Following this development, many DraftSight users are now on the lookout for affordable alternatives. Also, some designers need the functionality of DraftSight but cannot afford the price. As a result of these factors, there has been an increase in the demand for affordable alternatives to DraftSight.

In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the top five DraftSight alternatives available. We will be exploring and comparing their prices, uses, and functionality. We will then provide a final verdict.

Before we start

There are various free CAD software available. However, we will be looking specifically at paid, affordable alternatives that do not sacrifice much of the functionality of DraftSight. Note that most CAD software packages have different products for different levels of users. DraftSight, for example, has three products with varying degrees of functionality, with DraftSight Premium being the most functional at $499/yr. This guide will be considering only the most functional product of each CAD software package.

DraftSight has a portfolio of advanced 2D and 3D features, including 3D printing, prototyping, and manufacturing tools that cater to the design needs of engineers and professional CAD users. Also, it runs on Windows, Fedora, Ubuntu, and Mac operating systems. However, since cost is as important a consideration as capability, you may wish to consider some of the affordable listed below.

SketchUp Pro

SketchUp Pro interface (source)

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• Price: $229/yr
• Interested? Try out the free trial.

Formerly called Google SketchUp, SketchUp is a 3D design and modeling software by Trimble. SketchUp Pro is the most functional SketchUp product, others being SketchUp Free and SketchUp Shop.

Head-to-Head

SketchUp Pro is excellent for most things modeling as well as 2D documentation. When it comes to 2D drawing, DraftSight has more robust features. When it comes to 3D modeling, the software holds its ground for both simple shapes and complex solids. With SketchUp Pro, however, you can create both mechanical and architectural designs. Also, SketchUp Pro is compatible with various file formats, including DXF, FBX, DBJ, XSI, VRML, and DWG. This software also offers access to a vast model library known as the 3D warehouse and a plugin library known as the extension warehouse.

The limitation of SketchUp Pro is its inability to handle highly complex modeling such as the usage of NURBS (Non Uniform Rational Basic Spline surfaces).

Verdict

When it comes to 2D drafting and design, DraftSight floors SketchUp Pro. However, while DraftSight has full 3D modeling capabilities, access to a model library that comes with SketchUp Pro makes it easier to use. Again, DraftSight focuses on mechanical modeling, prototyping, and manufacturing. SketchUp Pro, on the other hand, has tools for the architectural and construction industry, alongside its mechanical features. These features are, however, relatively lightweight.

DesignCAD 3D Max

DesignCAD 3D Max interface (source)

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $129.99/yr
• Interested? Try out the free trial

The developers of TurboCAD created DesignCAD 3D Max for users who require basic CAD functions but are unable to afford TurboCAD.

Head-to-head

DesignCAD 3D Max is a genetic CAD software for creating high-quality 2D and 3D designs. Similar to DraftSight, this software application has excellent and intuitive 2D drafting and design tools for drawing, editing, geometric construction, measuring, and dimensioning. Its 3D capabilities surpass DraftSight’s with regards to visualization, as DesignCAD 3D Max allows you to render, visualize, and animate your models. DesignCAD 3D Max also includes basic modeling features for industries such as architecture, construction, topography, mechanical, and electrical. However, this is where the software’s superiority ends. The software has only the basic versions of the advanced DFM (Design For Manufacturing) features of DraftSight.

Verdict

Again, DraftSight surpasses DesignCAD 3D Max in 2D drafting and design. It also has better DFM tools. However, for modeling requirements for industries other than manufacturing, DesignCAD is an efficient, low-cost DraftSight alternative.

NanoCAD

NanoCAD interface (source)

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $290/yr
• Interested? Try out the free trial

NanoCAD was created in 2008 by Nanosoft, a Russian based CAD company, as a low-cost alternative to AutoCAD. This software package has different products, but we will be considering only its premium product, NanoCAD Pro. This product gained popularity for its impressive drawing features.

Head-to-head

Widely considered as an alternative to the original AutoCAD, NanoCAD Pro is a worthy DraftSight alternative. It has full DWG CAD features with robust design and drafting tools, as well as an open API. Similar to DraftSight, NanoCAD has the familiar ribbon-styled interface of many CAD software available today. Its 2D drafting features include tool palettes, dynamic data input, document sets, and direct DWG format support. When it comes to 3D modeling, NanoCAD Pro offers parametric 3D modeling alongside the use of 2D constraints. However, DraftSight towers over this software, with its DFM features.

Verdict

In the area of 2D drafting and design, NanoCAD Pro is indeed a worthy and affordable DraftSight alternative. For 3D modeling, DraftSight proves its superiority with far more functionality. While NanoCAD Pro can handle 3D solid modeling with its Autodesk Inventor-style tools, DraftSight goes ahead to cater for various manufacturing processes.

Fusion 360

Fusion 360 interface (source)

• Operating system: Windows and Mac
• Price: $495/yr
• Interested? Try out the free trial

The name, Autodesk, is associated with functionality and capability. Fusion 360 by Autodesk is a powerful 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE software. Its vast array of tools unify design, engineering, and manufacturing into a single package. One of the things that make it stand out is that it is delivered using a SAAS model. This means that it’s cloud-based and requires no downloads.

Head-to-head

Fusion 360, being a DFM software, has few 2D drafting and design features. When it comes to 3D modeling, however, it is one of the most complete and functional software packages available today. Its features are classified into the following. 3D modeling, for creating highly complex models using both geometric and parametric-based methods; Simulation, for analyzing the workings and usability of your design; and Documentation, for deriving 2D drawings from 3D models. Other features include rapid prototyping, generative design, and manufacturing.

Verdict

For 2D drafting and documentation, DraftSight remains the preferred choice. On the other hand, for all things mechanical design, modeling, and manufacturing, Fusion 360 is a far more advanced and functional DraftSight alternative. Note that the price difference between them is just $5, so selecting between the two depends more on your intended usage than cost.

AC3D

AC3D interface (source)

• Operating system: Windows and Mac
• Price: $495/yr
• Interested? Try out the free trial

Developed by Inivis, AC3D is a generic and easy to use 3D modeling software that caters to various modeling needs including 3D modeling, rapid prototyping, 3D printing, flight simulation, games, Google Earth, virtual reality, general data visualization, and much more.

Head-to-head

AC3D does not have 2D features as its main focus is solid modeling. Despite its lineup of features, it has a smooth learning curve. One of the major selling points of the software is its support for an extensive range of 3D file formats. This makes it useful in various industries.

Verdict

AC3D can be used by designers, engineers, topographers, manufactures, and many more. DraftSight, on the other hand, has its 3D features geared towards manufacturing only. However, since AC3D has no 2D features, it cannot be compared in this aspect to DraftSight.

The main issue that the company was trying to address with their development of DraftSight was its customer base’s demand for programs that could easily work with the industry-standard DWG file format. Their Solidworks program is mostly for 3D modeling and was not designed to handle these types of fields. With DraftSight, users will be able to draw and edit technical drawings, construction plans, and other documents typically made in .dwg and .dxf formats.

How to work with keyboard shortcuts

Up your productivity with keyboard shortcuts

Here on the Scan2CAD blog, we’ve brushed up on several topics regarding upping your drafting and digital drawing productivity. One of the best ways to do that is with keyboard shortcuts. As you might already have gathered, keyboard shortcuts are combinations of keys that help execute a certain command or operation on DraftSight. Certain keyboard shortcuts can be executed with a single button press, others are done with two or more keys. Typical keyboard shortcuts most people will be familiar with are the Save and Open commands, Ctrl + S and Ctrl + O respectively.

Today, let’s specifically discuss just how much keyboard shortcuts can cut production time on DraftSight. For most CAD programs, there are many different ways to execute a certain task. When drafting a circle, you could 1) click on the circle icon on the draw toolbar, 2) choose the circle option on the draw pull-down menu, or 3) type circle on the command prompt. Most commands are done in these ways or a variation of these ways, but there is an extra and often faster way to do these – keyboard shortcuts. 

Simple commands might not need these keyboard shortcuts, but more complex ones will benefit greatly in having these shortcuts assigned to them. Copy/Paste shortcuts, for example, are greatly under-appreciated. Instead of navigating through drop-down menus and taking the time to account for misclicks, most of us are aware of how convenient it is to simply press Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V. Utilizing these types of productivity hacks would also be doable for all the operations on DraftSight.

Newer users of the program will find it convenient to set up all their keyboard shortcuts before they start using the program regularly. However, for more seasoned DraftSight users, it might be acceptable to keep using the program the way we are accustomed to using it. Basic tasks such as inserting blocks, editing attributes, and toggling ortho mode settings have always been done. Most of these veteran users will not realize that you could cut the time executing these repeatable tasks by a lot if you just assign keyboard shortcuts to them.

Aside from the plethora of default keyboard commands already installed on DraftSight, you can choose to set your own personalized keyboard shortcuts onto the program.

Setting a custom keyboard shortcut

If the default DraftSight keyboard shortcuts aren’t enough, here’s how to create your own custom keyboard shortcuts:

1. Locate the Ribbon Interface of the current drawing and right-click on any empty space in the top tab. This should show you a set of options.
2. From here, click on Customized Interface.
3. Locate and go to Keyboard.
4. Under the options for Keyboard shortcuts, open the tab labeled Shortcut Keys
5. Add a new customized shortcut by clicking Add
6. In the column marked Key indicated by a green square in the field, type in the keyboard shortcut you would like to assign onto a command or operation. 
7. In the column labeled Command Name, find and select the command you’re looking to execute.
8. Click OK after all these steps are done and you should have a personalized Shortcut

After setting a new custom keyboard shortcut, every time you need to execute the assigned command, all you have to do is press the keys you had assigned. All in all, it’s a much faster way to finish your work compared to clicking onto menus and drop-downs. Couple these with all the useful default keyboard shortcuts the program already has, and you’ll be breezing through drafting and drawing projects faster than ever before.

Default DraftSight keyboard shortcuts

Here are some lists of the more commonly used Keyboard Shortcuts for ArchiCAD, to help you digest the shortcuts a little easier.

A. Function Keys

B. Keyboard shortcuts

Some last notes on DraftSight keyboard shortcuts

For those just familiarizing themselves with the concept of keyboard shortcuts, it does get easier the more you use them. Even though the default shortcuts are easy to get used to, you’ll find yourself going through a different set of commands and operations based on what you do, so you are encouraged to add, delete, and even edit the keyboard shortcuts of your DraftSight program as you see fit. Your comfort and ease, after all, are the most important things to consider when trying to be more productive with DraftSight.

Take your time with the program and with keyboard shortcuts and analyze how your workflow goes. What commands do you use most often? What commands do you not use at all? What type of projects and drawings do you usually need to create? Take everything into account and streamline your process. The only real way to use DraftSight to its fullest potential is to master the use of keyboard shortcuts, so have at it!

In this edition of Coffee Break News, we will talk about popular AutoCAD alternative DraftSight no longer being free, forecasts ahead for the CNC market as a whole, and tiny-home treehouses designed by Studio Precht for Baumbau. Also included are stories on innovations of outdoor workspaces in an office block in Nice, how demolition waste is being repurposed into chandeliers and candelabra, and airless tires which would be available to consumers by 2024.

There’s a lot to cover in this edition, so let’s get right down to it!

DraftSight 2019 is no longer free

Dassault Systemes has announced that Draftsight 2019 for Windows will only be offered in paid versions. This means if you are using a free version of DraftSight (2018 or earlier), it will no longer run after December 31, 2019.

Meanwhile, users who download and install the free 30-day trial or the purchased version of DraftSight 2019 will no longer be able to download or access previous free versions of DraftSight.

According to Dassault Systemes, DraftSight 2019 is a major software upgrade showcasing user-requested capabilities and functions, with powerful new features and flexibility. 

For the DraftSight Standard, there will now be an annual charge of $99. The purchase can be made directly from the DraftSight Online store. DraftSight Professional is available at an annual subscription price of $199, while DraftSight premium clocks in at $499 per year. 

The CNC market is expected to continue growing

According to industry forecasts, the CNC market will continue to grow from 2019-2024 at a projected rate of 7.3%. This is according to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s report entitled “The Computer Numerical Controls (CNC) Market – Worldwide Growth, Trends, and Forecast (2019-2024). According to the report, the market growth will be driven by the continued increase in demand for productions efficiency.

Production efficiency refers to the ability of CNC machines to streamline various operational processes through reduced production time and minimal operator error. In addition, the increased competition in the market has made rivals more focused on enhancing the efficiency of their manufacturing and production techniques, through redesigned facilities and equipment.

One area of interest is Asia-Pacific, where the rapid establishment of manufacturing facilities has driven up the usage of CNC in various sectors. Developing economies in the region, including China and India, have seen rapid industrialization growth, thus contributing to the increased demand for CNC. According to the report, automated manufacturing in the industrial sector is another reason for the growing demand for CNC machines, as well as power generation.

Modular treehouses are coming to Baumbau

Design firm Studio Precht has created truncated timber treehouses for eco-building start-up company Baumbau, with the concepts created by Chris Precht and his spouse Fei Tang Precht. The modular houses are inspired by a mood of playfulness and shaped by the actual forest, with the perspective of children looking at nature and architecture. 

This is the first time that Precht and Baumbau have collaborated on a project. Baumbau is a start-up that focuses on building tiny homes, treehouses, and buildings mainly for alternative tourism. According to Precht, “We took a playful look at this project and wanted to create a rather unique character than a conventional building. A quirky looking character that becomes part of the wildlife of a forest. I think this quirkiness can create feelings and emotions. And maybe these are attributes in architecture that are missing these days.”

The truncated treehouse design is called Bert, and the modular building system consists of prefabricated factory parts which are then assembled on-site. The houses have solar panels, a composting toilet, and a water treatment facility located on the ground floor. The first structures are expected to be completed by spring of 2020.

Other stories you should check out this month:

• This unique Anis office block in Nice is covered in outdoor workspaces, designed by architects Dimitri Roussel and Nicolas Laisne.
• London design studio JamesPlumb has been using demolition waste to create a unique collection of chandeliers and candelabra. 
• Automotive giants GM and Michelin are teaming up to bring airless tires to passenger cars by 2024. 

As with any top-of-the-line CAD software however, it’s important to many users that pricing options are factored in the purchase of any new program. It’s even more pertinent to look into the pricing of DraftSight seeing as it has only recently opted out of releasing free versions of its software online; DraftSight 2019 is now entirely subscription based and so even old users of the program will have to readjust.

To look at this from all angles, we’ve compiled all the information we could find of DraftSight 2019’s pricing and licensing policies.

DraftSight License Options and Packages

Dassault Systemes tries to be as transparent and accessible as it can with DraftSights price options. The full price list for the different DraftSight packages is publicly viewable online, on the company’s official website.

There are four main available DraftSight packages that a user can purchase from Dassault Systemes: DraftSight Standard, DraftSight Professional, DraftSight Premium, and DraftSight Enterprise. There are also two specialized packages: DraftSight Enterprise Plus, and DraftSight 2019 Prosumer.

DraftSight Standard

This is the most basic package for DraftSight. It has all of the essential features of the program and is suitable for 2D CAD drafters with an easy and straight-forward user interface and all the fundamental digital tools needed for 2D drawing.

The program is designed for individual users, students and teachers/educators, and casual hobbyists. This version of the software runs on Windows but has a beta version that can run on Mac and Linux. It can be purchased from the DraftSight website with a 12-month subscription.

DraftSight Professional

This is the recommended and most popular package for DraftSight. It’s labeled as the advanced 2D CAD version of the program with optimized features and functionality, and a more sophisticated user interface than the Standard version of DraftSight.

The package is intended for companies, firms, and independent professionals. DraftSight Professional runs on Windows and can be purchased from the DraftSight website as a 12-month subscription.

The only available trial version for DraftSight is that of DraftSight Professional.

DraftSight Premium

DraftSight Premium is the most affordable package that has 3D CAD capabilities. It can be used for basic drafting and modeling, as most 2D/3D software can, but can also be utilized for product prototyping, manufacturing, 3D printing, and CNC processes.

This package is suitable for individuals, product and furniture designers, makers and hobbyists, manufacturers, design and construction professionals, and companies. DraftSight Premium only runs on Windows and can be purchased and downloaded from the DraftSight website as a 12-month subscription.

DraftSight Enterprise and Enterprise Plus

DraftSight Enterprise is intended for large groups or organizations looking to use DraftSight. As such, it is is best purchased by large teams from a company or teams working from different sites. The package includes comprehensive technical support, installation, and network licenses. The Plus variation of DraftSight Enterprise has all of what was mentioned plus additional 3D capabilities.

DraftSight Premium only runs on Windows and has a minimum purchase amount of 2 licenses. This version of the software can only by purchases off of resellers and official vendors, although a quote can be requested on the DraftSight website.

