AutoCAD AlternativesOnly apps categorised as CAD Software

The best CAD alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD is FreeCAD, which is both free and Open Source. If that doesn't suit you, our users have ranked more than 100 alternatives to Autodesk AutoCAD and loads of them are CAD Software so hopefully you can find a suitable replacement. Other interesting CAD Software alternatives to Autodesk AutoCAD are LibreCAD, DraftSight, SketchUp and BricsCAD.

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Autodesk AutoCAD alternatives are mainly CAD Software, but if you're looking for 3D Modelers or Interior Design Apps you can filter on that. Other popular filters include Free, Open Source, Linux, Windows, Android, Mac + Free and Windows + Free. You can also filter by region, for example EU-based alternatives if you prefer software developed in the European Union. These are just examples - use the filter bar below to find more specific alternatives to Autodesk AutoCAD.
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Alternatives list

  1. FreeCAD icon

    FreeCAD

     467 likes
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    A 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.

    112 FreeCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    • Snapcraft
    • Flathub
    • PortableApps.com
    • Flatpak
    FreeCAD screenshot 1
     
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    12
    220
    Comments about FreeCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Comment summary: Users highlight that FreeCAD and AutoCAD serve different purposes; FreeCAD is a 3D parametric design software with various workbenches, suitable for 3D printing and engineering but lacks drafting features that AutoCAD offers. FreeCAD is praised for being free and user-friendly but criticized for bugs and complex workflows, making it less professional compared to AutoCAD—a primarily 2D drawing tool used in architecture and structures.
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    10

    I use Freecad to design my 3D printing models.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Top Negative Comment
    Guest
    22

    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

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    webb bes
    Positive
    1

    way takes really a lot of clicks

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    FreeCAD icon

    • Most users think FreeCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • FreeCAD is the most popular Windows, Mac & Linux alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD.

    • FreeCAD is the most popular Open Source & free alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD.

    • FreeCAD is Free and Open SourceAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
  2. LibreCAD icon

    LibreCAD

     170 likes
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    LibreCAD 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.

    108 LibreCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    • PortableApps.com
    • Flathub
    On Mac
     
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    9
    105
    Comments about LibreCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Top Positive Comment
    U U
    8

    A 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.

    Top Negative Comment
    Guest
    6

    LibreCAD 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.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Negative
    -1

    No open AutoCAD files, say need permissions.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 9 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    LibreCAD icon

    • Most users think LibreCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • LibreCAD is Free and Open SourceAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
    • LibreCAD is Customizable and LightweightAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  4. DraftSight icon

    DraftSight

     86 likes
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    DraftSight 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.*

    88 DraftSight alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Subscription
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    DraftSight screenshot 1
     
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    11
    141
    Comments about DraftSight as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    10

    Because i'ts equal in 2D part. Very good, has free version, and multiplatform.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Positive
    2

    Good compatibility and excellent 2D drafting tools

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Positive
    1

    It 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.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 11 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    DraftSight icon

    • Most users think DraftSight is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • DraftSight is the most popular commercial alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD.

    • DraftSight is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
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  6. SketchUp icon

    SketchUp

     555 likes
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    Comprehensive 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.

    165 SketchUp alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Subscription
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    Main UI
     
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    8
    75
    Comments about SketchUp as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    4

    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.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Top Negative Comment
    Guest
    11

    This is not as same as Autocad 2D

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Negative
    1

    Sketchup 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

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 8 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    SketchUp icon

    • Some users think SketchUp is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative, some don't.

    • SketchUp is the most popular Web-based alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD.

    • SketchUp is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  7. BricsCAD icon

    BricsCAD

     49 likes
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    BricsCAD 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.

    80 BricsCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Pay once
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    BricsCAD Dark and light mode
     
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    4
    60
    Comments about BricsCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Guest
    Positive
    6

    BricaCAD runs most native AutoCAD programming interfaces, lisp, diesel, pgp, brx (modified arx).

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Paulo Coghi
    Positive
    -1

    Fully 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.

    Guest
    Positive
    1

    If you know how to draw in Autocad, you can also draw in Bicscad. It is identical.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 4 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    BricsCAD icon

    • Almost everyone thinks BricsCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • BricsCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  8. CMS IntelliCAD icon

    CMS IntelliCAD

     58 likes
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    Feature-rich 2D and 3D CAD application supporting native DWG files, offering multiple-document interface, advanced drafting tools, full AutoLISP and ADS compatibility, IntelliCAD Explorer for managing layers and settings, seamless Windows integration, and support for legacy drawing formats.

    65 CMS IntelliCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Pay once or Subscription
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Windows
    CMS IntelliCAD screenshot 1
     
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    5
    73
    Comments about CMS IntelliCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Top Positive Comment
    Graham Gallagher
    13

    IntelliCAD is a good program to start and produce engineering drawings, modeling and designing mechanic or structural components.

