AutoCAD Products Comparison

Find the perfect CAD software for your needs

Autodesk AutoCAD 2025

AutoCAD 2025 is the industry-leading computer-aided design (CAD) software that architects, engineers, and construction professionals rely on to create precise 2D and 3D drawings. This latest version introduces enhanced performance, improved collaboration tools, and new features that streamline the design process. With its powerful 3D modeling capabilities, AutoCAD 2025 enables users to create detailed architectural designs, mechanical parts, and complex engineering drawings with unprecedented precision. The software's cloud integration allows for seamless collaboration between team members, while its mobile and web access features ensure you can work from anywhere. AutoCAD 2025 also includes advanced rendering capabilities that bring your designs to life with photorealistic visualizations. Whether you're working on architectural plans, mechanical designs, or civil engineering projects, AutoCAD 2025 provides the tools and flexibility needed to bring your ideas to reality. The software's extensive customization options and automation features help streamline workflows and increase productivity, making it an essential tool for professionals across various industries.

Key Features

  • 2D drafting and 3D modeling
  • Customizable user interface
  • Cloud storage and collaboration
  • Mobile and web access
  • Advanced rendering capabilities

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD Architecture 2025

AutoCAD Architecture 2025 is a specialized version of AutoCAD that includes tools specifically designed for architectural design and documentation. This powerful software combines the precision of AutoCAD with specialized architectural tools to help architects and designers create detailed building designs and documentation. The software features intelligent objects like walls, doors, and windows that automatically adjust to design changes, saving time and reducing errors. AutoCAD Architecture 2025 includes comprehensive building information modeling (BIM) capabilities, allowing users to create intelligent 3D models that contain both geometric and non-geometric information. The software's documentation tools automatically generate construction documents, schedules, and material takeoffs from the 3D model. With its advanced space planning and analysis tools, architects can optimize building layouts and analyze spatial relationships. The software also includes specialized tools for creating detailed sections, elevations, and details, making it an indispensable tool for architectural professionals. AutoCAD Architecture 2025's integration with other Autodesk products ensures seamless workflow between different stages of the design process.

Key Features

  • Architectural design tools
  • Building information modeling
  • Documentation tools
  • Wall, door, and window tools
  • Space planning and analysis

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD LT 2025

AutoCAD LT 2025 is a 2D CAD software that helps you create, edit, and document your designs with precision and efficiency. This streamlined version of AutoCAD provides essential 2D drafting tools at a more affordable price point, making it ideal for professionals who primarily work with 2D drawings. AutoCAD LT 2025 includes powerful features for creating and editing 2D geometry, annotating drawings, and producing professional documentation. The software's PDF import and export capabilities allow for seamless collaboration with clients and team members who may not have CAD software. With cloud storage integration, you can access your drawings from anywhere and share them with colleagues. AutoCAD LT 2025 also includes basic customization options, allowing you to tailor the interface and commands to your specific workflow. While it doesn't include 3D modeling capabilities, AutoCAD LT 2025 excels at 2D drafting and documentation, making it a cost-effective solution for professionals who don't require advanced 3D features. The software's compatibility with the full version of AutoCAD ensures smooth collaboration with team members using different versions of the software.

Key Features

  • 2D drafting and documentation
  • PDF import and export
  • Cloud storage
  • Mobile and web access
  • Basic customization

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD Electrical 2025

AutoCAD Electrical 2025 is a specialized version of AutoCAD that includes tools for electrical design and documentation. This powerful software is specifically designed for electrical engineers and designers who need to create and manage electrical control systems. AutoCAD Electrical 2025 includes comprehensive tools for creating electrical schematics, panel layouts, and PLC I/O designs. The software's automated wire numbering and component tagging features help reduce errors and improve documentation accuracy. With its extensive library of electrical symbols and components, you can quickly create professional electrical drawings that comply with industry standards. AutoCAD Electrical 2025 also includes specialized tools for creating and managing electrical bills of materials (BOMs) and generating reports. The software's integration with other Autodesk products allows for seamless collaboration between electrical and mechanical design teams. Whether you're designing control systems, power distribution networks, or industrial automation systems, AutoCAD Electrical 2025 provides the tools and features needed to create accurate and efficient electrical designs.