Buyers can choose to opt for a 12-month subscription or a perpetual license with paid scheduled maintenance upgrades every 12 months.

DraftSight Prosumer

DraftSight Prosumer is a paid subscription to phone and email technical support for DraftSight Standard, Professional, and Premium users. The tech support can assist with installation, license activation, program configuration, and software usage. This can be purchased from the DraftSight website and comes in 3-month and 12-month subscriptions.

What about License management?

DraftSight licenses are relatively standard. The licenses for the packages discussed come in 12-month subscriptions and are non-transferable and non-exclusive. Previous iterations of DraftSight (DraftSight 2018 and older) used to come with free versions of the program, but since they’re changing the business model to a subscription-based one for DraftSight 2019, all free versions of the program will only be usable until December 21, 2019. Each package has its own limits to the licenses. For DraftSight Standard, Professional, and Premium, the program can be installed and licensed on multiple devices but can only have one active at a time. Technical support for installation and activation issues can be provided through online or e-mail responses only. For DraftSight Enterprise, the number of active users is limited to the agreed upon authorized number of concurrent users decide upon during purchase. The users for this are also limited by geography and location; that is, if a network user uses it outside of the jurisdiction of the license, the program will not work.

All licenses and programs are downloaded, sent, and activated online and through e-mail.

Is there a perpetual license option?

Dassault Systemes seems to be shifting to a more subscription-based business model, but they still do offer perpetual licenses to DraftSight users who avail of the DraftSight Enterprise and Enterprise Plus packages. That is, there will be no need to pay an annual subscription fee, but buyers can always opt to pay for optional maintenance and an annual upgrade.

DraftSight Pricing – The Full Breakdown

As already discussed, there are different packages for DraftSight that one has to consider before purchasing. Before buying, it is pertinent to consider all the needs of your company and group and figure out which package works best.

Since most of the standard packages are purchased online, the prices are standard. Here is a breakdown of the prices per package:

Detailed Differences between Packages

For those of you wondering about the drastic price differences between packages, here’s a more detailed list of what you’ll be getting with each version:

Where to purchase DraftSight

With the exception of DraftSight Enterprise, all packages for DraftSight are available for download on the DraftSight and Dassault Systemes websites. They can be purchased through credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and JCB), PayPal, and Wire Transfer. Any credit card transaction will push through seamlessly and is the recommended payment method. For PayPal, buyers will be redirected to the PayPal website and payment will be done there. After the PayPal transaction pushes through, the product will be delivered. For wire transfers, the product will only be delivered until after payment is received in full. Pertinent bank details will be sent over for the transaction.

As for DraftSight Enterprise, the SolidWorks website has a page where potential buyers can inquire about resellers in the area. For those who are only looking for a quote first before deciding to contact a reseller, there is also a page for that on the website.

DraftSight Pricing: Final Thoughts

Here at Scan2CAD, we have discussed some of the most popular CAD software for 2D and 3D works. These programs will usually have free trials and even fully-functioning versions available for users. Relatively, DraftSight is a well-rounded program developed by a trusted company in the CAD and BIM industry. As such, with the prices and functionality mentioned above, this program proves to be worth its value to those that need 2D and 3D CAD software. With the advent of BIM technology, however, this program will probably most useful to product designers, manufacturers, and small to middle-scale fabricators.

If you want a more complete view of your options for CAD software, you can check out our previous blog posts on AutoCAD pricing, ArchiCAD pricing, and Solidworks pricing.

CAD drafters and engineers who’ve been in the industry long enough know most major CAD packages like the back of their hand—learning which ones are best suited to their workflow and job. For those just starting out, however, it can be a confusing process trying to make heads or tails of software descriptions. It’s why we’ve compiled guides in the past to popular CAD software, including AutoCAD vs SolidWorks and CATIA vs SolidWorks.

In this guide we’ll be visiting major CAD package AutoCAD, comparing it this time to Dassault Systèmes’ freemium product, DraftSight. We’ll look at their histories and software features, plus the major differences between the two.

What is AutoCAD?

History

While we’d like to think that almost everyone in the CAD industry knows AutoCAD’s history as well as we do, we’ll give you a quick run-through nonetheless. You’d be hard-pressed trying to look anywhere in the CAD market without hearing the name AutoCAD—and for good reason! Developed by Mike Riddle and later acquired by Autodesk, AutoCAD was first released in 1982. Its release was one of the biggest milestones in the evolution of CAD.

It would be an understatement to say that AutoCAD’s release revolutionized the world of CAD. As one of the first CAD packages to be developed to run on PCs, it became accessible to a new realm of CAD users. It consequently set the pace for the development of CAD competitors in the late 80s. The innovative nature of AutoCAD made it a smash hit across the world.

Since its first release, there have been no fewer than 33 versions of AutoCAD! It has continued to impress over the years—taking into consideration the needs of both individual users and big industries. From a simple 2D software, it has since evolved to include 3D capabilities, immense customization functions and the creation of extended vertical products.

Autodesk have also developed a number of spin-off programs of AutoCAD over the years. AutoCAD LT, for example, is a ‘lite’ version, including more basic functionality for a lower cost. Meanwhile, industry-specific versions of AutoCAD have also been released, including AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical and AutoCAD Civil 3D.

The most recent release of the software, AutoCAD 2019, made industry-specific toolsets available to all, launched the AutoCAD web app and introduced DWG Compare.

What it does

AutoCAD is a flexible CAD software package used by designers, engineers and architects. Whilst it originally had only 2D capabilities, it has since expanded into 3D. That being said, you won’t find many drafters choosing to use AutoCAD for 3D modeling—it’s used primarily for 2D drafting, so software like SolidWorks tend to be better alternatives. 

With so many functions and applications, it’s easy to see why AutoCAD is the staple product for many in the CAD industry. Starting with a simple idea, you can go on to produce 2D and 3D designs. And that’s not all. AutoCAD comes with additional features that include collaborative capabilities with shared views, customizable UIs and PDF import.

It’s not possible to discuss AutoCAD without delving into its popular, native file format: DWG. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never used AutoCAD directly; if you’re working with CAD, you’ll have worked with DWG files before. To put its popularity into perspective, try this figure: it was estimated that, by 1998, there were over 2 billion DWG files in existence. Since its beginning, AutoCAD has extended the use of DWG to other software—allowing for wider use across industries.

If you aren’t willing to invest in the software (or can’t get AutoCAD for free), you may worry that you won’t be able to view these files. Luckily, despite being a proprietary file format, a number of different CAD packages now allow you view DWG files without AutoCAD.

Who uses it

AutoCAD has only increased in popularity since 1982—and for good reason! Autodesk didn’t just rest on its laurels all these years; it pushed AutoCAD to evolve. The result of this is that AutoCAD has mass appeal across a range of sectors, and finds users among businesses large and small, and even the maker community. 

Of course, one of the biggest plus points for AutoCAD is its wide selection of industry-specific toolsets. An architect is going to have different needs to, for example, an electrical engineer. With that in mind, Autodesk took to developing different versions of AutoCAD that offer specialized tools, libraries and standards according to a user’s chosen industry. With AutoCAD 2019, what was originally a suite of industry-specific products has since become specialized toolsets under one roof. 

Let’s take a look at a few below…

AutoCAD Architecture

• Includes features for architectural drawings, documentation and schedules
• Gives access to 8,000+ intelligent architectural objects and styles
• Additional features include walls, windows and doors

AutoCAD Electrical

• Adds electrical design features to create or document electrical control systems
• Sticks to project standards—keeping drawings organized
• Includes a library of over 65,000+ intelligent electrical symbols

AutoCAD Mechanical

• Adds a library of standards-based parts and tools
• Users can automate mechanical engineering tasks
• Includes 700,000+ manufacturing parts, features and symbols

And these are just a few examples! Other industry toolsets include AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Plant 3D, AutoCAD Raster Design and AutoCAD Map 3D. Perhaps it would be easier to ask: who doesn’t use AutoCAD?

Of course, due to how much functionality it offers, AutoCAD tends to be a little bit too expensive for the average CAD hobbyist. With that in mind, there are plenty of affordable AutoCAD alternatives or CAD solutions. 

What is DraftSight?

History

DraftSight is one of the many popular products developed by industry-leader Dassault Systèmes. Dassault first entered the CAD race with its powerful product, CATIA—a 3D PLM suite. They raced further ahead of competitors with their acquisition and further development of the first significant 3D modeler for Windows—SolidWorks. Both products gave Dassault the chance to market to a range of specialized industries. 

In an attempt to target more general CAD users and businesses, however, Dassault released DraftSight in 2011. Unlike other Dassault products, DraftSight was marketed as a free product, albeit with additional paid subscriptions. The beauty of DraftSight was that it was created to be simple—users were meant to be able to get started quickly without a steep learning curve. Needless to say, its simplicity and lack of a price tag worked in its favor, and it quickly began attracting more and more CAD users.

As a freemium product, DraftSight is able to offer a wide variety of capabilities depending on a customer’s specific needs. In some cases, users opt to get rid of AutoCAD for DraftSight—considering it’s a much more affordable (free!) option, with very similar functionality. 

What it does

DraftSight is a 2D drafting solution that allows users to create and edit 2D drawings. Great care was taken to ensure that DraftSight’s user interface is familiar to CAD users. As such, the learning curve for DraftSight isn’t at all steep, making it easier to transition between CAD software packages. Indeed, many have noted the similarity between DraftSight and AutoCAD—a definite positive if you’re thinking of making a switch.

Another bonus for potential converts is DraftSight’s support for both DWG and DXF. This means that continuing to use any files you created in AutoCAD is usually a cinch, which in turn makes it considerably easier to collaborate with other CAD professionals. Meanwhile, DraftSight also comes with a range of advanced features to help users create professional drawings, including:

• User environment and features: command line input, blocks and reference lines, and command aliases. 
• Productivity enhancers: accessible command prompts, home palette, smart calculator and consolidated options dialog.
• Drawing setup tools: customizable coordinate system, unit system, dimension styles and RichLine styles. 
• Drafting and editing tools: snap and grid, tracking guides, split and weld, clip references and images. 

Similar to AutoCAD, there are different versions of DraftSight available with increasingly advanced capabilities as you progress through them. 

DraftSight Free

This is a no-frills, simple 2D drafting solution. With it, users can take advantage of a range of design and drafting tools. Additionally, users can gain access to online community support and resources.

DraftSight Professional

This version offers users a wider range of advanced capabilities. Professional has DGN file support, a specialized toolbox—offering standards-based mechanical symbols and annotations—and a design library which can be used to store reusable elements like blocks. Additional features include batch printing, G-Code generator, PDF underlay and product upgrades. 

DraftSight Enterprise

This particular version is aimed primarily at larger companies. As such, it includes all the advanced capabilities offered in Professional, but with a wider scope. Enterprise users get full telephone and email support. It also includes a network license to help users deploy 2D CAD across an entire organization. Additionally, the deployment wizard feature makes it even easier for larger groups to install or upgrade DraftSight.

Who uses it

With DraftSight being such a flexible CAD software package—with equally flexible pricing options—it has managed to build up a huge community of users since its launch. Its wide support, accessibility and easy learning curve makes DraftSight the perfect option for anyone looking to try out a different CAD package.

While AutoCAD concentrates on targeting specific industries, e.g., architecture, DraftSight primarily looks at the type of user. Its free package is a clear winner for hobbyists and small businesses that are just looking for a 2D drafting solution. Indeed, it can be a better option than AutoCAD in some cases. DraftSight Professional, by comparison, is the option for bigger businesses or CAD professionals who need something more advanced—keeping up with other major CAD packages. Enterprise, of course, targets the big companies that require specialized solutions and support. 

With AutoCAD being a primarily 2D solution and DraftSight covering only 2D drafting, there’s clearly an overlap in regards to user needs. With DraftSight being the cheaper option, it’s certainly a better option for those who are only dipping their toe into the waters of CAD. AutoCAD, however, is unbeatable when it comes to its industry-specific toolsets—its specialized features reach users that DraftSight can’t. 

AutoCAD vs DraftSight

By this point, you should be more than familiar with both software packages—we’ve covered their histories, main features and target audience. What we haven’t covered yet, however, are the main differences between the two. 

Don’t worry—we’re well ahead of you. Take a look at our table below…

If you’re a CAD drafter or small business looking to cut back on costs—opting for an affordable alternative to AutoCAD—DraftSight is the perfect option. It’s easy to get to grips with and it offers advanced capabilities if you’re willing to pay. If you’re looking for industry-specific solutions, however, with specialized libraries, workflows and standards, then AutoCAD is unmatched. 

Whichever software you choose to use, Scan2CAD can help improve your workflow. Got an old drawing you want to use in DraftSight or AutoCAD? Simply convert your raster to DXF using Scan2CAD and start drafting straight away!

Your choice of architecture software depends entirely on your specific needs—ranging from 2D design to 3D modeling to BIM to rendering. In our latest guide, we’ll cover a variety of software packages that you may wish to invest in.

Which Software Should I Use?

The aim of this article is to help you navigate through all of the many software choices you have out there—and believe us, there’s a lot to choose from. At risk of sounding cliché, your choice of software does ultimately depend on what you’re using it for and what kind of functionality you need. You have to decide whether you need to invest in 2D CAD, 3D CAD, BIM or even rendering software.

Some people use only one software package for their entire workflow and others like to use a combination to produce the best possible output. To help you along your way, we’ve separated software into the following categories: 2D, 3D, BIM and rendering software.

2D Architecture Software

Nowadays, most popular architectural CAD software offers both 2D and 3D capabilities. Despite this, we’re going to look at a couple of 2D packages for architects who don’t necessarily need 3D capabilities. Everything starts with a plan, no matter what kind of building you’re creating. Before you even think about a 3D model, you first have to create a 2D plan. With 2D CAD, it’s possible to create plans, elevations and much more. Architectural firms, however, will eventually move towards 3D CAD and BIM, which we’ll discuss further below.

1. AutoCAD LT

Image source: Autodesk

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $65.00/month, $515.00/year, and $1,545.00/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Everything always comes back to the CAD giant Autodesk. AutoCAD is one of the most dominant players in the CAD industry. We are, of course, focusing here on the LT version. AutoCAD LT is a lower-cost version of AutoCAD with reduced capabilities and functionality. While possibly not the software of choice for professional architects, it’s perfect as an entry level CAD package. It’s also great for those working on a budget or not looking for 3D capabilities.

AutoCAD LT allows users to design and draft in 2D—great for floor plans and the first steps of the design process in any architecture design. It also comes with a variety of features to speed up your design process, from a customizable user interface and tool palettes to the ever-popular command line feature. It might be limited compared to AutoCAD, but there’s still plenty to take advantage of—such as dimension tools, transparency options and cross hatching. Unlike AutoCAD, LT doesn’t have support for 3D modeling or any customization with LISP, VBA or ARX. You could view AutoCAD LT as a sort of stepping stone to 3D software—which we’ll delve into further below.

2. DraftSight

Image source: soft32

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Fedora, Ubuntu
• Price: $299.00/year (DraftSight Pro), $599.00/year (DraftSight Premium)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

If you’re a Scan2CAD blog regular, you’ll undoubtedly be familiar with DraftSight. Developed by Dassault Systèmes, DraftSight is a 2D design and drafting software package. With it, you can create, edit and share 2D drawings. A freemium product, DraftSight comes in three different packages: Free, Professional, Premium, and Enterprise. 

If you’re serious about your architecture, you should almost definitely fork out for the professional version. With it, users are able to access online community support and an extensive list of learning resources. Additionally, you can access the toolbox—a mechanical symbol library and mechanical annotation add-on, not to mention the design library which provides a location for user-defined elements such as blocks. As you’d imagine, these types of features are very useful when it comes architecture. With DraftSight, uses can also access, create and edit both DWG and DXF files. This wide compatibility comes in handy when collaborating with teams.

Honorable Mentions

• LibreCAD 
• NanoCAD

2D and 3D Architecture Software

Once you’ve got the preliminary stages of 2D drafting and design sorted, the next step is 3D modeling. Of course, you could quite easily skip 2D software completely and go for software that offers both 2D and 3D capabilities. As you’d imagine, 3D CAD has a lot to offer architects. With it, you can expect incredible precision when designing and modeling in 3D. Another benefit is that it offers rendering, which enables you to show clients photorealistic renderings of your models. The learning curve, of course, is far steeper for 3D software—it is something you’ll need to eventually grasp, however, if you’re working in architecture.

