List of the Top 25 Architecture Software for Windows in 2025

ACTCAD is an excellent tool for creating professional drawings tailored for various fields such as architecture, structural and civil engineering, mechanical design, electrical schematics, interior design, and tool and machine design. This professional-grade CAD software supports both 2D drafting and 3D modeling while utilizing dwg and dxf file formats, making it one of the most cost-effective options available. As a native dwg/dxf software, ActCAD is ideal for a wide range of drafting and modeling projects and has garnered the trust of over 30,000 users across more than 103 countries for over a decade. Its interface and command structure closely resemble those of other well-known CAD tools, allowing existing CAD users to transition without any learning curve while saving up to 80% on costs. ActCAD provides flexible licensing options, including single-user licenses, and offers unlimited free email technical support to all users. Additionally, it allows for full customization and the development of programs using a free API toolkit, supporting popular programming languages such as Lisp, DCL, .NET, and C++. Beyond standard commands, ActCAD includes a variety of productivity-enhancing features like a PDF to CAD converter, extensive block libraries, an image to CAD converter, and the ability to manage point sets between CAD and Excel, making it a versatile choice for professionals seeking efficiency in their design projects. With its comprehensive set of tools and user-friendly interface, ActCAD proves to be an indispensable asset for anyone involved in technical design work.

CMS IntelliCAD® is a feature-rich, cost-effective CAD software that is not only intelligent and powerful but also fully programmable, supporting a multitude of third-party solutions. This software comes equipped with a comprehensive suite compatible with both 2D and 3D AutoCAD®, making it an ideal option for architects, engineers, consultants, and all professionals who rely on CAD drawings for effective communication. With its exceptional compatibility, CMS IntelliCAD® supports native DWG file extensions, ensuring seamless integration with existing projects, and it now also includes support for Microstation DGN files, enhancing its versatility even further. Its extensive programmability and compatibility make it a standout choice in the realm of CAD software solutions.

BigTime is a comprehensive online time and billing platform designed specifically for professionals in various industries. It provides a suite of tools for tracking time and expenses, managing work-in-progress, generating invoices, overseeing tasks, and much more, all integrated into a single system. This cloud-based solution features a user-friendly interface, ensuring ease of use on both desktop and mobile devices while incorporating industry best practices and operational insights. Additionally, BigTime seamlessly connects with leading productivity applications such as Zapier, Lacerte, and Slack to enhance functionality. By facilitating everything from project initiation to client payment processes, BigTime optimizes firm operations with its smart budgeting, project management, and invoicing capabilities, which can be tailored to handle even the most intricate scenarios efficiently. Ultimately, this makes BigTime an indispensable tool for firms aiming to improve their workflow and productivity.

Founded in 2018 and based in New York, Coohom is a prominent global platform for cloud-based 3D design, offering a comprehensive suite of software and services that enable designers and businesses to create professional projects rapidly and generate stunningly realistic 3D visualizations within moments. With operations across the United States, China, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, Coohom has earned the confidence of over 10 million users in 200 countries thanks to its innovative solutions. Focused on enhancing the digital transformation for clients in the interior design, furniture and home décor, and kitchen and bath sectors, Coohom delivers a full range of tools that include design, rendering, marketing, production, and construction, streamlining workflows for greater success. Coohom's offerings have received recognition in prestigious publications such as Forbes and TechNode, along with specialized industry magazines like Panels & Furniture Asia, FurnitureToday, HomeAccents, and Kitchen & Bath Business. Moreover, as a dedicated partner of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Coohom reinforces its commitment to supporting the design community and fostering innovation in the industry. This collaboration reflects Coohom's ongoing mission to lead in the development of cutting-edge design solutions.

