About AutoCAD
What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a computer aided design application that allows users to create 2D and 3D drawings.
How do I use AutoCAD?
Users can utilize toolsets to create models, drawings, schedules, and more. Users are able to create models of solids, mesh objects, and surfaces.
Who uses AutoCAD?
Architects, engineers, and construction professionals
Does AutoCAD have an app?
AutoCAD has an app for iOS, Android, and Windows 10 mobile devices.
AutoCAD pricing
AutoCAD has a free version and offers a free trial. AutoCAD paid version starts at USD 235.00/month.
Alternatives to AutoCAD
AutoCAD Reviews
Feature rating
- Industry: Construction
- Company size: 10,000+ Employees
- Used Weekly for 2+ years
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Review Source
Lightweight, Easy to use Rapid 2D Drafting Software
I have been using AutoCAD for 5-6 years and it has been good experience. The learning curve of the software is non-steep and after learning few commands become intuitive. Mostly used the conversion feature from PDF to DWG which works great but however there is still room for perfection.
Pros
Great 2D Drafting software. Helps to quickly check and verify ideas using 2d elevation, plan etc. Used it extensively during tower crane erection and dismantling preparation for the creation of scheme drawings. Favourite Feature - PDFIMPORT. Best part - keyboard commands shortucts which differentiates it from other CAD applications.
Cons
The cost is very high. Unsustainable for an individual to acquire. Had used it on student and organizational license. The PDFIMPORT function can be improved - lots of information is turned to noise during conversion from PDF to DWG. Dimensions also get incorrectly scaled - maybe with the application of AI the conversion can be streamlined as this is one of the best feature.
- Industry: Construction
- Company size: 51–200 Employees
- Used Weekly for 2+ years
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Review Source
Easiest to implement and most reliable CAD software
I have been using AutoCAD for more than 14 years, and it has been crucial in every project we used it, both academically and professionally. However, in the last couple of years, I have started to migrate complex projects to Revit and maintain Interior works in AutoCAD.
Pros
Easiest to implement and most reliable CAD software in the market. Very versatile for early stages and even entire projects.
Cons
When developing large and complex projects, AutoCAD might not be the best alternative as you have to develop more drawings. If that is the case, you might want to go for Revit instead.
- Industry: Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
- Company size: 51–200 Employees
- Used Weekly for 1-5 months
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Review Source
Autocad review
Pros
I like most of the features and drafting
Cons
This product is difficult to learn and takes a lot to learn
- Industry: Design
- Company size: 2–10 Employees
- Used Weekly for 2+ years
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Review Source
A design screwdriver
Autocad is like a screwdriver, that you can sometime find outdated, but does always the work with some effort.
Pros
The consistency of a design tool evolving trough the years
Cons
The difficult management of the complexity and the still over-structured approach to print.
Alternatives Considered
ARCHICADReasons for Switching to AutoCAD
I used in parallel. In the architecture studio I was collaborating with Archicad was a must use for big project design management. Autocad still has some pro and fits better product design approach.- Industry: Construction
- Company size: 501–1,000 Employees
- Used Daily for 1+ year
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Review Source
Autocad for 2D drafting
Overall experience is good and recommended for averyone.
Pros
.This is the most precise drafting tool ever made. Normally I use this tool for 2D drafting in civil engineering related drawings. Easy to use due to developed tool menus and also specially due to real world commands.
Cons
When it comes to civil engineering related 3d drawings, AutoCAD is not so user friendly when compared with Revit.