MicroStation vs AutoCAD

by Gralio Mar 07, 2025

MicroStation and AutoCAD are both powerful design tools catering to different needs. MicroStation shines in complex 3D projects, especially in infrastructure, while AutoCAD offers broader accessibility and stronger 2D drafting features. Choose MicroStation for specialized large-scale projects, and AutoCAD for versatile design tasks across various platforms.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 4380 reviews and 60 websites, saving 1 day, 50 minutes of reading.

MicroStation

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AutoCAD

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About

MicroStation is a powerful 3D design software used primarily by architects and engineers to design, model, and visualize infrastructure projects. It's known for its flexibility and comprehensive toolset, allowing users to work in both 2D and 3D without needing additional software. MicroStation is often used for large-scale projects in sectors like construction, energy, and transportation, helping teams collaborate and manage projects from start to finish.

AutoCAD is a design and drafting software to create 2D and 3D models. It offers industry-specific tools for fields like architecture and manufacturing. AutoCAD stands out with its web and mobile apps, enabling work from anywhere. It promises increased productivity through specialized features and a familiar interface.

Summary

Main difference

MicroStation is a robust 3D design software tailored for large-scale infrastructure projects, offering comprehensive tools for architects and engineers. AutoCAD, while also capable of 3D modeling, excels in 2D drafting and offers greater flexibility with web and mobile applications, making it suitable for a broader range of design tasks.

Relative strengths of MicroStation (compared to AutoCAD)

Stronger 3D modeling capabilities, particularly for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Excellent integration with other Bentley products, creating a unified workflow.
Handles large and complex datasets efficiently.

Relative weaknesses of MicroStation (compared to AutoCAD)

Steeper learning curve and less intuitive interface compared to AutoCAD.
Higher cost and less flexible licensing options.
Limited cross-platform compatibility, primarily focused on Windows.

Who should use MicroStation VS. AutoCAD

MicroStation is a robust 3D design software ideal for architects, engineers, and construction managers working on large-scale infrastructure projects. Users praise its customizable tools and 2D drafting capabilities. However, some find the software's performance slow with large files and the learning curve steep. Consider MicroStation if your projects demand precise 2D and 3D modeling within a collaborative environment, but be prepared for potential performance issues and a challenging initial learning phase.

AutoCAD is user-friendly design and drafting software for 2D and 3D modeling. It offers specialized tools for various industries and mobile accessibility. Users praise its intuitive interface and customization, but some experience performance issues and find the cost high. Best for businesses needing robust, industry-standard design software.

Ideal for medium to large businesses involved in complex infrastructure projects.
Best fit for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industries, but also applicable to Energy, Transportation, and other sectors requiring robust 3D modeling.

Best for medium to large businesses (101+ employees).
Ideal for Manufacturing, Real Estate & Construction, and Media & Entertainment.

MicroStation and AutoCAD features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

Parts suppliers integration

Not supported

MicroStation does not directly integrate with parts suppliers systems.

Partially supported

AutoCAD does not directly integrate with parts suppliers but Autodesk offers other tools that do.
CAD Software

Supported

MicroStation is CAD software that supports creating, modifying, analyzing, and optimizing designs.

Supported

AutoCAD enables creation, modification, analysis, and optimization of designs.
Drafting

Supported

MicroStation creates 2D drawings from 3D models.

Supported

AutoCAD allows creation of 2D drawings from 3D models using various built-in tools.
Dimensioning

Supported

MicroStation supports both automatic and manual 2D dimensioning tools.

Supported

AutoCAD supports manual and automatic dimensioning tools for 2D drawings.
DWG support

Supported

MicroStation supports importing and exporting DWG files.

Supported

AutoCAD fully supports importing and exporting DWG files.
2D Sketching

Supported

MicroStation supports 2D sketching for geometry, primarily for infrastructure and building design.

Supported

AutoCAD supports 2D sketching for defining part geometry.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

+0

Neutral sentiment

-0.56

Rather negative sentiment
Customer Service

No data

+0.78

Strongly positive sentiment
Ease of Use

+0.83

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.72

Strongly positive sentiment
Reliability and Performance

+0.33

Rather positive sentiment

+0.26

Neutral sentiment
Ease of Implementation

-0.2

Neutral sentiment

+0.11

Neutral sentiment
Scalability

No data

-0.45

Rather negative sentiment

MicroStation and AutoCAD Pricing

No data

We couldn't find a pricing page for MicroStation.

No data

User sentiment

Rather negative

-0.56

See full Pricing page

MicroStation and AutoCAD review insights

4380 reviews analysed from and

Users love

User-friendly interface and easy navigation.
Customizable tools and workspaces.
Excellent 2D drafting capabilities.
Good integration with other Bentley products.
Helpful embedded videos and tutorials (some users).