CAD software provides a flexible platform for designing an array of projects, equipped with effective tools and applications for both web and mobile environments. Among these, AutoCAD® stands out as an essential tool for architects, engineers, and construction specialists, allowing them to create intricate 2D and 3D designs. It enables users to draft, annotate, and generate both 2D shapes and 3D models utilizing a variety of components such as solids, surfaces, and mesh objects. Additionally, the program enhances productivity by simplifying processes like drawing comparisons, block insertion, and schedule creation. AutoCAD further accommodates customization through additional applications and APIs, tailored to meet the specific needs of different industries. With specialized features and intelligent objects, it is suitable for fields such as architecture, mechanical engineering, and electrical design. Users benefit from the ability to swiftly automate the development of floor plans, sections, and elevations, in addition to efficiently designing piping, ducting, and circuitry with comprehensive parts libraries. Moreover, it supports the automatic creation of annotations, layers, schedules, lists, and tables, all while following a rules-based workflow that guarantees adherence to industry standards. Its extensive features and constant evolution ensure that AutoCAD remains a vital resource, continually responding to the dynamic needs of professionals across multiple fields. This adaptability not only reinforces its position in the market but also enhances the overall user experience by integrating new technologies and methodologies.

Sweet Home 3D is a free interior design software that allows users to create home layouts, arrange furniture, and navigate their designs in 3D. Users can effortlessly add doors and windows by dragging them onto walls, which prompts the program to generate the necessary openings automatically. The software features a comprehensive and searchable catalog of furniture organized by different rooms, such as kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms, making it easy to choose items. Users can adjust various elements including color, texture, size, thickness, placement, and orientation for furniture, walls, floors, and ceilings. While designing in 2D, users can view their work in 3D from different angles, either from above or as if walking through the space. The program also allows for the creation of photorealistic images and videos, with customizable lighting and sunlight adjustments that reflect the time of day and geographical location. Moreover, Sweet Home 3D offers the option to enhance its capabilities through Java plug-ins or by developing a customized version based on its Model View Controller architecture, which fosters a unique design experience. This adaptability and range of features make Sweet Home 3D an attractive option for both novice and experienced designers, providing a platform that caters to diverse creative needs and preferences.

Create with joy and creativity. Work together with clarity and purpose. Construct improved structures. Experience the satisfaction of hand-drawn designs. Embrace the elegance and convenience of advanced 3D modeling tools. Develop eco-friendly architecture. Make a difference in the world. Access a multitude of professional extensions effortlessly. Engage in 3D design. Produce documents in 2D. Streamline your workflow effectively. Both your team and the broader 3D community will reap the rewards of enhanced productivity. Innovative technology can elevate even the best ideas to new heights. Ultimately, collaboration and creativity pave the way for a brighter future in architecture.

SpecLink stands out as the sole specification software designed to enhance and expedite your work processes. By prioritizing efficiency, it allows you to save valuable time and ensures that every detail is executed correctly at each stage. The entire specification journey can be optimized, making SpecLink essential for improving accuracy and speed in building design. Now accessible in the cloud, SpecLink enables seamless collaboration with team members, allowing you to generate specifications more swiftly. With the industry's leading building specifications content at your fingertips, you can effectively streamline every aspect of your construction project while maintaining high standards. Utilizing SpecLink not only simplifies the process but also elevates the overall quality of your work.

2D and 3D CAD software designed for crafting and modifying technical drawings in DWG format is available, allowing users to select from either Perpetual or Network licensing options. ARES Commander stands out as the top alternative to AutoCAD, providing a nimble experience at a fraction of the cost of its competitor, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious users. Graebert’s ARES CAD software comes with a versatile 3-in-1 licensing package, which encompasses ARES Commander for both Windows and macOS, ARES Kudo for cloud-based solutions, and Graebert Touch for mobile devices like iOS and Android, facilitating seamless collaboration across various platforms. Users can easily create and edit DWG files either locally on their computers or through cloud services such as Google Drive, Box, OneDrive, and Dropbox, as well as on a private Cloud server via WebDAV for enhanced security. Among the numerous advanced features included are dynamic blocks, the ability to convert PDF files to DWG format, drawing comparisons, and importing IFC and Revit files, with additional capabilities such as 3D solid modeling and access to satellite imagery and street maps, making it a comprehensive solution for all CAD needs. With this extensive range of tools and functionalities, professionals can optimize their workflow and productivity significantly.