1. AutoCAD Architecture

Image source: Majenta Solutions

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Linux
• Price: $250/month, $2,030/year, $6,085/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

We’ve already discussed AutoCAD LT, but instead of jumping straight to plain-old AutoCAD, it’s much more relevant to discuss Autodesk’s industry-specific AutoCAD Architecture. Created specifically for architects, AutoCAD Architecture enables users to design in both 2D and 3D. Previously, AutoCAD architecture used to be sold separately. But not anymore. Today, it is included when you purchase a subscription of AutoCAD. It is now packaged as a toolset within AutoCAD. That said, you can useNo matter what type of architectural design you have, you can bring it to life with solid, surface and mesh modeling tools. It even comes with increased 3D functionality to include architecture-specific objects like walls, doors and windows. When you’re designing a building, for example, you’ll probably have a 2D floor plan and a 3D model. Here, you’ll be able to switch between different views of your models with just a click of your mouse. You’ll also be able to automatically generate sections, elevations, floor plans, and ceiling grids. Additionally, the Architecture toolset enables you to access a library of more than 8,800 architectural components.

Of course, it’s not just about the design capabilities that makes AutoCAD Architecture such a popular choice for architects—it’s also about the documentation and simulation. Instead of waiting until you’re at the construction stage to discover design mistakes, you can find them earlier with simulations. As you’d imagine, the learning curve for AutoCAD Architecture can be steep if you’re not familiar with Autodesk software. Let’s face it though, most CAD users have tried out AutoCAD at some point! If you’re looking for a helping hand, why not check out how to learn AutoCAD in 1 hour?

2. Chief Architect

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $229.00/month, $1,995.00/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A more commercial pick, Chief Architect is a 3D architectural home design software package for builders, interior designers, architects and hobbyists. Cited as the most popular product for residential home design, Chief Architect offers users a relatively easy learning curve. This is predominantly due to the fact that it’s marketed to both professionals and enthusiasts. Using it, you can design both large scale and home design projects. Arguably, this differentiates it from AutoCAD immensely—there’s no need to stress too much about getting to grips with it. 

Using intelligent building tools, Chief Architect enables users to create a 3D model of their structure—it even automatically generates building systems of the home. These smart building tools also make for an intuitive user interface. Got to show off your projects to a client or team member? You can make use of Chief Architect’s 360° panorama renderings. By making use of automated tools, you can enjoy easier home design and remodeling. So, if you’re looking for a software package that simplifies home design, Chief Architect might be your new favorite.

3. TurboCAD

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $99.99 (TurboCAD Designer), $299.99 (TurboCAD Deluxe), $999.99 (TurboCAD Pro) and $1,499.99 (TurboCAD Platinum)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A choice for advanced drafters, TurboCAD comes in different packages. We’re going to concentrate on Pro Platinum, as it comes with more capabilities for architects looking to do more with their designs. It’s a powerful 2D and 3D CAD package that gives architects access to an extensive drafting palette, ACIS solid modeling and premium photorealistic rendering—coming in handy when you want to give clients an idea of what to expect from the final model. It comes with a rather simplistic interface which almost seems like AutoCAD—useful if you’re familiar with Autodesk software.

Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg with TurboCAD. It also comes with advanced architectural and mechanical toolsets. The house wizard tool, for example, makes creating room-by-room floor plans an automated process—you can add objects like closets, decking and garages. You don’t even need to worry about internal doors—they’re automatically created when the house is generated. And that’s not all. TurboCAD comes with 500 pre-made floor plans, extensive libraries of objects and even settings to change details like lighting and shadowing. If you’re more of a general consumer, there’s always TurboFloorPlan 3D. Marketed as a solution for those with no knowledge of CAD, it’s used to create your dream home interior and exterior. You can start with a home template and then change it to your liking with drag-and-drop features—it couldn’t be easier!

Honorable Mentions…

• BricsCAD 
• ProgeCAD

BIM Software

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a growing field of interest in the CAD industry, which is why so many developers have begun to incorporate it into their software. Using it, it’s possible to integrate workflows and create large databases that store all the information you need to know about your models—from floor plans to materials to costs. This integrated workflow allows for full collaboration across the board. It also speeds up the entire design and construction process. Of course, it can be far more costly than your standard 3D software and it has an incredibly steep learning curve. Whether you need it or not depends entirely on the size of your project and your budget.

1. ArchiCAD

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price*: $360/month (ArchiCAD Solo), $400/month (ArchiCAD Collaborate), $2,500/year (ArchiCAD Solo), $2,810/year (ArchiCAD Collaborate), $7,587/3 years (AutoCAD Collaborate)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

*Prices vary from country to country, with the listed prices being for the US version of ArchiCAD

Developed by Graphisoft—a subsidiary of Nemetschek—ArchiCAD is a BIM CAD software package dedicated entirely to architecture. Each of its capabilities and functions offer solutions for all aspects of aesthetics and engineering during the design process of a building. With ArchiCAD, you can produce building plans, sections, elevations and construction details. The stair tool now simplifies the creation of stairs—evaluating thousands of design options and offering users the most optimal stair designs. Meanwhile, innovations like the railing tool can also be used to create associative railings for stairs, slabs, walls, roofs or meshes in a single click.

Cited as the first commercial BIM product for personal computers, ArchiCAD certainly stands at the top of the list for architecture software. With BIM capabilities, users can now store large amounts of information for their 3D models—exporting to BIM X also allows you to view your designs in a VR headset. You can compile aspects like types of materials, overhead costs and much more. Additionally, coordination between architects and engineers becomes much more streamlined when you can view everything you need to know about the design in a single interface. And let’s not forget CineRender—giving users the ability to create high quality photorealistic renderings.

2. Revit

Image source: DLT

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $365.00/month, $2,910.00/year, $8,730.00/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Well, we just can’t stay away from Autodesk software! While you might think it a bit redundant to add yet another Autodesk software package to the mix, it’s almost impossible to talk about architecture software without mentioning Revit. A giant in the architecture industry, Revit enables users to create 2D construction designs and documents, 3D models and renderings. Focusing on complete, unified models, Revit enables users to create in both 3D and 4D—from the external and internal structure to real-life information for each drawing element.

It’s also possible to streamline tasks in Revit—you can automate certain processes in order to speed up the design process. Another capability that speeds up an architect’s process is the ability to automatically update all models with recent changes, including plans and elevations. This means you spend less time having to redraw elements and it makes coordination between different design stages that much simpler. You can even centrally share models so numerous groups can work on the same design—streamlining collaboration across teams. Revit’s workflow is designed specifically for designs that will be constructed in real life. Learning the basics of Revit can be a good start if you want to know more about this software.

3. Vectorworks Architect

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $153.00/month, $1,530.00/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A new favorite at Scan2CAD, Vectorworks might not be as much of a household name as AutoCAD, but it’s certainly a front-runner in the CAD industry. Designed for construction engineers, Vectorworks Architect provides full BIM functionality alongside 2D/3D modeling. Using flexible parametric objects, architects can create virtual prototypes of designs with as much or as little detail as they’d like. Developed by Nemetschek, Architect puts BIM at the center of its design process. With it, architects can look at costs, refine construction aspects and increase production. It’s even possible to generate interactive schedules whilst editing and analyzing your structure.

Vectorworks Architect also comes with subdivision surface modeling, NURBS modeling, full rendering and cloud-based storage for sharing. This means you can share ideas with anyone across the world. Its Project Sharing add-on enables teams to unify their workflows—so architects and engineers are all the same page, working on the same file simultaneously. Renderworks also allows users to produce photorealistic renderings with specific materials and shadows.

4. Allplan Architecture

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $435.00/month (Allplan Professional), 3,484.00/year (Allplan Professional), $588.00/month (Allplan Ultimate), $4704.00/year (Allplan Ultimate)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Just like you can’t escape Autodesk, it seems like we can’t escape Nemetschek. Also developed by Nemetschek, Allplan Architecture is an object-oriented 3D design software package. So, what makes it popular with architects? Like Vectorworks, Allplan puts a large emphasis on BIM in order to simplify decision-making processes for architects. With an optimized and advanced IFC4 data export, there’s even better data transfer in BIM projects—you can share all kinds of BIM model data including freeform geometry. And with Option Allplan Share, architects can take advantage of direct collaboration with partners around the world with the same data.

And that’s just the start of the BIM capabilities—Allplan Bimplus can be used to handle the exchange of thousands of pieces of information in BIM projects. You can centrally define information and use it in different systems throughout the entire lifecycle of a building. Enough about BIM—what else is there? The actionbar is an especially great tool for architects, structuring tools according to function, e.g., modeling, drafting and visualization tools. And with CineRender from MAXON, it’s possible to use physical rendering to achieve more realistic results.

Honorable Mentions…

• MicroStation
• Digital Project

Presentation and Rendering Software

Throughout the entire design process in architecture, there’s a constant need for presentation drawings and renderings. It’s not enough to have 2D designs or 3D models, you also need to be able to show clients and team members exactly what your designs will look like upon completion. As such, with each step of the way, you’ll need to present your design—showing concept art, building walkthroughs and final model presentations. Of course, a lot of CAD software nowadays comes with rendering capabilities or add-ons—thus, you might not necessarily need to fork out for rendering software separately.

1. SketchUp

Image source: SketchUp

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $49.99/month, $349.00/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

One of the most intuitive design software packages you’ll ever come across, SketchUp has a nice and easy learning curve—so you don’t necessarily have to be a CAD expert to get to grips with it. On the surface, SketchUp is used for its 3D modeling capabilities. While it’s possible to create full architectural structures with SketchUp, it doesn’t offer the same functionality as software like Allplan and Revit. It can, however, be used to give clients a walkthrough of your designs. It even allows for integration with external CAD programs.

While limited on the surface for rendering, you can add the Maxwell plug-in to create photorealistic renderings and advanced material assignments. SketchUp comes with a community-uploaded object library to take advantage of—not to mention a range of extensions and plugins to take your designs to the next level. It’s also ideal for creating scaled and accurate 2D drawings.

2. 3ds Max

Image source: Autodesk Area

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $245.00/month, $1,945.00/year, $5,830/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Yet another product developed by Autodesk, 3ds Max is predominantly used within the video game industry. It’s also a great choice for visualization capabilities in architecture. A little bit more expensive than SketchUp, 3ds Max is for architects who want to take their renderings to the next level. With it, you can create immersive 3D architectural visualization structures and scenes.

It’s not just great for rendering, however; it also comes with modeling capabilities and a flexible plugin architecture. It’s also possible to take your 3D visualizations and develop architectural VR experiences. If you’re a Revit user, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can use 3ds Max with it. You can model your design in Revit and use 3ds Max to add the finer details—preserving model geometry, lights and metadata from Revit projects.

3. Rhino3D

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $995.00
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Rhino3D is a 3D graphics and CAD software that makes use of the NURBS model. A free form surface modeler, Rhino is used across a wide variety of industries—from industrial design to product design to architecture. You might be wondering why we didn’t place it in 3D software. It’s quite simple, really—most of the 3D software we’ve mentioned allows you to design your model and then take it to the real world. With Rhino3D, however, you won’t be able to create with the same level of precision or bring it straight to construction.

Rhino3D offers users a staggering amount of choice and capability—which is why we chose it as an affordable AutoCAD alternative—yet its flexibility does work against itself. Without the ability to create solid models, you’re not going to be able to create models with the level of precision you need in professional architecture. That’s not to say that Rhino shouldn’t be used—it’s certainly a great choice as a presentation tool.

Honorable Mentions…

• Maya
• Photoshop
• Illustrator

Hand Drawing…

Despite what you might think in our era of non-stop technological progress, there’s still a need for hand drawing in architecture. Hand drawing isn’t an obsolete method—architects around the world are still drafting their concepts and designs by hand. Why? It’s a traditional method that most architects use either by habit or by preference. Sometimes it’s faster to draft by hand and other times it just adds a more authentic touch.

But can hand drawing coexist with CAD? The answer’s easy enough—yes, it can. It’s simple enough to use hand drawings in CAD software. All you have to do is scan your drawings and convert them to a vector file format so that you can edit them in CAD. How exactly can you do this? With none other than Scan2CAD! A market-leading CAD/CAM and CNC conversion software, Scan2CAD enables users to convert designs quickly using a suite of specialized tools.

Using shape recognition and vectorization algorithms, Scan2CAD can easily convert your paper drawings to a vector file format ready for use in CAD software of your choosing. Interested? Convert as many hand drawings as you’d like in Scan2CAD’s free 14-day trial.

Want to stay updated on all the latest CAD, CAM and CNC news? Keep a close eye on Scan2CAD’s blog and news section. 

In our guide, we’ve compiled 5 top affordable AutoCAD alternatives. We’ll cover prices, functionality comparisons and overall verdicts for each product. 

Before we start

As we’ve said, AutoCAD has a lot to offer users. It’s one of the most popular CAD products out there, with both 2D and 3D capabilities. If you’re looking to invest in it however, you’re looking at $185/month, $1,102.50/1 year or $3,307.50/3 years. If you’re a CAD professional, these prices will probably be more than worthwhile. For hobbyists or people working on a budget, however, it is pretty staggering.

Fortunately, there are other options. It is possible to get AutoCAD for free if you’re in education, alongside other Autodesk products, as we covered in our students’ guide to CAD. Alternatively, there are free CAD packages for all types of users. However, if you’re specifically looking for affordable software that matches up to the functionality of AutoCAD, then read on for our list below.

1. DraftSight

Image source: DraftSight Professional

• Operating System: Windows, Mac, Fedora, Ubuntu
• Price: $99/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial! 

If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you will definitely be familiar with DraftSight, the freemium software from Dassault Systèmes. Here in particular, we’ll be focusing on the Professional version; the free version is limited and the Enterprise version is only worthwhile if you need a network licence. While it might not match its popularity, DraftSight is a definite contender to AutoCAD. It focuses entirely on 2D design and can be used to read and edit AutoCAD’s proprietary format, DWG.

Head-to-head comparison

Fortunately for AutoCAD users, DraftSight’s interface is remarkably similar—particularly if you’re an AutoCAD LT user. If you’ve not used AutoCAD before, you’ll still feel right at home with its accessible interface. As we’ve covered in the past, it’s easy enough to get to grips with the DraftSight basics in 1 hour. 

As with AutoCAD—and other popular CAD software—DraftSight makes use of keyboard shortcuts and a command line to speed up the design process. You’ll also be able to take advantage of a wide toolset and the ever-useful layer management. Think DraftSight only offers basic capabilities? That’s certainly not the case. The product also runs applications through LISP, C++ and VBA codes. If you use the Professional version—as we advise—you can take advantage of more programming options, additional drawing tools and shortcuts. 

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows with DraftSight. The software comes with limited spline editing features and no support for dynamic blocks. You’ll also find that some programming languages and productivity features are only on offer if you buy packs and plugins. 

Verdict 

The learning curve for DraftSight is far easier than AutoCAD’s. It comes at a good price with low system requirements that doesn’t sacrifice much functionality. Speed can be a slight issue—particularly for large file sizes. Essentially, it’s a lightweight alternative to AutoCAD, which is preferable if you often find yourself not making use of all of AutoCAD’s capabilities anyway.

2. TurboCAD

Image source: TurboCAD

• Operating System: Windows, Mac
• Price: $499.99/year or $1,499.99/unlimited license
• Interested? Try out the free trial! 

A 2D and 3D design and drafting software, TurboCAD is a pretty viable alternative to AutoCAD. In fact, when it comes to 3D modeling and renderings, TurboCAD tends to surpass AutoCAD’s capabilities. There are three versions available: deluxe, expert and professional. Here, we’re looking specifically at the professional version. 

Head-to-head comparison

TurboCAD has gone for a relatively simplistic approach to their user interface, which AutoCAD users will either love or hate. It can be difficult to navigate the menus at first, especially if you’re a frequent user of other CAD software. 

Like AutoCAD, TurboCAD offers customizable tool palettes, a command line—with familiar command names—and macro features. For architectural users, TurboCAD offers tools like the wall tool and a house wizard. TurboCAD does go above and beyond AutoCAD’s capabilities in a few instances. Specifically, it offers more advanced surfacing features such as mid surfaces, organic shapes and minimum radius analysis. You can also take advantage of sheet metal design features like placement sketches, bend allowance and forming tools. In some cases, TurboCAD requires less interaction than AutoCAD with menus and commands, e.g., drawing multiple lines is as simple as clicking the mouse. 

Many users, however, have noted that while TurboCAD exceeds AutoCAD in some areas of functionality, it falls behind in stability. The product specifically struggles with large file sizes, crashing in some circumstances.

Verdict

Though TurboCAD isn’t as widely-used in the CAD industry as AutoCAD, it still has much to offer. You can get a lot of the same capabilities as AutoCAD with minimal costs. If you’re looking to show off your designs and models, TurboCAD is by far the more viable option—offering photo-realistic renderings beyond AutoCAD’s capabilities.

3. ProgeCAD

Image source: ProgeCAD

• Operating System: Windows
• Price: $499/year (30 days free help desk support)
• Interested? Try out the free trial! 

