Engineering Drawing and Design

Alternative to

Ar. Arvin M. Bolodo, PIA, UAP, SMRIA

SY 2020-2021
AutoCAD?
 AutoCAD from AutoDesk is considered a favourite when it
comes to professional CAD software. Many drafters
become so comfortable using it that they happily
choose never to explore the alternatives. However, when it
comes to CAD, every designer, architect, engineer, and
hobbyist should at least be aware of what else is available.
FreeCAD
 FreeCAD is exactly what it sounds like: Free, open source CAD
software to build your own 3D drawings. FreeCAD uses parametric
modelling, allowing you to easily alter your designs as you go. It’s not
nearly as in-depth and feature-packed as some other CAD software on
the list, but it’s still powerful enough to create some great 3D models.
BricsCAD v12

 BricsCAD is simple to use and features many in-depth features common

to better known CAD programmes. If usability is your number one
priority, then BricsCAD should be high on your list of CAD programmes to
check out.
ZWCAD+
 ZWCAD has the most of basic and advanced 2D functions for CAD
projects, it mean all of we require to design. But the best thing is the
performance and compatibility with Autocad.
NANOCAD
 NanoCAD is a free and easy to use professional grade CAD tool. It’s great
for creating, editing and sharing CAD creations and even though it’s free,
it matches up in many ways to some paid software. A nice alternative to
AutoCAD for beginners and intermediates on a budget of zero.
VectorWorks
 Vectorworks is extremely popular and is probably AutoCAD’s biggest
competitor. It’s most popular among Mac users and is certainly the
complete package. Getting your hands on a copy is reasonably
expensive, however.
DraftSight
 DraftSight is simple, functional, and a great introduction to CAD and
2D Modelling. Better yet, it’s free! There are two paid options that go a
little more in-depth that are good value for businesses, but if you’re an
architecture or design student, the free version works as a great
starting point for your adventures in CAD.
DesignCAD 3D Max v24
 DesignCAD 3D is from the same team behind TurboCAD. However, it is
far more basic. It’s still versatile enough to meet most users needs and
is a great choice if you want to learn basic 2D and 3D modelling
without breaking the bank.
TurboCAD Pro Platinum
 TurboCAD Pro Platinum is not for the beginner. It’s a real monster of a
programme, with in-depth features, textures, and detailing options –
even more than AutoCAD.
ProgeCAD
 ProgeCAD is a great programme if you want to invest in some serious
CAD software, but don’t want to pay the asking price of AutoCAD. With
over 10,000 symbols and an easy to use interface, ProgeCAD is a good
programme for intermediate to pro users.
SketchUp
 SketchUp, formerly know as Google SketchUp, is one of the easiest
CAD tools to use. With the proud boast of being “the easiest way to
draw in 3D”, SketchUp is a popular among CAD users from a range of
different professions.