Quick Overview
- 1#1: 2020 Design - Professional kitchen and bath design software with manufacturer catalogs, pricing integration, and photorealistic 3D renderings.
- 2#2: Chief Architect Premier - Comprehensive 3D architectural software for detailed residential kitchen design, construction drawings, and virtual reality walkthroughs.
- 3#3: SketchUp Pro - Intuitive 3D modeling tool with extensions for precise kitchen layout, customization, and high-quality rendering.
- 4#4: ProKitchen - Cloud-based kitchen design platform offering 3D visualization, specification sheets, and collaboration for professionals.
- 5#5: Cabinet Vision - Advanced CAD/CAM software for cabinet and kitchen design with CNC integration and manufacturing optimization.
- 6#6: KCD Software - Full-featured 3D design software for kitchens and closets including cutlists, nesting, and production reporting.
- 7#7: Mozaik Software - CAD/CAM solution for custom cabinetry and kitchen design with parametric modeling and shop drawings.
- 8#8: Microvellum Toolbox - Parametric design software for millwork, cabinets, and kitchens with BIM integration and automation.
- 9#9: Polyboard - Parametric 3D software for sheet materials and cabinet design optimized for kitchens and woodworking.
- 10#10: Fusion 360 - Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform for parametric kitchen component modeling, simulation, and manufacturing.
These tools were curated based on a blend of feature robustness—including 3D visualization, parametric modeling, and manufacturing compatibility—technical excellence, intuitive usability, and overall value, ensuring they cater to the unique demands of professional designers, contractors, and woodworkers.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines top professional kitchen design software tools, including 2020 Design, Chief Architect Premier, SketchUp Pro, ProKitchen, Cabinet Vision, and more, breaking down features, usability, and functionality to guide readers in selecting the ideal option for their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 Design Professional kitchen and bath design software with manufacturer catalogs, pricing integration, and photorealistic 3D renderings. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Chief Architect Premier Comprehensive 3D architectural software for detailed residential kitchen design, construction drawings, and virtual reality walkthroughs. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | SketchUp Pro Intuitive 3D modeling tool with extensions for precise kitchen layout, customization, and high-quality rendering. | creative_suite | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | ProKitchen Cloud-based kitchen design platform offering 3D visualization, specification sheets, and collaboration for professionals. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Cabinet Vision Advanced CAD/CAM software for cabinet and kitchen design with CNC integration and manufacturing optimization. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | KCD Software Full-featured 3D design software for kitchens and closets including cutlists, nesting, and production reporting. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Mozaik Software CAD/CAM solution for custom cabinetry and kitchen design with parametric modeling and shop drawings. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Microvellum Toolbox Parametric design software for millwork, cabinets, and kitchens with BIM integration and automation. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Polyboard Parametric 3D software for sheet materials and cabinet design optimized for kitchens and woodworking. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 6.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Fusion 360 Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform for parametric kitchen component modeling, simulation, and manufacturing. | creative_suite | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
Professional kitchen and bath design software with manufacturer catalogs, pricing integration, and photorealistic 3D renderings.
Comprehensive 3D architectural software for detailed residential kitchen design, construction drawings, and virtual reality walkthroughs.
Intuitive 3D modeling tool with extensions for precise kitchen layout, customization, and high-quality rendering.
Cloud-based kitchen design platform offering 3D visualization, specification sheets, and collaboration for professionals.
Advanced CAD/CAM software for cabinet and kitchen design with CNC integration and manufacturing optimization.
Full-featured 3D design software for kitchens and closets including cutlists, nesting, and production reporting.
CAD/CAM solution for custom cabinetry and kitchen design with parametric modeling and shop drawings.
Parametric design software for millwork, cabinets, and kitchens with BIM integration and automation.
Parametric 3D software for sheet materials and cabinet design optimized for kitchens and woodworking.
Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform for parametric kitchen component modeling, simulation, and manufacturing.
2020 Design
specializedProfessional kitchen and bath design software with manufacturer catalogs, pricing integration, and photorealistic 3D renderings.
Unrivaled integration of 20,000+ live manufacturer catalogs with direct export to production machinery like CNC routers
2020 Design, available at 2020spaces.com, is a premier professional software suite for kitchen, bath, and space design, delivering advanced 3D modeling, photorealistic rendering, and precise planning tools tailored for industry pros. It boasts an unmatched library of over 1,000 manufacturer catalogs for cabinets, appliances, and surfaces, enabling drag-and-drop accuracy from concept to production. The platform supports cloud collaboration and integrates seamlessly with manufacturing processes like CNC exporting.
Pros
- Vast, real-time manufacturer product libraries for precise quoting and design
- Exceptional photorealistic 3D renders and 360-degree walkthroughs
- End-to-end workflow integration from design to automated manufacturing
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring dedicated training for full mastery
- High subscription costs may deter small firms
- Demands high-end hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Professional kitchen designers, cabinet retailers, and manufacturers needing manufacturer-certified designs and production-ready outputs.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$169/month per user for Studio edition, up to $300+/month for full CAPABILITIES suite with volume discounts for enterprises.
