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What Is Tinkercad?

It is a 3D CAD solution that helps users create designs using a built-in library of shapes, numbers, text, characters, and more.

Who Uses Tinkercad?

Designed for the education industry, it helps teachers and students create 3D designs, & electronics simulations using coding or built-in design tools.

Tinkercad Software - Tinkercad shapes library
Tinkercad Software - Tinkercad shapes dashboard
Tinkercad Software - Tinkercad import feature
Tinkercad Software - Tinkercad export feature

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Reviews of Tinkercad

Average score

Overall
4.6
Ease of Use
4.7
Customer Service
4.5
Features
4.4
Value for Money
4.8

Reviews by company size (employees)

  • <50
  • 51-200
  • 201-1,000
  • >1,001

Find reviews by score

5
68%
4
26%
3
6%
Samuel Isaí
Samuel Isaí
Fullstack dev in Mexico
Verified LinkedIn User
Computer Software, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

The correct tool to teach circuits and 3D modeling

3.0 last year

Comments: tinkercad it´s a valuable tool that helps me teach others about circuits, my users have saved some money and learned a lot by just using a very common computer, so i like to say I will use it for a long time

Pros:

tinkercad offers me a great selection of tools and the capability to teach new students how to create a circuit or 3D models, i love it because they can learn without buy the real circuits which are not cheap in Mexico

Cons:

I´ve almost lost some projects, somehow some projects cannot be opened anymore, but if you copy the project and create other project, the issue is solved

Brian
Librarian in US
Education Management, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Tinkercad....help your students enter the realm of 3D printing

4.0 6 months ago

Comments: My overall experience with Tinkercad have been quite positive. I have used Tinkercad to onboard my students into the world of 3D printing and to help them develop confidence in the design process. It is a great resource to introduce students into the world of 3D printing and could serve as an excellent resource to help students to be able to use OnShape and other more advanced 3D printing tools in the future.

Pros:

Tinkercad has low barriers to onboard initial users and supports them well with tutorials and an array of preloaded designs.

Cons:

The renaming process can be a bit cubersome though there are some tutorial supports available. Some users might need instruction about the file formats.

matthew
Carpenter in Canada
Construction, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Tinkercad in school use

4.0 last month New

Pros:

Useful for designing own ideas into 3d printable files

Cons:

Limited shape template to start off with

Meegan
Educator in US
Education Management, 201–500 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Great for Novice 3d Modeling!

5.0 3 months ago

Comments: My overall experience with Tinkercad has been positive. Tinkercad can be used by novice or experienced users. If you need a certain part for something around the house that you can't buy at a store, you can use Tinkercad to design whatever you need. Then save the file and print it off using a 3d printer. I have learned so many new things about 3d modeling by simply using Tinkercad.

Pros:

Tinkercad is a 3d model program for beginners. I bought a 3d printer for my home a few months ago. I had no prior experience with 3d modeling. Tinkercad gives users many different tutorials to get them started. It's very easy to use and the interface is straightforward. I always thought 3d modeling was only for creative or people in the engineering field. But ever since I started using Tinkercad, I now feel comfortable making models of things I want. Tinkercad gives users the option to start with simple shapes or, when they get better, a more advanced experience.

Cons:

After using Tinkercad, I don't have anything that I dislike about the software.

Karee
Innovation Lab Specialist (grades 3-5) in US
Education Management, 201–500 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Great free resource for CAD Design

4.0 4 years ago

Comments: Overall, it works and I've had a good experience with it. I think for elementary students more needs to be streamlined and simplified before I fell comfortable using it with my younger kids in my STEM classroom. I enjoy that it is a great free resource and think it is great exposure to CAD design but can cause frustration with how to toggle around different tools and such.

Pros:

I really like that this is a free platform for adults and students alike to use. I like that there are built-in tutorials and many options to allow people to design 3D shapes and prototypes. It is a great software for schools to use and is probably the most popular one that I know of schools using.

Cons:

I don't like that the tutorials are very small font and hard to read for younger students. Videos or more clear/concise and easy-to-follow ones would be nicer. Students often skip through the steps without reading. I also wish there was a draw a 2D shape and then extrude or revolve option like there is in more professional CAD software.

James
Systems Engineer in US
Information Technology & Services, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Super simple to learn.

4.0 4 years ago

Comments: I have used Tinkercad to create some 3D models, modify some 3D models from online repositories. I have found it easy to use for very simple model creation / modification.

Pros:

Tinkercad is very easy to learn to use. I also like the ability to use it anywhere, being web based. Log in and see all your projects, work on them, save them for later.

Cons:

The set of features in Tinkercad is very limiting for more advanced 3D modeling. Sometimes wrapping your head around how to convince a box and/or a sphere make a shape you want can be time-consuming.

Robert
Graphic Designer in US
Graphic Design, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

So good it shouldn't be free!

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: I have almost zero complaints about this software. It has exceeded all of my expectations.

Pros:

TinkerCad works the way I wish all software worked. It has a great GUI and is extremely easy to pick up and use. It's almost like CAD for kids until you realize that you can create very complex and precise objects which can then be exported for 3D printing - all for FREE!

Cons:

The size limits oftentimes do not make any sense when you try to import an object to work with. Oftentimes, you will need to shrink your object to any almost imperceptible size before it will allow you to load it.

Erin
Math Teacher, Consultant in US
Education Management, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

STEAM in action!

4.0 3 months ago

Comments: I love this for children! Not only can they let their creation go wild, they are able to learn on a program that will bring familiarity and be beneficial in STEM fields.

Pros:

It is so user friendly! We use this with children of all ages.

Cons:

The online/desktop version is easier than the iPad app in my opinion - less pinching with two fingers vs one or accidentally moving something around.

Cesar Josue
Universitary intern in Ecuador
Verified LinkedIn User
Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, 201–500 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

TinkerCAD: 3D Design for Beginners with Ease and Cloud Collaboration.

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: TinkerCAD is a user-friendly 3D design tool suitable for beginners, making it a good option for those looking for a simple tool to create 3D models. However, it may not be suitable for more complex or detailed design projects.

Pros:

TinkerCAD is a cloud-based 3D design tool that is particularly suitable for beginners. It provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface that allows users to create 3D models without the need for advanced technical knowledge. It boasts an extensive library of pre-defined elements, such as basic shapes, geometric figures, and common objects, which streamlines the process of creating 3D models without having to start from scratch. It provides a range of editing tools that allow users to modify and customize their 3D models, such as the ability to add or subtract shapes, round corners, and resize objects. There's also an option that enables users to work collaboratively on projects, allowing multiple individuals to work on a 3D model simultaneously, thus facilitating teamwork and collaboration on projects. It allows for 3D models to be exported in various formats, such as STL and OBJ, making it easy to print them on a 3D printer or use them in other design programs.

Cons:

TinkerCAD is designed for relatively simple 3D models and may not be suitable for more complex 3D design projects that require advanced functionalities or intricate details. Also, is a cloud-based tool, which means it requires a stable internet connection to function. This could be a limitation for those who need to work offline in certain situations.

Murilo
Murilo
Software Engineer in Brazil
Verified LinkedIn User
Telecommunications, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Easier option to design your 3D models

4.0 4 years ago

Comments: If you are starting on 3D modelling, Tinkercad is definitely the tool that you need to start using it. Then, if your models grow in complexity and you need more precision and more details, you will probably need to migrate to a more advanced tool.

Pros:

I bought a 3D printer and started using it printing mainly already defined and available 3D models on the internet. Then I realized that I could myself produce my own 3D models and I found on Tinkercad the start point to learn how to create my own models, the tool is very easy to use and it is free. You can also find many tutorials on Youtube.

Cons:

I think Tinkercad lacks in the measure of distance between specific parts of the models, also you can not design the model in 2D and then transform it in 3D like other tools do. When you need to create more advanced models, then you find that Tinkercad does not have all the features and tools that you need.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Semiconductors, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Great free 3d cad program.

5.0 2 years ago

Pros:

This is a free browser based CAD program. You can make 3d assemblies.

Cons:

This is a little hard to understand if you are coming to it from using a professional program.

Faten
Project Coordinator in Qatar
E-Learning, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: Free Trial
Reviewer Source

tinkercad

4.0 2 years ago

Pros:

I like that its free and easy to use. Kids liked the experience and made nice models in a short time.

Cons:

I can't import model file with more than 25 MB. I can't import glb file.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Information Technology & Services, 501–1,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Tinkercad - Getting Better Everyday

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: I have commercial software that is fairly expensive and will produce highly detailed and far more intricate models than you can with Tinkercad. But, unless it is highly detailed and requires exacting specifications, I'll bang it out on Tinkercad. Heck, I have a 3D printed model of my 3 story home. Each floor and the roof sections are seperate allowing you to open it up and see each floor. That model includes the stairwell, stairs and handrails with balasters for the stairs and open loft on the 3rd floor. The exposed wooden beams, vaulted ceilings, and even the huge front deck are all included, right down to the wood stove in the living room.

Pros:

I can not say enough about this software and it's ease of use, functionality, and practical application to meet my needs. The buidling process is simple and with use you can become pretty imaginative with the process of creating the shapes you're looking for. With the addition of the circuit builder and simulator it is a one stop shop for a lot of my projects. Not only can I design the firmware/software side of my project but I can also design and develop my project box/case/enclosure/etc. that I will be the final home for everything when I'm done. Thank you Autodesk for making this available for free.

Cons:

I do not like having to hold down Ctrl/Shft in order to drag the screen left or right. But that is it, that's my only issue. Oh, one more - the ability to set an axis angle back to zero. Be careful when rotating items, getting them off by a degree or so is pretty easy to do, getting them to sit back flat on the build board, not so much.

Victor
Product Technologist in US
Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing, 501–1,000 Employees
Used the Software for: Free Trial
Reviewer Source

Great for basic modeling

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: It did the job for basic 3D modelling. Easy to use and render the output.

Pros:

Very easy to use from the start. Instructions take you through the process.

Cons:

I had only a basic need, but additional textures would be great.

Ron
Director of Development in US
Information Technology & Services, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Great Beginner Software

5.0 2 years ago

Pros:

Ease of use with a very low learning curve.

Cons:

Beyond basic shapes, there aren't very many drawing components and no 'freehand' capabilities.

Corey
Dir of Instructional Technology in US
Education Management, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Great introductory CAD Program for 3rd grade and on

4.0 3 years ago

Comments: Overall, its a great program. I wish it could get a little bit more advanced, but it works great for elementary aged kids. We use it for a 3D printing program, and its pretty great for kids to be able to fairly rapidly create a project and download it for 3D printing.

Pros:

It is simple. A student can have a basic understanding of the software in about 30 minutes. This allows for students to rapidly see how they can use 3D shapes to create 3D designs.

Cons:

I wish there was a little bit more functionality that you see with a more professional CAD program like Fusion 360 - For example, I wish you could align objects to other portion of a design easier - Or manually choose how close/far away from another object you would like something to be. For more complex designs, it requires too much 'just eyeing it'. For younger kids, moving on to a more complex CAD program isn't really feasible. Wish there was a bit more of an in-between.

Bill
Executive Director in US
Nonprofit Organization Management, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

When you just want to tinker with a project!

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: I've really enjoyed working with Tinkercad and learning how to make objects to then print on a 3D printer! I've really enjoyed importing files to Tinkercad to help me get a jumpstart on my designs too! I love how easy it is to use this software!

Pros:

I love how easy it is to start using Tinkercad! There are many useful and simple YouTube videos to watch and learn specific features of Tinkercad. This allows you to jump right in and start designing objects in Tinkercad... and when you get to a point that you want to do something that you can't figure out... you can find the solution online and get right back to designing your project. It's awesome!

Cons:

There are many features to Tinkercad... some are a little more hidden and less obvious to find than others... but, with a little determination and a few minutes of research... you can do just about anything in Tinkercad that you can do in a more "complex" software package... but, the joy of Tinkercad is that it isn't complex or intimidating... it's simple and fun to use!

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Computer Software, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Tinkercad Review

4.0 2 years ago

Pros:

Tinkercad is a tool for representing objects in 3D shapes. More specifically, I am using it in order to design circuits for connected environments such as smart houses or smart cities. I am illustrating micro-controllers (e.g., arduino), sensors, actuators and many other components.

Cons:

This tool is a web based and requires a strong internet connection to work properly. I would prefer if there was a local version of this application.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Computer Software, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

A beginner friendly tool to design circuits

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: As a student, I mainly use it for circuit designing and I can say it's a very great tool. All the components I need for circuit designing are there. I'm also trying some 3D designing and even if I'm a complete beginner, I can easily use the tool.

