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Best Free Alternatives to AutoCAD
Stop paying $2,030/yr. Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Engineering (CAD)Verified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
FreeCAD
FREEBest Open Source 3D Parametric CAD
Why we like it
Highly extensible with Python; powerful parametric modeling (change one dimension, and the whole model updates); totally free for commercial use.
Keep in mind
Learning curve is very steep; UI can feel disjointed due to its 'Workbench' system.
BricsCAD
Best Professional AutoCAD Replacement
Why we like it
High DWG compatibility; identical command structure to AutoCAD; offers a one-time 'Perpetual' license option.
Keep in mind
Not free; requires a paid license for advanced 3D and BIM features.
LibreCAD
FREEBest for Simple 2D Drafting
Why we like it
Extremely lightweight; runs on older hardware; perfect for floor plans and 2D technical drawings.
Keep in mind
No 3D capabilities whatsoever; development is slower than modern SaaS tools.
QCAD
FREEBest for 2D Mechanical & Schematics
Why we like it
Very intuitive interface; great for beginners; active community and good documentation.
Keep in mind
The free version is 2D only; some advanced DXF support requires the 'Pro' paid version.
nanoCAD
FREEBest Freemium DWG Editor
Why we like it
Native DWG support; interface is very similar to legacy AutoCAD (easy transition); robust API.
Keep in mind
The 'Free' version is several versions behind the 'Pro' version; support is limited for free users.
Onshape
FREEBest Cloud-Based Collaboration
Why we like it
Runs in a browser (no install needed); excellent version control (like Git for CAD); built-in PDM.
Keep in mind
Free version makes all your designs public; requires a constant high-speed internet connection.
SolveSpace
FREEBest Lightweight 3D Parametric Tool
Why we like it
Unbelievably small file size (<10MB); very fast; unique constraint-based solver.
Keep in mind
Minimalist UI looks very dated; lacks advanced rendering and textures.
DraftSight
Best for Enterprise 2D Standards
Why we like it
Developed by Dassault Systèmes (makers of SolidWorks); highly stable; professional support.
Keep in mind
No longer offers a free version; subscription costs add up for multi-user teams.
OpenSCAD
FREEBest for Programmers
Why we like it
Code-based modeling (not click-and-drag); perfect for 3D printing and precise algorithmic shapes.
Keep in mind
Not suitable for traditional architectural drafting; requires programming knowledge.
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