“Automated Computer Aided Design” is what AutoCAD fully stands for. AutoCAD. Autodesk is the developer of the computer-aided design (CAD) program AutoCAD, which may be used on desktop, online, and mobile devices. AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) program that allows users to create and edit 2D and 3D designs.
It is employed in modelling, drawing, and design processes involving solids, surfaces, mesh objects, and documentation elements. Compared to drawing by hand, it makes it easier and faster to revise and create digital 2D and 3D designs. Additionally, the files are saved and kept in the cloud, allowing access to them anytime and anywhere.
Top AutoCAD Alternatives
If you need new software features or want to try something different, check out the top AutoCAD substitutes. When investigating alternatives to AutoCAD, it’s crucial to take into account 3D models and files. We have put together a list of options that reviewers felt were the most significant competitors and all-around substitutes for AutoCAD.
1: Onshape
From 2D CAD to final renderings, Onshape is a cloud-based platform for product development that provides an extensive toolkit. It is appropriate for both people seeking CAD and 3D modelling tools and businesses wishing to update their approach to product design. The CAD environment from Onshape has key capabilities for drafting and engineering drawings, and it supports the DWG and DXF file formats. Onshape is more than just 2D CAD; its cloud-based architecture allows for quick modifications and collaboration features. For quick and safe cooperation, support, security, and analytics are also integrated into the program.
For non-commercial projects, Onshape is free, and all documentation is available online to the general public. Three premium tiers of Onshape are also offered: Standard, Professional, and Enterprise. The latter two choices offer extra capabilities like bulk item management and company-specific tools that are helpful for companies with large teams.
2: LibreCAD
Everyone can use LibreCAD as a free and open-source alternative to AutoCAD. Because it was modelled after the well-known AutoCAD program, LibreCAD can read AutoCAD DWG and DXF files with ease, allowing seasoned users to begin using it immediately.
This program runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux and only supports 2D modelling. Its graphical user interface is built on Qt4 libraries. With its general simplicity and organization, the interface is readily mastered by beginners. Moreover, LibreCAD allows extensions and plug-ins, which improve workflow.
3: SolidWorks
Since Solidworks is a parametric solid modeller primarily concerned with 3D designs, you will need to understand some engineering terminology in addition to geometric ones. Although AutoCAD has provided decent support for 3D modelling, its primary uses are still in 2D design and architectural drafting. Solidworks is, therefore, a good substitute. One of the great features of SolidWorks’ most recent edition is its ability to sketch freehand on touchscreens. Its 2D drawing tool is still valid, even though it is considerably lighter than AutoCAD while being primarily focused on 3D modelling.
When looking for CAD software for intricate design work, 3D sketchers could choose SolidWorks Premium. The program has a large number of design tools that enable the creation of both 2D and 3D models. Moreover, the application allows version control and document management, which is helpful in creating a repository of current designs. What is the price of SolidWorks Premium? The license fees and conditions of usage for SolidWorks Premium differ depending on whether you plan to use it for business or education. A 12-month term-of-use licensing charge for the student version costs $150; the unique requirements of a corporation determine commercial pricing.
4: CMS IntelliCAD
Specifically, CMS IntelliCAD was created to function as an AutoCAD substitute. It is compatible with LISP and fully supports BIM, in addition to supporting 2D and 3D modelling approaches. Similar to AutoCAD, IntelliCAD supports digital signatures and is compatible with DWG files natively.
Even though it still uses the ribbon-style interface that is included in many CAD products, it offers an intuitive layout. The integrated photorealistic rendering features in CMS IntelliCAD are comparable to those in AutoCAD and are particularly helpful for applications related to interior and architectural design. Unlike many of the other solutions on this list, IntelliCAD is primarily available as a perpetual license. It is available in multiple versions. The “Easy Run” cloud-based version is accessible from any location and is available for purchase as a perpetual license with free lifetime updates or as an annual subscription. A complimentary license is available for instructors and students.
5: Autodesk Inventor
Professional-grade 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation tools are available with Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software. These combine rules-based, parametric, direct, and freeform design capabilities. Integrated tools for sheet metal, frame, tube and pipe, cable and harness, rendering, simulation, and machine design are all included in Inventor. Additionally, it has model-based definition capabilities and is compatible with TrustedDWG, allowing manufacturing information to be directly included.
6: ProgeCAD
Another expert CAD tool that is compatible with DWG files and offers an intuitive user interface for AutoCAD users is ProgeCAD. Along with complete support for dynamic blocks and BIM objects, it provides 3D modelling.
A PDF-to-DWG converter and an abundance of tools and plug-ins for architectural applications are among its sophisticated capabilities. The “artisan” pre-built photorealistic render includes an extensive yet scalable material and texture collection. Like NanoCAD, ProgeCAD also has table editing in the style of Excel. ProgeCAD Professional and ProgeCAD Architecture are the two main Windows versions. A general-purpose CAD software called ICADMAC is available for MacOS in a third and rather distinct version. Every license is perpetual.
