Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cabinet Vision - Industry-leading CAD/CAM software for designing, engineering, and manufacturing cabinets with full CNC integration.
- 2#2: Mozaik Software - Parametric 3D CAD/CAM software optimized for custom cabinetry production with cut lists and machine outputs.
- 3#3: Microvellum Toolbox - Cloud-enabled CAD/CAM platform for efficient millwork and cabinet design to manufacturing workflows.
- 4#4: SketchList 3D - User-friendly 3D parametric modeling software for cabinet design with automated cut lists and assemblies.
- 5#5: KCD NEXUS - Comprehensive cabinet design software providing photorealistic renders, reports, and manufacturing data.
- 6#6: Polyboard - Parametric 3D design tool for cabinets and furniture with automatic nesting and cutting optimization.
- 7#7: TopNod 360 - Parametric CAD/CAM software for fast cabinet design, engineering, and direct CNC machining.
- 8#8: Pro100 USA - Advanced furniture design software with photorealistic rendering and precise technical drawings for cabinets.
- 9#9: 2020 Design - Integrated 3D design and quoting software for kitchens, baths, and custom cabinetry projects.
- 10#10: Chief Architect - Professional residential design software with advanced cabinet modeling and manufacturing capabilities.
Ranked based on a blend of advanced features (including CNC integration, nesting optimization, and photorealistic rendering), proven reliability in professional environments, intuitive interfaces, and value across small and enterprise-level use cases, ensuring a critical assessment for various needs.
Comparison Table
For those in cabinet building, choosing the right software can significantly impact project success. This comparison table features top tools like Cabinet Vision, Mozaik Software, Microvellum Toolbox, SketchList 3D, KCD NEXUS, and more, guiding readers to understand each tool's unique strengths. Readers will gain insights into key features, usability, and suitability to match their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cabinet Vision Industry-leading CAD/CAM software for designing, engineering, and manufacturing cabinets with full CNC integration. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Mozaik Software Parametric 3D CAD/CAM software optimized for custom cabinetry production with cut lists and machine outputs. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Microvellum Toolbox Cloud-enabled CAD/CAM platform for efficient millwork and cabinet design to manufacturing workflows. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | SketchList 3D User-friendly 3D parametric modeling software for cabinet design with automated cut lists and assemblies. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | KCD NEXUS Comprehensive cabinet design software providing photorealistic renders, reports, and manufacturing data. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Polyboard Parametric 3D design tool for cabinets and furniture with automatic nesting and cutting optimization. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 7 | TopNod 360 Parametric CAD/CAM software for fast cabinet design, engineering, and direct CNC machining. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | Pro100 USA Advanced furniture design software with photorealistic rendering and precise technical drawings for cabinets. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 9 | 2020 Design Integrated 3D design and quoting software for kitchens, baths, and custom cabinetry projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Chief Architect Professional residential design software with advanced cabinet modeling and manufacturing capabilities. | creative_suite | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.0/10 | 6.2/10 |
Industry-leading CAD/CAM software for designing, engineering, and manufacturing cabinets with full CNC integration.
Parametric 3D CAD/CAM software optimized for custom cabinetry production with cut lists and machine outputs.
Cloud-enabled CAD/CAM platform for efficient millwork and cabinet design to manufacturing workflows.
User-friendly 3D parametric modeling software for cabinet design with automated cut lists and assemblies.
Comprehensive cabinet design software providing photorealistic renders, reports, and manufacturing data.
Parametric 3D design tool for cabinets and furniture with automatic nesting and cutting optimization.
Parametric CAD/CAM software for fast cabinet design, engineering, and direct CNC machining.
Advanced furniture design software with photorealistic rendering and precise technical drawings for cabinets.
Integrated 3D design and quoting software for kitchens, baths, and custom cabinetry projects.
Professional residential design software with advanced cabinet modeling and manufacturing capabilities.
Cabinet Vision
enterpriseIndustry-leading CAD/CAM software for designing, engineering, and manufacturing cabinets with full CNC integration.
Seamless integration of 3D parametric design directly to automated nesting and CNC machining outputs, minimizing errors and manual data transfer.
Cabinet Vision is a leading 3D CAD/CAM software solution from Hexagon (formerly Planit Canada) specifically designed for professional cabinetmakers, millworkers, and custom furniture producers. It provides end-to-end functionality, from parametric 3D design and assembly modeling to engineering calculations, part optimization, nesting, machining, and direct CNC integration. The software excels in generating precise manufacturing data, labels, and reports, enabling seamless transitions from concept to production in high-volume cabinet shops.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one CAD/CAM workflow with parametric design and real-time 3D rendering
- Advanced nesting, optimization, and CNC post-processing for efficient material use and production
- Robust library of hardware, assemblies, and custom machining operations tailored to cabinetry
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full mastery
- High upfront cost and resource-intensive on hardware
- Primarily Windows-based with limited cross-platform support
Best For
Established cabinet manufacturing businesses with high production volumes needing integrated design-to-manufacture automation.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at approximately $15,000-$25,000 depending on edition (Core, Solid, Ultimate), plus annual maintenance fees around 18%; subscription models available from $3,000+/year.
Mozaik Software
specializedParametric 3D CAD/CAM software optimized for custom cabinetry production with cut lists and machine outputs.
Push-to-Build technology for instant generation of machine-ready files, labels, and assembly reports from any design
Mozaik Software is a robust CAD/CAM platform designed specifically for professional cabinetmakers, offering parametric 3D modeling for kitchens, baths, closets, and custom millwork. It streamlines the entire workflow from initial design and material optimization to CNC-ready output, including automated nesting, labeling, and shop drawings. With extensive hardware libraries and real-time rendering, it boosts production efficiency for woodworking businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive parametric design tools with vast cabinet and hardware libraries
- Seamless CNC integration for nesting, optimization, and machine-ready G-code
- Fast real-time 3D rendering and automated shop documentation
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Higher upfront costs compared to entry-level alternatives
Best For
Established cabinet shops with CNC machinery needing end-to-end automation from design to production.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,995 with annual maintenance fees; subscription plans from $150/month.
Microvellum Toolbox
enterpriseCloud-enabled CAD/CAM platform for efficient millwork and cabinet design to manufacturing workflows.
Visual Programmer for no-code creation of fully parametric products and assemblies
Microvellum Toolbox is a comprehensive CAD/CAM software suite tailored for cabinetry and architectural millwork professionals, enabling parametric 3D design of custom cabinets, doors, and casegoods. It automates engineering outputs like shop drawings, cutlists, nesting optimizations, and CNC machine code for seamless production workflows. The platform also includes job costing, inventory management, and factory reporting to streamline operations from concept to delivery.
Pros
- Extensive parametric library for rapid custom product design
- Full end-to-end integration with CNC machines and nesting software
- Advanced reporting for material optimization and job costing
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High cost limits accessibility for small shops
- Windows-only platform with limited mobile support
Best For
Mid-to-large scale cabinet manufacturers requiring automated design-to-production workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions typically $8,000-$20,000 per seat depending on modules and users.
SketchList 3D
specializedUser-friendly 3D parametric modeling software for cabinet design with automated cut lists and assemblies.
Automatic parametric cut list optimizer that dynamically nests parts and updates with design changes to minimize waste
SketchList 3D is a parametric 3D design software specifically built for cabinetmakers, furniture makers, and woodworkers, allowing users to model assemblies board-by-board with real-time updates to dimensions and cut lists. It excels in generating optimized cut lists, material reports, and shop drawings, while supporting CNC output and nesting for efficient production. The tool bridges design and manufacturing by handling complex joinery, hardware placement, and waste minimization seamlessly.
Pros
- Highly accurate cut list generation and nesting optimization to reduce material waste
- Intuitive board-based parametric modeling tailored for woodworking workflows
- Strong CNC and production-ready exports including G-code and DXF files
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for users new to parametric design
- Limited photorealistic rendering and visualization options compared to general CAD tools
- Higher upfront cost with fewer free resources or templates available
Best For
Professional cabinet shops and custom furniture builders seeking precise production outputs and material efficiency.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from $1,295 (Standard) to $1,995 (Pro); subscription plans starting at $49/month.
KCD NEXUS
specializedComprehensive cabinet design software providing photorealistic renders, reports, and manufacturing data.
NEXUS Parametric Engine for infinite cabinet variations without manual remodeling
KCD NEXUS is a professional-grade CAD/CAM software tailored for cabinetmakers, offering parametric 3D design, automated part generation, and direct manufacturing outputs like cut lists and CNC g-code. It supports custom cabinetry, closets, and millwork with a vast library of pre-configured components and real-time rendering. The software excels in bridging design-to-production workflows, including nesting optimization and integration with ERP systems.
Pros
- Powerful parametric design engine for rapid customization
- Seamless CNC integration and material optimization
- Extensive library and reporting tools for production efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High upfront and maintenance costs
- Primarily Windows-based with limited cross-platform support
Best For
Mid-sized cabinet shops needing robust design-to-manufacturing automation.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$7,500-$15,000 depending on modules, plus ~15-20% annual maintenance.
Polyboard
specializedParametric 3D design tool for cabinets and furniture with automatic nesting and cutting optimization.
Dynamic parametric assembly system that automatically recalculates materials, costs, and cuts for any design change
Polyboard is a specialized parametric software for designing and manufacturing cabinets, shelving, and wardrobe systems with precise 2D/3D modeling. It automates cut lists, panel optimization, costing, and generates DXF/CSV outputs for CNC machines. The tool excels in handling complex assemblies, fittings, and dynamic modifications that update all calculations instantly.
Pros
- Advanced parametric design with instant updates to dimensions and assemblies
- Comprehensive manufacturing outputs including nesting, cut lists, and CNC exports
- Precise 3D visualization and hardware/fittings library for professional results
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to parametric complexity
- Primarily Windows-based with limited macOS support
- Higher pricing may deter casual or small-scale users
Best For
Professional cabinet makers and furniture workshops needing accurate parametric design and CNC-ready production data.
