AutoCAD is the benchmark par excellence in the world of 2D, 3D drawing and modeling, with decades of experience and development. However, The complexity of this software and its subscription price lead many to look for similar optionsIn previous articles we have explained what is AutoCAD and what is it forNow, it's time to learn about the 7 best alternatives to AutoCAD that you can use in 2024.
As you might expect, there are a variety of computer-aided drawing (CAD) programs available, both for beginners and advanced users. Some of the best are open source, that is, free and supported by a large community of users. Other alternatives are paid, but with a much lower subscription or purchase cost. than AutoCAD. Let's take a look and see which one suits you best.
The 7 best alternatives to AutoCAD: free and paid
Those looking for the best alternatives to AutoCAD find a wide variety of programs to create and edit in 2D and 3DChoosing between so many options can be difficult, especially for those who are taking their first steps in the world of computer-aided design. On the other hand, those who already master the basic skills to use AutoCAD can choose from those alternatives with a similar interface and tools.
Below you will find a list of the 7 Best AutoCAD Alternatives, Mostly Free or Open Source VersionsSome, like FreeCAD and NanoCAD, have everything you need for 2D drawing and modeling three-dimensional objects. Other solutions are more specific, focusing on offering tools for personal or non-commercial technical drawing. In any case, they are excellent options for expert users and beginners alike.
FreeCAD
We start with what could be the most similar alternative to AutoCAD, both in work environment and user experience. FreeCAD is a Open source 3D modeler designed for the design of mechanical objects of any sizeIt also has advanced tools to create and export solids, 2D and 3D models and any other element that exists in the real world.
With this program you can create three-dimensional objects with parametric modeling. This means that if you make a change to one part of the model, the rest of the design is automatically updated. In addition, it is multi platform, so you can use it on Windows, Linux or Mac computers.
LibreCAD among the best alternatives to AutoCAD
If what you need is a CAD design program for creating two-dimensional technical drawings, FreeCAD is the best option. This is also an open source and cross-platform software that stands out as one of the best alternatives to AutoCAD. Its interface is simple and easy to understand, and it includes everything you need to make basic and complex 2D drawings.
What can you use LibreCAD for? With this program, you can design house plans, diagrams, or intricate electronic circuits, among many other drawings. In addition, can open and save files in DWG format, which means you can share your creations with people who actually use AutoCAD.
QCAD – Best Alternatives to AutoCAD
This is the third alternative to AutoCAD open source from our list, also oriented to 2D computer drawingIt is compatible with Windows, macOS and Linux, and has a very simple interface but packed with tools for advanced technical drawing.
The most recent version of QCAD (3.30) Comes with 35 CAD fonts included, over 40 construction tools and over 20 modification toolsIt also offers full support for importing and exporting DXF and DWG files, formats used in AutoCAD.
NanoCAD - 2D Drawing and 3D Modeling
We move on to the best paid alternatives to AutoCAD, starting with one of the most complete on the market: nanoCAD. This platform offers all the necessary tools for perform 2D drawing and 3D modeling at a professional levelIn addition, its interface is similar to AutoCAD and stands out for being very intuitive and easy to learn.
One outstanding detail of nanoCAD is its price: Annual subscription starts at $249 for a workstation license. To this initial plan Other modules can be added to suit specific needs: solid modeling, mechanics, construction, bitmap and digital terrain modeling.This way, you pay only for what you need, with access to specialized tools and features. Another advantage is that you can try the full product for 30 days for free.
BricsCAD
Another paid solution similar to AutoCAD is the computer-aided design software known as BricsCAD. This program comes in a Lite version with tools for 2D drawing, And a Pro version which also includes tools for 3D modeling. On the other hand, BricsCAD Ultimate It brings together all the basic and advanced features for an annual subscription of 896 euros.
Price-wise, BricsCAD is a cheaper alternative to AutoCAD and a bit more expensive than options like nanoCAD. It is aimed at more expert and professional users., due to the complexity and sophistication of its tools and functions. An interesting advantage is that it allows Buy perpetual licenses with a one-time payment, plus an annual maintenance fee.
DraftSight as one of the best alternatives to AutoCAD
Among the best alternatives to AutoCAD is the professional software DraftSight. It has all the necessary tools for 2D technical drawing and some functions for 3D modeling. The personal use version is free and perfectly functional. for students and minor projects.
On the other hand, the professional version of this software brings together a complete set of editing, design and automation tools, for a minimum price of $299 per year. DraftSight is a powerful and versatile program, Specially designed for professionals in engineering, architecture and industrial design.
OnShape
We finish this tour of the best alternatives to AutoCAD with the Online CAD and PDM platform OnShape. Unlike programs like AutoCAD, which are typically installed on a computer, OnShape works completely online. This gives you access to your designs from anywhere and any device with an internet connection.
Another advantage of this CAD platform is that It has a free version for non-commercial use.And that's a good thing, because their standard plan for individuals is $1.500 per user per year. They also have a professional plan for teams priced at $2.500 annually, and custom enterprise options.
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