Yes and no – all 3D printing has elements of CAD because by its nature it’s computer-aided design. The amount of this you actually use is up to you. In theory, you can just load up free 3D models for printing and use the native software on your printer to get the job done. If you want to manipulate things further or ensure no errors, you will be using elements of CAD with your printer’s own slicer or a third party. You can accomplish anything from thickening your model’s walls to adding hollow points, to simulating and identifying potential errors before printing. If you’re an expert designer, you might even build your own complex model from the ground up. For that, you will need to look out for the best CAD software for 3D printing.