ProgeCAD—originally called IntelliCAD—is a 2D/3D CAD software developed by ProgeSOFT. You might not be familiar with this particular product, but that wouldn’t be too surprising considering there’s so much competition between CAD products. Labeling itself as “a cost-effective AutoCAD replacement”, we couldn’t not include it on our list.

Head-to-head comparison

Unfortunately, compared to the above products, ProgeCAD’s interface is a little bit more difficult for new users. In fact, it has a steeper learning curve than most. There is, however, a PDF user guide—though at 700 pages, it might be a bit cumbersome for some users. 

You’ll find that the interface does have faint echoes of AutoCAD—from floating toolbars to a command line supporting AutoLISP and VBA scripting. As a product directly comparing itself to AutoCAD, it’s not then surprising to find that it uses DWG as its native file format; no conversion is therefore needed for AutoCAD files. ProgeCAD goes beyond AutoCAD with its exclusive tools and functions ranging from block library management to publishing 3D models directly into Google Earth. Free plugins are also available—like ProgeSOFT for Traceparts—and third-party applications like ProgeEARTH and ProgeCAM CNC.

ProgeCAD’s 3D functionality is slightly lacking, but this isn’t entirely problematic. Support for the product is near enough absent. If you want extensive support, you’ll have to pay more. Some users have also noted that large file sizes tend to slow down your entire system.

Verdict

With the learning curve being so steep, it can be all too easy to disregard ProgeCAD entirely. However, while the product is lacking in some capabilities—like photo-realistic rendering and large file sizes—if you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to AutoCAD, you really couldn’t go wrong with trying out ProgeCAD.

4. ZWCAD

Image source: ZWCAD

• Operating System: Windows
• Price: $799/standard or $999/professional
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Likely unheard of by most CAD users, ZWCAD is a diamond in the rough that will certainly surprise some of our readers. A 2D/3D CAD product, ZWCAD claims it’s the closest user experience to the ever-popular AutoCAD. There are two versions available for ZWCAD—standard or professional—both have their advantages. Alternatively, industry-specific products like ZWCAD Architecture and ZWCAD Mechanical are available. 

Head-to-head comparison

ZWCAD is relatively easy to use and navigate. However, it’s not the most intuitive of CAD software—although, with practice, you should be able to get the hang of it. As you’d imagine from a product comparing itself to AutoCAD, ZWCAD is able to read and edit DWG files. 

Fortunately for users who are fond of commands and aliases, ZWCAD matches AutoCAD in command bar functions. Most of its commands in fact bear the same names as AutoCAD’s. Meanwhile, ZWCAD surpasses AutoCAD with its SmartMouse capabilities. By simply holding down the right mouse button and dragging the cursor in the shape of a letter, a command can be activated, e.g., drawing the letter E starts the Erase command. It’s also possible to read AutoCAD customization files, e.g., MNU and MNS, linetype, hatch pattern, font SHP and TTF. 

If you’re looking to produce photo-realistic renderings, you’ll have to look at software like TurboCAD instead. Additionally, you might run into difficulties when importing AutoCAD drawings that contain entities not supported by ZWCAD, e.g., constraints or point clouds. 

Verdict

While it might not be as popular as AutoCAD, ZWCAD has a lot to offer for people who are looking for affordable AutoCAD alternatives. Indeed, if you find that you don’t make use of all of AutoCAD’s features, you probably won’t be as aware of some of ZWCAD’s limitations. 

5. BricsCAD

Image source: gfxspeak

• Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
• Price: $750/classic or $880/pro
• Interested? Try out the free trial! 

Though BricsCAD doesn’t have as long a history as AutoCAD, it has made giant leaps in recent years. A 2D/3D modeler, BricsCAD comes in three editions: classic, professional and platinum. For all intents and purposes here, you won’t need to purchase the intermediate platinum version. Additionally, developer Bricsys has built three add-on modules for BricsCAD including BIM, Sheet Metal and Communicator, opening up a realm of capabilities for all types of users.

Head-to-head comparison

Fortunately for those familiar with AutoCAD, the learning curve for BricsCAD isn’t too steep. In fact, you’re looking at a relatively similar interface to AutoCAD. It can be overwhelming to navigate through the assortment of tools and features available at first. As with most CAD software, however, it just requires practice.

Customization and productivity-enhancing features are important things to look out for in CAD software. They can take you from a complete amateur to a CAD expert, as we’ve covered in articles like tips and tricks for AutoCAD newbies. BricsCAD addresses this by offering customizable toolbars, a macro recorder and a command line. If you work in the AEC sector, you’ll be pleased to hear that BricsCAD has a built-in architectural direct modeler with SketchUp SKP import, IFC import and export, and a built-in BIM database. Additionally, advanced mechanical design features like 3D constraints and assembly modeling are also available for use. 

In what appears to be a trend in some of our listed alternatives, BricsCAD users have warned that the product does at times suffer from bugs in the more advanced features. Additionally, some architectural tools like a house wizard and wall tool are absent. 

Verdict

As one of our affordable AutoCAD alternatives, BricsCAD has a lot to offer new users. With a relatively fast performance, native LISP support and 2D/3D capabilities, it’s hard to argue against. If you’re looking for software with all of AutoCAD’s intricate capabilities, you will be disappointed. However, if you approach it with a relatively open mind, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Want to know more about CAD software? Head on over to our CAD section for tips, advice and information.

In this article, we’ll compare some of Dassault Systèmes’ most popular software, as well as providing insight into some of their well-known brands, helping you make an informed choice about what to purchase.

CATIA

It may surprise you to learn that CATIA actually predates Dassault Systèmes. The software was first developed under the name CATI by Avions Marcel Dassault (now Dassault Aviation) in 1977 to develop the company’s fighter jet. In 1981, the company decided to start selling its in-house software, renaming it from CATI to CATIA. To sell the software, Dassault Systèmes was formed as a subsidiary. Today, it stands as one of the dominant players in the high-end CAD market, with CATIA offering a sophisticated suite of CAD, CAM and PLM tools.

In some ways, CATIA is playing in the same field as fellow Dassault software SolidWorks. After all, both CATIA and SolidWorks are CAD programs that enable users to create complex 3D designs. However, while SolidWorks is primarily a solid modeling application, CATIA is much broader in scope. There are three key disciplines in which CATIA operates, each of which comes with its own set of tools:

• Engineering: CATIA Engineering allows users to create 3D parts, with possibilities ranging from the simplest 3D sketches through to detailed industrial assemblies. Its advanced mechanical surfacing capabilities enable engineers to create incredibly complex parts. CATIA Engineering also includes digital prototyping tools which enable engineers to see how their part would perform in its operating environment.
• Systems engineering: This discipline focuses on managing the behavior of complex systems and products. As such, it spans a number of engineering disciplines, meaning that it is frequently collaborative in nature. CATIA Systems Engineering allows multidisciplinary teams to work together to create parts whilst producing cost savings and speeding up time-to-market.
• Design/Styling: CATIA Design/Styling is primarily aimed towards the industrial design sector. It enables designers to create parts starting from either 3D sketches or simply from scratch, and allows users an unrivalled level of creative freedom. It offers physical and virtual prototypes, as well as tools for reverse engineering and Class-A surfacing for 3D printing.

SolidWorks

Though today considered one of Dassault Systèmes’ flagship products, SolidWorks did not start life with the company. It was initially created by MIT graduate Jon Hirschtick, who later went on to found cloud-based CAD company Onshape. The first edition of SolidWorks came out in 1995, and was so successful that Dassault made the decision to acquire it just two years later.

Over the past two decades, SolidWorks has maintained its dominance over the 3D design software market. Though it is a mid-range application when compared to its high-end stablemate CATIA, it still offers users a wide range of powerful design tools, including:

• 3D solid modeling with lifelike visualization
• Ability to create complex designs containing over 100,000 parts
• Design for sheet metal, molds, piping and tubing, and many more purposes

SolidWorks also includes a number of simulation tools, including FEA, linear stress analysis, and non-linear analysis. Users can also take advantage of the software’s PDM, electrical design and technical communication capabilities. More recently, Dassault has also introduced CAM tools, helping to bring together design and manufacturing.

Last month, Dassault Systèmes released the most recent version of the software: SolidWorks 2018. This saw the introduction of a number of new features, including Topology Study, PDM tool SolidWorks Manage, and support for meshes as native geometry. This product may be two decades old, but it’s certainly not slowing down.

DraftSight

DraftSight, from Dassault Systèmes, is one example of free CAD software

One of Dassault Systèmes’ most popular products is DraftSight, a design tool which makes it easy for users to create 2D CAD drafts. Unlike most other Dassault Systèmes software, DraftSight is free to use. It also provides users with a way to view DWG files without AutoCAD, and it’s even possible to manually trace an image in DraftSight. It’s not possible, however, to automatically trace an image using the software.

The price point of DraftSight is a major pull: users can create and edit 2D CAD files for free. This makes it a great choice for small businesses and hobbyists. However, those whose businesses revolve around design and manufacturing should consider DraftSight Professional, which includes support for DGN files, Toolbox for DraftSight and the Design Library, and also allows users to generate G-code. There’s also DraftSight Enterprise for larger companies, which includes additional tech support and network licensing.

New to DraftSight? Want to get a handle on the software—fast? Check out our guide to learning the DraftSight basics in one hour.

SIMULIA

It’s no stretch to say that simulation has revolutionized the world of manufacturing. By allowing engineers and product designers to view the impact of stresses and fluid dynamics on the products they create, simulation has reduced the need for physical prototyping and allowed for the creation of less wasteful and more innovative products.

Dassault Systèmes’ contributions to simulation are its powerful SIMULIA applications. Its SIMULIA portfolio includes software catered to a wide range of sectors, such as AEC, aerospace, and consumer goods. It also includes products such as:

• Simpoe-Mold, which helps detect defects in the production of plastic parts
• Simpack, which simulates non-linear motion within mechanical and mechatronic systems
• Abaqus, which solves engineering problems across various industries, including the automotive industry
• Tosca, an optimization suite which helps designers to create lightweight, efficient and durable products

In addition to these tools, other SIMULIA applications include fe-safe, Isight, and Simpoe. Taken as a whole, this comprehensive set of simulation software helps users create products that would not otherwise be possible.

ENOVIA

ENOVIA’s design reviewer. Image source: 3ds.com

As a global company, Dassault Systèmes understands that its clients work in international teams spanning numerous disciplines. As such, those teams need to be able to work collaboratively on projects from start to finish. That’s why Dassault created ENOVIA, an environment which connects teams and integrates seamlessly with other Dassault Systèmes design, engineering and analysis software.

The core ENOVIA software suite includes VPLM, which helps engineers to find the optimal process for companies creating highly complex products. It also includes SMARTEAM, a product data management (PDM) tool for SMEs, as well as departments of larger businesses. Together, they help companies to virtually manage their processes in order to create complex and innovative products.

DELMIA

DELMIA is Dassault Systèmes global industrial operations brand. Image source: 3ds.com

When Dassault Systèmes first launched the DELMIA brand in 2000, it was a sign of their ambition to look beyond 3D design software. That’s because the DELMIA brand brings together a number of Dassault’s product lifecycle management applications. As such, it focuses on a product as a complete entity, rather than merely the sum of its (separately created) parts.

The DELMIA brand includes both original Dassault creations and programs acquired and developed by Dassault over the years. Examples include Apriso, a software suite spanning the full range of manufacturing activities, and Ortems, an advanced planning software which aims to make manufacturing speedier, leaner and more productive. The brand also gives its name to the DELMIA software, a Manufacturing Lifecycle Management application which allows its users to adapt to global demand.

GEOVIA

GEOVIA Surpac is a market leader in geology and mine planning. Image source: 3ds.com

GEOVIA is Dassault Systèmes’ brand encompassing a variety of geology and mining-related software. Programs bearing the GEOVIA brand include:

• Surpac, which Dassault claims is the “world’s most popular geology and mine planning software”. Surpac is a comprehensive tool, allowing users to design and plan mining activities, including everything from drilling through to resource estimation. The software supports mining operations in over 120 countries.
• GEMS, which provides a centralized database from which geologists and engineers can access planning data. The program aims to be easy to use whilst facilitating collaboration between team members.
• Minex, a tool for evaluating resources of stratified deposits, such as coal.
• MineSched, a scheduling software for mining that works seamlessly alongside GEOVIA’s other products.

Other GEOVIA offerings including strategic mine planning applications Whittle and PCBC, as well as production management tool InSite. All together, it adds up to a comprehensive set of tools for anyone working in geology and mining.

3DVIA

Dassault Systèmes launched 3DVIA in 2007 with the aim of bringing 3D technology to new markets. These included consumer markets, as well as professional markets where 3D technology had not traditionally been widespread. In recent years, however, some of the brand’s products have been spun off into other areas of the business. For example, the company’s technical communication software 3DVIA Composer is now CATIA Composer.

Nowadays, the brand has a strong focus on home interiors, and includes the following programs:

• 3DVIA Home: a cloud-based space planning solution for enterprise consumers. Its easy to use interface makes it easy to create functional interiors in just minutes.
• Homebyme: an online space which allows users to create an entire home in 3D, with thousands of materials, textures and colors to choose from. Primarily for consumers rather than for enterprise.

More from Dassault Systèmes

We’ve already compiled a fairly comprehensive list of Dassault Systèmes software here—but if you thought that was all they had to offer, then think again. Other Dassault products include:

• 3DEXCITE, which offers high-end 3D visualizations
• BIOVIA, which aids new scientific advances by allowing scientists to collaborate across companies and fields
• Exalead, which helps organizations to transform big data into intelligence that helps businesses help their customers
• Netvibes, a dashboard tool which enables businesses to make smarter decisions with access to data and metrics from across the web

It’s also impossible to discuss Dassault Systèmes without mentioning their pioneering 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This platform gathers together Dassault’s industry-focused applications and enables businesses to find a package that works for them. These packages—which Dassault labels ‘experiences’—are specifically designed to meet the needs of different fields and occupations.

It’s clear to see that Dassault Systèmes are involved in a dizzying array of industries and sectors—but we’ve only just scratched the surface here. To learn even more about this design giant, head to our guide to everything you need to know about Dassault Systèmes.

To help you along your DraftSight journey, Scan2CAD has put together a guide to learning DraftSight basics in 1 hour. In this article, we’ll cover the DraftSight interface, its draw and modify tools, the coordinates system, and much more. We’ve even included top resources for you to take advantage of.

DraftSight basics: orientation

While it might be tempting to just get stuck into DraftSight straight away, you have to first get to grips with the actual interface. After all, you won’t be able to go far if you can’t locate certain tools or don’t know how to type in commands. We’ll take you through a quick overview of the DraftSight interface, which will probably take you around 10-15 minutes to complete. 

If you’ve used software like AutoCAD before—particularly the 2000 to 2007 editions—you’ll find the DraftSight interface to be relatively familiar. This is pretty beneficial, as it means you don’t have to spend days trying to get to grips with a new CAD software. You can find the basic ribbon toolbar at the top of the screen, containing standard pull-down menus, toolbars and palettes. If you’re not overly familiar with other CAD software, you don’t have to worry. All you have to do is do a bit of extra exploring to get a better idea of what DraftSight has to offer you. 

You can find the ever-familiar command line at the bottom of the interface. There, you can execute commands and actions by typing in a key phrase or letter—type LINE to activate the line tool for example. You can customize command aliases (keyboard shortcuts) by right-clicking and heading to Drafting Options > User Preferences > Aliases. We have discussed this further in top tips and tricks for DraftSight newbies. 

Image source: computeraideddesignguide.com

Before you start drawing

Now you know what to expect with the DraftSight interface, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re ready for your first drawing. Before you start drawing, you have to make a few preparations. Firstly, you’ll want to check that you’re using the right unit system. With DraftSight, you can change the base angle, length and angle of units in your drawing. It’s also possible to alter the drawing scale you’re using, which can be very important. Type Units into the command line > Drawing Settings > Unit System. 

Image source: DraftSight Blog

Additionally, you might want to change the background color to best suit your preferences. For example, many people prefer to draw on a plain white background. Simply head to Tools > Options > Drafting Styles > Display > Color. You might also find it useful to have the grid onscreen as a reference for when you’re drawing. This isn’t visible when you print out your drawing, so don’t worry. 

The next step is to group your toolbars and palettes into the same place to ensure everything’s exactly where you want it to be when you finally start your first drawing. Right-click on an empty space in the toolbar, click Tool Matrix. A blank box will appear; you can then click and drag tool palettes into it. This makes it easier to find tools and reduces the time it takes you to draw. You could essentially have your draw, modify and dimensions palettes in this one tool matrix. 

Coordinates system

Much like AutoCAD, DraftSight makes use of two different coordinate systems: the Cartesian coordinate system and the Polar coordinate system. 