Chief Architect Premier
specializedComprehensive 3D architectural software for detailed residential kitchen design, construction drawings, and virtual reality walkthroughs.
Intelligent cabinet design tools that automatically generate precise cut lists, elevations, and CNC-ready files from parametric objects
Chief Architect Premier is a comprehensive 3D architectural design software tailored for professionals, offering powerful tools for detailed kitchen design within full residential projects. It features an extensive library of customizable cabinets, appliances, countertops, and materials from real manufacturers, enabling precise layouts and photorealistic renderings. The software automates construction drawings, material takeoffs, and elevations, streamlining the workflow from concept to fabrication.
Pros
- Vast library of manufacturer-approved products for accurate kitchen specifications
- Photorealistic 3D rendering and 360-degree virtual tours for client presentations
- Automated generation of construction documents, cut lists, and manufacturing outputs
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for mastery
- High upfront cost with additional fees for updates and support
- Overkill for users focused solely on kitchen design without full-home integration
Best For
Professional architects, builders, and kitchen designers handling residential remodeling or new construction projects that require integrated home design.
Pricing
One-time license starts at $3,295 for Premier edition, plus optional annual maintenance (~$595/year) for updates and support.
SketchUp Pro
creative_suiteIntuitive 3D modeling tool with extensions for precise kitchen layout, customization, and high-quality rendering.
Push/Pull tool that instantly extrudes 2D sketches into precise 3D kitchen elements
SketchUp Pro is a powerful 3D modeling software renowned for its intuitive interface, enabling professionals to create detailed kitchen designs from simple sketches. It excels in visualizing cabinetry, appliances, countertops, and layouts through push-pull extrusion tools and access to the vast 3D Warehouse library of pre-made models. With extensions like SketchUp to LayOut and rendering plugins, it supports photorealistic outputs and construction documents tailored for kitchen projects.
Pros
- Intuitive push-pull modeling for rapid 3D kitchen prototyping
- Extensive 3D Warehouse library with kitchen-specific components
- Robust extension ecosystem for rendering and documentation
Cons
- Lacks built-in parametric cabinet generators and kitchen-specific automation
- Advanced features require paid extensions or plugins
- Subscription model limits flexibility for occasional users
Best For
Architects and interior designers handling diverse projects who value versatile 3D modeling over specialized kitchen tools.
Pricing
$349/year subscription for Pro license; free web version available with limitations.
ProKitchen
specializedCloud-based kitchen design platform offering 3D visualization, specification sheets, and collaboration for professionals.
Interactive 360° virtual tours that allow clients to explore designs on any device with hotspots for product details and quotes
ProKitchen is a cloud-based kitchen design software tailored for professionals, enabling quick creation of photorealistic 3D kitchen layouts, floor plans, and elevations using a drag-and-drop interface. It boasts an extensive library of real manufacturer products, including cabinets, appliances, and countertops, with automatic cutlists and quoting capabilities. The platform supports collaborative workflows and generates interactive 360-degree presentations for client approvals.
Pros
- Vast, manufacturer-certified product library for accurate designs
- High-quality photorealistic renders and interactive 360° presentations
- Integrated quoting, CRM, and cutlist generation streamline workflows
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter small businesses or freelancers
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization options
- Occasional performance lags with large projects on web browser
Best For
Professional kitchen designers, retailers, and cabinet manufacturers needing fast, client-ready presentations and sales tools.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $149/user/month for Design edition, up to $299/user/month for Sales edition with CRM integration; annual discounts available.
Cabinet Vision
enterpriseAdvanced CAD/CAM software for cabinet and kitchen design with CNC integration and manufacturing optimization.
Direct-from-design CNC programming and automatic nesting optimization
Cabinet Vision by Hexagon is a professional CAD/CAM software suite tailored for the woodworking and cabinetry industry, enabling parametric 3D design of kitchens, closets, and millwork. It excels in generating precise shop drawings, cut lists, material optimization, and direct CNC machine programming for seamless production. Primarily aimed at manufacturers, it bridges design visualization with automated fabrication workflows.
Pros
- Advanced parametric modeling for highly customizable designs
- Integrated CNC nesting and machining outputs
- Extensive component libraries and manufacturing reports
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High cost prohibitive for small operations
- Limited focus on photorealistic rendering compared to design-only tools
Best For
Professional cabinet manufacturers and woodworking shops requiring integrated design-to-production capabilities.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $12,000-$20,000 per seat with annual maintenance (~20%); subscription tiers from $3,000/year.
KCD Software
specializedFull-featured 3D design software for kitchens and closets including cutlists, nesting, and production reporting.
Dynamic cutlist engine with automatic nesting and CNC export for efficient manufacturing workflows
KCD Software, through products like Cabinet/Closet PRO and KitchenDraw, provides specialized CAD tools for professional kitchen, bath, cabinet, and closet design. It excels in generating precise cutlists, shop drawings, material optimization, and CNC-ready outputs for manufacturing. Ideal for fabricators prioritizing production efficiency over consumer-facing visualizations.
