ZWCAD vs AutoCAD

by Gralio Mar 12, 2025

ZWCAD and AutoCAD are both CAD software solutions, but they cater to different needs and budgets. ZWCAD excels in affordability and ease of use, making it suitable for businesses seeking a cost-effective alternative to AutoCAD. AutoCAD, while pricier, provides a wider range of features, superior 3D capabilities, and mobile/web access, making it a better fit for larger enterprises and projects demanding advanced functionalities.

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 4051 reviews and 60 websites, saving 23 hours of reading.

ZWCAD

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AutoCAD

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About

ZWCAD is a cost-effective computer-aided design (CAD) software for professionals in architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. It's known for its user-friendly design and compatibility with industry-standard file formats, making it a popular alternative to more expensive CAD software. ZWCAD offers a range of tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and data management, helping businesses streamline their design processes from concept to production.

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

ZWCAD is a cost-effective CAD software prioritizing DWG compatibility and a user-friendly experience, making it suitable for businesses seeking an affordable AutoCAD alternative. AutoCAD, while more expensive, offers broader features, mobile/web access, and deeper 3D capabilities, making it better for larger businesses or those needing advanced functionalities.

Relative strengths of ZWCAD (compared to AutoCAD)

Cost-effective perpetual licensing options, ideal for budget-conscious businesses.
User-friendly interface and familiar command structure, simplifying the transition from other CAD software, especially AutoCAD.
Strong DWG compatibility ensures seamless file exchange with other CAD users.

Relative weaknesses of ZWCAD (compared to AutoCAD)

Limited 3D modeling capabilities compared to AutoCAD.
Occasional stability issues and crashes, especially with large or complex files.
Fewer advanced features and specialized toolsets compared to AutoCAD.

Who should use ZWCAD VS. AutoCAD

ZWCAD is a cost-effective CAD software for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and data management. Users praise its user-friendly interface, speed, and similarity to AutoCAD, while noting occasional crashes and differences in some commands. Ideal for businesses seeking an affordable alternative to high-priced CAD software.

AutoCAD empowers architects, engineers, and designers with robust 2D and 3D modeling tools. Users praise its intuitive interface and extensive customization. However, some experience performance issues with larger files. Best for medium to large businesses in manufacturing, real estate, construction, and media.

Best fit for medium-sized businesses (101-1000 employees), good fit for large enterprises, limited fit for small businesses.
Well-suited for the manufacturing industry.

Best for medium to large businesses (100+ employees).
Ideal for Manufacturing, Real Estate & Construction, and Media & Entertainment.

ZWCAD 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

Drafting

Supported

ZWCAD can create 2D drawings from 3D models using the Drawing View feature.

Supported

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

Supported

ZWCAD supports automatic and manual 2D dimensioning tools.

Supported

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

Supported

ZWCAD fully supports importing and exporting DWG files.

Supported

AutoCAD fully supports importing and exporting DWG files.
DWG import

Supported

ZWCAD can import DWG files, ensuring compatibility with AutoCAD and other CAD software.

Supported

AutoCAD natively uses DWG files, so importing them is supported.
2D Sketching

Supported

ZWCAD supports 2D sketching for defining part geometry.

Supported

AutoCAD supports 2D sketching for defining part geometry.
2D drawing

Supported

ZWCAD supports creating and editing 2D drawings, including converting 3D models to 2D.

Supported

AutoCAD supports creating and editing 2D drawings.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

+0.78

Strongly positive sentiment

-0.58

Rather negative sentiment
Customer Service

+0.75

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.6

Rather positive sentiment
Ease of Use

+0.93

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.73

Strongly positive sentiment
Reliability and Performance

+0.5

Rather positive sentiment

+0.27

Neutral sentiment
Ease of Implementation

+0.71

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.11

Neutral sentiment
Scalability

No data

-0.5

Rather negative sentiment

ZWCAD and AutoCAD Pricing

ZWSOFT offers perpetual and 1-year subscription licenses for their CAD software with prices varying by region and currency. They provide options for Standard, Professional, and MFG versions of ZWCAD, along with upgrade services. ZW3D is available in Lite and Standard perpetual licenses. CADbro is offered as a perpetual license. Additional information and purchasing options are available through their sales team.

Plans

User sentiment

Strongly positive

+0.78

See full Pricing page

No data

User sentiment

Rather negative

-0.58

See full Pricing page

ZWCAD and AutoCAD review insights

4050 reviews analysed from and

Users love

Fast software launch and file opening.
SmartPlot feature for efficient batch printing.
Perpetual license and cost-effective pricing.
User-friendly interface, similar to AutoCAD.
Lightweight and runs smoothly on most hardware.

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

Some commands differ from AutoCAD (e.g., TRIM).
Occasional crashes, especially with large files.
Some settings require adjustment (e.g., SELECTIONCYCLING).
Limited 3D modeling capabilities.
Inconsistent XREF bind function.

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.

ZWCAD and AutoCAD Ratings

Glassdoor

4.4/5

(8)

Glassdoor

4.3/5

(4861)

Company health

Employee growth

6% increase in the last year

2% increase in the last year

Web traffic

112% increase in the last quarter

2% decrease in the last quarter

Financing

July 2019 - $31M

March 2020 - $0

How does each product's 3D modeling compare for manufacturing needs?

ZWCAD offers basic 3D modeling capabilities but user reviews indicate they are limited and prone to crashes with large files. AutoCAD also has 3D modeling functionality, however, user reviews suggest it is not as robust as dedicated 3D modeling software, although it is considered more powerful than ZWCAD's 3D tools. For manufacturing needs requiring extensive or complex 3D modeling, a dedicated 3D modeling software might be more suitable than either of these options.

Which product best integrates with other design software like Revit?

AutoCAD is the better choice for Revit integration. AutoCAD and Revit are both Autodesk products designed to work together, offering seamless data exchange and a smoother workflow between the two platforms.

What are the advantages of ZWCAD?

ZWCAD's advantages include cost-effectiveness compared to other CAD software like AutoCAD, a user-friendly interface similar to AutoCAD, making it easy to learn and transition to, fast software launch and file opening speeds, efficient batch printing with SmartPlot, and a perpetual license option, which can be more appealing than subscription-based models for some users. It is also lightweight and runs smoothly on most hardware.

What are the disadvantages of ZWCAD?

ZWCAD's 3D modeling capabilities are considered limited compared to other CAD software. Users have reported occasional crashes, particularly when working with large files. Some commands and functions differ from industry-standard AutoCAD, requiring a learning curve for users transitioning from other platforms. The XREF bind function has also been reported as inconsistent.

Alternatives to ZWCAD 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.

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.

ActCAD

ActCAD is a cost-effective 2D & 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software suitable for a range of industries. It's a popular alternative to industry leaders, offering similar functionality for drafting, 3D modeling, and architectural design. ActCAD boasts a user-friendly interface familiar to those with CAD experience, making it easy to transition. It's compatible with various file formats, including the latest .dwg and .dxf versions. Users highlight its affordability, comprehensive features, and responsive customer support as key benefits.

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.

V-Ray

V-Ray is a plugin used by designers to create photorealistic images and animations. Compatible with popular design software, it's widely used in architecture, advertising, and entertainment for creating high-quality visuals. V-Ray is known for its versatility and real-time rendering capabilities, allowing for efficient design visualization and collaboration.

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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