FreeCAD – AutoCAD alternative
FreeCAD is another AutoCAD alternative in our list. It is a nice 3D modeling software for beginners.
It gives you the ability to draw 3D object while giving them parameters thus allowing you to easily come back and modify the modeling parameters of your design after creation.
It is a free and open source software.
FreeCAD works on Windows, Mac and Linux.
FreeCAD reads and writes files as STEP, IGES, OBJ, STL, DXF, SVG, STL, DAE, IFC and more (you can find the full list on freecadweb.org)
Amongst the variety of application you can orientate your learning curve toward, FreeCAD allows you to draw using feature suitable for architecture projects, 2D Sketch projects, Robot simulation projects, Drawing sheets.
You can find tutorials and step by step instructions for beginners, intermediate and Advanced CAD designers on their website.
You can download FreeCAD on freecadweb.org
Below you will find the complete list of our pick for AutoCAD alternatives
| Software Name | Platform | 2D | 3D | Free of charge? | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LibreCAD – AutoCAD alternative | Windows Mac Linux | Yes | No | Yes | Open source software. |
| FreeCAD – AutoCAD alternative | Windows Mac Linux | Yes | Yes | Yes | Parametric 3D modeling software. Open source. Nice option for beginners |
| NanoCAD – AutoCAD Alternative | Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes | Support dwg files. Online support available for users |
| BRL CAD – AutoCAD Alternative | Windows Mac Linux | Yes | Yes | Yes | Free and open source advance modeling software |
| Draftsight - AutoCAD Alternative | Windows Mac Linux | Yes | Yes | Yes | Nice option for CAD beginners. AutoCAD free look alike CAD software. limited 3D capability |
| DoubleCAD XT – AutoCAD Alternative | Windows | Yes | No | Yes | AutoCAD LT Free alternative. Support only 2D. Advanced version supporting 3D for sale |
| BricsCAD – AutoCAD alternative | Windows Linux | Yes | Yes | No | Advance CAD software. Cheap alternative to AutoCAD for small businesses |
| OpenSCAD – AutoCAD Alternative | Windows Mac Linux | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good free AutoCAD alternative for machine part design. |
| IronCAD – AutoCAD Alternative | Windows | Yes | Yes | No | Advanced 3D modeling CAD software. |
| ArchiCAD – AutoCAD Alternative | Windows Mac | Yes | Yes | No | CAD software for Architect. Free academic version available |
