An alternative CAD 3D design application for Windows and iOS.
Designing with CAD software can be a formidable undertaking, and if you want to achieve optimal results, you need a reliable software package. Fortunately, GstarCAD was designed to be a comprehensive solution that enables you to create, edit and manipulate 2D/3D CAD layouts using a variety of flexible tools.
Create 2D and 3D designs with a number of advanced tools
The user interface of the software, though, might seem a bit daunting at first, especially when you delve into its extensive menu options. Nevertheless, once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to load 2D/3D data, make advanced selections, and view the properties of the selected structures with ease.
This CAD software also includes multiple on-screen tools like a calculator, palette selector, and design center, which provide you with on-the-fly calculations and navigation, without needing external apps. In addition, you can customize all of the tools in GstarCAD, including sending data through email or a cloud manager, adjusting settings for adjacent plotting machines, and importing various CAD formats.
Slightly inconvenient to access some features
However, it's worth noting that some features like the redraw/regenerate tool are only accessible through a special menu, which can be inconvenient. Nonetheless, the software boasts an extensive settings module that enables you to tailor its characteristics to suit your needs.
The verdict
Given its advanced nature and extensive 3D data handling capabilities, GstarCAD is clearly targeted at experienced users who need a reliable CAD design package. It may seem complex, but its impressive array of editing tools makes it a great option for advanced 2D/3D design. Despite the software's occasional minimalist shortcomings, it's a capable CAD utility that can help you achieve the desired results.
Features of GstarCAD
- 3D Modeling: 3D surface, solid and mesh modeling.
- Blocks: Insert blocks, symbols and drawings from external sources.
- Collaboration: Cloud storage and online collaboration tools.
- Compatibility: Read and write files in DWG format.
- Customization: Flexible settings and customizable options.
- Data Exchange: Automated data exchange between CAD and GIS.
- Design: Powerful and intuitive design tools.
- Dimensions: Dimensioning, text and annotation tools.
- Hatching: Rich hatching options with multiple patterns.
- Layouts: Multiple layouts, paper space and model space.
- Plot Styles: Support for CTB and STB plot styles.
- Plotting: Plotting and publishing for print and web.
- Rendering: Photorealistic rendering and animation.
- Scripting: Automate tasks with custom scripts and macros.
- Visual Styles: Control the display and appearance of 3D models.
Compatibility and License
This download is licensed as shareware for the Windows operating system from 3D design and can be used as a free trial until the trial period ends (after an unspecified number of days). The GstarCAD 2023 demo is available to all software users as a free download with potential restrictions and is not necessarily the full version of this software.
What version of Windows can GstarCAD run on?
GstarCAD can be used on a computer running Windows 11 or Windows 10. Previous versions of the OS shouldn't be a problem with Windows 8 and Windows 7 having been tested. It comes in both 32-bit and 64-bit downloads.
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