FreeCAD is a powerful, open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler designed for a broad range of uses including product design, mechanical engineering, and architecture. It supports a variety of file formats and provides advanced tools for creating and modifying 3D models. Key features of FreeCAD include a modular architecture, a robust Python API for scripting, support for various geometric shapes, and a customizable interface.
To install FreeCAD on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04, or 20.04, you have several methods available. You can use the command-line terminal to install from the default Ubuntu repository, the FreeCAD PPA for the latest stable or development builds, Snap, or Flatpak with Flathub. This guide will walk you through each of these installation methods.
Method 1: Install FreeCAD via APT
This section will guide you through installing FreeCAD on your Ubuntu system using the APT package manager. We will discuss two installation methods: the standard Ubuntu repository and the FreeCAD Maintainers PPA.
Update Ubuntu Before FreeCAD Installation
Before we proceed with the installation, it is essential to update your system to ensure that all existing packages are up to date. This helps avoid potential conflicts during the installation process. To update your Ubuntu system, run the following command:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeSelect APT Installation Method Option
Option 1: Install FreeCAD with Ubuntu Repository
The first and most straightforward method to install FreeCAD is to use the APT package manager with the standard Ubuntu repository. This method provides a stable version of the software. To install FreeCAD using this method, execute the following command:
sudo apt install freecadOption 2: Install FreeCAD with FreeCAD Maintainers PPA on Ubuntu
The second option for installing FreeCAD is to use the Launchpad PPA maintained by the “FreeCAD maintainers” team. This method is suitable for users who prefer the most up-to-date version of the software without relying on Snap or Flatpak.
First, you must install the required packages to add the PPA to your system. Run the following command:
sudo apt install software-properties-common apt-transport-https -yNext, import the FreeCAD Maintainers PPA using the following command:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:freecad-maintainers/freecad-daily -yTo ensure that the newly added APT source is reflected in your system, perform a quick APT update with this command:
sudo apt updateFinally, install the FreeCAD daily version using the following command:
sudo apt install freecad-dailyRemember that this is the upstream version of FreeCAD. Make sure not to use the same apt install freecad command as in the Ubuntu repository method, or you will install the incorrect version.
Method 2: Install FreeCAD via Snap
This section will discuss an alternative method for installing FreeCAD on your Ubuntu system using Snapcraft. Snapcraft is a universal package manager that simplifies software installation and updates on Linux systems. It comes pre-installed on Ubuntu desktops unless it has been previously removed.
Install Core Snap
Installing the core snap files first is recommended to avoid potential conflicts during the installation process. The core snap provides the essential libraries and components for running snap packages. To install the core snap, execute the following command:
sudo snap install coreInstall FreeCAD via Snap Command
With classic snap support enabled and the core snap installed, you can now install FreeCAD. To install FreeCAD as a snap package, run the following command:
sudo snap install freecadFollowing these steps, you should have successfully installed FreeCAD on your Ubuntu system using Snapcraft.
Method 3: Install FreeCAD via Flatpak and Flathub
This section will explore an alternative method for installing FreeCAD using the Flatpak package manager. Flatpak is a versatile package management system similar to Snap that allows you to install and manage software applications in isolated environments. One key benefit of using Flatpak is that it ensures you have the latest version of an application, like FreeCAD, without affecting other packages on your system.
Note: If your system does not have Flatpak installed, please refer to our guide on “How to Install Flatpak on Ubuntu” for step-by-step instructions on installing the most recent supported version of Flatpak.
Enable Flathub for FreeCAD
Before installing FreeCAD through Flatpak, you must enable the Flathub repository, a primary source for Flatpak applications. To enable Flathub, execute the following command in your terminal:
sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepoThis command adds the Flathub repository to your Flatpak configuration, ensuring you can access various applications, including FreeCAD.
Install FreeCAD via Flatpak Command
With Flathub enabled, you can install FreeCAD using the flatpak install command. Run the following command in your terminal:
flatpak install flathub org.freecadweb.FreeCAD -yThis command installs FreeCAD from the Flathub repository, providing you with the latest version of the application.
Launching FreeCAD User Interface
This section will discuss different methods to launch FreeCAD after successfully installing it. You can start the application using the Command Line Interface (CLI) or the Graphical User Interface (GUI).
Launching FreeCAD through CLI
Depending on the installation method you chose, you can launch FreeCAD using the appropriate CLI command:
freecadsnap run freecadflatpak run org.freecadweb.FreeCADSelect the relevant command according to your installation method, and FreeCAD will start.
Launching FreeCAD through GUI
For users who prefer the GUI method, launching FreeCAD is as simple as locating the application icon.
- Click on the Activities button (usually located in the top-left corner of your screen).
- Select Show Applications (represented by a grid icon) to open the list of installed applications.
- Locate the FreeCAD icon by scrolling through the list or typing “FreeCAD” in the search bar.
- Click on the FreeCAD icon to launch the application.
Additional Terminal FreeCAD Commands
This section will provide essential commands to manage FreeCAD on your Ubuntu Linux system. These commands will help you update and remove FreeCAD installed through different package managers such as APT, Snapcraft, and Flatpak.
Update FreeCAD
It is vital to keep your application up-to-date to ensure you have the latest version of FreeCAD and fix any potential issues. The commands below check for updates for all installed packages on your system that match the installation package manager.
APT Update Command Method for FreeCAD
To update FreeCAD installed through APT, run the following command in your terminal:
sudo apt updateSnap Update Command Method for FreeCAD
For updating FreeCAD installed via Snapcraft, use this command:
sudo snap refreshFlatpak Update Command Method for FreeCAD
To update FreeCAD installed with Flatpak, execute the following command:
flatpak updateRemove FreeCAD
If you decide to uninstall FreeCAD from your system, follow the instructions for the respective package manager below.
APT Remove Command Method for FreeCAD
For users who installed FreeCAD through APT, use the following command to remove the application:
sudo apt remove freecadFor users with the daily PPA version, use this command instead:
sudo apt remove freecad-dailyIf you no longer require the APT import repository and want to remove it for good housekeeping and security best practices, run the following command:
sudo add-apt-repository --remove ppa:freecad-maintainers/freecad-daily -ySnap Remove Command Method for FreeCAD
To uninstall FreeCAD installed via Snapcraft, execute this command:
sudo snap remove freecadFlatpak Remove Command Method for FreeCAD
To remove the Flatpak version of FreeCAD, run the following command:
flatpak uninstall --delete-data org.freecadweb.FreeCAD -yClosing Thoughts
With FreeCAD successfully installed on your Ubuntu system, you can take advantage of its extensive modeling capabilities and robust features. Whether you choose the default Ubuntu repository for ease of use, the FreeCAD PPA for the latest builds, or the flexibility of Snap and Flatpak, each method ensures you have access to the tools needed for your design projects. Regularly check for updates to keep your software current and enjoy the powerful capabilities that FreeCAD offers for 3D modeling and design.