Top AutoCAD Alternatives

Here are the best alternatives to AutoCAD. Explore top AutoCAD competitors offering similar features, benefits, and functionality. Choose the one that meets your needs, whether you want better pricing, advanced features, or enhanced customization. Use this comparison to discover tools that compete with AutoCAD and may better align with your needs.

AutoCAD
Autodesk
Trimble
Price - Starting from
Monthly
$250
/mo
30-day free trial
Price - Starting from
Education
$250
/mo
30-day money-back guarantee
Price - Starting from
Trimble Connect
$10
/mo
Most Recommended
Expert Pros
3D rendering + 2D drafting
High performing platform
Time-saving features
A wealth of learning resources available
Expert Pros
Ability to collaborate with consultants in one model is astonishing
Saves so much time
Very easy to edit dimensions in the part files
Expert Pros
Amazing communication feature
Efficient project management
Can be programmed
Expert Cons
Complex interface
Steep learning curve
Relatively high cost for casual users
Expert Cons
Difficulty in navigating the cloud detection interface
Large assemblies will require large computing power
Expert Cons
Pricing can’t be predicted
High barrier to entry

AutoCAD CAD Alternatives

Autodesk
Autodesk
Starting from:
$250 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Available
Learn more about Autodesk review.
Autodesk is a software provider that provides solutions for engineering, architecture, and construction works. They help you adapt to a world of remote work and new design challenges. They not only provide you with software, but they also guide you through how to use it.
Features

Design Features

v-pro
Visualizing
v-pro
Rendering
v-pro
Drawing
v-pro
Editing
v-pro
Sequence Steps
v-pro
Modeling
v-pro
Dynamic Updating

Edit Features

v-pro
File Import
v-pro
Push/Pull
v-pro
Views
v-pro
Grips

Collaboration

v-pro
Multi-User
v-pro
File Import/Export
v-pro
Annotate
v-pro
Documentation
v-pro
Data Extract

Construction

v-pro
Fabrication
v-pro
Reinforcement Tools
v-pro
Clash Detection
v-pro
Grading
v-pro
Earthwork
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Ability to collaborate with consultants in one model is astonishing
v-pro
Saves so much time
v-pro
Very easy to edit dimensions in the part files

Cons

x-con
Difficulty in navigating the cloud detection interface
x-con
Large assemblies will require large computing power
Trimble
Trimble
Starting from:
$10 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Available
Learn more about Trimble review.
Trimble Inc. is a global leader in technology solutions that transform the way the world works by connecting the physical and digital worlds. The company provides advanced 3D modeling technologies, laser scanning, GNSS survey solutions, and extended reality devices. These tools improve project delivery, visualization, and maintenance in construction, geospatial, and agriculture industries. Trimble's CAD and design capabilities streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and optimize decision-making for efficient, high-quality project outcomes. Trimble software can be used in industries such as agriculture, construction, geospatial, transportation, and logistics.
Features

Design Features

v-pro
Visualizing
v-pro
Rendering
v-pro
Drawing
v-pro
Editing
v-pro
Sequence Steps
v-pro
Modeling
v-pro
Dynamic Updating

Edit Features

v-pro
File Import
v-pro
Push/Pull
v-pro
Views
v-pro
Grips

Collaboration

v-pro
Multi-User
v-pro
File Import/Export
v-pro
Annotate
v-pro
Documentation
v-pro
Data Extract

Construction

v-pro
Fabrication
v-pro
Reinforcement Tools
v-pro
Clash Detection
v-pro
Grading
v-pro
Earthwork
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Amazing communication feature
v-pro
Efficient project management
v-pro
Can be programmed

Cons

x-con
Pricing can’t be predicted
x-con
High barrier to entry
Bentley Systems
Bentley Systems
Starting from:
$1000 One-Time Annual Fee
Free plan / Free trial:
Not Available
Learn more about Bentley Systems review.
Bentley Systems is a leading provider of infrastructure engineering software, offering solutions like MicroStation for CAD design and the Bentley Infrastructure Cloud for real-time project collaboration. Their software enhances project delivery, asset performance, and sustainable development, adding significant business value through improved efficiency and data-driven workflows. Bentley's tools support diverse infrastructure projects, ensuring precision and innovation across the industry.
Features

Design Features

v-pro
Visualizing
v-pro
Rendering
v-pro
Drawing
v-pro
Editing
v-pro
Sequence Steps
v-pro
Modeling
v-pro
Dynamic Updating

Edit Features

v-pro
File Import
v-pro
Push/Pull
v-pro
Views
v-pro
Grips

Collaboration

v-pro
Multi-User
v-pro
File Import/Export
v-pro
Annotate
v-pro
Documentation
v-pro
Data Extract

Construction

v-pro
Fabrication
v-pro
Reinforcement Tools
v-pro
Clash Detection
v-pro
Grading
v-pro
Earthwork
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Easy to use
v-pro
Value for money

Cons

x-con
A little complicated at first use
x-con
There’s no dark mode
Bricsys
Bricsys
Starting from:
$314 /yr
Free plan / Free trial:
Not Available
Learn more about Bricsys review.
Being an all-in-one CAD solution for architects, engineers, and contractors, Bricsys offers an easy-to-understand standard design user interface with a familiar ribbon toolbar using similar commands and menus as AutoCAD.
Features

Design Features

v-pro
Visualizing
v-pro
Rendering
v-pro
Drawing
v-pro
Editing
v-pro
Sequence Steps
v-pro
Modeling
v-pro
Dynamic Updating

Edit Features

v-pro
File Import
v-pro
Push/Pull
v-pro
Views
v-pro
Grips

Collaboration

v-pro
Multi-User
v-pro
File Import/Export
v-pro
Annotate
v-pro
Documentation
v-pro
Data Extract

Construction

v-pro
Fabrication
v-pro
Reinforcement Tools
v-pro
Clash Detection
v-pro
Grading
v-pro
Earthwork
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
High compatibility with AutoCAD
v-pro
High performance
v-pro
Combination of 3D modeling with 2D drafting
v-pro
Flexible pricing plans

Cons

x-con
Some commands are different from AutoCAD
x-con
Migration from other CAD software can be difficult
x-con
Delay in response from the support team
SmartDraw
SmartDraw
Starting from:
$9.95 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Available
Learn more about SmartDraw review.
SmartDraw is a versatile diagramming tool that makes it easy to create over 70 types of diagrams, including flowcharts, organizational charts, UML diagrams, ERDs, network diagrams, and floor plans. It's compatible with both Windows and Mac, and you can even use it online through your web browser. With a vast library of templates and symbols, you can craft professional diagrams in minutes. SmartDraw integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and other popular platforms, enhancing collaboration and productivity. In this SmartDraw review, I'll cover its features, performance, customer service, and how it compares to other diagramming tools.
Features

Design Features

v-pro
Visualizing
v-pro
Rendering
v-pro
Drawing
v-pro
Editing
v-pro
Sequence Steps
v-pro
Modeling
v-pro
Dynamic Updating

Edit Features

v-pro
File Import
v-pro
Push/Pull
v-pro
Views
v-pro
Grips

Collaboration

v-pro
Multi-User
v-pro
File Import/Export
v-pro
Annotate
v-pro
Documentation
v-pro
Data Extract

Construction

v-pro
Fabrication
v-pro
Reinforcement Tools
v-pro
Clash Detection
v-pro
Grading
v-pro
Earthwork
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Easy to use software
v-pro
Cheap and affordable compared to its competitors
v-pro
Accessible on the go, on any device

Cons

x-con
Some in-built functions are not customizable
x-con
Unsophisticated collaboration features
x-con
Unable to export to Visio for file sharing