Mastercam Learning Edition
Mastercam Learning Edition is free CAD/CAM software download for demo and educational purposes. It is a trial version of Mastercam that can be used to learn at home.
Whether you are an industry professional, student, or teacher, if you are looking for a way to get more familiar with CAD/CAM software, Learning Edition delivers the full suite of Mastercam with few restrictions.
- CAD/CAM Learning Edition does everything but post G-code.
- Files are saved in EMCAM format (not compatible with industrial versions of Mastercam).
- Post processors are not included or supported.
Mastercam Learning Edition can be used to create geometry and then program the geometry using Mastercam toolpaths. The results can be verified visually, but they cannot be exported to control a CNC machine tool.
- Stay up to date with the latest version of Mastercam.
- Full 3D CAD modeling.
- Context-sensitive help available from all dialog boxes.
- Robust 2D through Multiaxis cutting strategies.
- Explore Mastercam products including Mill, Lathe, and Router.
- Intelligent, stock-aware toolpaths.
- Complete tool library and custom tool support.
Get your free copy of Mastercam Learning Edition today!
Request a Free Mastercam Download
Features
When a new version of Mastercam is released, simply uninstall your current Demo/HLE and request a download of the most recent software, so you can keep up with the latest features and functionality.
Accelerated Finishing™
Take advantage of innovative profile tools and processes aimed at greater efficiency and higher machining productivity.
Extend tool life with proprietary toolpath strategies that maximize material removal rate and reduce cycle times.
Advanced Toolpaths
Reduce costs and cut programming time
with advanced toolpaths like Deburr and Equal Scallop. Extend tool life with proprietary Dynamic Motion™ toolpath strategies that maximize material removal rate and reduce cycle times.
Valuable Experience
Build your expertise using the CAM software that more schools teach—and more professionals use—than any other.*
Full Access
Whether you want to see if Mastercam has the tools you need for your business or you want to practice Mastercam at your own pace and learn on your own time, the free Demo/HLE allows you to explore a comprehensive software package.
*CIMdata 2019
System Requirements
See the table below for minimum and recommended system configurations for Mastercam. These recommendations are based on systems we have in use at CNC Software for testing and evaluation purposes. Our recommendation is to get as much power (processor, video card, and memory) for your systems as you can afford.
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 or Windows 11 64-bit Professional | Windows 10 (version 20H2 or later) 64-bit Professional |
| Processor | Intel® or AMD 64-bit processor, 2.4 GHz or faster | Intel i7 or Xeon® E3, Kaby Lake or later, 3.2GHz or faster |
| Memory | 8 GB | 32 GB |
| Video | OpenGL 3.2 and OpenCL 1.2 support with 1 GB memory. No onboard graphics. | NVIDIA Quadro® or AMD FirePro™ / Radeon Pro card with 4 GB (or higher) dedicated memory. |
| Monitor | 1920 * 1080 resolution | 1920 * 1080 resolution, dual monitors |
| Storage | Solid State Drive (SSD) with at least 20 GB free and a USB 2.0 reader (for installation media) | NVMe Drive with at least 20GB free |
| 3D Mouse | 3Dconnexion 3D mouse |
Connection to Internet and email is recommended for installation, support, and updates.
OPERATING SYSTEMS
CNC Software continues to review the operating system (OS) requirements for Mastercam with a goal of providing the best possible user experience for our customers.
We recommend using Windows 10 (version 20H2 or later) or later 64-bit Professional editions. While Mastercam may run on other Windows editions (such as Home Edition) or virtual environments (such as Parallels for Mac), it has not been tested on these configurations and is therefore not supported.
Mastercam 2021 was the last release to officially support Windows 7 as Microsoft ended extended support for the OS in January 2020. Mastercam 2022 will install on Windows 7 systems but will not be supported. Future versions of Mastercam will not install on Windows 7.