Edificius is a comprehensive BIM software that combines 2D and 3D architectural design tools, photomontage creation, photo editing, advanced Ray Tracing rendering with AI denoising capabilities, video editing, and immersive virtual reality experiences. Additionally, it allows for the modeling of MEP plants, scheduling tasks (BIM4D), and extracting dynamic data from the BIM model for cost estimation purposes (BIM5D). This versatile software facilitates collaboration through its open architecture, enabling seamless integration with other ACCA BIM programs or third-party applications via direct integration or IFC file sharing, which is certified by buildingSMART International. With Edificius, users can enhance their design workflows and improve project coordination significantly.

Utilize SmartDraw to craft an array of network diagrams, data flow diagrams, entity relationship diagrams, and more, as it stands out as one of the most intuitive and effective tools for diagram creation available today. To get started, simply choose from a vast library of templates—offering thousands of choices—and SmartDraw will assist you with its easy-to-navigate features and a comprehensive selection of symbols. Often, the process of diagram creation becomes remarkably simple, as SmartDraw automatically aligns shapes and objects with only a few clicks. With hundreds of expertly designed templates and examples at your disposal, you can swiftly enhance your productivity by selecting a template that closely aligns with your project requirements and adjusting it to fit your needs. The platform allows for easy drag-and-drop of symbols from its extensive library, and with various diagram types, including flowcharts and organizational charts, SmartDraw’s powerful automation capabilities enable it to generate your diagram with minimal effort required. This innovative method not only streamlines the design process but also fosters greater creativity and efficiency in conveying visual information. Additionally, the collaborative features of SmartDraw make it easy to share your creations with team members, ensuring everyone stays on the same page throughout the project lifecycle.

We provide innovative design software solutions tailored for architects, interior designers, and furniture manufacturers. ARCHLine.XP LT is an accessible 3D CAD/BIM tool that offers solid functionality at a budget-friendly price. ARCHLine.XP Professional serves as a comprehensive 3D BIM platform suitable for large architectural projects. Meanwhile, ARCHLine.XP Live simplifies the creation of architectural visualizations with its user-friendly animation features, making it a great choice for professionals in the industry. With these tools, we empower designers to bring their visions to life with ease and efficiency.

Vertex BD is a robust BIM solution specifically designed for residential builders operating on a medium to large scale. This innovative software streamlines the development of architectural and structural drawing sets, fabrication documents, material reports, manufacturing information, and marketing visuals, all generated from a unified building model. By automating the creation of site-specific drawing sets, Vertex BD allows production home builders to save valuable time that would be spent on duplicating drawings for different customer-selected options. Mainly used by component manufacturers and panelizers, the software excels as panel prefab software, simplifying the production of wall and floor panel fabrication drawings, structural layouts, cut lists, and other material reports. This level of automation not only significantly cuts down on the design, drafting, and estimation time for manufacturers but also greatly minimizes the possibility of errors that can occur during construction. In addition, Vertex BD supports both wood and cold-formed steel construction methods, showcasing its adaptability in the building sector. By effectively consolidating multiple facets of the building process into a single platform, Vertex BD considerably boosts efficiency and accuracy throughout various projects. This makes it an indispensable tool for builders aiming to enhance their operational capabilities.

Revit specializes in software tailored for electrical design, whereas AutoCAD provides robust tools for both electrical and HVAC planning. You can unlock the full capabilities of your Revit model for electrical layouts by effortlessly generating one-line riser diagrams, optimizing feeder sizes, accurately calculating voltage drops, performing short-circuit analyses, and more. On the well-established AutoCAD platform, users have access to a comprehensive electrical design tool that integrates calculations with drafting functions seamlessly. The software supports everything from producing panel schedules to constructing one-line diagrams and evaluating fault conditions and voltage drops, addressing all key components of electrical design. Moreover, within the AutoCAD environment, the HVAC design module enables you to efficiently plan, size, and draft your ductwork, facilitating a smooth workflow for all your design requirements. This cohesive integration of features not only boosts productivity but also makes the entire design process more straightforward, ultimately leading to enhanced project outcomes. With such powerful tools at their disposal, engineers can focus on creativity and innovation while ensuring precise technical execution.