Key Features

  • Electrical schematic design
  • Panel layout
  • PLC I/O design
  • Automated wire numbering
  • Electrical standards compliance

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD MEP 2025

AutoCAD MEP 2025 is a specialized version of AutoCAD for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design. This comprehensive software provides tools specifically designed for MEP engineers and designers working on building systems. AutoCAD MEP 2025 includes specialized content libraries for HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, allowing you to quickly create detailed designs that comply with industry standards. The software's building systems design tools help you create accurate 3D models of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, while its documentation tools automatically generate construction documents and schedules. AutoCAD MEP 2025 also includes powerful analysis tools for checking system performance and identifying potential conflicts. With its integration with other Autodesk products, you can collaborate seamlessly with architects and structural engineers throughout the design process. The software's parametric design capabilities allow for quick modifications and updates, while its automated documentation features help ensure accuracy and consistency across all project documents. Whether you're designing HVAC systems, electrical distribution networks, or plumbing systems, AutoCAD MEP 2025 provides the tools and features needed to create efficient and accurate designs.

Key Features

  • MEP design tools
  • Building systems design
  • Documentation tools
  • Content libraries
  • Design analysis

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD Plant 3D 2025

AutoCAD Plant 3D 2025 is a specialized version of AutoCAD for plant design and modeling. This powerful software is specifically designed for engineers and designers working on industrial plant projects, including oil and gas facilities, chemical plants, and power plants. AutoCAD Plant 3D 2025 includes comprehensive tools for creating 3D plant designs, including piping systems, equipment layouts, and structural components. The software's parametric design capabilities allow for quick modifications and updates, while its automated documentation features help ensure accuracy and consistency across all project documents. With its extensive library of industry-standard components and specifications, you can quickly create detailed plant designs that comply with relevant standards and regulations. AutoCAD Plant 3D 2025 also includes specialized tools for creating isometric drawings, generating material takeoffs, and managing project data. The software's integration with other Autodesk products allows for seamless collaboration between different disciplines throughout the design process. Whether you're designing new facilities or modifying existing ones, AutoCAD Plant 3D 2025 provides the tools and features needed to create efficient and accurate plant designs.

Key Features

  • 3D plant design
  • Piping design
  • Equipment modeling
  • Isometric drawings
  • Project management

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD Mechanical 2025

AutoCAD Mechanical 2025 is a specialized version of AutoCAD for mechanical design and documentation. This comprehensive software provides tools specifically designed for mechanical engineers and designers working on machine parts, assemblies, and mechanical systems. AutoCAD Mechanical 2025 includes an extensive library of standard parts and components, allowing you to quickly create detailed mechanical designs that comply with industry standards. The software's automated documentation features help ensure accuracy and consistency across all project documents, while its design calculation tools help verify the performance and reliability of mechanical components. With its specialized tools for creating and managing bills of materials (BOMs), you can efficiently track and document all components used in your designs. AutoCAD Mechanical 2025 also includes powerful analysis tools for checking design integrity and identifying potential issues. The software's integration with other Autodesk products allows for seamless collaboration between different disciplines throughout the design process. Whether you're designing individual machine parts or complex mechanical systems, AutoCAD Mechanical 2025 provides the tools and features needed to create efficient and accurate mechanical designs.