PROCESSOR
The processor speed will impact how fast the software will calculate and complete tasks. With each release, more and more aspects of Mastercam are becoming multi-core processor aware. Toolpath calculation and Simulation will generally run faster with a multi-core processor. We typically see a 50% reduction in toolpath calculation time with the latest Intel i7 or Xeon processors.
MEMORY
When Mastercam uses all available RAM, it switches to using virtual memory space, which is stored on the hard drive and will dramatically slow the system down. We recommend a minimum of 8 GB of memory. For large toolpath generation and simulation, we recommend 32GB of RAM.
VIDEO
When purchasing a new computer for Mastercam, one of the most important component is the video card.
We recommend an NVIDIA Quadro® or AMD FirePro™ / Radeon Pro card with 4GB or more of memory. Other graphics cards can be used, but they must offer full OpenGL 3.2 and OpenCL 1.2 support. OpenCL is required for Mastercam to be able to hand off certain computation tasks to the graphics card to increase system performance.
We do not recommend or support the use of onboard graphics found with some PC configurations. These do not generally have the capability to drive graphics intensive applications such as Mastercam and can lead to system instability.
Make sure you are using up-to-date drivers from your card manufacturer. We often see issues that are resolved with updated video drivers. The driver version can have a great impact on how the card performs.
The latest drivers for NVIDIA and AMD can be found at the online links. We recommend using the automatic detect feature to detect which video card is installed. More information on configuring the graphics card can be found at this Mastercam knowledge base article.
MONITOR
Most of our internal systems utilize dual monitors and we find this to be a more productive setup. Mastercam displays on the primary monitor while applications such as Mastercam Simulator, Code Expert, or Tool Manager display on the secondary monitor.
The minimum recommended resolution for the primary display is 1920 * 1080 resolution typical of widescreen monitors available today. Mastercam will run on lower resolution screens but beware of potential sizing issues with larger dialog boxes and panels which may be awkward to work with. Lower resolution monitors may work fine as a second monitor in a dual screen setup.
Mastercam will run on large format displays, including 4K monitors and high-DPI devices however, we do experience some display issues with these configurations.
STORAGE
We have found that one of the best computer upgrades is to invest in a NVMe drive. These drives are now priced at a point which makes them a good investment. Many of our test systems employ a smaller primary NVMe drive for the OS and installed applications with a second large capacity conventional drive for data.
3D MOUSE
A 3D mouse improves the way you interact with your 3D application. It is designed to be used by your non-dominant hand in tandem with a standard mouse for a balanced and cooperative work style. You gently manipulate the 3D mouse’s controller cap to simultaneously pan, zoom and rotate 3D content while your standard mouse is free to select menu items or parts of the model. Additional technical and purchase information can be found on the 3Dconnexion website.
ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE
Most computers today have some kind of anti-virus software to protect from unwanted malware. In some cases, these have been found to interfere with applications such as Mastercam which are running on the computer. CNC Software does not recommend specific anti-virus products, but if you see unexpected issues, it may be a conflict with anti-virus software. Try temporarily disabling the anti-virus software or setting an exception for Mastercam.
Add-Ons
Art
Port Expert
Blade Expert
Productivity+
ProDrill
Mill-Turn
Case Studies
San Diego City College
Learn More
Mastercam Community
When you choose the world’s most widely used CAM, you gain benefits beyond the technology driving our software. Our global community of Mastercam users, experts, educators, and enthusiasts helps you get the most from your investment.
- Online and local training
- Network of innovation
- Educational resources
- What’s New documentation for Mastercam and Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS®
Please contact a local Mastercam Reseller for additional information and expert advice about products and services to meet your exact needs.
Find My Reseller
FAQs
Does FreeCAD have CAM software? ›
FreeCAD, along with Fusion 360, is highly recommended CAM software.
Can I download Mastercam for free? ›It's a free version of Mastercam that can be used to learn the software for up to one year after activation. Download provides access to the full array of CAD/CAM functionality for Mastercam applications including mill, lathe, mill-turn, router, multiaxis, wire, design, and more.
