# 3D CAD Software for Drone Hobbyists SOLIDWORKS for Makers – Personal CAD for Makers Who Dream Big ![Drone parts on desk - 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2024-03/3dexperience-solidworks-makers-drone-hero.jpg.webp) Start making today with SOLIDWORKS for Makers ### What Is Drone CAD Design? Drone CAD design involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create drone frames and components. Hobbyists use drone CAD software to quickly create accurate designs for 3D printing, manufacturing or casting. Drone CAD design software lets you bring nearly any drone to life. ### Benefits of Drone CAD Modeling Software Drone CAD modeling software can help you design and easily 3D print your components right from home. With CAD for drones, you can: - **Test your ideas**: Drone design often requires multiple iterations to figure out movement and aerodynamics. Personal-use CAD software enables easy modifications and quick experimentation. - **Improve design accuracy**: Building a drone requires precise measurements and intricate details. Drone CAD software ensures specifications are met before you even start building. - **Have more fun**: Want to share drone CAD file downloads and collaborate with other enthusiasts? SOLIDWORKS® for Makers has a large community to help you perfect your designs. ## Pick the Makers package that's right for you: ![](/sites/default/filesd10/2026-01/sw_design_monitor.png) #### 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers ##### **Proven and powerful SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD** **Features include:** - 3D CAD: Locally Installed - Local & Cloud Storage - Photorealistic Rendering - 2.5 & 3-Axis CAM - Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities ​ **Devices Supported:** - Windows PC - Installation required \*USA price for single user excluding local taxes. Local pricing listed in cart. 15 day money back policy. - [Buy $48 USD/year\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=YSC) - [Buy $15 USD/month\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=MSC) ![](/sites/default/filesd10/inline-images/sw_tablet_xdesign-3.png) #### SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers ##### **Next-generation of browser-based 3D CAD Apps** **Features include:** - Cloud 3D CAD: Browser-based - Cloud Storage - AI-powered Design Guidance and Design Assistant - Cloud Rendering and Interactive 3D Presentations - Simulation: Motion Studies - Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities **Devices Supported:** - Chromebooks, MACs, Tablets, Windows PC - No installation required \*USA price for single user excluding local taxes. Local pricing listed in cart. 15 day money back policy. - [Buy $48 USD/year\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_SWcloudapps?licencingScheme=YSC) - [Buy $15 USD/month\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_SWcloudapps?licencingScheme=MSC) #### Need a detailed comparison between these packages? 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for MakersSOLIDWORKS xDesign for MakersParts & Assemblies Drawings Freeform Designs Sheetmetal Structural & Framing Mold Design Motion Studies CAM (NC Programming) Rendering Interactive 3D Presentations No Installation RequiredPC Installation Learning Content Online Communities ## Best Features for Drone CAD Software ### Parametric Design Cut down your design time by automatically adjusting related parts when you make a change. ### Surface Modeling Perform complex surfacing with extrude, trim and offset functions, then generate your solid model. ### Fillet Tool Improve your drone’s durability by rounding out sharp corners and edges that could break in a crash. ### Blocks Import legacy drone CAD blocks from other programs or create new ones for components you frequently use. ### File Compatibility Export your design files in DXF, STP, IGES, STL for 3D printing or CNC machining. ### Geometric Analysis Identify geometric features that may fail to mesh or cause problems during printing or machining. Get the best deal on yearly subscription - [Get started now](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cnb/offers/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=YSC) ### Get Inspired for Your Next Project ### Learn More – **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers ### Learn More – SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers ## ### Drone CAD Software | FAQs #### What is CAD software for drone design? --- Drone CAD software enables you to design and test drones with precision before building them. With **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**, you can create frames, arms, propeller mounts, and housings for multirotor or fixed-wing drones, ensuring a perfect fit, strength, and balance for your build. #### Can I 3D print a drone designed in SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- Yes. You can export your drone models as STL files and print frames, brackets, or guards using your preferred material. Many makers 3D print their drone parts at home to save costs and customize designs before adding motors, propellers, and electronics. #### How do I check propeller clearance and motion? --- Use motion studies to simulate propeller rotation and verify that your blades clear the frame and surrounding components. You can also test multiple configurations digitally before committing to physical parts. #### Can I analyze if my drone frame is strong enough? --- Yes. **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** includes basic simulation tools that let you test your frame under realistic flight loads. You can confirm that arms, mounts, and joints are strong enough to handle thrust and vibration, helping you avoid cracks or deformation during flight. #### Does SOLIDWORKS for Makers include drone component libraries? --- You can easily create or reuse custom component libraries for motors, batteries, propellers, and controllers. This allows you to assemble your full drone virtually, verify fit and weight balance, and adapt existing open-source designs. #### Can I optimize my drone frame for lightness and strength? --- Yes. You can experiment with different materials, wall thicknesses, and lattice patterns to reduce weight while maintaining strength. Combined with 3D printing, this approach helps improve flight time and overall performance. #### How do I validate my design before building a prototype? --- Run fit checks, motion studies, and stress simulations to confirm that your drone design is ready for assembly. You can also create drawings and 3D renderings to document your project or share it with other makers for feedback. ## ### SOLIDWORKS for Makers | FAQs #### How much does SOLIDWORKS for Makers cost? --- **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** costs only $48 USD/per year (or $15 USD/per month), excluding taxes. It’s an affordable way to access the same professional 3D CAD trusted by engineers, now priced for personal, non-commercial use. Whether you’re designing a 3D print, fixing something at home, or