Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs involve the application of computer-aided tools with the aim of designing 2D or 3D models of the objects to be constructed through digital simulation.
Among the solutions most commonly used by industry professionals is the CAD software AutoCAD. AutoCAD has a number of features that optimize the design phase of projects, from the virtualization function for viewing 3D renderings to integrated database creation.
However, the software may not be suitable for the needs of certain projects: the file formats that can be exported and imported are limited to DWG or DXF, for example, which can limit its usability. The software's operation is also aimed at an experienced audience and is therefore not always accessible to all small and medium-sized companies or junior designers. For this reason, companies may consider alternatives to AutoCAD depending on their expectations.
To help users choose AutoCAD alternatives, Capterra has compiled a list of five CAD tools that were mentioned in Capterra user reviews as other products worth considering in conjunction with AutoCad. A detailed methodology can be found at the end of this article.
Now let’s get to our top 5 alternatives to AutoCAD, in alphabetical order.
1st BricsCAD
Overview of the CAD software BricsCad (Source: YouTube )
Overall rating: 4.8 / 5
Ease of use: 4.8 / 5
Customer service: 4.1 / 5
Features: 4.4 / 5
Price-performance ratio: 4.5 / 5
BricsCAD is a CAD software that allows you to create 2D drawings and 3D models of objects, both in civil and mechanical engineering. It is natively compatible with AutoCAD commands and settings. BricsCAD supports DWG files created in AutoCAD as well as the AutoLISP format for automating processes and workflows.
BricsCAD provides various design tools that facilitate the execution of tasks through built-in machine learning technologies. The software has been developed in several versions, the range of functions of which has been gradually expanded: the Lite version limited to 2D drawings, the Pro version for 3D modeling, the BIM version powered by AI, the Mechanical version specifically aimed at mechanical design, and finally the Ultimate version, which combines all the previous features.
BricsCAD is available on the following systems: Windows, Mac, Linux.
Some features of the free version: BricsCAD has a free version with no time limit, BricsCAD Shape. It supports 3D modeling and printing, editing faces and edges, sharing creations, and importing models.
Some features of the paid version: Some features of the paid version: Modeling information, displaying scatter plots, and automatically correcting drawing problems are features available in the paid version.
2nd Chief Architect
Overview of the CAD software Chief Architect (Source: YouTube )
Overall rating: 4.3 / 5
Ease of use: 4.0 / 5
Customer service: 4.3 / 5
Features: 4.2 / 5
Price-performance ratio: 4.1 / 5
The Chief Architect CAD software is aimed at the planning and construction singapore telegram data of houses. It contains tools for sketching construction drawings as well as for creating floor plans and 3D panoramic renderings. The software supports all construction elements, from the design of the house to the interior design and the creation of the kitchen and bathroom.
With Chief Architect, 3D models are created automatically as the user draws walls and recesses. The software also offers automatic generation of foundations and roofs, a material list and construction documents with site and framing plans. The library of design tools provides additional support during creation.
Chief Architect can be used on Windows and (Android, iPhone, iPad).
Some features of the free version : Chief Architect has a trial version that is limited to essential features such as creating drawings, 3D visualization, and selecting views in elevation or cross section. Printing, saving, exporting, and virtual tours are not included in this trial version.
Some features of the paid version : The paid version of Chief Architect includes tools for reviewing and rotating the plan, 3D and BIM modeling, design sharing, virtual tours and time tracking.