Intuitive and user-friendly interface for 2D drafting, praised for its ease of use and familiar commands.
Extensive customization options, including custom commands, shortcuts, and workspaces.
Widely used and recognized as an industry standard, ensuring compatibility and collaboration.
Vast online resources, tutorials, and a large user community provide ample support.
Precise and accurate drawing tools, essential for detailed technical drawings and plans.

Users dislike

Slow performance, especially with large files.
Poor documentation and lack of helpful tutorials.
Clunky and outdated interface, not user-friendly.
Limited 3D capabilities compared to competitors.
Difficult to learn, steep learning curve.

Performance issues, slowdowns, and crashes are frequently reported, especially with larger files and 3D modeling.
High cost of licensing and subscription model is a major concern for individuals and small businesses.
3D modeling capabilities are considered limited compared to dedicated 3D software.
Steep learning curve and complex interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
Limited file format compatibility and occasional issues with importing/exporting files.

MicroStation and AutoCAD Ratings

Glassdoor

3.9/5

(1414)

Glassdoor

4.3/5

(4861)

Company health

Employee growth

4% increase in the last year

2% increase in the last year

Web traffic

3% decrease in the last quarter

2% decrease in the last quarter

Financing

July 2013 - $791K

April 2020 - $0

How do MicroStation and AutoCAD compare for 3D modeling infrastructure projects?

For 3D modeling of infrastructure projects, MicroStation is generally preferred by those working on very large-scale projects, particularly in the civil engineering space, due to its robust handling of complex geometries and large datasets. AutoCAD, while capable of 3D modeling, is often considered more suitable for smaller to medium-sized projects and is praised for its user-friendly interface and wider adoption across various industries. While both offer tools for infrastructure design, MicroStation's focus and deeper feature set within that niche often make it the choice for larger firms specializing in infrastructure, while AutoCAD's versatility and broader appeal cater to a wider range of projects and disciplines.

Which product is easier to learn for users familiar with 2D drafting?

AutoCAD is likely easier to learn for users familiar with 2D drafting. While both products offer 2D drafting capabilities, AutoCAD's user reviews frequently praise its intuitive interface and familiar commands for 2D work. MicroStation, while also capable, has user reviews mentioning a steeper learning curve. Combined with AutoCAD's readily available online resources and large user community, it offers a more accessible entry point for those experienced in 2D drafting.

What are the advantages of MicroStation?

MicroStation's advantages include its strength in 2D drafting and 3D modeling within a single platform, particularly beneficial for large-scale infrastructure projects. Its comprehensive toolset and flexibility allow users to handle complex designs without switching between software. Furthermore, its good integration with other Bentley products creates a streamlined workflow for users already within the Bentley ecosystem.

What are the disadvantages of MicroStation?

MicroStation suffers from slow performance, especially with large files, and has a steep learning curve. Users also complain about poor documentation and a clunky, outdated interface that is not user-friendly. Some users also find its 3D capabilities limited compared to competitors.

Alternatives to MicroStation and AutoCAD

SketchUp

SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that's easy to use, yet powerful enough for professionals in architecture, interior design, and construction. Visualize projects of any size, create detailed 2D drawings from your models, and share your vision with colleagues and clients through presentations and immersive visuals. SketchUp is known for its intuitive interface and is used by individuals and companies worldwide, from small design studios to large architectural firms.

XTEN-AV

XTEN-AV is a cloud-based software designed for the audiovisual industry. It helps businesses create professional AV designs and proposals with tools like automated drawing generation, a library of over 1.5 million AV products, and proposal templates. XTEN-AV offers collaboration features, integrations with popular business applications, and a virtual reality platform to visualize room designs. Pricing is tiered based on user count and feature access.

PLAXIS 2D

PLAXIS 2D is a software designed for engineers working on infrastructure and construction projects. It helps analyze the ground's behavior under various conditions, such as excavations or building foundations. Using advanced calculations, it predicts how the ground might move or deform, ensuring safer and more stable designs. It's a widely used tool in the industry, known for its accuracy and powerful features for simulating complex scenarios.

BricsCAD

BricsCAD is a cost-effective computer-aided design (CAD) software that works on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and building information modeling (BIM). BricsCAD aims to be familiar to users of other CAD software, enabling a quick transition. It boasts innovative features like machine learning to improve drawing accuracy and efficiency. BricsCAD offers both permanent and subscription licensing options to fit various needs and budgets.

IGiS CAD

IGiS CAD is a professional software for 2D and 3D design used across various industries like architecture, engineering, and construction. This robust tool enables users to draft, model, and analyze projects efficiently, from initial planning to execution. IGiS CAD aims to deliver a comprehensive solution for precise and detailed design work.

PIPEPHASE

PIPEPHASE is a software used by oil and gas companies to simulate the flow of oil and gas through pipelines. It helps companies design, plan, and optimize their pipeline systems. PIPEPHASE allows companies to model different scenarios, like changing production rates or pipeline diameters, to see how it impacts efficiency and profitability. This helps companies make informed decisions about their pipeline operations, leading to improved performance and reduced costs.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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