Looking for BobCAD/CAM alternatives

[the Penne]

I'm having a hard time finding a good replacement for my BobCAD/CAM software.

It's a pain because BobCAD doesn't support hobby users anymore, and I'm having licensing issues with my current version. I have a 4x8 CNC router and mostly do 2.5D cutting but I need to be able to do full 3D parts sometimes too. BobCAD works great for me because I can quickly draw simple shapes and run the toolpaths without a lot of extra steps.

Other software I've tried, like Fusion 360, seems a lot more complicated for the simple 2.5D work I do most often. I'm also looking for something that lets me keep the software without a yearly fee. Do you have any suggestions for a program that's easy to use for quick 2.5D projects but still has decent 3D capabilities? And is there anything out there that has the CAM built in so you can quickly switch between drawing and simulating without a lot of extra steps?

 

[Grand Slang]

I use a 4x8 CNC too, mostly for simple cuts like signs and panels. Sometimes I need to do 3D work, so I use VCarve Pro for the easy stuff and FreeCAD for full 3D parts. VCarve has its own toolpath setup and is easy to learn. You buy it once, yep no yearly fee. It's not the best for tricky 3D jobs, but it works great for quick projects.

 

[Jon S]

CamBam.

 

[Kwanda_Rosman]

Carbide Create Pro could fit if you're mostly 2.5D. Not as powerful as BobCAD, but simple, lightweight, and permanent license. You'd probably still want a separate CAD program for more advanced 3D though.

 

[the Penne]

Thanks! I will definitely try your suggestions. I hope this works for me this time.