Concerning 3D modeling, there are many options to choose from. Two of the most popular 3D modeling software for beginners are SelfCAD and TinkerCAD. But which one should you choose? In this article, we’ll examine the similarities and differences between SelfCAD and TinkerCAD.
We will compare SelfCAD and TinkerCAD regarding their features, pricing, and target audience. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which software is best suited for your specific needs and requirements.
## What is SelfCAD?
SelfCAD is a 3D modeling software that allows users to design, modify and print 3D models. The software provides an easy-to-use interface that allows beginners to learn and create 3D models without prior experience. SelfCAD's features include a variety of tools for creating shapes, objects, and textures, as well as the ability to import and export models in various file formats.

Additionally, SelfCAD provides features like auto-fix and auto-repair to ensure that models are printable. The software also includes educational resources and a community forum for users to learn and share their work. SelfCAD offers both free and paid plans with various pricing options.
Before looking into TinkerCAD, let's learn about some of the features of SelfCAD that allow you to make easy 3D models in less time.

### 1. Bend tool
Bend is a fundamental tool for manipulating shapes in SelfCAD. You can access it in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool allows you to bend selected figures or specific regions by curving them sideways.

The Deform category in SelfCAD is distinct because its tools depend on the level of detail in the objects. Increasing the Resolution results in smoother and more detailed deformations. Besides, you can customize the Bend tool using Advanced Settings like the Plane, Dynamic Origin, and Individual transformation.
### 2. Twist Tool
Twist is a primary tool for altering shapes in SelfCAD. It can be found in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool enables the deformation of selected figures or specific regions by rotating them along the axes, as the name implies.
### 3. Taper Tool
Taper is a fundamental tool for modifying shapes in SelfCAD. It can be located in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool enables the deformation of selected figures or specific regions by narrowing their sides as suggestive of its name.

The Deform category in SelfCAD is distinctive as its tools heavily depend on the level of detail in the objects. Increasing the Resolution leads to a smoother and more detailed deformation. Furthermore, you can enhance the customization of the Taper tool with Advanced Settings like the Origin and Individual transformation.
### 4. Skew Tool
Skew is a fundamental tool for altering shapes in SelfCAD. It can be found in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool enables the deformation of selected figures or specific regions by tilting them to the sides, as indicated by its name.

The Deform category in SelfCAD is distinctive because its tools heavily depend on the level of detail in the objects. Increasing the Resolution results in a smoother and more detailed deformation. You can also customize the Skew tool using Advanced Settings like the Origin and the Minimum Step Size.
### 5. Scale Tool
Scale is a fundamental tool for modifying objects in SelfCAD. It can be located in the main Toolbar, positioned alongside the Rotate tool. Just as the name denotes, this tool enables you to resize selected objects or specific regions of an object. However, there's more to it! By utilizing the Advanced Settings such as Symmetry and Keep Proportion, you can further personalize the Scale tool to suit your specific objectives.

As a [3D design software](https://www.selfcad.com/) SelfCAD is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced designers. With SelfCAD, users can create models from scratch or import existing designs, and they can also export their creations for 3D printing or use in other applications.
## What is TinkerCAD?
TinkerCAD is a free and web-based 3D modeling software that enables users to create 3D designs for printing or other uses. TinkerCAD's user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to learn 3D modeling and design while offering advanced tools and features for more experienced users. The software allows users to create 3D models by combining various shapes and objects or by importing 2D or 3D designs.

