Our verdict: SolveSpace packs a real constraint solver into a single small program that starts instantly. It is ideal for simple mechanical parts and laser-cut designs. Complex models get awkward, and it lacks fillets and chamfers.
About SolveSpace
SolveSpace was created by Jonathan Westhues and is now developed by a community under the GPLv3. The Windows version is a single executable file that runs without installation.
You draw 2D sketches and add constraints such as distances, angles, parallel lines and tangency, and the solver keeps the geometry consistent when you change a value. Sketches become 3D through extrude, revolve, lathe and helix operations with Boolean union and difference. Results export to STL and STEP for 3D printing and other CAD tools, or to DXF, SVG and PDF for laser cutting and drawings.
What it does well
- Constraint solver. Dimensions and geometric rules keep sketches consistent.
- 3D operations. Extrude, revolve, lathe and helix with Boolean combinations.
- Many export formats. STL, STEP, DXF, SVG, PDF and G-code.
- Mechanism analysis. Drag linkages to check motion and trace points.
- Single small file. Runs from one executable without installation.
Who it is for
Good fit
Makers designing 3D-printed parts, laser-cut panels and simple mechanisms.
Look elsewhere
Engineers who need fillets, assemblies of many parts or drawing standards.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and open source
- Starts instantly, tiny download
- Real parametric constraints
- Exports STEP and STL
Cons
- No fillets or chamfers on 3D edges
- Gets cumbersome on complex parts
How to install SolveSpace
Download solvespace_x64.exe and run it; there is no installer, so move it to a permanent folder first. Use the single-core build only if the standard one is unstable on your PC. Learn the main hotkeys from the official tutorials, because most work is keyboard driven.
Questions about SolveSpace
Is SolveSpace free?
Yes. It is open source under the GPLv3 with no paid version.
Can SolveSpace export files for 3D printing?
Yes. It exports STL meshes and STEP solids.
