The best code-based cad libraries, according to hackers
4 code-based cad libraries recommended in Hacker News comments over the past year, ranked by how many separate people recommend each one.
- Most recommendedbuild123d53 people recommend it
- Least regretBOSL2 library for OpenSCAD22 recommend, 3 criticize
All code-based cad libraries
- build123dPython CAD library that builds solid models and exports STEP files, liked for its Python-friendly design and AI coding assistant use. Common caveat: documentation is often lacking.53recommend
- CadQueryFree Python library for writing parametric 3D CAD models as code, with a real B-rep kernel that is easy to version in git. Caveats: not always easy to write, and rendering can be slow.40recommend
- BOSL2 library for OpenSCADExtends OpenSCAD with chamfers, fillets, rounding and attachment operations, saving much manual work. Caveat: an extra set of functions to remember, and can be slow with many fillets.22recommend
- CadovaPeople recommend it as a fun, readable way to write parametric 3D models in Swift code. One commenter said it is far from perfect.5recommend