The Cartesian coordinate system works by defining points by their position on the X and Y axes. The Polar coordinate system is probably something you’ll be less familiar with—particularly if you’ve never used CAD software before. It works by defining points by the distance from the origin and the angle from a line that starts in the origin. The angle increases as it moves counterclockwise around the origin point.

Coordinate systems are further broken down into absolute and relative coordinates: 

• Absolute coordinates: input points are specified using standard Cartesian coordinates. Absolute Cartesian command: x,y [Enter]; Absolute Polar command: length<angle [Enter]. 
• Relative coordinates: once you’ve inputted your first coordinate, the next one can be entered by specifying it as relative from your first coordinate. Relative Cartesian command: @x,y [Enter]; Relative Polar command: @distance<angle [Enter].

It might take you a while to get used to these systems—particularly if you’ve never used CAD software before. That being said, it’s all about practice—try out as much as you can, and you’ll be an expert in no time at all. 

Drawing and editing

Now, we’ll move onto the actual drawing and editing side to DraftSight. As with most CAD software, DraftSight comes with a wide range of geometric shapes that can be used in 2D drawings. Examples include: 

• Line: creates straight line segments
• Polygon: creates equilateral closed PolyLine
• Spline: quadratic or cubic Spline curve
• Make Block: defines a Block from selected entities
• Hatch: fills specified boundary with a pattern

DraftSight also comes with a wide range of modification tools that allow you to make changes to elements within your drawing. Examples include: 

• Mirror: copies entities onto opposite side of a mirror line
• Rotate: rotates entities through an angle around a base point
• Scale: enlarges/reduces entities while keeping proportions the same
• Chamfer: connects two Lines with a beveled corner
• Split: erases part of an entity between two Points you select

You can find further examples of what DraftSight has to offer in Dassault’s official Getting Started guide. 

Drawing couldn’t be easier in DraftSight. Even if you’re not familiar with CAD software, the icons are so self-explanatory that it won’t take you long to get to grips with them. It is essentially a case of clicking on each icon to get a better idea of what each entails. It should take you the rest of your hour to explore all of DraftSight’s draw and modify tools. If you don’t think that’s the best method of learning for you, check out the YouTube tutorial below for a more visual approach. 

Extra resources

If you want to truly master DraftSight, then you’ll want to prepare yourself for a lot of serious work. You can’t just expect to pick up on everything by yourself. You’re going to have to do some background reading and extra learning whenever you get spare time. To speed up the process, we’ve compiled a list of extra resources for you take advantage of. 

A great way to get better acquainted with software is to read up on relevant blogs and guides. Here, you can find anything from DraftSight lessons to the latest news and software updates. Here are a few of our top picks below: 

• DraftSight Blog
• Getting Started
• Tutorial 45

For a more hands-on approach, take a look at some YouTube channels and other video resources. You can follow tutorials and lessons with an experienced DraftSight user from the comfort of your own home: 

• DraftSight for Beginners
• Lynda
• DraftSight YouTube
• EagleRock Products

Don’t know much about the company behind DraftSight? Check out Dassault Systèmes – Everything You Need To Know. 

Interested? Scan2CAD has put together a guide to show you exactly how to manually trace an image using DraftSight. We’ve also describe how you can automatically trace your image using Scan2CAD!

Automatic Tracing: Converting an architectural drawing (TIFF) to a vector CAD format (DXF) in Scan2CAD

What is tracing?

Tracing is the process of drawing over a raster image with vector lines, and other vector entities such as beziers, polygons, text strings and so on. This then gives you a vector output. So, what’s the difference between raster and vector files? To put it simply, vector images are much more suitable for CAD.

Raster images—like JPEGs and PNGs—are mostly used for photographs, they are programatically simple to create and display since they are effectively a grid of color blocks. They’re not always ideal, however, as they come with many disadvantages. When you want to make changes to a raster image, any edits you make will be made to the entire image. Essentially, it’s like painting over the whole image, instead of altering specific elements. Additionally, rasters are made up of pixels which affects the quality of the image when you try to resize it. This means that rasters are resolution dependent. 

In contrast, vector images are mathematically perfect. They’re made up of paths, which means that you can scale the image up and down as much as you’d like without impacting the quality of the image. In other words, vectors are infinitely scalable. Meanwhile, it is possible to edit each individual element within a vector image without impacting on the rest of the image. Each element can also contain masses of data, making vector images perfect for CAD work, which often involves creating designs which replicate real-world objects.

Tracing is the process of identifying objects within the image and converting them to their appropriate vector entity.

When would I need to trace an image?

Vector files are the industry-standard format in CAD. By using vectors, you can edit individual elements and re-use them when you start a new drawing. If you have a raster image that you want to use in CAD software, you can trace it to convert it to a vector. Similarly, if you have an old technical drawing, you can scan it and convert it to a vector. 

If, for example, you work in architectural design you may wish to assign co-ordinates and real-world measurements to a vector element such as a line representing a wall. This is all possible with industry standard vector file formats such as DXF and DWG. 

How does the process work?

You can choose to trace manually or automatically. As the name suggests, manual tracing involves drawing over a raster design by hand. This can be done with your computer mouse or with a graphics pen and tablet. It can be a time-consuming process, which is why many opt for automatic tracing instead. This process is enacted with conversion software which detects the shapes and lines of your raster and redraws them as vector entities. 

Not sure which method is right for you? Check out our article on manual and automatic tracing.

What is DraftSight?

Another popular product from Dassault Systèmes, DraftSight is a freemium 2D CAD product used worldwide. With it, users can access, create and edit DWG files. It also supports the DXF file format, which is supported by so many programs that it is effectively the lingua franca of CAD. In DraftSight, users can easily create entities, move them, and store them in libraries for future use. Designed to target different users, DraftSight comes in three separate packages, each offering more advanced capabilities as you go along: 

• Free DraftSight
• DraftSight Professional
• DraftSight Enterprise

While SolidWorks supports both 2D and 3D, DraftSight focuses only on 2D, which eradicates any competition between the two products. It has an easy-to-use interface for those familiar with CAD software. And, with a relatively easy learning curve, it’s of no surprise that DraftSight is such a popular CAD product. 

Manual Tracing using DraftSight

Whether you’re a regular user of DraftSight or you’re debating using it, you might have wondered if it was possible to use it for tracing. The answer is yes—it is possible to manually trace an image with DraftSight. 

• Import your image. Click Insert > Reference Image. For a better look, you might have to zoom into it.
• Open a new layer. You’ll want your trace to be in a new layer in case you make any mistakes. 
• Trace over your image. Using drawing tools such as line and arc, you can trace your reference drawing. 
• Delete the original layer. Once you’re happy with the trace, you can delete the layer below. 
• Save your image. You can save your trace as a DXF or DWG—it couldn’t be simpler. 

Of course, there are setbacks to tracing in DraftSight. One of the main issues you’ll face is scaling. If you’re looking to print in a PDF format, for example, you’ll find that DraftSight can occasionally export off-scale. Additionally, you’ll have to ensure that your original image is at the right angle and aligned before you can even import it into DraftSight. 

What About Automatic Tracing?

If you’re a hobbyist, or you have a very simplistic design which you need to convert then you could survive by manually tracing your image using Draftsight.

However, if your line of work requires you to regularly convert designs or if your designs are more complex than a few simple shapes you would greatly benefit from automatic image tracing.

Here’s a floorplan — before and after conversion! We’ve used Scan2CAD to convert it from a scanned image (left) to an editable vector (right), and saved it as DXF

We recommend that you learn the difference between general raster to vector conversion software compared to a specialised solution for CAD. Scan2CAD is conversion software for CAD/CAM & CNC. This specialized solution uses shape recognition to identify raster elements in your design converting them to their appropriate vector entities. With shape recognition dash-lines will be converted to vector dash-line entities, arcs will be converted to vector arcs and so-on. 

Scan2CAD offers unique conversion presets for all types of technical drawings. Whether it’s an electrical plan, a CNC drawing or a contour map, you’re going to get a unique trace that takes different variables into consideration. 

Automatic Tracing Using Scan2CAD

Scan2CAD is a market-leading raster-to-vector converter. It specializes primarily in the conversion of technical drawings. As we mentioned in the above section, Scan2CAD comes with vectorization settings that ensures its automatic trace is specifically catered to the type of image you’re converting.

With a full raster and vector editing suite, you don’t have to worry about the many problems that plague raster images as highlighted below: 

Scan2CAD’s ‘Raster Effects’ help you avert the the problems caused by poor quality images.

The process couldn’t be simpler with Scan2CAD. The software detects the lines and edges of your raster image and then redraws them using vector lines, shapes and text. It takes into consideration aspects like line weight, angles and even the type of line. By using pre-programmed variables that control how the conversion is enacted, Scan2CAD ensures you get a precise conversion. And with capabilities like batch processing and smart OCR, you can convert hundreds of images in next to no time at all. 

As with many software packages out there, you can try out Scan2CAD with a free trial. But don’t worry—it doesn’t come with any limitations. This means that you can convert your images without the worry of watermarks or a conversion limit. Don’t settle for anything less than the best—start your free 14-day trial with Scan2CAD today. 

Want to stay updated on all things CAD, CAM and CNC-related? Check out Scan2CAD’s blog covering topics ranging from generative design to building information modeling to Autodesk software compared.

Scan2CAD has put together a complete guide for DraftSight newbies. Here, you’ll find everything you need to get started with DraftSight, from basics to commands to customization. Plus, we’ve included top resources to help you build your knowledge. So, if you want to become a DraftSight expert, read on!

Summary of DraftSight

DraftSight is a 2D design and drafting solution created by CAD software giant Dassault Systèmes. As with most Dassault products, DraftSight is a worldwide success—used by engineers and designers alike. Designed to run on Windows, Linux and Mac OS X, DraftSight comes in three distinct packages. 

The free DraftSight package can be used by students and hobbyists looking for an easy-to-use 2D CAD product. DraftSight Professional is an upgraded version for CAD users who need a professional-grade package, coming in at $99 for 12 months with new term licensing. The final package, DraftSight Enterprise, is marketed at large organizations that need all the benefits of the Professional version, plus network licensing and technical support.

DraftSight users don’t just get the DraftSight package, they also gain access to the open online community. This community gives users access to learning resources and what they describe as a ‘collaborative environment’ to get help from other users.

DraftSight Basics

You won’t get anywhere with DraftSight if you haven’t gotten to grips with the basics first. This will help provide a solid foundation for you to move onto more advanced topics later. But where exactly do you start? With a lesson plan straight from Dassault of course—feast your eyes on this handy guide! The lesson plan is as follows:  

1.  Quick Start: learn how to create a drawing, utilize basic tools, understand coordinates, use the command window and much more.
2. Drafting Tutorials: start working with and managing layers, and look at using more commands like Trim and Fillet.
3. Basic Dimensioning: find out everything you need to know about dimensioning, plus commands such as Angular and CenterMarks. 
4. Drafting Application: look at the drawing environment, drawing a simple schematic, and dimension commands.

Also, how does DraftSight compare to AutoCAD? 

Before You Start Basics

Before you get stuck into the DraftSight crash course highlighted above, you’ll want to try out the DraftSight interface. To start, you should create a new drawing as a kind of testing stage. This will give you the chance to explore the tools and options before you start your official learning. 

Fortunately, DraftSight was created with the aim of being accessible for all types of users. When you open your first drawing, you’ll notice the standard menu bar at the top. This should be familiar to you if you’ve used other CAD applications, as you can see below.

Image source: cadoasis.com

• File Menu: contains standard options like Open, Save, Close and Export.
• Edit Menu: includes Cut, Copy, Paste along with Undo and Redo. 
• Insert Menu: contains commands related to blocks and reference drawings. 
• Format Menu: lists options like units, drawing limits, layers and LineStyle. 
• Draw Menu: includes drawing tools like circle, arc, line and much more. 
• Tools: includes options like Properties and Options. 

You’ll also find view, dimension and window menus at the top of your display. One of the most important aspects of the interface, however, is the Command Window. Located at the bottom of the DraftSight interface, the Command Window allows you to use commands (or shortcuts) to enact certain processes or tools. This can substantially increase your overall productivity—as we’ll further discuss later. 

Mouse Gestures

Image source: worldcadaccess

As we’ve covered in the evolution of CAD, most companies nowadays are looking for ways to make CAD more accessible. With that in mind, DraftSight enables users to take advantage of mouse gestures as a shortcut for certain commands. For example, you could click and drag left to activate the circle command—it’s just that easy.

To assign mouse gestures, head to ‘Tools‘ > ‘Mouse Gestures‘. Alternatively, you can run the command by typing ‘GESTURE‘. Click ‘8 Gestures‘, and right-drag commands to the gesture direction of your choosing. You could left-drag your mouse, dragging toward the highlighted command for line. All you have to do then is continue to drag left through the command icon to enact it. 

Commands 101

If you really want to become a DraftSight expert, you’ll want to get to grips with DraftSight commands. These commands can be used in the command line at the bottom of the screen, and are a faster method of activating certain tools and features than using the toolbar. Typical commands might look like this: 

• A for Arc
• C for Circle
• L for Line
• TR for Trim

For a full list of DraftSight commands, right-click in your drawing area and select ‘Drafting Options‘. Head to ‘User Preferences‘ > ‘Aliases‘, and you’ll find every available command alongside its alias shortcut. You can turn the command window on or off by pressing ‘CTRL + 9‘.  

Image source: Tutorial45

Customize your own shortcuts

Not happy with the built-in shortcuts? Create your own! DraftSight makes it easy to create custom shortcuts: simply start by heading to ‘Tools‘ > ‘Customize Interface‘. Expand the ‘Command Explorer‘ and select the plus sign to add a new command to the list. You can find the command in the explorer and assign it a shortcut. Shortcuts always follow the format: ‘Ctrl + Letter/Number‘. If the shortcut has already been assigned, you’ll have to delete the command. 

From Newbie To Expert

A great way to help you transition from newbie to expert is customization of the software—in other words, knowing how to shape the DraftSight interface to suit your own needs. 

Customization

Head to ‘Tools‘ > ‘Customize Interface‘. Here you’ll find five main tabs: commands, interface, mouse actions, keyboard and UI Profiles. 

Under ‘Commands‘, you’ll be able to locate all the DraftSight commands at your disposal. And, as we covered earlier, you’ll be able to customize your own commands. The ‘Interface‘ tab lets you customize your menus and toolbars. If you expand the toolbars option and right-click on any of the lists, you can create new toolbars. If you click on the ‘Show Command Explorer’ icon on the right, you can then add commands to this new toolbar. You could quite easily create different toolbars to suit different purposes and needs. 

‘Mouse Actions‘ allows you to customize your mouse gestures, as we’ve already covered. The ‘Keyboard‘ option allows you to customize your shortcut keys. These include options like ‘Ctrl + S‘ for Save, and so on. The ‘User Interface‘ allows you to create and manage individual user interface profiles. You can find more information on DraftSight’s custom user interface in the video below. 

Manage Your Standards

So, you know your basics and you’ve breezed through our customization tips. Now all that’s left is for you to put in place some standards for managing your files. As we’ve already covered in CAD file management tips, managing your standards is a must for all CAD users. 

One main example for this type of management is naming conventions. For example, you should have conventions in place for your files and command shortcuts. Creating and managing your naming conventions will help speed up your productivity and efficiency. Standards aren’t just important for you individually, they’re vital when you find yourself collaborating with people. 

Top Tip: we’ve all been in a situation where our system shuts down or reboots all of a sudden. When this happens you’re not always lucky enough to restore your files. Enable Auto-Save with DraftSight to ensure you don’t lose your files. Head to ‘Tools‘ > ‘Options‘ > ‘System Options‘ > ‘Auto-Save and Backup‘. You can even set the time interval for the auto-save. 

Top Resources

Becoming a DraftSight expert isn’t just a case of memorizing a few top tips and tricks. It’s also about ensuring that you keep on learning—software is constantly evolving, so you’re always going to have to evolve and learn with it. To help you with this, we’ve compiled some top resources that you should be taking advantage of today!

You can’t go wrong with keeping updated on the latest product changes and tips with DraftSight blogs. If you have any issues or queries, it’s likely that one of these blogs will answer them. 

• DraftSight Blog
• Cadoasis
• Getting Started
• Tutorial45

If you’re more of a visual and hands-on learner, you might be better suited to tutorial videos. Thankfully, there are dozens of great YouTube channels and blogs that can provide the tutoring you need: 

• DraftSight
• Dassault Systèmes
• Lynda
• Solid Solutions

That should certainly be more than enough to keep you occupied for now. As long as you keep updating your learning, you should be a DraftSight expert in no time at all.

Using AutoCAD or SolidWorks instead? Check out our top tips and tricks for AutoCAD or SolidWorks newbies. If you want to stay updated on everything CAD-related, keep an eye on Scan2CAD’s blog for the latest news, tips and freebies. 