    Guest
    Positive
    0

    Freaking great for the tools included in this software

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Emmanuel Livinus
    Positive
    0

    CMS 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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    3 of 5 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    CMS IntelliCAD icon

    • Almost everyone thinks CMS IntelliCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • CMS IntelliCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  10. nanoCAD icon

    nanoCAD

     44 likes
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    nanoCAD 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:

    89 nanoCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Pay once
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Windows
    nanoCAD 3 main window
     
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    5
    40
    Comments about nanoCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Top Positive Comment
    João Paulo Oliveira
    1

    They 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.

    Top Negative Comment
    Robert Cheetham
    0

    Impossible to open as registration process is a real pain. I gave up.

    Guest
    Positive
    0

    It opens and edits 2D DWG files with ease, interface very similar to Autocad; although it had troubles opening files in the range of +150mb

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 5 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    nanoCAD icon

    • Most users think nanoCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • nanoCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
    • nanoCAD is LightweightAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  11. OpenSCAD icon

    OpenSCAD

     83 likes
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    OpenSCAD is a software for creating solid 3D CAD objects. It is free software and available for Linux/UNIX, MS Windows and MacOS.

    50 OpenSCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Flathub
    • Flatpak
    • Snapcraft
    • BSD
    • Docker
    • Homebrew
    OpenSCAD screenshot 1
     
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    1
    25
    Comments about OpenSCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Guest
    Negative
    0

    AutoCAD is after sketcher, drawer and modeller the tool to produce drawing part of documentation. OpenSCAD has different abilities, approach and philosophy to produce other results which does not includes technical drawings. My appologize for my poor English.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    OpenSCAD icon

    • Most users think OpenSCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • OpenSCAD is Free and Open SourceAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
    • OpenSCAD is LightweightAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  12. SOLIDWORKS icon

    SOLIDWORKS

     88 likes
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    Leading 3D CAD software for design, analysis, and product data management, developed by Dassault Systèmes. Enhances productivity, fosters collaboration, and accelerates time to market. Features include parametric modeling, photorealistic rendering, and strong PLM process support.

    102 SOLIDWORKS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Pay once
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Windows
    SOLIDWORKS screenshot 1
     
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    4
    24
    Comments about SOLIDWORKS as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Guest
    Negative
    6

    SolidWorks aimed to design parts for the manufacturing and mostly used for mechanical engineering. AutoCAD is used for general things from mechanical to civil, has many different ways of use.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Negative
    3

    It's a solid 3d modelling software.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Negative
    0

    Nothing to do with. SolidWorks is closer to Inventor, not to AutoCAD. You're probably getting payed to publish crap lies as this one.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 4 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    SOLIDWORKS icon

    • Some users think SOLIDWORKS is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative, some don't.

    • SOLIDWORKS is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  13. Onshape icon

    Onshape

     30 likes
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    Onshape is a professional CAD system – Parts, Assemblies, Drawings – with version control and collaboration built in. Each Onshape plan (Free, Education, Professional, and Enterprise) gives you all of the CAD and data management functionality with no time limit.

    42 Onshape alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free Personal
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    Onshape screenshot 1
     
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    2
    14
    Comments about Onshape as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Joris
    Positive
    0

    its free for personal use. Its far more modern and you can import custom features. Only issue for me is that its cloud based and you cannot run it locally. Otherwise its the best option

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    John Sevier
    Positive
    2

    Cloud-based, faster and more modern.

    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    Onshape icon

    • Almost everyone thinks Onshape is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • Onshape is the most popular Android, iPhone, iPad & Android Tablet alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD.

    • Onshape is Free Personal and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
    • Onshape is CustomizableAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  14. ZWCAD icon

    ZWCAD

     13 likes
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    Developed by ZWSOFT, which has helped 900,000 users from 90 countries create amazing things, ZWCAD is a powerful, reliable and DWG-compatible CAD solution for worldwide users. Available in 15 languages, it provides innovative, collaborative and customizable features to designers...

    58 ZWCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Pay once
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Windows
    ZWCAD screenshot 1
     
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    5
    20
    Comments about ZWCAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    3

    Cheaper than Autocad, and have the same options. I recomend it at 100%

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Positive
    1

    Great similarity with AutoCAD so almost no relearning required. Still a permanent licence so not am not getting hit with annual rental charges.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Guest
    Positive
    0

    Parity or better functionality, full compatibility, affordable, much faster, broad apI.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
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    3 of 5 comments
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    ZWCAD icon

    • Almost everyone thinks ZWCAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • ZWCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
    • ZWCAD is LightweightAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  15. BRL-CAD icon

    BRL-CAD

     57 likes
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    BRL-CAD is a powerful cross-platform open source solid modeling system that includes interactive geometry editing, high-performance ray-tracing for rendering and geometric analysis, image and signal-processing tools, a system performance analysis benchmark suite, libraries for...

    74 BRL-CAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    PA-63 Extractor
     
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    1
    22
    Comments about BRL-CAD as an Alternative to Autodesk AutoCAD
    Guest
    Negative
    2

    BRLCAD doesn't even have mouse support... and CSG through commandline is awful, can't even fillet an edge.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Autodesk AutoCAD Icon
    BRL-CAD icon

    • Most users think BRL-CAD is a great Autodesk AutoCAD alternative.

    • BRL-CAD is Free and Open SourceAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
12 of 91 Autodesk AutoCAD alternatives