TinkerCAD also offers an extensive library of pre-designed shapes and models that can be easily modified and customized. The software is ideal for 3D printing but can also be used for game development, product design, and more.
## Similarities Between SelfCAD and TinkerCAD:
### 1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD are web-based and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection and a web browser.
* They are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS.
* System requirements:
* These software programs have minimal system requirements and do not require high-end hardware.
* They can run on most computers and laptops with at least 4GB of RAM and a decent graphics card.
* Since they are web-based, users do not need to install any other software or plugins on their computers, making them easily accessible.
### 2. Cost/Licenses:
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD have a similar type of license - a freemium model. This means although there are limited features in the free version, users can access more features with a paid subscription.
* They both have paid plans with additional features and tools targeted toward more advanced users and professionals.
* The pricing for both software programs is based on a subscription model, with monthly, yearly, and lifetime options available.
* They offer affordable educational plans for students and teachers at discounted prices.
### 3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD have intuitive interfaces that are easy to navigate and use, even for beginners.
* They offer a variety of tools and features that are clearly labeled and easy to understand.
* Both have a drag-and-drop interface, which makes it easy for users to place objects and shapes into their designs.
* They offer a 3D view of the design, allowing users to see the design from different angles.
* They offer online tutorials, resources, and support to help users learn and use the software effectively.
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD have user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for users to get started with 3D modeling and design. Their intuitive layouts and helpful resources make it easy for beginners to learn and use the software effectively.
### 4. Learning Curve:
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD are designed to be user-friendly and easy to use, even for beginners.
* They both have simple interfaces and offer helpful online resources and tutorials to help users learn the software.
* Both offer a range of features and tools that are easy to understand and use without requiring advanced technical skills.
* They provide a range of templates and pre-made shapes, making it easy for users to get started with their designs.
* They have a low learning curve, allowing users to create basic 3D designs in just a few minutes.
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD have a similar learning curve, with easy-to-use interfaces and helpful resources to make it easy for users to get started with 3D modeling and design.
### 5. Customer Support:
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD offer online customer support, including email support and online chat.
* They both have active user communities where users can ask questions and get help from other users.
* Both offer helpful online resources, including tutorials and user guides, to help users learn and use the software effectively.
* They both provide a range of pricing plans that include customer support options, including access to more advanced support resources.
* They offer a feedback mechanism for users to provide suggestions or report issues with the software.
* SelfCAD and TinkerCAD have similar customer support options, including online resources, community support, and paid support options. This makes it easy for users to get the help they need to learn and use the software effectively.
## Differences Between SelfCAD and TinkerCAD:
### 1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:
* Operating Systems: SelfCAD is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, while TinkerCAD is a browser-based software that can be used on any device with a modern web browser.
* System Requirements: SelfCAD requires a minimum of 4GB RAM and a graphics card with OpenGL 4.1 support, while TinkerCAD has minimal system requirements and can be run on almost any modern computer.
### 2. Cost/Licenses:
* Cost: TinkerCAD is free to use for all users and does not require any licensing fees. SelfCAD offers a range of pricing plans with different levels of functionality, from a free plan to paid plans with more advanced features.
* Licensing: SelfCAD offers both annual and monthly subscription options, with the ability to cancel at any time. TinkerCAD, being a browser-based software, does not require any licensing or subscriptions to use.
* Education: TinkerCAD offers free educational licenses for students and teachers, making it a popular choice in classrooms. SelfCAD also offers educational licenses at discounted prices but may not be as widely used in education as TinkerCAD.
### 3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:
* User-friendliness: TinkerCAD is a more user-friendly software and is designed to be easy to use for beginners. Its interface is simple and intuitive, with drag-and-drop functionality and pre-made shapes that can be easily combined to create 3D models. SelfCAD, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve and may require more time to become proficient in.
* Interface: TinkerCAD has a minimalist interface with all the tools accessible from a single panel. It also has a grid system that makes it easy to align shapes and designs accurately. SelfCAD has a more complex interface with a wider range of tools and options, which may be overwhelming for beginners. However, the interface is customizable, allowing users to rearrange and group tools according to their preferences.
### 4. Learning Curve:
* SelfCAD offers a steeper learning curve than TinkerCAD, as it has a broader range of tools and features, including advanced 3D modeling and sculpting tools, rendering options, and parametric design capabilities.
* TinkerCAD has a shallower learning curve, as it is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, with simple drag-and-drop tools and a user-friendly interface.
* SelfCAD is a more comprehensive software that offers more options for experienced designers but may be overwhelming for beginners.
* TinkerCAD is more suitable for beginners, allowing users to create simple designs quickly and easily without prior experience or training.
* SelfCAD requires more time and effort to learn but offers greater flexibility and customization options.
* TinkerCAD is ideal for creating basic 3D models for educational or hobby purposes, while SelfCAD is better suited for professional designers who need more advanced tools and functionality.
* Both programs offer tutorials and resources to help users learn the software, but SelfCAD has more in-depth and detailed tutorials for advanced features.
### 5. Customer Support:
* SelfCAD offers more comprehensive customer support than TinkerCAD, with dedicated support agents available via live chat, email, and phone.
* TinkerCAD offers limited customer support options, with most support provided through online resources and a user forum.
* SelfCAD's support team is highly responsive and knowledgeable, with a reputation for providing quick and effective solutions to user issues.
* TinkerCAD's support resources are limited to online documentation and community forums, which may not be as helpful for users with more complex issues or questions.
* SelfCAD offers a knowledge base with articles, tutorials, and FAQs to help users learn the software and troubleshoot common issues.
* TinkerCAD also offers a knowledge base, but it may not be as extensive or detailed as SelfCAD's.
* SelfCAD's customer support is more robust and user-friendly than TinkerCAD, making it a better choice for users who may need more assistance with the software.
## Upgrade your 3D modeling skills with the best software:
SelfCAD and TinkerCAD are both popular 3D modeling software options, but they have their advantages and disadvantages. SelfCAD has a more advanced set of features and tools, which may be attractive to those who have experience with 3D modeling, while TinkerCAD is a much simpler software with a more intuitive interface that can be used by beginners. Ultimately, the choice between SelfCAD and TinkerCAD depends on the user’s experience level and what they are looking for in a 3D modeling program.