Top AutoCAD Alternatives and Overview

Designers and Architects use practical tools that let them complete their work within the required time. They work on strict schedules to design prototypes and create 3D plans for structures. The tools need to supply them with all the features they require during the process and also enable them to enhance their workflow. AutoCAD is a reputed player in this field. With years of experience in assisting designers in creating 3D and 2D models for production to plans for building constructions, AutoCAD has an unrivaled hold in this area of expertise. The customization features offered include external plugins and file type compatibility with different software from other developers.

Specialized tools for every category

AutoCAD features a unique set of tools that cater to each specific kind of designing work done within its software ecosystem. The industry-specific features offered include architecture, electronics, and mechanical engineering design, to name a few. Further, it lets users automate different activities, including floor planning, elevations, and sections of buildings.

It enables drawing pipelines and electrical wirings using parts library – a set of pre-defined tools that can be dragged and dropped to create the desired effect on the design. Annotations and tables can be auto-generated to save time and effort. Most importantly, it allows for a rule-driven workflow to get things done better.

Cross-platform working

Portability of projects is essential for any kind of workflow, including designing and 3D modeling. AutoCAD is available as a cross-platform app on several devices, including smartphones and web. Edit and annotate files anywhere using the mobile app or browser-based implementation of the software. The application is available for Android and iOS devices, as well as on the Windows Store.

The mobile apps have almost the same functionality as the full-featured desktop app, so the limitation would be the amount of content that can be displayed on the smartphone screen.

Intelligent workflow for each task

AutoCAD has special tools that help to complete different tasks. For each task, there is a particular way of doing it. AutoCAD knows this customizable workflow very well. They have different modules and component-based workflow for various processes. For architecture and civil engineering design, they provide a specialized toolset curated for the same.

For electrical wirings and circuitry planning, another specialized toolkit is available, which integrates with the parts library to enable drag and drop placement of objects in the circuit. Similarly, mechanical designs, including moving parts with real-time motion physics, can also be designed effortlessly.

Company Name: Autodesk

Founded in: 1982