As a student, you have access to dozens of professional CAD packages for free—whether you know it or not. You can also get further discounts off other CAD packages. With that in mind, Scan2CAD has compiled a list of the top discounted and free CAD software for you to enjoy. Plus, extra learning resources and freebies for you to take advantage of. 

Table of Contents

• Importance Of Free Software
• What’s A Student License?
• Free CAD Software
  • Autodesk Software
  • Onshape
  • PTC Creo
  • Solid Edge
  • ARCHICAD
  • DraftSight
• Discounted CAD Software
  • SolidWorks
  • CATIA
  • NX Resources
  • TurboCAD
  • Rhinoceros 3D
• Extra Resources and Freebies

The Importance Of Free CAD For Students

Whether you’re a student of engineering or architecture, you’ll find that many disciplines are becoming increasingly reliant upon digital tools. These types of tools take the form of CAD, CAM and CAE software applications. If you’re interested in bringing skills into internships or CAD careers, you need to have a good understanding of this type of software. 

With the rise of technological innovations and advancements, CAD packages are becoming increasingly more expensive to purchase. As a student, you’re already racking up the costs with your education—you don’t want to be spending more money trying to learn the skills that you’ll need in your future job. Of course, most colleges will already provide this software in their campus computer labs. If you don’t have 24 hour access however, free software is a lifesaver. 

Free Student Software

Free software is a growing trend in the CAD industry for students. Of course, free or discounted student software comes with restrictions such as low storage or a set length of license term. When you sign up for a student license, you have to stipulate that you’ll only use it for academic or non-commercial purposes. The software comes with the same functionality as professional versions, except your projects will have a small watermark so it’s clear you’re using an academic version. 

What’s A Student License?

There are two types of licenses that enable students access to free CAD software. 

Academic Institution Software Licenses

Most academic institutions offer students software on machines on campus or in computer labs. Some institutions even have licensing agreements that allow students to download software to their personal machine. Usually, the school will purchase the software which can then be downloaded by students for free with a license key. 

Of course, these licenses are usually limited to term times—once you’re no longer a student, you can’t use the software. The licenses are also for academic, non-commercial use only. 

Individual Download through a vendor

Outside of academic institutions, many software vendors have started to offer free student software through their own websites. Students need to register to prove they’re eligible for the software. This is usually done by using an academic email address or a student ID number.

Like the academic license, this is limited to a termly or yearly basis—you have to renew the license at the end of the term in order to keep using the software. 

Free CAD 

Without further ado, below you’ll find a list of the top free CAD software that you should be taking advantage of right now. Be aware that you can only use them while you’re a student. While you do however, you’ll be saving thousands of dollars a year. If you can’t find the CAD software you’re looking for, you might find it in the discounted CAD section. Alternatively, if you’re not a student why not check out 14 top CAD freeware? 

We have included software descriptions, operating systems and commercial price comparisons. It’s important to note that some software vendors don’t publish their prices, so the price we have included may be an approximation. 

Autodesk Software

Autodesk is the giant of all giants in the world of CAD. It offers an extensive range of CAD, CAM and CAE software that thousands of professionals and hobbyists use on a daily basis. One of the issues with Autodesk however, is that the software can be rather expensive. 

Fortunately, Autodesk offers most of its major packages to students and educators for free. This includes packages like AutoCAD, Fusion 360 and Revit. All you have to do is apply for a 3 year education license—just prove that you’re a student and off you go. The only limitation is that your designs will have watermarks on them so that it’s clear the file was created with a non-professional version. Take a look at the top Autodesk packages that you should be taking advantage of below. Be aware that this is just the tip of the iceberg—there are dozens more products available for students. 

AutoCAD

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $11,470/year
• OS: Windows, Mac

Starting with Autodesk’s flagship product, AutoCAD is one of the most popular CAD packages out there. Released in 1979, AutoCAD is a 2D and 3D CAD software used in a range of industries including architecture, construction and manufacturing. 

Designers can use AutoCAD throughout the entire design process to bring ideas to life, produce designs and perform simulations. Autodesk offers specialized versions of AutoCAD including Architecture, Civil 3D and Electrical. The software uses the popular file format DWG—approximately 2 billion DWG files were in existence by 1988! AutoCAD comes with 2D documentation and 3D modeling tools. It can also be used on mobile with AutoCAD 360. 

Fusion 360

• Type: 3D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $300/year (standard), $1,500/year (ultimate)
• OS: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Fusion 360 is a 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool. It covers the entire production process from planning to testing to executing. Hailed as the ‘first tool of its kind’, Fusion 360 enables designers to work in a single cloud-based platform that works on both Mac and PC. 

It comes with sculpting and modeling tools that bring your designs to life, alongside FEA capabilities to perform simulations and test a product’s viability. Its key advantage is in its collaborative capabilities—with Fusion 360 you can bring design teams together from across the world. 

Revit

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $2,000/year
• OS: Windows and Mac

This BIM software is popular among architects, structural engineers and designers. A key player in the BIM market, Revit enables users to design and build 3D structures and access building information from the model’s data. It comes with 4D BIM which gives users the ability to plan and track the stages of a building’s lifecycle. 

It enables full collaboration across multiple project contributors, resulting in better coordination and management. 

Learning Resources

Autodesk’s learning resources are just as extensive as its range of software. Autodesk Academy gives students the ability to develop their skills and prepare for careers through free online courses and webinars. Students can also create their own portfolios on Design Academy to show off their work. They can then connect to fellow students, enter into design challenges for industry professionals and sign up for Autodesk’s Student Experts program. 

Autodesk University Online is a learning platform that helps Autodesk users educate themselves on all of the products on offer. There are hundreds of online classes available, held by industry experts. Users can browse these classes by feature topic (3D printing, cloud services, sustainable design), by product (AutoCAD, Revit, Maya), or by industry (AEC, infrastructure, media). 

Not to mention, there’s an education community where students can share projects, questions and ideas. 

Onshape

Using named views in Onshape

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $100/month
• OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android

If you missed our article covering cloud-based CAD, you might not have tried out this innovative CAD package. Onshape is a fully cloud-based CAD package that enables you to take the software anywhere you want, on any device. 

It’s delivered over the cloud as a Service, offering real-time data management and a collaborative mode that enables everyone on a team instant access to the same CAD files and workspace. Onshape’s education subscription is completely free for students and educators. Documents created with the Education Plan are tagged with a small EDU icon. The subscription lasts for one year after you sign up, but you can upgrade once more if you still qualify. 

Learning Resources

Onshape’s learning center offers students self-paced training in the form of courses called Learning Pathways. These courses are designed to help users accelerate their transition to full-cloud CAD. The pathways can vary from Onshape fundamentals to data management, and each pathway rewards learners with a completion certificate at the end. It’s also possible to register for live training provided virtually by Onshape instructors. 

The introduction to CAD series is a short online course that is perfect for people unfamiliar with CAD—it takes you through everything from basic features to collaboration and PDM. Onshape also provides a variety of tutorials that are essentially quick lessons for students who are familiar with CAD. 

PTC Creo

Parametric modeling in PTC Creo

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $2,200/year
• OS: Windows

Released in 1987, PTC Creo, formally Pro/ENGINEER, was one of the first major solid modelers in the CAD industry. Creo is an integrated 3D CAD, CAM and CAE solution predominantly used for mechanical engineering, design and manufacturing—often for large scale products like airplanes or ships. It’s a complex program to get to grips with, but it pays off with incredible precision.

PTC Creo is a parametric feature-based modeler that provides an extensive range of tools for solid and surface modeling capabilities. It has a range of analysis tools that cover thermal, static and dynamic finite element analysis to help with the development of a product. Creo also comes with collaborative features that enable large teams of designers and engineers to work on the same product easily and efficiently.

Learning Resources

If you’re new to Creo, you’ll find the solution to most of your problems in the PTC University Exchange. This online resource gives students the chance to explore thousands of tutorials for all PTC products. With it, you can learn anything from using the geometry selection filter to synchronizing orientation—whether your interest lies in parametric modeling or simulation, you’ll find everything you need here. 

PTC Services Academy gives recent graduates the chance to learn a variety of topics that can help them become a successful PTC consultant and future leader. Training includes instruction by PTC management and employees as well as learning through group work and practical experiences. 

The PTC Community gives students, educators and professors the chance to seek support for anything PTC-related. Students can share projects or issues and look for professional tips along the way. 

Solid Edge

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $2,300/year
• OS: Windows

Solid Edge is a 3D CAD software developed by Siemens PLM Software. It’s a parametric feature-based and synchronous technology solid modeling software. This means that users can apply parametric relationships to solid features without having to depend on 2D sketch geometry.

It provides solid modeling, assembly modeling and a 2D orthographic view functionality. Users can customize the interface and work with fully intuitive design and sculpting tools. Solid Edge also comes with analysis tools that enable users to calculate the weight of materials for example, and even show errors when you try to design something that’s impossible to build.

Learning Resources

Siemens offers students the chance to select their own learning paths. These paths can vary depending on your level of experience—if you’re new to CAD, experienced with other systems or transitioning to synchronous technology. Siemens also provides a variety of tutorials that cover topics ranging from modeling parts with ordered features to modeling ordered contour flanges. 

You can also choose your own self-paced course, such as the fundamentals course. Alternatively, you can choose an instructor-led course from the library. 

ARCHICAD

• Type: 2D/3D
• Students: Free
• Commercial: $3,900/year
• OS: Windows, Mac

ARCHICAD is an architectural BIM and CAD software. It’s recognized as the first CAD product on a personal computer able to create both 2D and 3D geometry. It’s also hailed as the first commercial BIM product for personal computers. The product comes with 2D and 3D drafting capabilities, visualization and BIM functions.

ARCHICAD makes large teamwork projects easy—with advanced collaboration capabilities, teams can work on the same project in one platform. It features a fairly intuitive interface and an end-to-end BIM workflow. The product also offers solutions for calculations regarding factors such as climate, energy and materials. It even offers extensive libraries for architects.

Learning Resources

Graphisoft offers a series of approved training resources that are made for users with different levels of knowledge and interest. Each training volume includes a step-by-step PDF manual, narrated video clips and ARCHICAD project files for a more hands-on approach. 

DraftSight

• Type: 2D
• Students: Free 
• Commercial: $99/year professional version
• OS: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu, Fedora

DraftSight comes from Dassault Systèmes’ large portfolio—if you don’t know much about the company, check out Dassault Systèmes – Everything You Need To Know. It’s a 2D design and drafting solution that enables users to create, edit and view DWG files. There’s a free version, and a professional version that costs $99/year.

DraftSight has all of the essential functionality of AutoCAD including vector graphics, layers, blocks and dimensions. It’s easy to use and very intuitive—it can be a nice alternative to ‘heavier’ CAD packages that have a steep learning curve. It doesn’t have 3D capabilities but considering it’s free, you can’t really complain about that.

Learning Resources

Dassault is all about training which is why it has a host of learning resources to help maximize the DraftSight experience. You can begin with the getting started guide covering everything from tutorials on line commands to basic dimensioning. With almost 200 pages, you’ll be sure to find everything you need. 

If not, Dassault has also provided a series of Draftsight video tutorials. Needless to say, if you put in the effort you’ll be a DraftSight pro in no time at all. 

Discounted CAD Software

If the list of free CAD software isn’t enough for you, we’ve even included some packages that offer exclusive student discounts. You might be reluctant to spend any money on CAD, but you should definitely take advantage of these discounts while you can. 

SolidWorks

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $150 or less
• Commercial: $5,290 (standard with subscription)
• OS: Windows

SolidWorks is a renowned solid modeling CAD and CAE program used by millions of people across the world. In fact, Dassault Systèmes released it as the first significant 3D modeler for Windows—a huge landmark in the evolution of CAD. It’s used across a range of industries including aerospace, engineering and product design. 

SolidWorks is a parametric feature-based 3D modeling software. It can be used for auto-generated 2D drawings and advanced 3D modeling. Users can perform simulations and analyses like Finite Element Analysis to test their products before creating a physical prototype. It’s all about faster modeling and enhanced collaboration with SolidWorks. 

Learning Resources

SolidWorks gives students access to a resource center which includes exclusive tutorials ranging from full video tutorials to PDF guides and project files. It’s designed to help students become professional SolidWorks users. You can start from the beginning by looking at parts and assemblies, or go straight to the more advanced lessons. 

MySolidWorks is a learning platform with over 400 training videos. Students can learn SolidWorks at their own pace by accessing individual learning modules with explanations, videos and quizzes. It’s also possible to search for and get answers to questions. Not to mention, you can download free 2D/3D CAD models of user-contributed and supplier-certified parts and assemblies. You can even connect with the SolidWorks community via the education forum. 

CATIA

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $99/year
• Commercial: starting from $12,000
• OS: Windows, Unix

Another of Dassault’s products, CATIA is a 3D Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software suite that supports the entire process of product development. It comes with CAD, CAM and CAE capabilities to take users through the entire design process. CATIA started out in the aerospace industry, but has since branched out to others including architecture and design.

The product supports multiple stages of product design regardless of whether it’s started from scratch or from a 2D sketch. It also facilitates collaborative engineering—large teams can design these products in a real-life behavioral context. CATIA provides a wide range of applications for tooling design and enables users to create complex parametric objects.

Learning Resources

Dassault provides users with a resource center for CATIA-related topics. This center includes a variety of e-seminars on topics ranging from improving electrical design productivity to achieving fast fluid systems design. Students can also take advantage of the knowledge base which is essentially a forum where you can exchange questions, projects and find more tutorials. 

Another helpful feature is the CATIA user communities which connect you to communities in design, systems engineering, composites and much more. You can connect to fellow students and users to discuss any challenges you have and exchange ideas with your peers. 

NX Resources

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $98.95/year
• Commercial: $7,500/year
• OS: Windows, Mac, Unix

Another Siemens PLM Software product, NX Resources is an advanced CAD, CAM and CAE software package. It offers advanced solutions for conceptual design, 3D modeling and documentation. It also employs synchronous technology for flexible design in an open environment.

NX Resources is used for parametric and direct solid or surface modeling. It comes with engineering analysis tools that include Finite Element Method and Finite Volume Method. Users can also take advantage of simulation capabilities that come with structural, motion and thermal applications.

Learning Resources

Siemens offers self-paced training for free through Learning Advantage. This is an easy-to-use learning platform that provides students with online library access to more than 1,000 courses and assessments. It also includes augmented classroom experiences through online interactive learning. These self-assessment tools allow you to train at your own pace whilst tracking and recording your progress. 

If you want to connect with fellow users, check out the Siemens PLM Community. This gives you the ability to discuss projects, problems and ideas. In addition, you can take advantage of NX quick tips on YouTube. 

TurboCAD 

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $99.95/year
• Commercial: $109.95/year
• OS: Windows, Mac

TurboCAD is a 2D and 3D design and drafting software. There are three versions of the software: deluxe, professional and platinum. The further up this scale you go, the more capabilities you get and the more expensive the software is. You can get a student discount for any version. If you haven’t heard of TurboCAD, you’ve missed out on a user-friendly and affordable software package.

The product comes with general drafting tools as well as 3D architectural and mechanical design tools. Users can enjoy time-saving features like command lines which make the production process even shorter. TurboCAD also comes with customizable tool palettes and an intuitive user interface.

Learning Resources

TurboCAD has a variety of training packages on offer, however they’re not free. For basic training in TurboCAD 2D/3D it will cost you $49.99 whereas training for TurboCAD Pro Platinum will set you back $129.99. 

If you’re not willing to pay up for training, you can take advantage of the TurboCAD forum where you can share your own drawings and get feedback from other students. You can also discuss ideas, share problems and browse through plug-ins. The TurboCAD Wiki page also provides a host of incredible resources from tips and tricks to extensions. 

Rhinoceros 3D

• Type: 2D/3D
• Student discount: $128.95/year
• Commercial: $789.95/year
• OS: Windows

Rhinoceros 3D is a computer graphics and CAD application software. It’s based on the NURBS model which produces mathematically precise representations of curves and freeform surfaces. It’s popular in CAD, CAM, rapid prototyping and 3D printing. In addition, it’s used in a range of industries including architecture, product design and industrial design.

Rhinoceros 3D comes with advanced capabilities for creating and transforming 2D shapes for vector graphics. Users can even customize the interface and create custom commands and menus—not to mention take advantage of four different view angles. The product is even simple to use with a connected CNC machine.

Learning Resources

Rhinoceros has a resources page which gives users the chance to browse through websites that offer free 2D and 3D models in jewelry, architecture and much more. 

Students can access a range of video and PDF tutorials—from freeform modeling to visual tips. These tutorials are even categorized into ‘grasshopper classes‘ and ‘master classes‘ so you can learn at a pace suited to your experience level. If you like the sound of live instruction, you can find a class in your time zone and take it in the comfort of your own home. 