Pricing
Starts at €695 for Personal edition; Workshop €1,195; Pro/Ultimate up to €2,295 with modular add-ons; free trial available.
TopNod 360
specializedParametric CAD/CAM software for fast cabinet design, engineering, and direct CNC machining.
Interactive 360-degree virtual tours for immersive client walkthroughs and sales presentations
TopNod 360 is a cloud-based 3D design platform tailored for kitchen and cabinetry professionals, offering photorealistic rendering, parametric modeling, and automated cut lists for efficient design-to-production workflows. It supports drag-and-drop customization of cabinets, appliances, and interiors, with exportable BOMs and CNC-ready files. Users can create interactive 360-degree client presentations to boost sales conversions.
Pros
- Stunning photorealistic renders and 360-degree interactive tours
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface suitable for beginners
- Automated cut lists and material optimization reports
Cons
- Lacks advanced nesting and full CAM integration for complex production
- Limited library of custom components compared to enterprise tools
- Subscription required for full export and production features
Best For
Small to mid-sized cabinet shops and designers prioritizing client-facing visuals and quick design turnaround over heavy manufacturing automation.
Pricing
Free trial; Pro plan at €49/month, Premium at €99/month including unlimited projects and advanced exports.
Pro100 USA
specializedAdvanced furniture design software with photorealistic rendering and precise technical drawings for cabinets.
Advanced parametric assembly system that propagates changes instantly across multi-cabinet projects and assemblies
Pro100 USA is a powerful 3D CAD/CAM software designed specifically for cabinetmakers and furniture manufacturers, enabling parametric modeling of cabinets from simple vanities to complex kitchens. It generates precise shop drawings, cut lists, material optimization reports, and CNC machine code for seamless production workflows. With extensive libraries for hardware, materials, and components, it supports professional-grade customization and photorealistic rendering.
Pros
- Robust parametric design tools for quick modifications to entire assemblies
- Direct integration with CNC machines for optimized nesting and cutting
- Comprehensive libraries and customizable catalogs for cabinets and hardware
Cons
- Dated user interface that can feel clunky compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for users without CAD experience
- Limited built-in collaboration or cloud features for team environments
Best For
Experienced cabinet shops seeking a cost-effective, all-in-one solution for design-to-manufacturing without subscription fees.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting at $2,995 for Basic edition, up to $5,995 for Professional with full CAM; optional annual maintenance ~15%.
2020 Design
enterpriseIntegrated 3D design and quoting software for kitchens, baths, and custom cabinetry projects.
Vast, licensed manufacturer catalogs that provide accurate, real-world product data with automatic updates
2020 Design (2020spaces.com) is a professional-grade 3D CAD software specialized for designing cabinets, kitchens, closets, and millwork. It enables precise parametric modeling, photorealistic rendering, and automated generation of shop drawings, cut lists, and CNC-ready outputs. Integrated with a vast library of manufacturer-specific catalogs, it streamlines the process from design to manufacturing for cabinet builders.
Pros
- Extensive, auto-updating catalogs from major manufacturers
- Robust manufacturing outputs including cutlists and CNC integration
- High-fidelity 3D renders and virtual walkthroughs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs
- Resource-intensive requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Professional cabinet makers and kitchen designers who need end-to-end design-to-manufacture workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $200/user/month, with enterprise pricing on request for full modules.
Chief Architect
creative_suiteProfessional residential design software with advanced cabinet modeling and manufacturing capabilities.
Ray-traced rendering engine for hyper-realistic cabinet and kitchen presentations
Chief Architect is a powerful 3D architectural design software that excels in home and interior design, including detailed cabinetry modeling for kitchens, baths, and built-ins. It provides tools for creating custom cabinets with parametric adjustments, material assignments, and construction documentation. While strong in visualization and planning, it is less optimized for professional cabinet manufacturing workflows compared to dedicated shop software.
Pros
- Exceptional 3D rendering and photorealistic visualizations
- Vast library of cabinet styles, hardware, and materials
- Integrates cabinet design seamlessly with full architectural projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-architectural users
- Lacks advanced manufacturing tools like cut list optimization or CNC export
- High cost not justified for cabinet-only production use
Best For
Residential architects and interior designers needing integrated cabinet design within broader home projects.
Pricing
Premier edition: $3,295 one-time license + $595/year for support and upgrades; lower tiers like Home Designer Pro start at $595.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools showcase powerful options for cabinet design, with Cabinet Vision leading as the top choice due to its industry-leading CNC integration and end-to-end workflow support. Mozaik Software and Microvellum Toolbox are strong alternatives, each excelling in parametric features and manufacturing optimization to suit different project needs. Ultimately, the best fit depends on specific workflow priorities, but Cabinet Vision stands out for its comprehensive capabilities.
Explore Cabinet Vision to unlock seamless design, engineering, and manufacturing, and elevate your cabinet projects to new heights.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison