Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cabinet Vision - Industry-leading CAD/CAM software for professional cabinet design, engineering, manufacturing reports, and CNC integration.
- 2#2: Mozaik Software - Comprehensive 3D design platform for custom cabinetry with rendering, cut lists, and direct CNC machine outputs.
- 3#3: KCD NEXUS - User-friendly 3D cabinet and closet designer generating precise cut lists, elevations, and manufacturing data.
- 4#4: SketchList 3D - Intuitive 3D modeling software for cabinetmakers producing optimized cut lists and assembly instructions.
- 5#5: Polyboard - Parametric design tool for sheet-based cabinets and furniture with automatic cutting optimization.
- 6#6: TopSolid Wood - Full-featured CAD/CAM system for woodworking, including parametric cabinet modeling and machining simulation.
- 7#7: WoodWOP - Advanced CNC programming software for efficient cabinet production and woodworking operations.
- 8#8: Autodesk Fusion 360 - Cloud-based CAD/CAM with cabinet-specific extensions for design, simulation, and nested manufacturing.
- 9#9: Pro100 - Professional furniture design software offering photorealistic renders, cut lists, and cabinet detailing.
- 10#10: Cabinet Pro - CAD tool for cabinet design with automated dimensioning, part lists, and shop drawings.
Tools were ranked by evaluating features, ease of use, manufacturing compatibility, and overall value, ensuring they cater to both novices and seasoned professionals with diverse needs.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right cabinet making software requires clarity, and this comparison table breaks down key tools like Cabinet Vision, Mozaik Software, KCD NEXUS, SketchList 3D, Polyboard, and more. Readers will discover each solution’s unique strengths, from design precision to usability, to find the best fit for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cabinet Vision Industry-leading CAD/CAM software for professional cabinet design, engineering, manufacturing reports, and CNC integration. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Mozaik Software Comprehensive 3D design platform for custom cabinetry with rendering, cut lists, and direct CNC machine outputs. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | KCD NEXUS User-friendly 3D cabinet and closet designer generating precise cut lists, elevations, and manufacturing data. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | SketchList 3D Intuitive 3D modeling software for cabinetmakers producing optimized cut lists and assembly instructions. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Polyboard Parametric design tool for sheet-based cabinets and furniture with automatic cutting optimization. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 6 | TopSolid Wood Full-featured CAD/CAM system for woodworking, including parametric cabinet modeling and machining simulation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | WoodWOP Advanced CNC programming software for efficient cabinet production and woodworking operations. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | Autodesk Fusion 360 Cloud-based CAD/CAM with cabinet-specific extensions for design, simulation, and nested manufacturing. | creative_suite | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Pro100 Professional furniture design software offering photorealistic renders, cut lists, and cabinet detailing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Cabinet Pro CAD tool for cabinet design with automated dimensioning, part lists, and shop drawings. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
Industry-leading CAD/CAM software for professional cabinet design, engineering, manufacturing reports, and CNC integration.
Comprehensive 3D design platform for custom cabinetry with rendering, cut lists, and direct CNC machine outputs.
User-friendly 3D cabinet and closet designer generating precise cut lists, elevations, and manufacturing data.
Intuitive 3D modeling software for cabinetmakers producing optimized cut lists and assembly instructions.
Parametric design tool for sheet-based cabinets and furniture with automatic cutting optimization.
Full-featured CAD/CAM system for woodworking, including parametric cabinet modeling and machining simulation.
Advanced CNC programming software for efficient cabinet production and woodworking operations.
Cloud-based CAD/CAM with cabinet-specific extensions for design, simulation, and nested manufacturing.
Professional furniture design software offering photorealistic renders, cut lists, and cabinet detailing.
CAD tool for cabinet design with automated dimensioning, part lists, and shop drawings.
Cabinet Vision
enterpriseIndustry-leading CAD/CAM software for professional cabinet design, engineering, manufacturing reports, and CNC integration.