Is FreeCAD totally free? ›Is FreeCAD completely free? FreeCAD is free. This open-source software is available for free for Linux, macOS and Windows.
Is FreeCAD better than AutoCAD? ›AutoCAD has 2683 reviews and a rating of 4.65 / 5 stars vs FreeCAD which has 120 reviews and a rating of 4.32 / 5 stars. Compare the similarities and differences between software options with real user reviews focused on features, ease of use, customer service, and value for money. Reviews are generated by real users.
What is the easiest CAM software? ›- Solid Edge.
- Fusion 360.
- SolidWorks.
- AutoCAD.
- SculptGL.
- K-3D.
- Antimony.
- Smoothie.
First launched in 2000, SketchUp is a popular computer-aided design (CAD) program that provides a simple, intuitive user interface. As is implied by their slogan, “Think in 3D. Draw in 3D”, most of the workflow is easy to grasp and can be learned in a matter of minutes.
What is the most popular CAD CAM software? ›- Fusion 360.
- SOLIDWORKS.
- Solid Edge.
- NX CAM.
- SolidWorks CAM.
- GibbsCAM.
- CAMWorks.
- HSM.
Draft it Version 4 is the best free CAD Software in the industry, it's faster and more powerful than previous versions whilst retaining its acclaimed ease of use. It is a 2D CAD software suitable for all users, in the office or at home. You can create, print and save your own drawings and designs.
Does CAD have a free version? ›The AutoCAD free trial lasts 30 days, which provides the chance to explore the full capabilities of the latest versions for a limited term. To cancel a free trial, turn off automatic renewal before the trial period ends.
Is AutoCAD and CAD-CAM same? ›AUTOCAD is the cad software where we can make 3D models or any 2D modelling but CAD is the platform, on which there are many cad softwares for modelling. Auto CAD was developed by autodesk as mapping software and is used in 2D & 3D design graphic system tools.
Is Fusion 360 better than Mastercam? ›
Reviewers felt that Mastercam meets the needs of their business better than Fusion 360. When comparing quality of ongoing product support, reviewers felt that Fusion 360 is the preferred option. For feature updates and roadmaps, our reviewers preferred the direction of Fusion 360 over Mastercam.
Is Mastercam better than SOLIDWORKS? ›If you are already familiar with both Mastercam and SOLIDWORKS design tools you'll generally prefer SOLIDWORKS for design work if you can justify the purchase. SOLIDWORKS is the superior design tool, but for just creating and modifying 3D models for programming Mastercam Design can get the job done.
How much RAM is needed for Mastercam? ›Memory Requirements
Memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is temporary, or read-only memory (ROM), which is permanent. For Mastercam, the minimum memory requirement is 8 GB of memory. It is recommended to have 32 GB, though.
This program is free; you can download a version for your operating system from the vendor's website. FreeCAD is an open-source 3D modeling software that enables you to create detailed technical drawings, as well as efficient CAM processes. Could your organization benefit from these features?
Does Google have a CAD app? ›AutoCAD web app - Google Workspace Marketplace. Edit, create, and view CAD drawings in the AutoCAD web app anytime, anywhere.
Which FreeCAD is closest to AutoCAD? ›- SolidFace – Download for Free. We will start with ours, because we consider it the best existing free AutoCAD alternative. ...
- BricsCAD. ...
- DraftSight. ...
- SketchUp. ...
- AutoCAD (student version) ...
- FreeCAD. ...
- NanoCAD Free / Windows. ...
- QCAD / Windows / MacOS / Linux.
Disadvantages of FreeCAD
It has a complex interface which makes it difficult for beginners. It has a problem of freezing when importing large files.
The DWG format is a closed source binary file format that is not directly supported by FreeCAD. It requires an external 3rd party file converter to convert DWG files to DXF files, and vice-versa.
