For basic 3D design learners and educators, Tinkercad is a strong contender with its user-friendly interface, vast support resources, and additional features for electronics and brick modelling. Advanced CAD users seeking seamless collaboration, data security, and integrated Product Data Management, should lean towards Onshape, a robust cloud-native product development platform.
Key Differences Between Tinkercad and Onshape
Tinkercad offers a free learning platform for 3D design, while Onshape delivers full-featured CAD and integrated PDM.
Tinkercad is safe for younger users and is commonly implemented in schools, while Onshape provides an environment for professional product development.
Tinkercad relies on WebGL-enabled browser and is compatible with iPad, Onshape operates universally on any modern web browser from Mac, PC, Chromebook, Linux.
Onshape extends advanced data security options with role-based access control, mitigating potential data breaches. Tinkercad does not explicitly mention such comprehensive data security.
Comparison
Tinkercad
Onshape
Initial Release
2011
2012
Usage Medium
Web-based, requires WebGL-enabled browser
Cloud-native, accessible via any modern web browser
Simultaneous team editing, real-time reviews, secure data management, Integration with Onshape-Arena
Files Support
STL, OBJ (3D) and SVG (2D)
Common CAD files like STEP (ISO 10303), ISO JT (ISO 14306), Parasolid XT, ACIS
Competitors
SketchUp, Fusion360
Fusion 360, SketchUp, Solidworks, Inventor
Location
San Francisco
Based in Cambridge, MA, offices in Singapore, Pune, India
Acquisition
Acquired by Autodesk in 2013
Acquired by PTC in 2019
Support
Support resources available in abundance
Supports students, educators, open-source public workspace for non-commercial projects
What Is Tinkercad and Who’s It For?
From the stables of software giant Autodesk comes Tinkercad, a free online 3D modeling platform. Incepted with the goal of making 3D design accessible to the masses, it’s heralded for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. Whether you’re a school student exploring the world of 3D printing or a professional designer seeking a convenient solution, Tinkercad provides comprehensive modeling capabilities.
Notably, it’s a trusted stage for crafting everything from complex electronic circuits to Lego-brick and Minecraft structures. Its capacities are further elevated by being WebGL-enabled and providing an easy-to-use interface across an array of devices, including iPads with augmented reality capabilities.
Pros of Tinkercad
Free access with powerful features
Easy-to-use interface with drag and drop functionality
Comprehensive support on various devices
Safe design environment for young users
Works seamlessly with popular formats like STL, OBJ, SVG
Cons of Tinkercad
Connectivity issues due to online nature
Some limitations for complex and advanced models
What Is Onshape and Who’s It For?
Onshape is a robust cloud-native product development platform that integrates advanced CAD and PDM, offering unprecedented access and collaboration features to product development teams across the globe. With zero IT footprint and maximum security, companies drastically reduce time-to-market and costly manufacturing errors. It’s an ideal choice for professionals working on intricate product design and development, especially in industries like consumer electronics, mechanical machinery, and medical devices.
Founded by former SolidWorks engineers, Onshape delivers a superior, all-in-one design solution that incorporates real-time data management, instant role-based access control, custom design permissions, and fast, accurate mechanical simulations, among other features, all directly through a modern web browser.
Pros of Onshape
Integrated full-featured CAD and PDM capabilities
High-level collaborative features and real-time data management
Secured by role-based access control system
Accessible on any platform with a modern web browser
Zero IT footprint
Cons of Onshape
May be overkill for smaller projects
Reliance on internet connectivity can be an issue
Learning curve can be steep for new users
Deciding Your 3D Journey: Tinkercad or Onshape?
As the tale of Tinkercad vs. Onshape reaches its approbation, a verdict is due. Who emerges victorious in this technological duel?
For The budding 3D Artists and Educators
Tinkercad is the ace in the deck. Designed for beginners with an intuitive drag and drop interface, easy-to-play-with primitive shapes, and abundance of tutorials, it offers a welcoming hand to novices. It also thrives in an educational environment thanks to its safe and secure platform, making it a teachers’ favorite for introducing 3D modeling to students.
The AR/VR Enthusiasts
The AR compatibility of Tinkercad attracts AR/VR creators. Its online-based design, WebGL-friendly nature and Minecraft or Lego bricks compatibility are comparable to a treasure-chest for creative mindsets looking to explore in the AR/VR world.
Professionals and Collaborative Teams
Brimming with power, Onshape draws in professionals and collaborative teams. The accessibility from any machine or mobile device, coupled with real-time data management and top-tier security make it a robust and resilient tool in a high-stakes environment.
The Cloud-Native Innovators
Onshape, king in the realm of cloud-native product development, caters to innovators cherishing an IT free setup. Its web-based CAD delivery, compatibility across various platforms, role-based access control, and real-time review capabilities are a silver bullet for fast, accurate and hassle-free product design.
If beginnings matter, Tinkercad reigns supreme; suitable for entry-level modeling and educational settings. However, at the center of collaboration and innovation, Onshape outshines with its robust features and availability. The decision rests on your goals.
Grant Sullivan
Content writer @ Aircada and self proclaimed board game strategist by day, AI developer by night.