Shape Technology for intuitive, rule-based parametric design that automatically adjusts assemblies based on real-world manufacturing constraints
Cabinet Vision by Hexagon is a premier CAD/CAM software suite designed specifically for professional cabinetmakers and woodworkers, enabling seamless 3D design, parametric modeling, and automated manufacturing workflows. It supports everything from custom cabinetry layouts to CNC machining, nesting, and production reporting, integrating with a vast library of hardware and materials. As an industry leader, it streamlines the entire process from concept to fabrication, reducing errors and boosting efficiency in high-volume production environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end workflow from design to CNC-ready output
- Extensive parametric libraries and automation for complex assemblies
- Robust integration with industry-standard machinery and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Resource-intensive, demanding powerful hardware
Best For
Professional cabinet manufacturers and large woodworking shops seeking full automation and precision in custom production.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at approximately $10,000-$25,000 annually per seat, with perpetual licenses and enterprise options available upon request.
Mozaik Software
specializedComprehensive 3D design platform for custom cabinetry with rendering, cut lists, and direct CNC machine outputs.
One-click generation of production-ready CNC files directly from 3D designs
Mozaik Software is a comprehensive CAD/CAM platform tailored for professional cabinet makers, enabling rapid 3D design of custom cabinets, vanities, closets, and furniture using parametric modeling tools. It excels in generating precise cut lists, material optimization, and direct CNC integration for seamless production workflows. The software supports detailed shop drawings, assembly instructions, and photorealistic renderings to streamline the entire process from concept to manufacturing.
Pros
- Exceptional CNC integration with automatic nesting and toolpath generation
- Vast library of parametric components and hardware for quick custom designs
- Powerful material optimization and reporting tools that reduce waste
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to advanced functionality
- Primarily Windows-based, limiting cross-platform use
- Higher pricing may deter small hobbyist shops
Best For
Professional cabinetry shops and custom woodworkers needing an end-to-end design-to-CNC manufacturing solution.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $195/month for Essentials; Pro and Enterprise tiers up to $495/month, with perpetual licenses available from $4,995.
KCD NEXUS
specializedUser-friendly 3D cabinet and closet designer generating precise cut lists, elevations, and manufacturing data.
One-click generation of CNC-ready G-code and production files from 3D designs
KCD NEXUS is a professional-grade CAD/CAM software tailored for cabinetmakers, enabling 3D parametric design of kitchens, vanities, closets, and custom cabinetry. It generates detailed shop drawings, optimized cut lists, material reports, and CNC machine files for seamless production workflows. The software includes extensive libraries for doors, hardware, and components, supporting full shop integration from design to manufacturing.
Pros
- Comprehensive parametric modeling and vast component libraries
- Direct CNC integration with post-processors for multiple machines
- Accurate production outputs including cut lists, labels, and assemblies
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost with modular pricing and annual maintenance
- Windows-only with limited mobile or cloud support
Best For
Professional cabinet shops and manufacturers needing robust end-to-end design-to-production capabilities.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,995 per module (e.g., base NEXUS, cabinets); full suites exceed $15,000 plus ~15-20% annual maintenance.
SketchList 3D
specializedIntuitive 3D modeling software for cabinetmakers producing optimized cut lists and assembly instructions.
Board-by-board parametric modeling that simulates real woodworking assembly and auto-generates precise cut lists
SketchList 3D is a parametric 3D modeling software designed specifically for cabinet makers, woodworkers, and furniture designers. It allows users to build detailed 3D models of cabinets and furniture piece by piece, automatically generating optimized cut lists, material reports, and CNC-ready exports. The software excels in handling assemblies, hardware placement, and design modifications that propagate changes throughout the model.