Pros:

I really like that I can store my projects online and just download them once they are complete. I found a lot of custom models that are very easy to use as well. I can simply say I like most of the features and plus it's completely free!

Cons:

I hope there would be an offline version of it as well because I have to be connected to the internet each time I need to do my project.

Ronald
Technology STEAM teacher in US
E-Learning, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

TInkercad: Design, Create, Inspire

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: I have been using Tinkercad for over 3 years and have had students of all ages able to design from the simple keychain to the advanced assistive device. There is an ease of use and entry to Tinkercad as well as an abundance of video resources available. If you can use in conjunction with a platform like weareprintlab.com you can take your work to a whole other level.

Pros:

First and foremost it is free, as an educator a free product is like gold. There is a great easy of use to Tinkercad as well, I have 3rd grade students designing and 3D printing! I really like that Tinkercad is also owned by a professional CAD software company, so student get a feel for pro tools without the struggle of the pro tools. It is also great that tinkercad is updating often so not only can you 3D design, but now there is the ability to build with microbits, circuits, and more. You can also have students design even if you don't have the option of 3D printing. Students can design vehicles, houses, landscapes, and more. The best is that their ability to showcase as a 3D model in the end.

Cons:

I would like to see an integration with a LMS like Google Classroom, but other than that it's great.

Ayodeji
Ayodeji
Additive manufacturing in Nigeria
Verified LinkedIn User
Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Best 3D software for beginners

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: It's been a great experience usingTinkercad, I use it for educational purposes, teaching college students how to design and 3D print.

Pros:

Tinkercad is easy to learn and use, being web based, this makes it perfect cause you can work on your project from anywhere, just login on any system and you are good to go. The primitives eliminates the need for 2D sketching and makes it easy to quickly model for educational purposes.

Cons:

Bad internet connection can frustrate you since it's a web based software. Also, it's difficult to use in modeling complex designs as it only offer primitives,. It lack tools needed for modeling complex designs, for example creating 2D and extruding or revolving tools.

Avijit
Avijit
Engineer in India
Verified LinkedIn User
Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Awesome tool for beginners.

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: During this pandemic situation, with this tool i am able to show others how to use arduino circuits and use them, without providing them the real time hardware. They are loving the way of studying it. and also for my projects i did a simulation program that impressed the teachers.

Pros:

The ease of access of 3d designing, simple yet useful "to the point" tools. I mostly liked about the simulation of arduino circuits, Its very simple to simulate the real time arduino circuits. Recommended for beginners.

Cons:

Real time power measurement is not that much accurate in the circuits section. Advanced simulation is still yet to consider for heavy applications.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Civil Engineering, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Just visualize,Tinkercad will do the rest!

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: I highly recommend TINKERCAD for beginners.Beginners can design basic things with this software.If the requirement is advanced design it would be better to use another software.

Pros:

TINKERCAD is very user friendly software.Creating,designing and combining can do easily. Designs in STL and OBJ files supports all types of 3D printers,hence printing is very simple.Not only 3D design but also TINKERCAD can use as engineering and entertainment software.

Cons:

Since this is an online tool,Internet connection is a must.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Entertainment, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Great for Novices

3.0 4 years ago

Comments: I use TinkerCAD to design parts for instruments and my own creations to be 3D printed.

Pros:

TinkerCAD is web based, so it takes up no space on your computer. This also means that if you share your file with someone else, they need only access the website; no additional software required.

Cons:

TinkerCAD was developed as an educational tool, so it lacks many of the features you might find in a traditional CAD program.

Daniel
Daniel
Student in Mexico
Verified LinkedIn User
Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Best basic circuit simulator i ever tried

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: I really like to use this software and more during quarantine because it was a very good way to "build" circuits without the need of the physical component but whit the same learning

Pros:

I only use the circuit simulator and it is great, i love how they represent like if you have it in physic so you can really understand the way they need to be connected no just the symbolic way like almos any other circuit simulator. Also the fact that you can work with an arduino, motor and measurement devices in the software is amazing

Cons:

I really can't think some thing that i didn't like about, it is all you need in a basic circuit and even a little bit more

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