Fast modeling workflow
PixyCAD is built around fast iteration, letting you create, adjust, and refine models without a heavy CAD workflow getting in the way.
PixyCAD
PixyCAD is a 3D CAD app for macOS and iPadOS that helps makers and beginners sketch, model, and export parts for 3D printing. It supports Apple Pencil on iPad, desktop refinement on Mac, and file outputs for printing and CAD exchange.
Overview
PixyCAD is a 3D CAD app for macOS and iPadOS aimed at makers, 3D printing enthusiasts, and people who want a more approachable way to model in 3D. The site presents it as a tool that removes some of the usual friction from CAD so users can move from an idea to a solid model and then to a printable file.
The product is designed around quick iteration and device-native use. On iPad, you can sketch with Apple Pencil; on Mac, you can refine with keyboard and mouse. PixyCAD also runs on-device rather than in the cloud, and its export options include STL and 3MF for printing, with STEP and Parasolid formats available in paid plans for exchange with other CAD tools and manufacturers.
Core features
Apple Pencil-first input
On iPad, you can sketch with Apple Pencil and then turn that sketch into a precise 3D model. The site positions this as a way to start without prior CAD experience.
On-device performance
The app runs entirely on your device and is described as Metal-optimized, with smooth rotation, panning, and editing on detailed models.
Cross-device workflow
You can start on iPad and continue on Mac, using the same workflow across Apple devices.
3D print output
PixyCAD exports STL and 3MF for slicing and printing, with higher-resolution export available in paid plans.
Professional file interoperability
Paid Maker plans add STEP import/export, Parasolid import/export, and PixyCAD file import/export for use with other CAD tools and manufacturers.
Common use cases
Getting started with 3D design
Use PixyCAD to sketch an idea on iPad with Apple Pencil, then convert it into a more precise 3D model without needing prior CAD experience.
Preparing printable models
Design parts for 3D printing by exporting STL or 3MF, then send the files to a slicer for printing.
Moving between devices
Begin a project on iPad and continue refining it on Mac using keyboard and mouse when you want tighter control or a different input method.
Interoperating with other CAD tools
Use the paid file formats to exchange models with other CAD software or share them with manufacturers who need STEP or Parasolid inputs.
Iterating on a design locally
Work through early concepts quickly by making repeated adjustments to measurements and geometry on-device, without relying on cloud-based editing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Supports macOS and iPadOS, with a workflow that carries across both devices.
- Apple Pencil support makes the iPad version feel more natural for sketching and early modeling.
- Runs entirely on-device, which the site says avoids lag, logins, and cloud delays.
- Exports STL and 3MF for 3D printing, with additional professional formats in paid plans.
- Offers a free Starter plan so users can try core modeling tools before upgrading.
Cons
- The free Starter plan is limited to two projects and lower-resolution STL/3MF exports.
- Professional file exchange formats such as STEP and Parasolid are only included in Maker plans.
- The source does not describe team collaboration or cloud-based sharing features.
FAQ
What platforms does PixyCAD support?
PixyCAD supports macOS and iPadOS. The site says it requires iPadOS 26.0+ or macOS 15.0+ with Apple Silicon.
Is there a free version of PixyCAD?
Yes. The pricing page offers a free Starter plan with core modeling tools and up to two projects. Paid Maker options add unlimited projects and professional export/import formats.
Which file formats does PixyCAD support?
PixyCAD exports STL and 3MF for printing. The paid Maker plans also add STEP and Parasolid import/export, plus PixyCAD file import/export.
Can I move between iPad and Mac?
Yes. PixyCAD says you can start on iPad with Apple Pencil and continue on Mac with keyboard and mouse, with a consistent workflow across devices.
Is PixyCAD suited to beginners or teams?
The site presents PixyCAD as approachable for beginners and also useful for makers and 3D printing enthusiasts. The pricing FAQ says it includes built-in tutorials, but the source does not describe formal collaboration features.
Quick Facts
- Category
- 3D CAD
- Platforms
- macOS, iPadOS
- Primary users
- Makers, 3D printing enthusiasts, beginners
- Source domain
- pixycad.com
- Workflow
- Sketch on iPad, refine on Mac, export for printing or CAD exchange
- Plan structure
- Free Starter plan and paid Maker options
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