5 of the Best Alternatives to AutoCAD

5 of the Best Alternatives to AutoCAD

5 of the Best Alternatives to AutoCAD

1. SolidWorks

For a while, AutoCAD has had pretty good support for 3D modelling, but its greatest strengths remain as a 2D-design and drafting architectural software. Cool & Stylish Profile DP | Boys DP for WhatsApp & Facebook

Solidworks, as the name suggests, is a parametric solid modeller focused mainly around 3D designs. That means you’ll need to have some knowledge of engineering terms rather than just geometric ones.

The latest edition of SolidWorks has excellent features like the ability to do freehand sketches on touch-screens. Despite being primarily focused around 3D modelling, its 2D sketching tool still remains functional, even though it’s much lighter than what you find in AutoCAD.

2. BricsCAD

This CAD platform is known for its reach features and has several familiar features including native .dwg applications.

If you’re familiar with AutoCAD’s 2008 version, BricsCAD has a somewhat similar interface plus rich features in 2D design and 3D direct modelling. You can use it with the major operating systems such as macOS, Windows, and Linux, and hundreds of third-party apps from across the world, which are based on .dwg.

Despite being a paid software like AutoCAD, BricsCAD is more affordable with three editions: Classic, Pro, and Platinum. The latter is feature-packed with tools that aren’t found in AutoCAD such as Sheet metal, 3D Compare, and BIM.

BricsCAD also integrates with cloud, has a robust rendering engine, recognizes XREFS, and is customizable.

3. DraftSight

Draftsight is a professional-grade alternative to AutoCAD, designed for users looking for better ways to read, write, and share .dwg files.
The open 2D CAD software is easy to use and is based on an advanced architecture with all the tools you need to create technical 2D drawings. From professional CAD users to educators and students, DraftSight is available for a free download and activation in a few minutes. It also runs on multiple OS platforms including Windows XP/Vista/7.

Through its clear user interface, which makes DraftSight easy to use and learn, you can make accurate revisions as design elements are stored in layers. You can also create G-Code directly in the program and save and open DXF and DWG files. It also has a huge design library from which you can use existing designs, do batch-printing, and also access the macro recording. What Is a Blockchain Operating System?

However, it only comes in a paid version, so if you’re on a low budget, you can go with the cheapest of its pricing plans. This is good for students or hobbyists. For businesses, DraftSight offers three plans: Professional, Premium, and Enterprise, with pricing varying with your needs. As you scale up, the tool begins to compete with AutoCAD, offering advanced capabilities if you’re willing to fork over more for these features.

4. SketchUp (Free)

Formerly Google SketchUp, this free tool is an excellent pick for CAD professionals.
SketchUp is a 3D-modeling program used in a wide range of applications from interior design; architectural, civil, and mechanical engineering; video game and film design.

Available as a freeware version, the tool works with several types of files including DWG, DXF, OBJ, XSI, and more, plus can export HD animations and PDFs.

5. LibreCAD (Free)

This is another free alternative program you can use that is feature-rich and commands a large following of customers and designers.
LibreCAD is a high-quality open-source 2D-modeling software birthed from QCAD (later known as CADuntu) and resembles AutoCAD in concept and features. Free Online Phone Number for Receiving Texts (Receive SMS Online Instantly)

If you’re familiar with AutoCAD, it’s easier to use LibreCAD, especially for Linux users and those who want a free CAD tool that reads DWG files, too. It can also be used with Windows and Apple platforms and is based on Qt, a leading cross-platform application and UI-development framework.

SolidWorks
BricsCAD
DraftSight
SketchUp (Free)
LibreCAD (Free)