7: FreeCAD
Under the terms of their Lesser General Public License (LGPL), this program is free to use. It is a software program at the forefront of development and technology because it is also open-source. For independent engineers looking to design new goods or buildings, FreeCAD is the ideal software. You might want to search for a different program if you’re hoping to go into the video game or film industries, as the program isn’t made to handle animation or organic shapes. The Python language’s ease of modification and expansion is this product’s best feature.
Users adore it because it’s really simple to use, with new users frequently being able to create a functional 3D model in just one week of study time. The fact that FreeCAD offers practically every feature a freelance 3D modeler could ask for without burying them behind a fee is another reason why users adore the program even though it is free. For novices, enthusiasts, and even experts interested in producing 2D and 3D illustrations of goods or buildings, it’s a fantastic tool.
8: BRL-CAD
The cross-platform CAD tool BRL-CAD was created in 1979, but it would take another 25 years for the source code to be made available under an open-source license. BRL-CAD is so old, in fact, that it holds the distinction of being the oldest source code repository for an application that is still under development. Mike Muuss first created BRL-CAD at the Army Research Laboratory. The US military has been using it for decades to model weapon systems. Still, it has also been utilized for far more standard design jobs, such as academic, industrial, and health applications.
What benefits may you expect from almost 35 years of development? Over a million lines of source code comprise the more than 400 distinct constituent tools and apps that make up BRL-CAD. Different components have different licenses, such as BSD, LGPL, or plain public domain; further information can be found in the COPYING file located in the SourceForge project’s source code.
9: GstarCAD
A feature-rich substitute CAD tool with excellent AutoCAD compatibility is GstarCAD. Its status as one of the top CAD software choices has been cemented by its more than three decades of constant development. The program’s familiar interface and command-line capability allow for a smooth transfer from AutoCAD. GstarCAD makes transferring between the programs incredibly simple by supporting DWG and DXF files and enabling the import of layouts, blocks, and printers from AutoCAD.
The main licensing option for GstarCAD is a perpetual license, although users who prefer AutoCAD’s licensing scheme can also choose to subscribe to the program annually. Upgrades can be purchased individually or as part of a subscription package. GstarCAD’s licensing structure permits customers to purchase only the necessary items.
10: NanoCAD
Nanosoft created a versatile drafting tool called NanoCAD. Dmitry Popov, the company’s CTO, claimed that it was the first comprehensive CAD program that was ultimately free to use. It provides AutoCAD users with a recognizable layout and toolkit with native support for DWG files. The program provides table-editing capabilities akin to those found in Excel, speeding up documentation tasks by enabling macros and formulas to be placed in each cell. Additionally, open sets of APIs for creating task automation apps are available in NanoCAD, which can save time.
The primary commercial version and the free version are both only for 2D sketching; however, additional modules can be purchased to add various features, including parametric 3D modelling tools and a sizable library of standard parts.
11: DraftSight
A professional-grade substitute for AutoCAD, Draftsight is intended for those seeking more efficient means of reading, writing, and distributing.dwg files. For novices, it’s among the most excellent AutoCAD substitutes. Furthermore, it has all the tools required to produce technical 2D drawings and is built on cutting-edge architecture. Because design elements are saved in layers, the user-friendly interface facilitates precise revision-making. Together with saving and opening DXF and DWG files, the tool also allows you to write G-Code directly. With its extensive design library, you may access macro recordings, print in batches, and use pre-made patterns.
It is only available in paid versions, yet even the most affordable one is suitable for hobbyists or students. DraftSight provides three plans for businesses: Professional, Premium, and Network. The program starts to compete with AutoCAD as you build it up, offering more advanced features if you’re ready to pay extra for them.
12: BricsCAD
Another practical substitute for AutoCAD in 2D and 3D modelling and design is BricsCAD. Global CAD software provider Bricsys published it in 2002. From concept to delivery, BricsCAD provides you with an easy and productive working environment with its high-performance and AI-driven capabilities. For all product tiers, BricsCAD provides six functional toolsets from which to select the one that best suits your demands. BricsCAD is an integrated CAD software ecosystem because of its robust toolkits. For instance, you may complete succinct 2D design and drafting tasks with BricsCAD Lite. You can easily accomplish 2D and 3D design and modelling with BricsCAD.
Due to its usage of an industry-standard DWG-based CAD platform, BricsCAD can be readily converted from other CAD applications. BricsCAD offers comprehensive online training to get you started if you’re a newbie.
13: SolveSpace
You can use this open-source, basic design program for both 2D and 3D computer-aided design. CAD professionals would find several features in SolveSpace beneficial. It is exportable and capable of handling rotations and extrusions. Above all, it can introduce gaps in designs. On the sections that call for them, you can adjust the holes’ sizes, ensure that they are level with one another, and shift them apart. This functionality is usually a helpful addition to any software and is especially important for people who use 3D printers to generate parts that need to be assembled. Program-wise, SolveSpace is really straightforward. One of its main advantages is its simplicity, but there is a slight downside as well. Those accustomed to more sophisticated design may find the interface off-putting due to its highly outdated appearance. If you’re used to more flamboyant software, this might be a disadvantage, but if your machine is older, it might also be an advantage. Because SolveSpace is so tiny, it only demands a few resources from your computer to function. For those attempting to run it on laptops or outdated desktop computers, that is a huge bonus.