For large-scale infrastructure initiatives, it is crucial to employ CAD software that can handle extensive data requirements. MicroStation enables users to develop efficient 2D and 3D drawings that accommodate any data volume, making it a favored option among international transportation authorities, AEC companies, and various owner-operators who depend on DGN for their infrastructure projects. By utilizing MicroStation, one can prevent the common delays and errors linked to converting designs from DWG formats. Considering the long lifespans of infrastructure initiatives, MicroStation allows for smooth interaction with data from any period, including assets dating back to the 1990s. The software is intentionally user-friendly and supports rapid mastery through its customizable interface, which includes in-app learning, video guides, and extensive customer support. This accessibility enables users to become skilled in a short time. A diverse range of professionals, such as engineers, architects, GIS experts, constructors, and owner-operators, rely on MicroStation to effectively design, model, visualize, document, map, and maintain their infrastructure ventures. Additionally, the software's advanced features and adaptability make MicroStation a standout choice for addressing the intricate challenges of contemporary infrastructure development. Its ongoing updates and community support further enhance its capabilities, ensuring users stay equipped with the latest tools and techniques.

Live Home 3D is an interior design application available on multiple platforms, enabling users to craft detailed floor plans and stunning 3D renderings. This software comes equipped with an extensive array of tools that streamline the design process, making it easy to move from initial floor planning to final 3D visualizations. Even those without professional experience can produce designs that look polished and refined. Furthermore, it incorporates cutting-edge technologies to showcase the completed projects in impressive detail. Users can easily navigate the intuitive interface, which enhances their overall creative experience.

ideCAD One AEC is a comprehensive BIM solution tailored for Architecture, Structural Engineering, and Detailing, incorporating Building Information Modeling (BIM) features. This all-in-one package equips Structural Engineers and Detailers with a set of Integrated BIM, AEC, and CAD tools that cater to projects throughout every phase of design and construction. By utilizing advanced design tools, users can produce exceptional and efficient architectural and structural layouts. Enhance project outcomes with a suite of integrated capabilities, including Structural Analysis, Steel Design, Concrete Design, Connection Design, along with visualization and simulation tools. Furthermore, by leveraging these cohesive tools, predictability on-site can be significantly improved, ensuring that constructability is maximized. The integration of workflows for modeling, multidisciplinary coordination, and construction documentation not only speeds up the design process but also elevates design quality, resulting in a more streamlined approach to project delivery.

progeCAD is an adaptable CAD software that facilitates both 2D and 3D design, boasting full compatibility with AutoCAD® DWG files from version 2.5 to 2021, while also allowing for the importation of files from Autodesk Revit® and IFC formats. It emerges as a standout option for professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and mechanical CAD, presenting an extensive range of features at a far more affordable price than AutoCAD®, ArchiCAD®, or Microstation®. With its perpetual licensing model, progeCAD offers more capabilities than AutoCAD® LT, making it an economically wise choice. The software utilizes a native DWG file format, ensuring smooth integration since it shares the same file format as AutoCAD®, thus avoiding any conversion needs and preventing data loss when accessing existing DWG files. Users gain the advantages of compatibility with AutoCAD® standards, allowing immediate productivity through familiar commands, fonts, blocks, hatches, and linetypes. Furthermore, progeCAD's capacity to import Autodesk Revit® and IFC BIM objects significantly boosts its functionality within contemporary design processes. This versatility not only makes progeCAD a robust tool for individual designers but also positions it as an ideal option for teamwork across various disciplines, enhancing collaborative efforts and project outcomes. By integrating numerous advanced features, progeCAD continues to redefine the standards of CAD software.