Extra Resources and Freebies

If you’re looking to become an expert in the world of CAD, you’ll need to take advantage of the best resources and freebies out there. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the top Scan2CAD resources that you should be using—you don’t even need to be a student!

Scan2CAD is a market-leading raster-to-vector conversion software. Its primary focus is converting technical drawings to usable editable vector images. The software comes with a raster and vector editing suite, batch processing and Smart OCR. You can get Scan2CAD for free—regardless of whether you’re a student or not—in a 14-day trial. 

For a better look at Scan2CAD’s capabilities, take a look at Scan2CAD: the ultimate vectorization software. 

If you love freebies, you’ll love Scan2CAD’s free DXF packs. These cut-ready DXF designs are ready for use in CNC—a huge advantage if you’re looking to start your own CNC projects. You get 6 or 7 designs in a DXF or JPG format each week if you subscribe. Want more? Check out 13 sites with free DXF designs. 

If you want to stay updated on all things CAD, CNC and CAM-related, Scan2CAD’s blog is the place to be. We cover topics ranging from SolidWorks tips and tricks, to how to build the ultimate CAD PC, to CNC machines compared. 

New to the world of CAD? Check out our ‘7 things you need to know’ series, covering everything from DXF files to vectorization and 3D printing. 

Scan2CAD is here to remedy that problem. This article will cover everything you need to know about Dassault Systèmes, from its popular products and acquisitions, to its impact on the CAD industry and its future. 

Table of Contents

• History
• Products
• Corporate Acquisitions
• Impact on: 
  • The CAD Industry
  • Education
  • Sustainability
• The Future: What’s Next?

History

Marcel Bloch-Dassault and the Dassault Group

Dassault Systèmes started with the creation of Dassault Group in 1929. Its creator Marcel Bloch was well-established in aeronautics, believing it to be an industry of the future. Under this company, Bloch challenged conventions and established himself as a firm contributor to the aviation industry. Bloch’s previous successes include the ‘Éclair’ propeller, which was subsequently used by the French Army. By 1935, his companies began to produce MB.200 and MB.210 bombers. 

Bloch was briefly held in the Buchenwald concentration camp during the Second World War. He was freed when the camp was liberated on 11 April 1945. Bloch changed his name to Dassault in 1949 in homage to his brother’s resistance pseudonym ‘Char d’assaut’ (assault tank). Dassault’s companies went on to produce France’s first jets—from Ouragan (1949) to Mystère II (1952) to the Mercure passenger plane (1973).

The company was renamed Dassault Aviation in 1990. It has since become the world leader in private jets.

Dassault Systèmes: CAD, PLM and 3D Innovations

Dassault Systèmes was founded in 1981 with a spin-off team of engineers from Dassault Aviation. The company launched its first product CATIA in the same year. Dassault was a major client of IBM in France, which is why CATIA was eventually sold as an IBM product. This was an integral step to Dassault Systèmes becoming a market leader in the CAD industry. 

While Dassault began in aeronautical design, it soon branched out into the automotive industry. Dassault secured Boeing as a CATIA user in 1984. By 1998, Boeing announced that it would use CATIA to design its new 777 aircraft. This created a staggering $1 billion in revenue for IBM-Dassault. Not long after, Dassault won contracts with companies including Toyota Motor Corporation and Volvo Group. 

In 1997, Dassault acquired CAD program SolidWorks with $310 million in stocks. This gamble more than paid off—by the end of the 1990’s, Dassault Systèmes emerged as one of the main competitors in the CAD industry. The same year also marked the organization of Dassault into two business segments:

• a process-centric segment (PLM) to support its customers’ end-to-end product development process, and
• a design-centric segment (SolidWorks) dedicated to customers seeking to create products in a 3D design environment. 

The success of Dassault brought about the introduction of a PLM-centric suite of products, including DELMIA (in 2000) to address the digital manufacturing domain, and SIMULIA (in 2005) to address realistic simulation and analysis. In the past 5 years or so, Dassault has also expanded towards the 3DEXPERIENCE—taking all aspects of product development into consideration. 

Of course, that’s not even the half of it! Dassault Systèmes has more products than you probably know, as you’ll see below. 

Products

Since its inception, Dassault Systèmes has released a wide range of products, from recognizable CAD packages such as CATIA and SolidWorks to its PLM suite. Let’s take a look at its most popular products below. 

CATIA

Dassault’s most innovative product, CATIA, has only grown in popularity since its release in 1981. In fact, it’s the world’s leading brand for product design. It’s essentially a 3D Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software suite. 

CATIA can be used throughout the entire process of product development—from conceptualization and design (CAD) to engineering (CAE) to manufacturing (CAM). Not only can users design products, they can do so in a real-life behavioral context. While CATIA started out in aerospace initially, it has since branched out to other industries such as shipbuilding and architecture.

One of CATIA’s biggest advantages is that it offers disciplines and industries a specialized toolset. For aircraft, it offers wiring, meta and composite materials. For car design it has a toolset for Class A surfaces. From 3D sketching to 3D printing, CATIA provides all the solutions a designer or engineer would need. 

Live rendering and Class A surfacing in CATIA

SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a solid modeling CAD and CAE program. It was the first significant 3D modeler for Windows in 1995—a huge step in the evolution of CAD. By 2013, approximately 2 million engineers and designers in over 165,000 companies were using the software. Needless to say, it’s a program that competes with the best in the CAD industry. 

Designers can use SolidWorks to create auto-generated 2D drawings and advanced 3D models using a parametric feature-based approach. SolidWorks also gives users the ability to perform analyses and simulations including Finite Element Analysis. The product places an emphasis upon faster modeling, new design tools and enhanced collaboration. 

Finite Element Analysis with SolidWorks

3DEXPERIENCE Platform

From 2007 onward, Dassault‘s interests moved away from just the 3D virtual model to every aspect of product design—from requirements, to commentary around the concept, to simulation results. From this, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform was created. This platform is a suite of industry-focused applications that are built around industry best practices and processes. 

These apps are subsets of existing software brands, so customers have to decide whether they want to buy individual products or the packaged ‘experiences’. You can find out more about 3DEXPERIENCE in the video below. 

Note: Here’s an update on Dassault Aviation adopting 3DEXPERIENCE

SIMULIA

The SIMULIA brand offers users realistic simulation applications. Through this, users can explore the real-world behavior of products and life. This includes Abaqus for Unified Multi-Physics FEA and the CATIA-integrated FEA solution which allows engineers to design and simulate in one environment. 

This brand helped to develop The Living Heart Project, which created the world’s first realistic 3D simulation model of a whole human heart. It holds promise for the future—clinicians could use this in the future to diagnose and treat illnesses without invasive procedures. 

ENOVIA

The ENOVIA brand is the common collaborative platform for all Dassault Systèmes brands. It ensures real-time collaboration and enables bill of material management across the product lifecycle. The brand also comes with product planning and program management solutions which enable users to precisely orchestrate the most complex of processes. In addition, ENOVIA offers tools for quality issue prevention such as Quality Functional Deployment (QFD), Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) and much more. 

ENOVIA’s design reviewer

DELMIA

The DELMIA brand is a PLM digital manufacturing software. It enables manufacturers to virtually plan, create and monitor all production processes—from the early process planning and assembly creation to a complete definition of the production facility and equipment. With collaborative manufacturing, users can create and annotate 3D simulations of production issues and share them with others. This streamlined collaboration accelerates and shortens the product cycle. 

Fastener process planning in DELMIA

Corporate Acquisitions & the 3DEXPERIENCE

The history and success of Dassault Systèmes can be separated into three eras. The first era started with the introduction of CATIA—marking Dassault’s move towards CAD. This was fortified by the acquisition of SolidWorks in 1997. Both programs were then strengthened by PLM workflow software, starting with the acquisition of Smart Solutions in 1999. 

Acquisitions became more rapid and steadfast with the turn of the new century. They were vital in shaping Dassault’s later brands and packages. In fact, many were the building blocks of Dassault’s second era of PLM. In 2005, for example, Dassault acquired Abaqus and from it created the SIMULIA brand. They later expanded upon the brand with their acquisition of Engineous software in 2008. The following years added additional software like MatrixOne Inc and ICEM to Dassault’s product collection. 

The company’s third and current era is post-PLM. Dassault has been steadily broadening its focus from engineering-centric design and product lifecycle, to an enterprise or company-wide view. With their 3DEXPERIENCE platform, Dassault has made it clear that the future is all about offering integrated and specialized software solutions. 

Impact 

On the CAD industry

It’s safe to say that Dassault Systèmes has had a sizeable impact on the CAD industry since its beginning in 1981. From CATIA to SolidWorks, Dassault paved the way for the future of the CAD industry. In fact, it’s been a presence in any industry that is remotely related to 3D technology. Check out a few interesting statistics below: 

• • Every 2.5 seconds an aircraft takes off powered by an engine designed using Dassault Systèmes software. 
  • Over a trillion kilometers are traveled each day on tires designed using Dassault Systèmes software. 
  • Each year global drivers spend 384,000,000,000 hours in cars created using Dassault Systèmes software. 

However, Dassault is more than just its products. It dedicates millions every year to initiatives and foundations that push the boundaries of CAD. 

The Passion For Innovation initiative, for example, uses Dassault’s technology for developing research, education and culture. The program initially began when a disabled employee couldn’t drive a sports car because of his condition. To combat this problem, he developed a new clutch system which he then needed to test out virtually. Dassault granted him free access to CATIA to design his idea, which eventually enabled him to drive a sports car. 

This initiative has also led to the development of many more projects including: 

• Khufu: architect Jean-Pierre Houdin used Dassault’s software to create a 3D replica of the Khufu pyramid. 
• IceDream: engineer Georges Mougin used Dassault’s software to refine his ideas for towing icebergs for fish water. 
• Paris 3D Saga: this offers virtual immersion into Paris at different points in history—from the Gallic period to the late 19th century. 

On Education

Dassault Systèmes is committed to the education of anyone using its products—from hobbyists, to students, to professionals. As with other CAD providers, Dassault currently offers students free or discounted versions of its products. In 2015, it was announced that 2 million SolidWorks licenses had been installed at educational institutions worldwide. Dassault also provides resources like My SolidWorks for students. 

Dassault has furthered its commitment to the future with an entire foundation dedicated to educating students and workforces in 3D. La Fondation offers academic and research institutions learning applications in 3D and virtual technology. Most recently, La Fondation teamed up with STEM-focused organization Base 11 to bring about a new initiative aimed at training the next generation of workers in high-demand skills such as 3D design. These students will learn how to use 3D design platforms like 3DEXPERIENCE with the goal of helping them into STEM-related degrees and careers. 

This has given thousands of people the opportunity to teach themselves valuable, high-demand skills in 3D design. As you can imagine, this opens up a variety of high-demand CAD careers. 

On Sustainability

Dassault hasn’t just committed itself to pushing the boundaries of 3D design. It’s also committed to helping designers create a sustainable future. 

With the growing issue of carbon emissions and pollution, many designers are looking for ways to create more sustainable vehicles and aircraft. A recent innovation in aircraft was the Solar Impulse 2 airplane. It was designed with Dassault’s 3DEXPERIENCE platform. So what’s so special about this aircraft? It completed an around-the-world trip in 17 stages and 16 1/2 months. It was the first circumnavigation of the Earth by a piloted fixed-wing aircraft using only solar power. 

The Solar Impulse

Global population is on the rise and people are increasingly living in cities that were built for smaller populations. Dassault’s 3DEXPERIENCity project is a response to this problem. It allows urban planners to digitally study and test ideas. By doing so, they can consider the impact urbanization has within the boundaries of a city and the entire planet. 

Dassault has also contributed to the development of renewable energy solutions. Their recent partnership with hydropower firm HYDROCHINA CHENGDU aims to enhance hydropower engineering capabilities and help minimize the impact on the environment. Dassault has also had a presence in wind energy—working with Vestas Wind Systems to create a virtual manufacturing referential to promote re-usability and collaboration when responding to local requirements. 

Dassault Systèmes has clearly had a bigger impact on the world than you probably imagined. It will undoubtedly continue to do so in the future. 

The Future: What’s Next?

It’s difficult to say what’s next in Dassault Systèmes’ future, due to how widespread its reach is. There are, however, a few prevailing topics of interest. 

It’s clear that Dassault will continue to broaden its reach to more industries in the future. It has expressed interest in the transportation industry, for example, with driverless cars. Using Dassault’s software, motor manufacturers will be able to design, produce and maintain driverless cars. This would have a huge impact on the transportation industry, the environment and our overall future. 

Going forward, Dassault will concentrate on shortening the distance between what we can imagine and what is real. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform gives industries the ability to design and create innovations in a fully-integrated package. With the growing superiority of technology, users are expecting more and more capabilities from their programs. As such, Dassault will have to work on making its products even more powerful. SIMULIA, for example, may be able to support higher end simulations like non-linear analysis in the near future. 

It’s also safe to say that Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality will feature strongly in Dassault’s future. We’re not far away from designers being able to create and design with VR and AR in SolidWorks and CATIA. Just imagine what this transition from desktop screen to goggles could do to the CAD industry! This could potentially change the entire learning curve for CAD—it might become simple enough that a complete beginner could pick it up and figure out how it works. 

We can’t possibly predict everything that the future might hold for Dassault Systèmes. However, judging from its past successes and huge growth since its inception, it’s safe to say that Dassault will have many innovations to offer users in the future. 

With that in mind, Scan2CAD has created a list of the top 14 CAD freeware packages, so you can enjoy CAD without having to spend a single penny. We’ve included operating systems, supported file types and even a list of extra packages that didn’t quite make the list. Read on… 

We’ve separated this list into two sections:

• → Jump to 2D drafting software
• → Jump to 3D modelling software

Free 2D Drafting Software

We begin our list with some of the most popular and free options for 2D drafting. If you’re new to CAD, you probably want to start here. 

1. DraftSight

Image Source: razorleaf.com

Draftsight used to be a proprietary freeware 2D CAD software until December 31, 2019, when its developer, Dassault Systèmes, put an end to all free versions of the software. Still, Draftsight is available for free for a 30-day trial period. Upon the elapse of the free trial, you will have to choose among three main pricing plans:

• DraftSight Professional at $249/year
• DraftSight Premium at $599/year
• DraftSight Enterprise (pricing available on inquiry)

Other than the change that effectively ended the software’s freeware status, DraftSight is still a 2D CAD design solution. However, the DraftSight Premium package unlocks full 3D capabilities and parametric constraints.

Generally, DraftSight is a professional 2D design and drafting program that lets you create, edit, view, and markup any kind of 2D drawing (or 3D file). It’s a rather simple and minimal program, so it’s easy to make the transition from another type of CAD application to DraftSight. The only requirement to use the program is to activate it via an email address. This CAD program does have an AutoCAD feel to it—in fact, it even uses AutoCAD’s native file format DWG.

It comes with a range of drafting tools that make it the best-in-class 2D CAD program. It has a number of vector entities available, including lines and polylines, dimensions, layering capabilities, and text. Additionally, it enhances collaboration by providing access to Dassault Systèmes’ 3DExperience platform.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu, Fedora
File Formats: DWG, DXF, JPEG, PDF, PNG, SLD, STL, SVG, TIF
Interested? Download now!

2. QCAD

Image Source: Wikimedia

Developed by RibbonSoft, QCAD is a free, open-source application for CAD in 2D. It can be used to create technical drawings such as buildings and their interiors, mechanical parts, diagrams, or schematics. The software was designed with modularity, extensibility, and portability in mind, and it comes with an intuitive user interface. In addition, QCAD is simple to use, so you don’t necessarily need any CAD experience to start with QCAD immediately—which is a great advantage.

It also comes with a variety of useful features. QCAD’s features include:

• Layers
• Bocks
• 35 CAD fonts and support for TrueType fonts
• A library with over 4800 CAD parts
• Support for DWG and DXF (input and output), DGN, DWF, CXF font format, raster image formats (TIFF, BMP, PNG, JPEG, ICO, PPM, XBM, XPM), SVG, and PDF
• Ability to create and modify points, arcs, circles, raster images, fills, dimensions, text, polylines, and more
• Measuring tools
• Support for computer-aided manufacturing: nesting, G-code export, GERBER import,
• Object snaps
• Printing to scale and printing on multiple pages
• Command-line tools and more

In addition to the freeware offering, QCAD users can opt for the paid version named QCAD Professional. This premium version is available for a one-time fee of $39.00 (as of May 2022). It is worth pointing out that installing QCAD for the first time opts you into the free trial for the Pro version. To use the free version, you first have to delete several program files.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: BMP, DGN, DWG, DWF, DXF, ICO, JPEG, PDF, PNG, PPM, SVG, TIFF, XBM, XPM
Interested? Download now

3. LibreCAD

Image Source: Wikimedia

LibreCAD is a free open-source 2D CAD modeling platform. The software began as a project intended to add CAM capabilities to QCAD. During the early months of the project’s existence, the software was known as CADuntu before it was eventually renamed LibreCAD. It comes with a GPLv2 public license, so you can use it, customize it, hack it, and copy it with free user and developer support. It’s a community-driven project, so it’s constantly being improved with new ideas.

