AutoCAD Alternatives for Windows

There are many alternatives to Autodesk AutoCAD for Windows if you are looking for a replacement. The best Windows alternative 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 available for Windows so hopefully you can find a suitable replacement. Other interesting Windows alternatives to Autodesk AutoCAD are LibreCAD, DraftSight, SketchUp and BricsCAD.

filter to find the best alternatives

Autodesk AutoCAD alternatives are mainly CAD Software, but if you're looking for 3D Modelers or 3D Printing Tools you can filter on that. Other popular filters include Free, Open Source, Linux, Windows + Free, Windows, iPad and Computer-Aided Design. 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

     516 likes

    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.

    123 FreeCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    • Snapcraft
    • Flathub
    • PortableApps.com
    • Flatpak
    • Docker
    • Steam
    Part Design WB
     
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    12
    FreeCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    10

    I use Freecad to design my 3D printing models.

    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

    webb bes
    Positive
    1

    way takes really a lot of clicks

    3 of 12 comments
    • FreeCAD is Free and Open SourceAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
    • FreeCAD is Privacy focusedAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  2. LibreCAD icon

    LibreCAD

     178 likes

    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.

    117 LibreCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    • PortableApps.com
    • Flathub
    On Mac
     
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    9
    LibreCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    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
    7

    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.

    Guest
    Negative
    -3

    No open AutoCAD files, say need permissions.

    3 of 9 comments
    • 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

     85 likes

    Professional 2D CAD solution for editing and viewing DWG files, offering 3D modeling, advanced annotation, layer management, cross-platform support, customizable tools, collaborative features, automation, and a cost-effective alternative for architectural and engineering design.

    93 DraftSight alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    DraftSight screenshot 1
     
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    11
    DraftSight vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    10

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

    Guest
    Positive
    2

    Good compatibility and excellent 2D drafting tools

    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.

    3 of 11 comments
    • DraftSight is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  5. Ad
    Screenshot
    Autodesk Inventor icon
    Autodesk Inventor

    Software for 3D mechanical design, simulation, and visualization. Provides parametric, direct, and freeform design options, along with integrated simulation, CAM tools, and advanced rendering up to 16K resolution. Features includ...

    https://www.autodesk.com
    Learn More
  6. SketchUp icon

    SketchUp

     556 likes

    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.

    175 SketchUp alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    Main UI
     
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    8
    SketchUp vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    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.

    Top Negative Comment
    Guest
    12

    This is not as same as Autocad 2D

    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

    3 of 8 comments
    • SketchUp is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
    • SketchUp is a 3D Modeler Autodesk AutoCAD is a CAD Software
  8. BricsCAD icon

    BricsCAD

     49 likes

    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.

    83 BricsCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    BricsCAD Dark and light mode
     
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    4
    BricsCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    Guest
    Positive
    6

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

    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.

    3 of 4 comments
    • BricsCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  9. CMS IntelliCAD icon

    CMS IntelliCAD

     58 likes

    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.

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Windows
    CMS IntelliCAD screenshot 1
     
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    5
    CMS IntelliCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    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

    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.

    3 of 5 comments
    • CMS IntelliCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  10. nanoCAD icon

    nanoCAD

     45 likes

    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:

    91 nanoCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Windows
    nanoCAD 3 main window
     
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    5
    nanoCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    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

    3 of 5 comments
    • 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

     85 likes

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

    55 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
    OpenSCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    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.

    • 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

     89 likes

    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.

    105 SOLIDWORKS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Windows
    SOLIDWORKS screenshot 1
     
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    4
    SOLIDWORKS vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    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.

    Guest
    Negative
    3

    It's a solid 3d modelling software.

    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.

    3 of 4 comments
    • SOLIDWORKS is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
  13. ZWCAD icon

    ZWCAD

     13 likes

    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...

    61 ZWCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Windows
    ZWCAD screenshot 1
     
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    5
    ZWCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    3

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

    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.

    Guest
    Positive
    0

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

    3 of 5 comments
    • ZWCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
    • ZWCAD is LightweightAutodesk AutoCAD is not according to our users
  14. BRL-CAD icon

    BRL-CAD

     57 likes

    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...

    77 BRL-CAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    PA-63 Extractor
     
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    1
    BRL-CAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    Guest
    Negative
    2

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

    • BRL-CAD is Free and Open SourceAutodesk AutoCAD is Paid and Proprietary
  15. GstarCAD icon

    GstarCAD

     13 likes

    GstarCAD is well-known alternative CAD software of high compatibility with ACAD. With 27 years of continuous improvement and innovation, today GstarCAD is far ahead in performance, stability and becomes leading CAD software in the world.

    87 GstarCAD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Mac
    Concise User Interface
     
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    5
    GstarCAD vs Autodesk AutoCAD Comments
    Top Positive Comment
    Guest
    2

    in 2019 of GstarCAD is more compatible and faster than ever. i strongly recommend this program for everyone who architecture or engineer(civil,mechanical) compatible with 2018 .DWG and very cheaper than AutoCAD.

    RemovedUser
    Positive
    0

    Best combatibility and speed

    Guest
    Positive
    0

    I use GstarCAD for last few years since it is faster than Autocad especialy when using huge point cloud projects.

    3 of 5 comments
    • GstarCAD is Paid and ProprietaryAutodesk AutoCAD is also Paid and Proprietary
12 of 111 Autodesk AutoCAD alternatives