LDCad
software & apps
A free LDraw editor for Windows and Linux that supports real-time model editing, flexible parts, animation, and Lua scripting.
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- pricing
- Free
- platforms
- Windows, Linux
- status
- Beta
- public api
- no
- content format
- LDraw model documents
- author
- Roland Melkert
- update frequency
- Multiple beta releases in January–March 2026
Overview
LDCad is Roland Melkert's desktop editor for creating and editing LDraw model documents in real time. Its documented features include part snapping, flexible parts such as springs and hoses, script-based animation, MPD support, and instruction stepping. The latest listed release is LDCad 1.7 Beta 2b, dated 15 March 2026.
Goals
- Create and edit LDraw model documents
Characteristics
real-time-editing
Edits LDraw model documents in real time.
part-snapping
Provides basic part snapping for a growing collection of official parts.
lua-scripting
Uses Lua scripting with a dedicated LDCad module.
instruction-generation
Supports instruction stepping, including rotational steps.
animation-support
Provides script-based animation.
Pros
- Real-time 3D editing with part snapping and animation
- Actively maintained with regular beta releases
- Free to use, bundled in the official AIOI installer
- Built-in Lua scripting for power users
Cons
- Official downloads are listed for Windows and Linux only
- Not open source
- Free only for personal/non-commercial/educational use
- Requires a separate LDraw library before installation
- Current release remains beta-labeled
