Best Free CFD Software of 2025

SimScale, a web-based cloud application, plays an important role in simulation software for many industries. The platform supports Computational Fluid Dynamics, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), as well as Thermal Simulation. It also provides 3D simulation, continuous modeling, motion & dynamic modelling.

ParaView is a versatile, open-source application designed for data analysis and visualization across multiple platforms, allowing users to create visual representations for both qualitative and quantitative data analysis. It features interactive 3D exploration capabilities alongside programmatic data processing through its batch processing functionality. Engineered to manage extremely large datasets, ParaView leverages distributed memory computing resources, making it ideal for use on supercomputers that process terascale data as well as on laptops for smaller datasets. The application is built with a client-server architecture, enabling remote visualization of data while generating level-of-detail models to ensure smooth interactive performance even with extensive data. Its extensible framework is grounded in open standards, promoting customization and integration with existing tools and workflows. ParaView supports a wide array of well-known file formats and boasts over 200 filters and tools for effective data processing and visualization. This extensive feature set allows users to tailor their analysis experiences to meet specific needs and enhances collaboration in data-intensive projects.

OpenFOAM is a free and open-source computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software that has been developed by OpenCFD Ltd since its inception in 2004. It boasts a vast user community spanning various engineering and scientific fields, including users from both industry and academia. The software offers a comprehensive suite of features capable of addressing a wide array of challenges, such as intricate fluid dynamics involving chemical reactions, turbulence, heat transfer, as well as applications in acoustics, solid mechanics, and electromagnetics. To ensure continuous improvement, OpenFOAM is released biannually, incorporating enhancements funded by users and contributions from the wider community. The software undergoes thorough testing conducted by ESI-OpenCFD's application specialists, development collaborators, and select customers, all supported by ESI's global network and commitment to quality. The assurance of quality is maintained through a stringent testing regime, which entails hundreds of daily unit tests, a moderate set of tests carried out weekly, and an extensive industry-focused test suite. This meticulous approach ensures that OpenFOAM remains reliable and effective for its diverse user base. Moreover, the collaborative nature of its development fosters a vibrant community that continually drives innovation within the software.

CF-MESH+, the latest version of Creative Fields' CFD meshing software, is available. It combines advanced meshing workflows and an easy-to use front-end interface to provide a superior user experience. It has a powerful set tools and functionalities to generate quality CFD meshes for complex geometries. The software is robust, which will allow you to increase your productivity and gain a competitive edge in your simulation efforts.

SimFlow is a desktop Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis software for Windows OS and Linux OS. It is based upon OpenFOAM libraries and acts as an OpenFOAM GUI. It is a professional CAE package that engineers can use to create 3D simulations. SimFlow is a powerful CFD software that can be used for all purposes. SimFlow combines the intuitive graphical user interface of OpenFOAM®, with the benefits of the open-source OpenFOAM®. SimFlow is free to download and you can use it in an evaluation mode to solve some of the most difficult problems that you face as an engineer or scientist. Perhaps you use CFD software every day or just want to get started on your adventure. SimFlow is a powerful fluid simulation software that allows you to rediscover CFD without any time limits.