The Best Draft it Alternatives for Your CAD Needs
Draft It V4 is a powerful, easy-to-use 2D CAD software package known for being completely free with no restrictions, allowing users to create, save, and print their work without limitations. While its free version is excellent, the initial 15-day trial of its other versions might leave some users looking for more specialized features, different platforms, or simply a change of pace. If you're seeking a robust Draft it alternative, whether for 3D modeling, cross-platform compatibility, or advanced engineering tools, you've come to the right place.
Top Draft it Alternatives
Finding the perfect CAD software depends on your specific design requirements and budget. We've compiled a list of the top alternatives to Draft it, ranging from free and open-source options to professional-grade commercial solutions, ensuring there's a fit for every user.
SketchUp
SketchUp, formerly Google Sketchup, is a popular 3D modeling program suitable for a wide range of applications, including architectural, interior design, and civil engineering. It’s a great Draft it alternative for those needing robust 3D capabilities, offering features like 3D modeling, 3D sketching, clear and fast workflow, and even browser-based access. SketchUp is available on Freemium, Mac, Windows, and Web platforms.
LibreCAD
LibreCAD, an open-source 2D CAD application, is an excellent free Draft it alternative, especially for users who value community support and flexibility. It's available on Windows, Apple, Linux, and PortableApps.com, and is based on Qt for cross-platform compatibility. Its features include BIM, construction layers, and drawing tools, making it a solid choice for 2D drafting.
Autodesk AutoCAD
Autodesk AutoCAD is the industry standard for professional 2D and 3D CAD software, offering specialized tools for design and engineering disciplines. While a commercial solution, it’s a powerful Draft it alternative for serious professionals, providing extensive features like 2D drawing, DWG support, and batch plotting. It's available on Mac, Windows, Web, Android, iPhone, and iPad platforms.
OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is a free and open-source software for creating solid 3D CAD objects, distinguishing itself by being a programmatic CAD system. Unlike traditional modeling, it reads a script file that describes the object, making it ideal for engineers and programmers. It's an excellent free Draft it alternative for those focusing on 3D modeling through code, available on Linux/UNIX, MS Windows, and MacOS.
SOLIDWORKS
SOLIDWORKS is a leading 3D CAD software for design, analysis, and product data management. This commercial Draft it alternative is geared towards boosting productivity with features like 3D modeling, easy measurements, 2D drawing, parametric modeling, and simulation. It's a robust solution for Windows users needing comprehensive engineering and design tools.
DraftSight
DraftSight is an ambitious and more affordable commercial Draft it alternative, specifically focusing on 2D CAD with support for 3D. It provides a familiar user interface for those accustomed to AutoCAD, offering features like 2D drawing and 3D sketching. It's a strong contender for Windows users seeking a cost-effective yet powerful drafting tool.
BRL-CAD
BRL-CAD is an open-source 3D geometry modeling system with a robust feature set developed over 20 years. As a free Draft it alternative, it offers benchmark analytics, image processing, and extensive 3D modeling capabilities. It's available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, appealing to users who need advanced, open-source 3D modeling for scientific and engineering applications.
BricsCAD
BricsCAD is a comprehensive commercial CAD design solution in .dwg format, answering needs across 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM. It's a powerful Draft it alternative for those seeking an all-in-one solution with features like 3D modeling, BIM, BIM import, 2D drawing, DWG support, mechanical design, and mechanical simulation. It's available on Mac, Windows, and Linux.
pCon.planner
pCon.planner is a cost-free application designed for comfortably and professionally creating complex furnishing 2D/3D plans. As a free Draft it alternative, it's particularly useful for interior design and space planning, offering WYSIWYG support and robust drawing features. It is available specifically for Windows users.
Open CASCADE
Open CASCADE Technology is a software development platform freely available in open source, including components for 3D surface and solid modeling, visualization, and data exchange. It's a powerful, free, and open-source Draft it alternative for developers and users needing a comprehensive framework for building CAD/CAM/CAE applications, available on Windows and Linux.
Whether you prioritize affordability, advanced 3D modeling, cross-platform compatibility, or specific industry features, there's a Draft it alternative out there to meet your CAD software needs. Explore these options and find the best fit to enhance your design workflow.