Key Features

  • Mechanical design tools
  • Standard parts libraries
  • Automated documentation
  • Design calculations
  • BOM management

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Autodesk AutoCAD Map 3D 2025

AutoCAD Map 3D 2025 is a specialized version of AutoCAD for mapping and GIS applications. This powerful software combines CAD and GIS capabilities to help professionals working with spatial data create, analyze, and manage maps and geographic information. AutoCAD Map 3D 2025 includes comprehensive tools for accessing and working with GIS data from various sources, including shapefiles, geodatabases, and web services. The software's spatial analysis tools allow you to perform complex geographic analysis and create detailed maps that incorporate both CAD and GIS data. With its data management capabilities, you can efficiently organize and maintain large datasets while ensuring data integrity and consistency. AutoCAD Map 3D 2025 also includes specialized tools for creating and editing maps, performing spatial queries, and generating reports. The software's 3D visualization capabilities allow you to create detailed terrain models and analyze spatial relationships in three dimensions. Whether you're working on urban planning, environmental analysis, or infrastructure management, AutoCAD Map 3D 2025 provides the tools and features needed to create accurate and informative maps and spatial analyses.

Key Features

  • GIS data access
  • Map creation and editing
  • Spatial analysis
  • Data management
  • 3D visualization

System Requirements

  • Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • 2.5 GHz processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 10 GB free disk space
  • 1920 x 1080 display resolution
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT?

AutoCAD LT is a 2D drafting software, while AutoCAD includes both 2D and 3D capabilities. AutoCAD LT is more affordable but lacks advanced features like 3D modeling, customization, and programming capabilities.

Can I use AutoCAD on a Mac?

Yes, AutoCAD is available for Mac. However, some specialized versions like AutoCAD MEP and AutoCAD Plant 3D are only available for Windows. You can run these versions on Mac using virtualization software or Boot Camp.

What are the system requirements for AutoCAD 2025?

AutoCAD 2025 requires Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit), a 2.5 GHz processor, 8 GB RAM, 10 GB free disk space, and a 1920 x 1080 display resolution. For Mac, it requires macOS Big Sur (11.0) or later.

How much does AutoCAD cost?

AutoCAD pricing starts at $1,690/year for a subscription. AutoCAD LT is more affordable at $420/year. Specialized versions like AutoCAD Architecture, Electrical, and MEP start at $2,190/year.

Is there a free version of AutoCAD?

Yes, Autodesk offers a free web-based version called AutoCAD Web App with limited features. Students and educators can also get a free 3-year educational license of the full version.

What is the difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Architecture?

AutoCAD Architecture includes specialized tools for architectural design, such as wall, door, and window tools, space planning, and building information modeling (BIM) capabilities that aren't available in standard AutoCAD.

Can I use AutoCAD without an internet connection?

Yes, you can use AutoCAD offline. However, you'll need to connect to the internet at least once every 30 days to validate your subscription.

What file formats does AutoCAD support?

AutoCAD supports various file formats including DWG, DXF, DWF, PDF, and many more. It can also import and export to common formats like STL, OBJ, and FBX for 3D models.

How often is AutoCAD updated?

AutoCAD receives regular updates throughout the year, with major version releases typically occurring annually. Subscribers get access to all updates and new features as they're released.

What is the learning curve for AutoCAD?

The learning curve depends on your experience and the complexity of your projects. Basic 2D drafting can be learned in a few weeks, while mastering 3D modeling and advanced features may take several months of practice.

Can I transfer my AutoCAD license to another computer?

Yes, you can transfer your AutoCAD license to another computer. You'll need to deactivate the license on the current computer and then activate it on the new one.

What is the difference between AutoCAD and Revit?

AutoCAD is primarily a drafting and design tool, while Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. Revit is better suited for architectural design and construction documentation, while AutoCAD is more versatile for various design disciplines.

Can I customize AutoCAD?

Yes, AutoCAD is highly customizable. You can create custom commands, modify the user interface, create custom tool palettes, and automate tasks using AutoLISP, Visual Basic, or .NET programming.

What is the difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Electrical?

AutoCAD Electrical includes specialized tools for electrical design, such as automated wire numbering, electrical symbol libraries, and tools for creating electrical schematics and panel layouts.

How do I get AutoCAD certified?

You can become AutoCAD certified by passing the Autodesk Certified Professional exam. The exam tests your knowledge of AutoCAD tools, features, and workflows. Preparation courses and practice tests are available through Autodesk and authorized training centers.