The Best AutoCAD AlternativesTop CAD Software & 3D Modelers like AutoCAD
Autodesk AutoCAD is described as 'Versatile CAD software offering 2D and 3D modeling, visualization, and cloud access for architectural and engineering design professionals' and is a very popular CAD software in the photos & graphics category. There are more than 100 alternatives to Autodesk AutoCAD for a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD and iPad apps. The best Autodesk AutoCAD alternative is FreeCAD, which is both free and Open Source. Other great apps like Autodesk AutoCAD are LibreCAD, DraftSight, BricsCAD and SketchUp.
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Autodesk AutoCAD alternatives are mainly CAD Software but may also be 3D Modelers or Interior Design Apps. Other popular filters includes Mac + Free. Filter by these or use the filter bar below if you want a narrower list of alternatives or looking for a specific functionality of Autodesk AutoCAD.- CAD Software
- Paid • Proprietary
439 likes109 FreeCAD alternativesA powerful open-source parametric 3D modeler ideal for mechanical engineering, supporting Python scripting, running on Windows, Linux, and Mac, with modular architecture allowing extensive adaptability and use with scientific computing libraries.
License model
- Free • Open Source
Application types
Platforms
- Mac
- Windows
- Linux
- BSD
- Snapcraft
- Flathub
- PortableApps.com
- Flatpak
Top FreeCAD Features
FreeCAD VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is FreeCAD a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?
163 likes110 LibreCAD alternativesLibreCAD is an open source 2D CAD application for Windows, Apple and Linux. It is based on Qt, which is a leading cross-platform application and UI development framework.
License model
- Free • Open Source
Application types
Platforms
- Mac
- Windows
- Linux
- BSD
- PortableApps.com
LibreCAD VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is LibreCAD a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?Comments about LibreCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
U UA lightweight, AutoCAD-like 2D CAD program. Feature set is smaller than AutoCAD, but is sufficient to work with 2D drawings. A command line is available, as well as a built-in scripting language. If you have experience in AutoCAD, then there will be no problems with working in LibreCAD. There is a support forum and wiki.
7LibreCAD can't reliably open .dwg files, which are an industry standard in construction. This means it is not a viable alternative for many people.
LibreCAD does not support XRefs, although fewer people use that functionality.
6No open AutoCAD files, say need permissions.
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86 likes90 DraftSight alternativesDraftSight is a professional-grade, open 2D CAD product for users who want a better way to read, write and share DWG files. DraftSight is easy to use and is available for professional CAD users, students and educators to download and activate for free.*
DraftSight VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is DraftSight a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?Comments about DraftSight as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
Because i'ts equal in 2D part. Very good, has free version, and multiplatform.
10Good compatibility and excellent 2D drafting tools
2It is almost the same as Autocad for 2D drawings. It is very good for small size drawings but no so good graphical performace for more complex drawings.
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49 likes90 BricsCAD alternativesBricsCAD the first all-in-one CAD design solution in .dwg that answers all your needs; 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM. BricsCAD is a cost-effective, innovative, and familiar CAD solution.
BricsCAD Features
BricsCAD VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is BricsCAD a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?Comments about BricsCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
BricaCAD runs most native AutoCAD programming interfaces, lisp, diesel, pgp, brx (modified arx).
6If you know how to draw in Autocad, you can also draw in Bicscad. It is identical.
1Paulo CoghiFully compatible with AutoCAD and .dwg, provide a free version, multi-platform including Linux, Mac and Windows, 2D design, 3D modeling, mechanical design and BIM. It's for sure not only the best alternative, but for me, it's the new standard.
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551 likes164 SketchUp alternativesComprehensive 3D modeling software ideal for architecture, engineering, film, and gaming. It includes features like easy-to-use interface, sun and shadow analysis, color experimenting, and mock-up creation. Available in freeware and professional versions for diverse needs.
SketchUp Features
SketchUp VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is SketchUp a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?Comments about SketchUp as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
Despite Sketchup not being a "True CAD" tool, it's a viable alternative for a similar real life goals, at least for planning hobbyist home renovations.
4This is not as same as Autocad 2D
11Sketchup is considered as a 3d model programme but not a CAD programme, had downloaded the software before when first came across it being label as a CAD. Upon after setup it proven that it only serve the purpose of 3D sketching, modeling and other 3d functions. Had to uninstall it and had to find another programme which does CAD
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58 likes64 CMS IntelliCAD alternativesCMS IntelliCAD® is a full-featured Compatible CAD Software. CMS IntelliCAD also offers a full suite of 2D and 3D AutoCAD® software compatible drawing tools! It is the smartest choice for anyone who creates or communicates using CAD drawings.
Top CMS IntelliCAD Features
CMS IntelliCAD VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is CMS IntelliCAD a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?Comments about CMS IntelliCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
Graham GallagherIntelliCAD is a good program to start and produce engineering drawings, modeling and designing mechanic or structural components.
13Freaking great for the tools included in this software
0Emmanuel LivinusCMS IntelliCAD is a solid solution to completely replace AutoCAD. It has multitude of tools to work with. The user experience is also very sharp and support DWG from other software.
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44 likes91 nanoCAD alternativesnanoCAD is a pro-grade 2D CAD system with native DWG support and full customizability. It is totally free, for business, professional, or personal purposes. It is fast, lightweight, capable, and , unlike most free CAD programs, completely uncrippled. nanoCAD includes:
nanoCAD VS Autodesk AutoCAD
Is nanoCAD a good alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD?Comments about nanoCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
João Paulo OliveiraThey has a Free Version for 2D models called nanoCAD Free, is as a good alternative to AutoCAD. Command line, tools and options are very similar, can open/save .dwg files from AutoCAD 14 LT or older versions, and very lightweight for modern computers.
1Robert CheethamImpossible to open as registration process is a real pain. I gave up.
0It opens and edits 2D DWG files with ease, interface very similar to Autocad; although it had troubles opening files in the range of +150mb
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Comments about FreeCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
I use Freecad to design my 3D printing models.
Freecad is (as mentioned in the description) for 3D parametric CAD, and has no drafting functionality worth speaking of. Not a bad program, but certainly not an AutoCAD replacement. It has much more similarity to SolidWorks than AutoCAD
way takes really a lot of clicks