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1. SketchUp
SketchUp, formerly know as Google SketchUp, is one of the easiest CAD tools to use. With
the proud boast of being “the easiest way to draw in 3D”, SketchUp is a popular among CAD
users from a range of different professions.
There are also different versions available depending on what you want to use it for.
SketchUp Make is generously free and perfect for personal projects. SketchUp Pro requires a
subscription and is more suited to people who use 3D modelling professionally. It’s probably
best to play around with the free version first to determine if it’s a good fit for you.
2. ProgeCAD
ProgeCAD is a great programme if you want to invest in some serious CAD software, but
don’t want to pay the asking price of AutoCAD. With over 10,000 symbols and an easy to
use interface, ProgeCAD is a good programme for intermediate to pro users.
5. DraftSight
DraftSight is simple, functional, and a great introduction to CAD and 2D Modelling. Better
yet, it’s free! There are two paid options that go a little more in-depth that are good value for
businesses, but if you’re an architecture or design student, the free version works as a great
starting point for your adventures in CAD.
6. VectorWorks
Vectorworks is extremely popular and is probably AutoCAD’s biggest competitor. It’s most
popular among Mac users and is certainly the complete package. Getting your hands on a
copy is reasonably expensive, however.
7. NANOCAD
NanoCAD is a free and easy to use professional grade CAD tool. It’s great for creating,
editing and sharing CAD creations and even though it’s free, it matches up in many ways to
some paid software. A nice alternative to AutoCAD for beginners and intermediates on a
budget of zero.
8. ZWCAD+
ZWCAD+ is a sleek and sophisticated drafting software for professionals. It also has the
benefit of displaying seamlessly across desktop and mobile devices. A great programme for
drafting professionals who are often out of the office.
9. BricsCAD v12
BricsCAD is simple to use and features many in-depth features common to better known
CAD programmes. If usability is your number one priority, then BricsCAD should be high on
your list of CAD programmes to check out.
10. FreeCAD
FreeCAD is exactly what it sounds like: Free, open source CAD software to build your own
3D drawings. FreeCAD uses parametric modelling, allowing you to easily alter your designs
as you go. It’s not nearly as in-depth and feature-packed as some other CAD software on the
list, but it’s still powerful enough to create some great 3D models.
Is your favourite CAD programme included in our list? Let us know more in the comments
section below…
Architecture
Interior Design
Tips & How To
Reply
Thanks man for sharing autocad alternatives and I am facing so much difficulties in
autocad so now i will try using this alternatives and will complete my work.
Reply
No problem! Let us know which one you choose and how you get on.
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3. Mike says:
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4. MM Krishna says:
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5. Shibanee says:
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a good softwore
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8. Chandra Sekhar says:
Thanks for the article. This is a comprehensive list with clear information.
This article mentions about 3D CAD doftware. Can you please make another list for
3D printing. With output file formats that can be used for 3D Printing.
Reply
Glad you enjoyed the article Chandra, thanks for reading and taking the time
to comment! Good suggestion with the 3D printing article too, it’s a technique
that’s only becoming more and more prominent so definitely something our
readers could find helpful and interesting! Got any other suggestions?
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