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AutoCAD description
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.
Who is AutoCAD best for
AutoCAD is a robust 2D and 3D design software praised for its intuitive interface and extensive customization options. It’s a popular choice across various industries, especially manufacturing and construction, for its precise drawing tools and industry-standard compatibility. However, some users have reported performance issues and high licensing costs. Despite these drawbacks, many appreciate the vast online resources and active user community.
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Best fit for small, medium, and large businesses.
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Ideal for Manufacturing and Real Estate & Construction businesses.
AutoCAD features
| Supported AutoCAD supports creating and editing 2D drawings. |
| Supported AutoCAD natively supports .DWG files for seamless collaboration. |
| Supported AutoCAD supports creating and editing 3D models. |
| Supported AutoCAD supports 3D modeling, including extrusions, cuts, revolves, and surface modeling. |
| Supported AutoCAD supports parametric modeling through geometric and dimensional constraints. |
| Supported AutoCAD supports cross-platform access via AutoCAD Web and Mobile apps. |
| Supported AutoCAD allows creation of 2D drawings from 3D models using various built-in tools. |
We evaluate the sentiment that users express about non-functional aspects of the software
Value and Pricing Transparency
Customer Service
Ease of Use
Reliability and Performance
Ease of Implementation
Scalability
AutoCAD reviews
We've summarised 3877 AutoCAD reviews (AutoCAD GetApp reviews, AutoCAD Software Advice reviews, AutoCAD Capterra reviews and AutoCAD G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.
- 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.
- 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.
AutoCAD pricing
The commentary is based on 180 reviews from AutoCAD Capterra reviews and AutoCAD G2 reviews.
AutoCAD is widely praised for its powerful features and industry-standard tools. However, many reviews cite the high cost of licensing, particularly for small businesses and individuals, as a significant drawback. Despite the price, many users consider it a worthwhile investment for its robust capabilities.
Users sentiment
See the AutoCAD pricing page.
AutoCAD alternatives
autocad vs SketchUpEasier to learn and better for 3D modeling, visualization, and design sharing. Has stronger momentum.Read more
IGiS CADBetter fit for smaller companies. Offers data conversion and digitization features. An AutoCAD alternative and competitor.Read more
autocad vs MicroStationBetter for enterprise companies. More suitable for construction and real estate projects. Growing faster. Pricing is viewed more positively.Read more
autocad vs ZWCADMore affordable and easier to use AutoCAD alternative. Perpetual license option available. Has more momentum currently.Read more
TableauBetter for data analysis and visualization. A strong Tableau alternative for users focused on business intelligence and data-driven decisions. More suitable for enterprise companies. Caters to a wider range of industries.Read more
Ares CommanderA strong AutoCAD competitor, ideal for small to medium businesses needing cross-platform CAD solutions. Offers better value and pricing transparency and includes mobile and cloud features. Growing faster than AutoCAD.Read more
AutoCAD FAQ
What is AutoCAD and what does AutoCAD do?
AutoCAD is a 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software used across various industries. It offers industry-specific toolsets, mobile and web apps, and a familiar user interface for increased productivity. AutoCAD is known for its precise drafting tools and extensive customization options.
How does AutoCAD integrate with other tools?
AutoCAD integrates with other tools through its web and mobile apps, enabling access from various devices. It supports .DWG files, facilitating seamless collaboration. Autodesk also offers APIs and integrations with other software in its ecosystem.
What the main competitors of AutoCAD?
Top AutoCAD alternatives include SketchUp, known for its intuitive 3D modeling, MicroStation, favored for large-scale infrastructure projects, and ZWCAD, a cost-effective option for 2D drafting and 3D modeling. Ares Commander also offers cross-platform compatibility and cloud-based collaboration.
Is AutoCAD legit?
AutoCAD is a legitimate and widely used software for 2D and 3D design. It's known for its intuitive interface and powerful features, making it a safe and reliable choice for professionals in various industries. However, potential users should be aware of the high cost and occasional performance issues.
How much does AutoCAD cost?
AutoCAD offers monthly subscriptions for $230 and annual subscriptions for $1,865. There's no free version available, but a free trial allows you to explore its features before committing to a purchase. Is AutoCAD worth the price? That depends on your specific needs and budget.
Is AutoCAD customer service good?
AutoCAD's customer support receives mixed reviews. While some users praise the readily available support and helpful resources, others express frustration with the response times and difficulty reaching a live representative. Many users recommend online forums and tutorials for quicker solutions.
Reviewed by
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 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.