AutoCAD
Design & BIM
Autodesk's general-purpose drafting software for precise 2D and 3D drawings, older and more general-purpose than Revit's building-specific parametric modeling.
What it does
AutoCAD focuses on precision drafting and documentation, producing 2D plans, details, and sheet sets along with some 3D geometry. Unlike Revit, where every element is a real parametric object tied to the rest of the model, AutoCAD's drawings are closer to traditional line-by-line drafting, which is exactly why it still gets used for work that doesn't need a full building information model. Industry specific toolsets add features for architecture, mechanical, electrical, and civil work on top of the core drafting engine.
Key features
- Precision 2D drafting and documentation tools for plans, details, and sheet sets
- 3D modeling with solids, surfaces, and mesh objects beyond flat line drawings
- Industry-specific toolsets for architecture, mechanical, electrical, and civil work
- Cloud and mobile versions for viewing and light editing away from a desktop
How it's actually used
- A CAD technician drafts detailed 2D construction documents and sheet sets for a project that doesn't need a full building information model
- A civil engineer uses AutoCAD's civil-specific toolset to draft grading and utility plans
Tutorials
Tutorial videos for this tool are coming soon.
Good to know
- Pricing:
- Subscription-based, sold on monthly or annual terms, with regional pricing that varies by market.
Reviewed 2026-09. Costs, timelines, and licensing details vary by location and change over time. Treat these as a starting point, not a quote.