Pros
- Accurate cutlist generation and material nesting optimization
- Seamless CNC machine integration and shop drawings
- Customizable pricing, quoting, and extensive hardware library
Cons
- Dated user interface with a steep learning curve
- Limited photorealistic rendering and client presentation tools
- Windows-only compatibility, no Mac or web version
Best For
Professional cabinetmakers, kitchen fabricators, and remodelers who need production-ready designs and manufacturing outputs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting at $4,995 per module; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost.
Mozaik Software
enterpriseCAD/CAM solution for custom cabinetry and kitchen design with parametric modeling and shop drawings.
Direct-from-design CNC programming and optimized nesting
Mozaik Software is a robust 3D CAD/CAM solution designed specifically for professional cabinetmakers, kitchen designers, and woodworking shops. It offers parametric modeling for creating custom kitchens, cabinets, and millwork, with powerful tools for generating cutlists, shop drawings, and direct CNC outputs. The software streamlines the workflow from concept to manufacturing, making it ideal for production-oriented environments.
Pros
- Advanced parametric design and customization options
- Seamless integration with CNC machines and nesting
- Comprehensive manufacturing reports and cutlists
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Windows-only compatibility
- High upfront and ongoing costs
Best For
Professional cabinet shops and kitchen manufacturers needing end-to-end design-to-production capabilities.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,995 per seat plus $1,495 annual maintenance; subscription options available around $150/month.
Microvellum Toolbox
enterpriseParametric design software for millwork, cabinets, and kitchens with BIM integration and automation.
Automated CNC-ready manufacturing outputs directly from parametric designs
Microvellum Toolbox is a robust CAD/CAM software suite tailored for professional cabinetmakers and millwork designers, specializing in parametric modeling for kitchens, baths, closets, and custom casegoods. It streamlines the entire workflow from 3D design and rendering to generating precise manufacturing outputs like cut lists, shop drawings, and CNC machine files. With deep integration into AutoCAD and Revit, it supports high-volume production environments by automating material takeoffs and assembly instructions.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end design-to-manufacture pipeline with CNC integration
- Extensive parametric library for kitchens and cabinetry customization
- Accurate BOM, cutlists, and production reports that reduce errors
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High cost and resource-intensive hardware requirements
- Less intuitive for pure designers without manufacturing needs
Best For
Professional cabinetmakers and kitchen manufacturers seeking integrated design and production software.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; annual subscriptions typically start at $5,000+ per user, with add-ons for modules and training.
Polyboard
specializedParametric 3D software for sheet materials and cabinet design optimized for kitchens and woodworking.
Advanced 3D panel optimization and automatic nesting for material efficiency
Polyboard is a parametric 3D CAD software designed primarily for professional cabinetmakers, enabling precise modeling of kitchen cabinets, furniture, and assemblies. It generates detailed shop drawings, optimized cut lists, CNC export files, and production data for efficient manufacturing. While powerful for technical design and fabrication, it focuses less on photorealistic rendering or client presentation tools compared to dedicated kitchen design suites.
Pros
- Exceptional parametric modeling for complex cabinets and assemblies
- Comprehensive manufacturing outputs including cut lists and CNC data
- Extensive macro library for customizable designs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-CAD users
- Limited photorealistic rendering and visualization options
- Less suited for full kitchen layout planning with appliances and decor
Best For
Professional cabinetmakers and kitchen fabricators needing precise technical and production-ready designs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from €695 (Standard) to €1,495 (Pro/Shop); free limited version and 30-day trial available.
Fusion 360
creative_suiteCloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform for parametric kitchen component modeling, simulation, and manufacturing.
End-to-end design-to-manufacture pipeline with parametric modeling and CAM integration tailored for custom cabinetry fabrication
Autodesk Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform that excels in parametric 3D modeling, assembly design, and manufacturing workflows, making it adaptable for professional kitchen design through custom cabinetry modeling and layout visualization. It supports photorealistic rendering, simulation for structural integrity, and direct CAM output for CNC fabrication of kitchen components. While not a dedicated kitchen design tool, its engineering-grade precision suits complex, custom projects over standard residential layouts.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling for highly customizable cabinets and assemblies
- Integrated CAM tools for seamless manufacturing of kitchen elements
- Cloud collaboration and high-quality rendering for client presentations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users without CAD experience
- Lacks built-in kitchen-specific libraries, appliances, or drag-and-drop catalogs
- Subscription model can be costly for occasional kitchen design use
Best For
Professional CAD engineers and custom furniture fabricators needing precise, manufacturable kitchen designs integrated with production workflows.
Pricing
Free for personal/hobbyist use; commercial subscriptions start at $70/month or $545/year, with team/enterprise options available.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, 2020 Design stands out as the top choice, boasting manufacturer catalogs, pricing integration, and photorealistic 3D renderings that enhance professional workflows. Close contenders include Chief Architect Premier, renowned for detailed residential design and virtual reality walkthroughs, and SketchUp Pro, valued for its intuitive 3D modeling and versatile extensions, each offering unique strengths to suit different needs. Together, these tools redefine kitchen design possibilities.
Explore 2020 Design's leading features today to transform your kitchen visions into stunning, functional designs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison