2D Drafting programs come in a wide variety of software packages and prices. Some are free; some are paid. Some have more features and, therefore, a steeper learning curve.
Some popular options in no particular order (we teach LibreCAD and Fusion360):
- AutoCAD: One of the most widely used drafting software by professionals for various engineering and architectural projects.
- Onshape: A cloud-based CAD system that offers tools for 2D drafting and 3D modeling. It’s known for its collaboration features. (Make has an account for members, ask us for details)
- SolidWorks: As the foundation for the entire SOLIDWORKS suite of product development solutions, SOLIDWORKS CAD packages cover design, simulation, cost estimation, manufacturability checks, CAM, sustainable design, and data management.
- 3D Slash: A fun and easy-to-use 3D modeling software that works in a browser and is particularly good for beginners and educational purposes.
- SelfCAD: Offers both 3D modeling and some 2D drawing capabilities, and it’s accessible entirely online.
- LibreCAD*: An open-source 2D CAD program for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It’s a good free alternative with basic features necessary for standard 2D drafting.
- TurboCAD: Offers both 2D and 3D drafting capabilities. It’s known for its versatility and precision in the CAD community.
- DraftSight: A professional-grade 2D design and drafting solution that lets you create, edit, view, and markup any 2D drawing.
- NanoCAD: A cost-effective CAD software that provides an impressive range of CAD tools for 2D design and drafting.
- SketchUp: Primarily known for 3D modeling, it also includes 2D drafting and documentation tools.
- CorelCAD: Offers robust 2D drafting tools with native .DWG file support, making it a great choice for collaboration.
- Fusion 360*: An advanced tool from Autodesk that integrates 3D modeling and 2D drafting with many other functions like simulation and CAM.
- TinkerCAD*: An easy-to-use, browser-based 2D and 3D design tool, perfect for beginners in CAD.
- Vectorworks: Known for its flexibility, it serves the architecture, landscape, and entertainment industries well.
- Shapr3D: A user-friendly and intuitive 3D modeling software that includes 2D drafting, popular with iPad users.
- Solid Edge: A powerful software package that offers advanced 2D drafting alongside its robust 3D modeling capabilities.
*Installed on Make computers.