Pros
- Highly accurate cut lists and nesting optimization tailored for woodworking
- Intuitive parametric design that updates automatically with changes
- Strong support for cabinet assemblies and CNC machine exports
Cons
- Limited advanced surfacing or freeform modeling capabilities
- Subscription pricing can add up for occasional users
- Steeper learning curve for users new to parametric workflows
Best For
Small to medium cabinet shops and custom woodworkers needing production-ready 3D designs and cut lists without full CAD complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $29/month for Lite plan, $99/month for Pro (full features), with annual discounts and a free trial available.
Polyboard
specializedParametric design tool for sheet-based cabinets and furniture with automatic cutting optimization.
Dynamic parametric modeling that automatically recalculates assemblies, cut lists, and optimizations with any design change
Polyboard is a parametric 3D design software tailored for cabinetmakers, enabling precise modeling of cabinets, shelving, and wardrobe systems with instant updates to changes in dimensions or assemblies. It generates optimized cut lists, assembly diagrams, production sheets, and CNC-ready files for efficient manufacturing workflows. The tool excels in panel nesting and material optimization, making it ideal for professional woodworking shops focused on custom cabinetry.
Pros
- Fully parametric design with real-time 3D updates
- Advanced panel optimization and CNC export capabilities
- Comprehensive manufacturing documentation including cut lists and exploded views
Cons
- Primarily limited to cabinets and shelving, less versatile for general furniture
- Windows-only platform with no native Mac support
- Initial learning curve for non-parametric design users
Best For
Professional cabinetmakers and small-to-medium woodworking shops specializing in custom shelving and cabinet production.
Pricing
Free limited version available; Pro edition one-time purchase ~€1,290, with optional annual maintenance ~€250.
TopSolid Wood
enterpriseFull-featured CAD/CAM system for woodworking, including parametric cabinet modeling and machining simulation.
Bidirectional parametric associativity linking design changes directly to optimized manufacturing outputs
TopSolid Wood is a comprehensive CAD/CAM solution tailored for the woodworking industry, particularly cabinet making, offering parametric 3D design, assembly modeling, and automated manufacturing processes. It enables users to create complex custom cabinets with dynamic updates, extensive hardware libraries, and direct integration with CNC machines for nesting, machining, and production. The software streamlines the workflow from concept to fabrication, supporting both standard and bespoke projects with high precision.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling that automatically updates designs when parameters change
- Integrated CAM module with advanced nesting, machining paths, and 5-axis support for efficient production
- Vast library of woodworking hardware, materials, and machining standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its professional-grade complexity
- High upfront and ongoing costs make it less accessible for small shops
- Primarily Windows-based with limited cross-platform support
Best For
Professional cabinet makers and medium-to-large woodworking shops needing an all-in-one CAD/CAM system for custom, high-volume production.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses start around $15,000+ with annual maintenance fees of 18-20%, or subscription options from €5,000/year.
WoodWOP
enterpriseAdvanced CNC programming software for efficient cabinet production and woodworking operations.
Seamless direct machine communication with HOMAG controls, eliminating the need for third-party post-processors
WoodWOP is a professional CAD/CAM software from HOMAG designed for woodworking and cabinet making, enabling parametric 3D modeling of cabinets, furniture, and custom components. It excels in generating optimized nesting plans, CNC machining programs, and production simulations for routers, edgebanders, drills, and other woodworking machines. The software integrates seamlessly with HOMAG machinery, supporting end-to-end workflows from design to manufacturing with features like label printing and material optimization.
Pros
- Deep integration with HOMAG CNC machines for direct post-processing and minimal errors
- Advanced parametric design and 3D simulation for complex cabinetry projects
- Powerful nesting optimization and production tracking tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High cost with pricing tailored to enterprise users
- Limited flexibility for non-HOMAG equipment without custom adaptations
Best For
Established cabinet manufacturers and woodworking shops heavily invested in HOMAG machinery seeking industrial-grade CAD/CAM precision.
Pricing
Custom quotes required from HOMAG; perpetual licenses or subscriptions typically range from €20,000+ depending on modules and machine integration.
