While I would have preferred only to include 100% free programs, I saw that it just wasn’t realistic and I couldn’t find a completely free alternative that is also worth mentioning.

It’s a relatively easy program to learn and use and has all the tools I need for designing 2D and 3D models of buildings, parks, and interior designs. I found three programs that stood out above the rest. That’s not to say that they were all bad. I found that while many programs claim to have the necessary tools and features, most of them fall short of these claims. Over the past few years, the market has become full of copycat programs that slow down my computer, restrict the tools for paying customers, and a few that my antivirus prevented the download. I downloaded and tested over 15 free programs that specialize in CAD technology. While it is still a popular choice among students, hobbyists, and professionals, there are other options that you can download that won’t cost you over $1,000 a year. At its peak, AutoCAD was the go-to design software for city planners, engineers, and students as they learned modeling and drafting. You can try it completely free for 30 days – no credit card required!ĪutoCAD is one of the original CAD software, but being first doesn’t necessarily make it the best. It has all the features I need for creating 2D and 3D models to scale, templates for multiple project types, and a large selection of tools. Quick Summary: While I tested and stand behind all of the computer-aided-design (CAD) programs on my list, SketchUp is above them all.

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The only limitation of the software is a watermark on any plots you generate designating that the file was created with a non-professional version. AutoCAD, the heavy hitter of the CAD industry, offers a free, fully functional, version for download to students, faculty, military veterans, and anyone who is unemployed that has previously worked in the AEC industry. I found an article when looking on the internet for free autocad software. I was hoping to find something similar to the software that I previously used…. I’m currently looking for part time employment and was searching the internet for free cad drawing software to brush up on my drawing skills.

Prior to my retirement, I had the pleasure of using AutoCad 2D to convey tool drawing changes to the shop.

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