that fit your specific budget and project requirements.

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EXScan S

EXScan S is the essential software companion for your EinScan-S series desktop 3D scanners. It provides you with a streamlined workflow to convert physical objects into high-quality 3D data. You can manage the entire scanning process from initial calibration to mesh generation within a single, intuitive interface. The software handles complex data processing in the background, allowing you to focus on capturing every detail of your object with precision.

You can choose between different scanning modes depending on your project needs, whether you require high-speed capture or maximum detail. The software also includes tools for mesh optimization, hole filling, and smoothing to ensure your models are ready for 3D printing or further CAD development. It is specifically built for designers, engineers, and educators who need reliable digital replicas of small to medium-sized objects.

Overview

N

nanoCAD Features

  • Native DWG Support Open, edit, and save drawings in the industry-standard DWG format to ensure perfect compatibility with your clients and partners.
  • Familiar User Interface Switch easily from other CAD systems with a classic ribbon or toolset interface that requires almost no retraining for experienced drafters.
  • 3D Modeling Engine Create complex 3D geometries and surfaces using professional modeling tools that help you visualize your designs from every possible angle.
  • Dynamic Blocks Save time by creating intelligent objects that you can adjust and manipulate visually without redrawing individual components from scratch.
  • Open API Access Build your own custom commands and automate repetitive drafting tasks using C++, C#, or Python to speed up your unique workflow.
  • Sheet Set Manager Control hundreds of drawings from a single panel to organize your project documentation and automate the printing of entire drawing sets.
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EXScan S Features

  • Automatic Calibration. Follow simple on-screen prompts to calibrate your scanner quickly and ensure you always capture the most accurate data possible.
  • Multiple Scan Modes. Switch between fixed and auto-turntable modes so you can capture objects of varying sizes and complexities with ease.
  • Real-time Visualization. Watch your 3D model form on your screen as you scan, allowing you to identify and fill gaps instantly.
  • Mesh Optimization. Refine your raw data into clean meshes using built-in tools for smoothing, sharpening, and reducing polygon counts.
  • Automatic Alignment. Merge multiple scan angles automatically using geometry or marker points to create a complete 360-degree digital model.
  • Direct Export. Save your finished models in standard formats like STL, OBJ, and PLY for immediate use in 3D printing.

Pricing Comparison

N

nanoCAD Pricing

nanoCAD Free
$0
  • Basic 2D drafting tools
  • Native DWG support
  • Classic CAD interface
  • Unlimited for personal use
  • Community-based support
E

EXScan S Pricing

Pros & Cons

M

nanoCAD

Pros

  • Excellent compatibility with legacy DWG files
  • Very low learning curve for AutoCAD users
  • Significantly more affordable than major competitors
  • Stable performance even with large drawing files

Cons

  • 3D capabilities are less advanced than specialized BIM software
  • Smaller third-party plugin ecosystem than older platforms
  • Occasional translation issues in technical documentation
A

EXScan S

Pros

  • Intuitive interface makes 3D scanning accessible for beginners
  • Fast processing speeds for generating high-density meshes
  • Seamless integration with EinScan-SE and EinScan-SP hardware
  • Reliable automatic alignment saves significant post-processing time

Cons

  • Hardware requirements for PC graphics cards are quite high
  • Limited advanced editing tools compared to standalone CAD software
  • Software updates can sometimes be slow to download
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