What is the easiest FreeCAD software to learn? ›- FreeCAD. FreeCAD, as the name suggests, is a free and open-source CAD software, and it's a top choice among both beginners and professionals. ...
- Tinkercad. Suppose you're at your friend's home and get a call to design a simple 3D Model. ...
- LibreCAD. ...
- OpenSCAD. ...
- ZBrushCoreMini (Earlier Sculptris) ...
- SketchUp. ...
- Fusion 360. ...
- AutoCAD.
- Fusion 360.
- SOLIDWORKS.
- Solid Edge.
- NX CAM.
- SolidWorks CAM.
- GibbsCAM.
- CAMWorks.
- HSM.
Which FreeCAD is closest to AutoCAD? ›
- SolidFace – Download for Free. We will start with ours, because we consider it the best existing free AutoCAD alternative. ...
- BricsCAD. ...
- DraftSight. ...
- SketchUp. ...
- AutoCAD (student version) ...
- FreeCAD. ...
- NanoCAD Free / Windows. ...
- QCAD / Windows / MacOS / Linux.
FreeCAD. FreeCAD is an open-source CAD program best known for its parametric 3D modeling capabilities. Although not directly supported, DWG files can be easily imported and exported via the free ODA Converter plug-in. On the other hand, it does offer BIM support by default.
Can FreeCAD replace AutoCAD? ›FreeCAD is a free software, but unfortunately it is not a substitute for AutoCAD software. AutoCAD is mainly used to design 2D, 3D drawings, drafts and concepts. FreeCAD is a general-purpose 3D parametric modeler for anyone who needs to review and create 3D models and does not own a commercially available solution.
Can FreeCAD be used professionally? ›FreeCAD is ready for business but it has some limitations, like all programs. You will need to learn the limitations so you can protect your hard work.
Does Microsoft have a CAD program? ›Back to the Drawing Board takes full advantage of the unique features of Windows to provide a great drawing experience on desktops, laptops and tablets. It is an affordable CAD solution for businesses, consumers, students or anyone who needs to produce quick, accurate technical drawings.
What is the easiest CAM software? ›- Solid Edge.
- Fusion 360.
- SolidWorks.
- AutoCAD.
- SculptGL.
- K-3D.
- Antimony.
- Smoothie.
The main difference between CAD and CAM programming is CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design (in some circles, it can refer synonymously to Computer-Aided Drafting), which refers to the design or modification of a digital model while CAM is Computer-Aided Manufacturing and controls the machine used to produce a part.
Which is better CAM or CAD? ›The purpose of CAD is making 2D technical drawings and 3D models. The purpose of CAM is using 3D models to design machining processes. 05. Due to CAD it is much easier, more accurate and faster drafting, making 3D models impossible without computers.
How much does FreeCAD cost? ›This program is free; you can download a version for your operating system from the vendor's website. FreeCAD is an open-source 3D modeling software that enables you to create detailed technical drawings, as well as efficient CAM processes. Could your organization benefit from these features?
Does FreeCAD save as DWG? ›The DWG format is a closed source binary file format that is not directly supported by FreeCAD. It requires an external 3rd party file converter to convert DWG files to DXF files, and vice-versa.
Is FreeCAD any good? ›
FreeCAD has been a Godsend for developing and evaluating my ideas and I would definitely recommend it if you are a small business with minimal or no budget for expensive CAD software.
How can I get AutoCAD lifetime free? ›The one and only way to access a full and unrestricted version of AutoCAD for free is to be a student, educator, or academic institution. Those eligible can apply for AutoCAD's educational license and get a free year of Autodesk software, including AutoCAD.
Is AutoCAD free or paid? ›The price of an annual AutoCAD subscription is $1,865 and the price of a monthly AutoCAD subscription is $235 . The price of a 3-year AutoCAD subscription is $5,315 . If you have infrequent users and are interested in a pay-as-you-go option, please visit www.autodesk.com/flex to learn more.