Additionally, SolveSpace needs a few of the practical capabilities that a lot of 3D CAD designers have grown accustomed to. This encompasses the capacity to fillet and chamfer. This can be the software for you if you don’t require it for your product or build because it is primarily employed for aesthetics. Overall, SolveSpace is a valuable tool that will help you get by. It’s free, of course, simple to use, and it can be picked up quickly.
14: OpenSCAD
Another free program for making 3D models is called OpenSCAD. Since the computer mouse cannot be used to interact with it directly, this one is best suited for more experienced users. Instead, users use code to engage with the application. The OpenSCAD script is used to specify the geometric objects and their locations. OpenSCAD is more concerned with the technical details of item creation than with the aesthetics of those products. OpenSCAD is, therefore, not a well-liked option for anyone who wants to make animations or video games. OpenSCAD, on the other hand, is ideal for those who want to create machine parts or other items without a complex appearance.
OpenSCAD is an excellent tool for practically any programmer who understands what goes on behind the scenes because it is accessible for Linux, Mac, and Windows operating systems. For those on a tight budget, these free alternatives to AutoCAD and other commercial software are a great option if you can’t afford their exorbitant costs. Every one of the numerous varieties of CAD users has a distinct focus. You can try as many products as you like without any consequences because they are all free to use. However, it would help if you took the time to select the one that best suits your needs.
15: ZWCAD
One of the best alternatives to AutoCAD that we would like to present to you is ZWCAD. This 2D CAD program has an interface and professional features comparable to AutoCAD, but with the added benefit of faster and more seamless performance. In contrast to AutoCAD, which has been developed over 40 years and has received multiple version updates, resulting in a notably large application, ZWCAD is a contemporary CAD program that offers a seamless experience from beginning to end. It accomplishes this by making full use of multi-core CPUs and concentrating on the most recent features for effective and seamless operation.
With its support for intelligent mouse motions to activate frequently used commands and voice message annotation, ZWCAD also makes it easier to design or migrate third-party programs using APIs like LISP, VBA, ZRX, and.NET. Furthermore, it improves the user experience.
16: SALOME
An application and framework appropriate for industrial design and simulation is the SALOME platform. Developed as a side project by OpenCascade, a 3D powerhouse, it has several significant industrial uses. SALOME combines sophisticated 3D visualization, industrial meshing methods, and CAD/CAE modelling tools. Its mesh editor can import MED, GGNS, SAUV, UNIV, and more files. Importing STEP, BREP, IGES, STL, and XAO files is possible using its geometry editor. Python support is included in it. It’s open source, like all the other CAD programs on our list, so you won’t have to deal with a cumbersome API if your internal developers are working on plugins for it. The code base is directly accessible to you.
17: TrueCAD
One of the best AutoCAD choices is this frequently used software. A key piece of software for both 2D and 3D design is TrueCAD. For those who have used AutoCAD before, this is one of the most well-liked aspects because it has a comparable programming interface and the same capabilities and commands. TrueCAD contained all the essential elements of an intuitive modelling program and was created specifically for builders, mechanical engineers, architects, and GIS. For AutoCAD, this is, therefore, a simple option that works with DWG and has meager maintenance expenses. It offers capabilities identical to those of AutoCAD.
18: ALCAD
For many years, ALCAD has been creating solutions for the MEP/HVAC sector. It is possible to simulate ventilation ducts and pipes in both 2D and 3D using the MEP plugins. The MEP plugins also make it simple and quick to simulate a variety of other features, such as floor heating, drain pipes, and openings. Extracts from the material list provide an evaluation of every generated component. Years of MEP engineering experience have gone into developing clever MEP plugins. Not a single import, export, or data conversion. Working directly with DWG-format drawings is possible with ALCAD. They work flawlessly with CAD users from a variety of global sectors. Every ALCAD plugin is available and included.
With our plugins, you can overcome any obstacle, whether it has to do with sewer pipes, underfloor heating, or ventilation ducts. For the industries of architecture, building services, mechanical engineering, agriculture, and pipeline construction, ALCADS is a well-known and top supplier of 2D and 3D CAD software solutions. The sale of ALCAD commenced in 2013. ALCAD’s years of CAD expertise allowed it to make a name for itself in the market very rapidly. Currently, ALCAD has around thirty employees. We provide Swiss quality at competitive prices.
Conclusion
There is a significant overlap between similar uses. In this article, we have examined several AutoCAD choices. Among these, you can select any software that best suits your needs. Despite being an industry titan, not everyone can afford the enormous sum of money needed to maintain AutoCAD in the newly named user license system. There are a few strong competitors that provide comparable features and workflows; all are well worth investigating. As you can see, most premium options, like AutoCAD, are moving toward a subscription-based business model. Thus, you must take into account the functionality your team needs as well as the cost of licensing.