working on a hobby project, your subscription gives you full access to pro-grade tools at a maker-friendly price. Subscriptions renew automatically unless you cancel them in your - [My Account](https://go.3ds.com/account) portal. See details in the - [Makers FAQs](https://www.3ds.com/store/faq/makers). #### Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers available in my country? --- SOLIDWORKS for Makers is currently available in: Algeria, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States. See the Makers FAQ for the latest availability information. #### What do I get with my subscription? --- You can choose between two **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages: - **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** – a browser-based 3D CAD app that works on Mac, tablets, Chromebooks, and Windows. It includes an AI design assistant, rendering tools, motion studies, and easy sharing for quick hobby or repair projects. - **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** – full **SOLIDWORKS** desktop CAD for Windows, with both local and **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform storage, CAM features, and photorealistic rendering. You can install it and work offline for up to 30 days before syncing your data online. Each subscription is sold separately, allowing you to purchase one or both, depending on your specific project needs. Access your tools anytime through - [Start Making](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud), using the same email address you used to subscribe, to ensure your platform links are set up correctly. #### How do I know which offer is best for me? --- If you want the same **SOLIDWORKS** Connected desktop experience trusted by engineers, choose **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**—it’s ideal for detailed hobby builds and precision work on Windows. If you prefer to design in your browser on a Mac, Chromebook, or tablet, go with **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers**. It gives you flexibility to create anywhere, with **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform access and built-in collaboration tools. Unlike **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**, **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** does not include **SOLIDWORKS** Connected. Both connect to the **3D**EXPERIENCE platform for easy sharing, version tracking, and secure personal use of 3D CAD storage. #### Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers good for beginners? --- Yes. Both **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages are designed to be easy to learn and accessible for new users. You’ll find all the help you need within your platform’s - [Resources section](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud), which brings together step-by-step tutorials, the - [Getting Started](https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/getting-started) video playlist to learn at your own pace, and the *Welcome App* with tours, videos, tips, and training to help you make the most of your tools. You can also join the Makers - [Made in 3D](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/#community:17) community to connect with others, share ideas, and find inspiration for your next DIY project. #### Can I use SOLIDWORKS for Makers to design for 3D printing? --- Yes. Both **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages make it easy to design parts for 3D printing, from simple repairs to detailed hobby builds. You can export your models as STL files and prepare them with any slicer software for printing. Many Makers also combine 3D printing with woodworking, metalwork, or small gadget design, using **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** to bring digital precision to hands-on projects at home. #### Are my SOLIDWORKS for Makers files, formats, or data restricted? --- Yes. Files are digitally watermarked and can only be opened using a SOLIDWORKS for Makers license. They cannot be opened with commercial or academic versions of SOLIDWORKS. This applies to native formats: .3dxml, .sldprt, .sldasm and .slddrw. You can export in neutral formats like .stl, .step or .iges to share or use your designs without restrictions. #### What are the usage restrictions for SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** is intended for personal, non-commercial projects. You can design and even sell parts you create, as long as you generate less than $2,000 USD/per year in revenue. For broader or professional use, you’ll need a **SOLIDWORKS** [commercial](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy/solidworks-solutions) or - [startup license](https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-for-startups-program). There is no direct upgrade path from a **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** license to a commercial one—if you decide to expand your work, you’ll need to purchase both separately. #### Is there a storage limit in SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** includes 25 GB of **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform storage through 3DDrive and 3DSpace, providing ample capacity for your designs. Features such as file versioning, history tracking, and recovery help keep your personal workspace organized. This is usually more than enough for personal and hobby projects. Currently, storage cannot be expanded, and the 25 GB limit applies only to **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** licenses. #### Can I cancel if I change my mind? --- Yes. For yearly subscriptions, **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** offers a 15-day money-back policy. If you request cancellation within 15 days of your purchase, your order will be refunded in full. Refund requests are not possible with monthly subscriptions, though you can cancel prior to your next monthly renewal. If you are eligible for a refund & cancellation, you can cancel your order directly in your - [Account](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/my-account/orders). #### Can I use SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers offline? --- No. SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers always requires an internet connection. If you need offline capability, consider **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers, which supports offline mode for up to 30 consecutive days. # Level-Up Your Maker Game Make things your way with SOLIDWORKS for Makers ![Customer service representatives - SOLIDWORKS](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2021-05/solidworks-footer-workflow-design-verification-management-3d-cad-001.jpg.webp) 3D CAD Software for Drone Hobbyists- [](mailto:?subject=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/cad-drone-software) - [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/cad-drone-software) - [](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/cad-drone-software) - [](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/cad-drone-software)