LibreCAD comes with high-quality features like snap-to-grid capabilities, which means that you can create straight lines and align objects as you go. It also comes with layers, text, and measurements. Additionally, it is capable of reading DXF and DWG files. Users can then export the 2D drawings using file formats such as PDF, SVG, and DXF. It supports various drawing tools, including blocks, hatches, dimensions, text, polylines, splines, lines, ellipses, and circles. LibreCAD boasts a highly customizable user interface, elaborate snapping system, and custom menus and toolbars.

All these capabilities are packaged in a light downloadable file that will take up less than 30 megabytes. So, you don’t need to have a strong internet connection to start using the software.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: DXF, DWG, JPG, PDF, PNG, SVG
Interested? Download now!

4. Draft IT Systems

Image Source: Softpedia

Draft IT is a 2D system developed by CADLogic. It is primarily most useful for people who are just starting out with CAD. It has no 3D and/or modeling capabilities, so you shouldn’t be expecting anything too complex. It’s essentially a system that is useful for creating plans and diagrams. It also enables users to save and print the resultant drawings. The free version also enables you to use drawing tools such as arcs, lines, rectangles, offset, polar and linear arrays.

That being said, some of its features are disabled in the free version, e.g., dimensioning, layering, and additional drawing tools such as polylines, curve fit, ellipse, hatch, and polygons. The free version also limits supported file formats; for instance, you cannot import AutoCAD DWG and DXF files  

To be able to do more, you would have to upgrade to the Plus or Pro version. So, if you’re looking to do serious, detailed work, you might want to consider other software.

Operating System: Windows
File Formats: DWG, DXF
Interested? Download now!

Free 3D Modeling Software

The world of free CAD software is no-longer limited to 2D drafting applications. As we’ll discover below, there is a wealth of exciting 3D Modelling options available and many of these new solutions are focussing on making a previously complex solution much simpler and easier to use.

5. SketchUp Make and SketchUp Web App

Image Source: SketchUp Community

SketchUp Make is the free open-source 3D modeling version of the popular SketchUp software. However, Trimble, the developers of SketchUp, discontinued the free offering, with the last version of the software being SketchUp Make 2017. As at the time of updating this article, in 2022, the company had also stopped offering the ability to officially download SketchUp Make 2017, although it supported it as of early 2021. The move, the official website explains, was motivated by the fact that the last free version is outdated. This made it vulnerable to security issues that may arise from the outdated open-source libraries.

In this regard, if you want to enjoy the perks of the freeware, you have to download it from third-party websites, which may or may not be safe. But, as we’ll detail shortly, an alternative exists. Firstly though, what is SketchUp Make 2017?  

SketchUp Make 2017 covers a range of applications such as architecture, interior design, civil engineering, and even video game design. It comes with an open-source library of models and a 3D warehouse which is the world’s biggest library of free 3D models. The software is incredibly easy to use, and the SketchUp website provides extra help with tutorials and videos. You can even customize your SketchUp with extensions or by upgrading to SketchUp Pro. If you’re interested in creating more advanced projects, you will have to upgrade to the Pro version, which gives you access to features like simulated film cameras and solid modeling tools.

If you are not ready to jeopardize your computer’s security by downloading the outdated SketchUp Make 2017, you can opt for another free offering from Trimble. The developer offers SketchUp for Web at absolutely no cost. However, you first have to create an account/sign-in in order to use it. After that, you can operate SketchUp Web App using any operating system, computer, smartphone, or browser. It offers numerous drawing and editing tools such as line, arc, move, paint, rotate (orbit), erase, measure, etc.

SketchUp Web App (source)

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Browser-based (Web)
File Formats: 3DS, OBJ, DAE, DWG, DXF, FBX, KMZ, WRL, XSI
Interested? Download now!

6. OnShape

Image Source: OnShape

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux (Runs in most web browsers excluding IE and Edge)
File Formats: STP, IGS, 3DM, STL, OBJ & more.
Interested? Visit OnShape

7. FreeCAD

Image Source: DIWO

FreeCAD is a 100% open-sourced 3D parametric modeler. It’s predominantly aimed at mechanical engineering and product design users because its features are adapted to mechanical engineering. Some of these features include modern finite element analysis (FEA) tools, CNC/CAM workbenches, robot simulation, and experimental computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Still, it can be used by professionals in the architecture field. To back this up, FreeCAD offers dedicated building information management (BIM).

The software enables users to design real-life objects regardless of their perceived size. What makes the software pretty handy is the fact that you can easily edit your drawing by entering your model history and modifying some of its components. This makes it similar to the latest versions of AutoCAD, which support version history.

As a 3D modeler, FreeCAD can be used by anyone interested in creating 3D models – in fact, you don’t even need to have had any CAD experience to use the program comfortably. As with other 3D modelers, FreeCAD does come with 2D components – it allows you to sketch 2D shapes that you can then use as a base to create 3D objects. In this regard, direct 2D drawing is not its focus. Instead, it has a variety of features ranging from 3D solids and support for meshes to a robot simulation module that allows you to study robot movements. If you’re comfortable with SolidWorks, you’ll find FreeCAD easy to use. 

Furthermore, being an open-source platform, FreeCAD allows you to contribute by helping fix bugs, update the documentation, or implement upgrades to the software.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu
File Formats: DAE, DXF, Fcstd, IFC, IGES, OBJ, OFF, NASTRAN, STEP, STL, SVG, VRML
Interested? Download now!

8. Sweet Home 3D

Image Source: Wikimedia

Sweet Home 3D is a free interior design application distributed under GNU General Public License. It gives users the chance to draw floor plans, arrange furniture, and look at the final results in 3D by following a simple three-step process. 

First, in order to draw the floor plans, Sweet Home 3D requires you to import the vector version of a pre-existing drawing. This import acts as a template that you can then use to draw walls, place windows and doors, and add room floors. Any changes made to the 2D plan are simultaneously reflected in a 3D view, which is displayed within the software’s workspace.

Next, decorate and furnish the house. With Sweet Home 3D, you can add color and texture to the floors and walls as well as add furniture, import objects that are drawn using other 3D software – the software supports formats such as 3DS, DAE, OBJ, and KMZ – and customize the color and size of the imported objects.

The software lets you view the 3D model by taking a virtual tour or viewing the 2D design aerially. To make the 3D virtual tour even more realistic, you can set the time and orientation of the house relative to the sun’s position. This allows Sweet Home 3D to include shadows within the virtual tour. Finally, you can render the 2D drawing and 3D model as a photo or video before exporting it as an OBJ, SVG, PDF, or PNG file.

Sweet Home 3D is available for download as desktop software. You can also use it online with any WebGL browser.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux, Browser-based (Web)
File Types: JPEG, OBJ, PDF, PNG, SVG
Interested? Download now! 

9. TinkerCAD

Image Source: 3D Drucken

TinkerCAD is a 3D design and 3D printing web application offered by software giant Autodesk. It bills itself as a “free online collection of software tools that help people all over the world think, create, and make.” It allows users to place a pre-existing or imported shape on a work plane. Placing a shape as a solid or hole enables you to respectively add or remove material to and from the shape you had originally added. With TinkerCAD, you can also adjust shapes by rotating or moving them, as well as combining shapes to create intricate 3D models.

In addition to creating the models, TinkerCAD supports all 3D printers. It also enables users to order 3D prints online from the platform’s 3D printing partners. Additionally, the software enables you to export a section of your model as an SVG file that you can then feed into a laser cutter.

Generally, TinkerCAD is used to create everything from toys and prototypes to home decor and even jewelry. It’s a web-based application, so no downloads are necessary. It’s predominantly used for simple projects – it comes with three basic tools to create basic shapes. Its biggest advantage is that it can create 3D models for immediate 3D printing – with its CSG (Constructive Solid Geometry) feature, you can get a 3D model in 10 minutes! Users can design models from scratch or use ready-made models. The application is limited however, as it cannot be used for complex projects.

Operating System: Browser-based (Web)
File Formats: OBJ, STL
Interested? Check it out here! 

10. 3D Crafter

Image Source: decapod99

3D Crafter is an intuitive, real-time 3D modeling and animation freeware program. It incorporates a drag-and-drop approach to 3D modeling, meaning you can drag an object created using another software to 3D Crafter’s interface. It can create complex models from simple 3D primitives or by using its shape-building tools. In addition, it provides modeling tools that allow users to paint, sculpt, and deform 3D shapes. But that’s not all.

The program can also be used to create animated scenes by simply placing shapes at various timestamps. The scenes can then be viewed in real-time and recorded to a video (AVI) file. It is designed to ensure that the animation you create runs smoothly. Generally, the free version of 3D Crafter offers features such as key-frame manipulation, standard skeletal animation bones, pipe engineer, scene details, and the ability to duplicate, normalize groups, shift the center on selection, reset animation position, and crease all shapes. Furthermore, the software supports multiple import and export formats.

Developed by Amabilis Software, the program also packs additional punches. For instance, you can use the tool roll-up groups feature to customize the program’s interface in such a way that only the tools and items you utilize most regularly are visible. This feature also allows you to access the less frequently used features by just clicking a single button. Whileit has many capabilities, you might need to upgrade to 3DCrafter Pro for more advanced features. The paid version is available for a one-time fee of $39.95, which is a fraction of the cost of animation software such as Autodesk Maya.

Operating System: Windows
File Formats: 3DMF, AC, ASC, COB, DXF, GEO, LP, LWO, NFF, OBJ, MA, RAW, RBS, RWX, STL, VRMLL, XGL, ZGL
Interested? Download now!

11. Sculptris (Now ZCoreBrushMini)

Image Source: Efalinefalin

Formerly Sculptris, ZBrushCoreMini is a 3D modeling freeware program created by industry expert Pixologic. It’s not a general-purpose drafting program; instead, it was designed for 3D sculpting. It was created with the intention to be accessible for every type of artist—from beginner to expert. The program comes with a professional user interface, alongside two main navigation methods: right-click navigation and free moving navigation.

Not only that, but it comes with a number of sculpting tools such as symmetry mode and dynamic tessellation and rendering features, including real-time preview ambient occlusion and turntable movie rendering. There’s also a variety of sculpting brushes that draw, grab, smooth, and flatten. Needless to say, there’s a lot to take advantage of! To use the software, start with a stone block or fear and then use an assortment of 12 digital sculping brushes to remove or include material, creating the sculpture you originally had in mind.

Once you are done with the creation process, you can share your work through the iMage3D GIF and PNG formats, which, when opened using the ZBrushCoreMini, appears in 3D. On any other website, such as a social media platform, however, the model will appear as a regular flat image. You can also use the software to export your model to a 3D printer.

Pixologic offers ZBrushCore, a paid, subscription-based version that boasts more features. For instance, it supports 40 brushes and mesh editing.

Operating System: Windows, Mac
File Formats: OBJ
Interested? Download now!

12. OpenSCAD

Image Source: Peak 5390

OpenSCAD is a 3D modeling CAD freeware platform released under the second version of the General Public License. Unlike most 3D modeling software, it doesn’t focus on the ‘artistic’ aspects of 3D modeling. Instead, it’s more suitable for creating 3D models of machine parts. It works as a 3D compiler that reads a script file that describes an object, rendering the file as a 3D model. In this regard, it does not feature an interactive graphical user interface (GUI) that is synonymous with conventional 3D modeling software.

The compiler-based approach accords the designer complete control over the modeling process. They can make changes on the fly as well as make designs that are designed by configurable parameters. OpenSCAD offers two primary modeling techniques: CSG and the ability to extrude 3D models from 2D outlines that are imported as DXF files.

However, while the software is very intuitive, it’s still too limited for complex projects—so you might have to go elsewhere if you want more advanced features. But its official website has an elaborate documentation section with written and video tutorials, user manuals, articles/blogs, and links to books on how to use OpenSCAD.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux, Ubuntu, Fedora
File Formats: AMF, CSG, DXF, OFF, PNG, SCAD, STL, SVG
Interested? Download now!

13. Blender

Image Source: DRT

Blender is a free and open-source 3D modeling program available under the GNU General Public License. It’s more of an artistic 3D modeling program than a general-use drafting program. It comes with a comprehensive set of capabilities ranging from photo-realistic rendering and fast modeling to realistic materials. Blender even allows designers to make use of an extensive animation toolset to turn still characters into animations. This toolset offers capabilities such as motion tracking, compositing, rendering, simulation, animation, rigging, and modeling, i.e., the entire 3D pipeline. In addition, the software also supports game creation and video editing. These capWhile it is a steep learning curve with Blender, it’s worth it.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: 3DS, BVH, DAE, DFX, FBX, LWO, OBJ, PLY, STL, SVG, VRML/97, x, X3D
Interested? Download now! 

14. LeoCAD

Image Source: LeoCAD

LeoCAD is a CAD freeware program used for creating virtual LEGO models. While you might think that the software is geared towards children, you would be very wrong. This piece of software allows users to create anything from the simplest to the most complex of projects—the above screenshot is a model of the Tower Bridge with over 4,000 pieces! It comes with an intuitive interface that makes the creation process easy and time-efficient. Plus, it comes with over 10,000 different parts and pieces to create 3D models from – these parts are regularly updated, so there are no limits to what you can create! Obviously, the LEGO angle is very niche, but it’s perfect for those wanting to create something a little bit different.

Operating System: Windows, Mac, Linux
File Formats: LDR, DAT
Interested? Download now! 

Honorable Mentions

There’s a huge variety of CAD freeware available, so there are many that didn’t make our final list—but that certainly doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t check them out! Take a look at our list below for even more free software applications to take advantage of:

• NanoCAD
• 3D Slash
• Art of Illusion
• Wings 3D
• ProgeCAD Smart!
• MeshLab

As an added bonus, the following 3 picks are only free for students—but they include some of the most well-known programs on the market:

• Fusion 360
• AutoCAD

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a free AutoCAD version?

AutoCAD is the most popular CAD software around. Boasting plenty of features already packed into it, with Autodesk striving to introduce new features and tools every year, the software comes at a premium. But the value it offers users makes the investment worthwhile. That said, depending on your requirements, you can get AutoCAD for free. For example, the Autodesk Education & Student Access program allows educators and students to download and use AutoCAD for free. Alternatively, you can use the software for free during the free trial period. We have answered this question more elaborately in our article.

Is there a free SketchUp version?

Our discussion above explores SketchUp Make, Trimble’s freeware that has since been discontinued because it is outdated and, therefore, poses a security risk. That said, there is a free up-to-date SketchUp version: SketchUp Web App. But as the name suggests, it is not available as desktop software. To download and install a desktop version, you have to choose a paid tier. There are various paid SketchUp products and license options from which to choose. More on this in our roundup of SketchUp’s pricing model.

What is the best 2D drawing/drafting software for beginners?

LibreCAD offers an intuitive interface that is simple, organized, and easy to understand. This, coupled with the fact that it does not require the user to follow unnecessary procedures as is the case with QCAD – which requires users to delete some program files to use the free version – makes it ideal for beginners.

What is the best 3D modeling software for beginners?

SketchUp Web App. If you are starting out, you may not have a powerful computer that enables you to install certain software. You may not even have a computer in the first place. With SketchUp Web App, which is available for free, you can begin your 3D modeling journey on a less powerful computer or mobile phone. The application also has plenty of tools.

What is the best artistic 3D modeling software?

Blender. It offers a selection of powerful tools for free. According to the developer, VFX professionals even claim that the software’s motion tracking capability is probably the best in the market. Moreover, it outperforms other programs in this list by not reserving some features for paying users.

Parting Shot

Some of the set prices for popular CAD software may be off-putting to hobbyists and beginners. Fortunately, there are plenty of free alternatives designed to suit their needs and preferences. The freeware programs fall into a wide range of categories, including sculpting, CAM, 2D drafting, animation, 3D modeling, etc. And based on our discussion, each category has its standout solution. Here is a summary:

• Best free 2D modeling software: LibreCAD
• Best free 3D modeling software: SketchUp Web App
• Best free web-based 3D modeling software: SketchUp
• Best free artistic 3D modeling software: Blender
• Best free interior design-focused 3D modeling software: Sweet Home 3D
• Best free mechanical engineering-focused 3D modeling software: FreeCAD

Don’t forget to try out Scan2CAD’s blog for the latest news—covering everything from CAD Freelancers to Top 3D CAD Models to Try Out to Sites with Free DXF Designs!