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GstarCAD description
GstarCAD is 2D/3D CAD software designed for creating, editing, and viewing technical drawings. It's known for its user-friendly interface and compatibility with the common .dwg file format used across many CAD programs. GstarCAD offers a range of design tools, including support for 3D modeling, making it suitable for various industries. It aims to deliver a powerful yet familiar CAD experience.
Who is GstarCAD best for
GstarCAD is a cost-effective 2D/3D CAD software best suited for small businesses needing .DWG compatibility for creating and editing technical drawings. It offers perpetual licenses and subscriptions with Standard, Professional, and Plus editions. While a good option for basic drafting, its 3D capabilities may be limited for more complex projects.
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Best for small businesses seeking affordable CAD drafting solutions.
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Not suitable for industries requiring advanced 3D modeling or specialized tools.
GstarCAD features
| Supported GstarCAD supports importing DXF files due to AutoCAD compatibility. |
| Supported GstarCAD supports importing DWG files, ensuring compatibility with AutoCAD. |
| Supported GstarCAD can export 2D drawings to DWG, its native format. |
| Supported GstarCAD likely supports DXF export due to AutoCAD compatibility. |
| Supported GstarCAD supports the native .DWG file format, enabling seamless collaboration. |
GstarCAD pricing
The commentary is based on 2 reviews from GstarCAD G2 reviews.
GstarCAD is praised for its affordability, especially by small businesses. Users find its price point lower than other CAD software while offering comparable functionality, making it a cost-effective choice.
See the GstarCAD pricing page.
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GstarCAD has a free trial.
Standard
GstarCAD is a CAD software compatible with ACAD. It offers a familiar user interface and commands, suitable as an alternative to AutoCAD LT.
Professional
This edition provides powerful, time-saving tools and an advanced block editor, maintaining a familiar interface for users.
Plus
This plan serves as an alternative to the full version of AutoCAD, offering GstarCAD Pro features along with Parametric Constraints.
Standard
The Linux version of GstarCAD, offering compatibility with Ubuntu, Debian, and Astra Linux systems. Supports AMD 64 CPUs and provides 100% native DWG/DXF support from R12 to the latest versions.
Professional
This edition for Linux supports 2D drafting and 3D modeling, compatible with Ubuntu, Debian, and Astra Linux systems.
Professional
This edition includes the features of GstarCAD 2025 Pro and a mechanical toolset. It offers full data compatibility with AutoCAD Mechanical and a standardized drawing environment (ISO/DIN/JIS/etc).
Plus
This plan includes the features of GstarCAD 2025 Plus and a mechanical toolset, providing full data compatibility with AutoCAD Mechanical.
Architecture
GstarCAD Architecture offers parametric design of building components, synchronous 3D building model generation from 2D drawings, and intelligent architectural plan drawing functions.
Houseplan 1.0
Houseplan 1.0 is a 3D modeling and real-time rendering software that is easy to learn and compatible. It offers multiple modeling methods, convenient real-time rendering, and a variety of 3D model and texture resources.
Basic
This cloud-based plan includes GstarCAD for Mobile (iOS & Android), GstarCAD for Web, and GstarCAD View on PC. It provides a cross-platform solution for viewing, designing, and managing drawings from anywhere.
Standard
This cloud-based plan includes the features of GstarCAD 365 Basic along with the Collaboration Module for GstarCAD. It offers cross-platform collaboration and cloud-based drawing management.
GstarCAD alternatives
AutoCADBetter fit for enterprise companies. More widely adopted across multiple industries including Manufacturing and Real Estate & Construction. Boasts a larger user base and has more momentum. Web and mobile apps enable work from anywhere. Known for its intuitive interface and extensive customization, but can be expensive and resource intensive.Read more
ZWCADBetter fit for small and medium businesses. A GstarCAD competitor and alternative, ZWCAD is growing faster.Read more
Solid EdgeBetter for larger businesses and various industries including manufacturing, retail, and consumer goods. Offers advanced product lifecycle management features. A GstarCAD competitor focused on 3D modeling, simulation, and product data management.Read more
MicroStationBetter for enterprise companies and large-scale projects. More suitable for construction, manufacturing, education, transportation, and government. Has a steeper learning curve and can be slower.Read more
Ares CommanderBetter for Manufacturing, Construction, Consumer Goods, Professional Services and Transportation & Logistics. A strong GstarCAD competitor with cross-platform compatibility and cloud-based collaboration features. Positive customer sentiment and more affordable.Read more
SketchUpBetter for 3D modeling, visualization, and presentations. Easier to learn and use, but less suitable for complex 2D drafting or large, performance-intensive projects.Read more
GstarCAD FAQ
What is GstarCAD and what does GstarCAD do?
GstarCAD is a 2D/3D CAD software offering a user-friendly interface and .dwg file compatibility. It provides design tools, including 3D modeling, making it suitable for various technical drawing needs. GstarCAD aims to deliver a powerful and familiar CAD experience.
How does GstarCAD integrate with other tools?
GstarCAD, with its native .DWG file support, offers seamless compatibility with AutoCAD, facilitating easy import and export of .DWG and .DXF files. This streamlines collaboration and data exchange with other CAD software users.
What the main competitors of GstarCAD?
GstarCAD's main competitors include AutoCAD, ZWCAD, and Ares Commander. These alternatives offer similar 2D/3D CAD functionalities and .DWG compatibility, catering to various design and drafting needs. Solid Edge, MicroStation, and SketchUp also compete in the broader CAD market but focus on 3D modeling and specialized design applications.
Is GstarCAD legit?
Yes, GstarCAD is a legitimate CAD software option. It offers DWG compatibility and a range of design tools at a competitive price point, making it a safe and often preferred alternative to AutoCAD, especially for smaller businesses seeking cost-effective solutions.
How much does GstarCAD cost?
GstarCAD pricing starts at $749 for perpetual Standard licenses, $849 for Professional, and $929 for Plus. Specialized editions like Architecture and Mechanical are also available at different price points. A cloud-based version, GstarCAD 365, starts at $88. A free trial is available.
Is GstarCAD customer service good?
GstarCAD's customer service receives mixed reviews. While some users appreciate the software's affordability and user-friendly interface, others express concerns about the quality of service and support compared to other CAD software providers.
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.