Autodesk Fusion 360
creative_suiteCloud-based CAD/CAM with cabinet-specific extensions for design, simulation, and nested manufacturing.
Seamless integrated CAD/CAM workflow with automated nesting for sheet material optimization
Autodesk Fusion 360 is a versatile cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform that supports 3D parametric modeling, assemblies, simulation, and manufacturing workflows. In cabinet making, it excels at designing complex cabinetry with precise joinery, sheet metal tools for panels, and generating CNC toolpaths for efficient cutting and nesting. Its integrated ecosystem allows seamless transition from concept to production, with cloud collaboration for teams.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling and assemblies for intricate cabinet designs
- Integrated CAM with nesting and toolpath generation for CNC routers
- Cloud-based collaboration and version control for team projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners not familiar with CAD
- Subscription-only model limits long-term free access for commercial users
- Overkill for simple cabinet designs lacking specialized woodworking libraries
Best For
Professional cabinet makers and woodworkers needing advanced CAD-to-CAM integration for complex, production-ready designs.
Pricing
Free for personal use (under $100K revenue); subscriptions from $70/month or $545/year for commercial use.
Pro100
specializedProfessional furniture design software offering photorealistic renders, cut lists, and cabinet detailing.
Parametric assembly modeling with automatic CNC G-code generation
Pro100 is a professional 3D CAD/CAM software designed specifically for cabinet makers, furniture designers, and woodworkers. It allows users to create precise parametric models of cabinets, kitchens, wardrobes, and custom furniture with photorealistic rendering and material simulations. The software excels in generating manufacturing data, including CNC toolpaths, cut lists, and assembly instructions for efficient production.
Pros
- Extensive parametric modeling for complex cabinet designs
- Direct CNC export and nesting optimization for manufacturing
- Large library of hardware, materials, and pre-built components
Cons
- Steep learning curve with non-intuitive interface
- High upfront cost without subscription flexibility
- Limited integration with modern cloud or mobile tools
Best For
Professional cabinet shops and furniture manufacturers needing precise design-to-CNC workflows.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $4,995 for the base version, with add-on modules up to $10,000+ total.
Cabinet Pro
specializedCAD tool for cabinet design with automated dimensioning, part lists, and shop drawings.
Advanced nesting and optimization engine that minimizes material waste and maximizes CNC throughput
Cabinet Pro is a comprehensive CAD/CAM software tailored for professional cabinetmakers, enabling 3D design, engineering, estimating, and manufacturing of custom cabinets, closets, and millwork. It features parametric modeling, automatic cut lists, material optimization, and direct CNC machine integration for efficient production workflows. The software includes extensive hardware libraries and reporting tools to streamline quoting and shop floor operations.
Pros
- Robust 3D parametric design and CNC post-processing
- Comprehensive estimating and cut list generation
- Strong material optimization and nesting capabilities
Cons
- Dated Windows-only interface with steep learning curve
- No cloud or mobile support for collaboration
- Limited modern rendering and visualization options
Best For
Small to mid-sized cabinet shops prioritizing CNC integration and production efficiency over user-friendly design tools.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,995 for core modules, with add-ons up to $15,000+ and annual maintenance around 15-20% of license cost.
Conclusion
After evaluating the top 10 cabinet making software, one platform stands out as the clear leader in balancing industry-leading CAD/CAM tools, seamless CNC integration, and comprehensive reporting—Cabinet Vision. While it sets the benchmark, Mozaik Software and KCD NEXUS offer exceptional alternatives: Mozaik with its full 3D design and direct CNC output capabilities, and KCD with a user-friendly interface that delivers precise cut lists and manufacturing data. Together, these tools address diverse professional needs, from complex designs to streamlined workflows.
To unlock the full potential of your cabinetry projects, start with Cabinet Vision—the top-ranked solution that merges power and usability to elevate your work.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison