Top ArchiCAD Alternatives

CAD software programs are mostly used to execute architectural or machine design work. These programs are capable of creating a quality design of buildings, structures, machines, tools, and even do simulation for various forces, impacts, and other distortions. They are very popular among students, architectures, design engineers, etc.  

Among many such CAD programs, ARCHICAD, by GRAPHISOFT, is one of the known products for architectural CAD design. It is a BIM software with advanced design and simulation features. It also offers a live 3D visualization technology to see those 2D and 3D designs come alive. It was first initiated in 1982 for Apple Macintosh. It is the first of CAD software, able to create both 2D and 3D geometry. It now houses over 120k users, including big companies.

ARCHICAD has been top-notch BIM app since its inception and continued to be so. It has features like predictive processing, 3D visualizations, project management, Trace Function, Morph and Shell Modelling, OpenGL navigation, generative design, etc. Most of its interface touts as one of the easiest among other BIM products.

Advanced Tools and Parametric Objects

ARCHICAD offers advanced tools, especially for designing parametric objects. It uses virtual elements or blocks for creating real-life virtual stuff like walls, stairs, slabs, roofs, furniture, etc. These designs are mostly preset and can also be optimized as per design. 2D exported drawings can be converted into 3D form. It will generate a 3D form from plans, elevation, and sections. More items can be added or edited in the converted drawings. The predictive programming scans each workspace and suggests for the nest space accordingly.

Collaboration and Data Interchange

Surprisingly, ARCHICAD offers collaboration and remote device access, even though it is a CAD product. The collaboration tool allows Teamwork software. It connects through protocols like LDAP, HTTP/HTTPS, etc. Cloud storage is used as a central storage for collaboration services.

Similarly, remote users can integrate architectural features via API and other scripts provided by ARCHICAD. Lastly, it can export/import files in DWG, DXF, and other such formats. The 3D models can be saved in BIMx format, accessible using any BIMx viewer worldwide.

Overall, ARCHICAD has been the pioneer of the latest technology and tools in BIM Design products. Its Multi-core utilization helps to improve product performance even with advanced tools and rendering. Its educational and business licenses are separate, making it more accessible worldwide.