Elevate your design experience with enhanced smoothness and efficiency. Renowned for its unmatched performance, seamless integration, and extensive functionalities, CADMATE Drafting 2020 has emerged as one of the most preferred CAD software options available. This innovative software fully leverages 4K screen resolution, delivering exceptional clarity in both its interface and dialog boxes. Those utilizing 4K monitors will truly enjoy the vibrant visuals that CADMATE Drafting 2020 presents. AutoCAD users will find transitioning to CADMATE to be a breeze, quickly mastering its features within minutes thanks to the similarity in commands, tools, toolbars, menus, and palettes. As a budget-friendly option, CADMATE is offered at a fraction of the cost compared to many leading CAD solutions on the market today. Professionals in the fields of architecture, engineering, and construction rely on CADMATE to create precise 2D and 3D drawings. With efficient management of system resources, it allows users to open, edit, and save multiple drawings simultaneously. Its speed, strength, and robustness are well-established, featuring cutting-edge CAD tools and functionalities. Furthermore, it ensures complete compatibility with major CAD platforms, making it an excellent choice for professionals aiming to optimize their workflow. Users can anticipate a notable increase in productivity, enabling them to concentrate more on their creative endeavors, ultimately leading to more innovative outcomes. CADMATE Drafting 2020 stands out as a pivotal tool for those seeking efficiency and excellence in design.

Cadlogic focuses on providing cost-effective CAD software and applications. One of their key products is Draft it, a powerful 2D CAD program offered in four different versions as detailed below. Each version allows users to design, save, and print their creations, making it suitable for both casual home users and professionals across various industries. You can begin using Draft it immediately, as the Free version is available for unlimited use, while the other three premium versions can be explored for a complete 15-day trial period after installation. If you are looking for enhanced design features or a solution tailored to your specific requirements, we invite you to contact us for a custom design option. By choosing Cadlogic, you can elevate your design capabilities and experience with our cutting-edge tools. Start your journey with us today and discover the possibilities that await.

Introducing a fresh collaborative environment tailored for your team's document review and drawing needs. Drawboard Projects, which was previously known as Bullclip, stands out as the sole real-time collaborative platform that enables you and your team to annotate, converse, and monitor issues and modifications on PDF drawings. Crafted specifically for engineers and architects, this tool is ideally suited for AEC teams, though it can benefit any group seeking to enhance their design review workflow. By facilitating seamless collaboration, it empowers teams to work more efficiently and effectively together.

Graphisoft Archicad is a BIM solution crafted by architects, specifically for architects, allowing users to design, visualize, document, and successfully execute projects of varying scales with its robust array of integrated tools and user-friendly interface, establishing it as the leading choice for efficient and intuitive BIM software in the industry. By utilizing Archicad, architects can dedicate their efforts to their true passion: creating exceptional architectural designs. This software empowers professionals to streamline their workflows, enhancing both productivity and creativity in their projects.

VisualARQ is an advanced software that augments the capabilities of Rhino, introducing dynamic documentation features and customizable architectural object styling tailored to your workflow. By integrating VisualARQ with Rhino, managing architectural projects becomes a seamless experience. Users can design intricate architectural elements, such as curved walls and freeform surfaces, with ease. This software acts as a freeform modeling tool that transforms any geometry into informed architectural objects. It also allows for the automation of design processes through Grasshopper Visual Programming and the VisualARQ API, enabling the creation of parametric objects with Grasshopper Styles. Furthermore, VisualARQ ensures that 3D models come with accurate and dynamic documentation, making it an essential tool for architects and designers alike. The versatility of VisualARQ not only simplifies the design process but also enhances collaboration among project stakeholders.

Cadsoft is the creator of Envisioneer, a cutting-edge 3D BIM technology. This software serves as the design hub, guiding projects from the initial concept to the on-site delivery of materials. Its user-friendly interface makes it a robust solution for residential design projects. With Cadsoft Envisioneer, you can experience home design in virtual reality (VR), allowing users to fully immerse themselves in a space long before construction begins. The integration with Oculus Rift enhances this experience, enabling users to visualize and navigate their future homes. Envisioneer also functions as a powerful collaboration tool that seamlessly supports Oculus Rift, allowing all stakeholders to view the final design and make immediate adjustments. Additionally, it can act as a virtual showroom, facilitating proactive discussions to resolve potential issues before they arise on-site. Through the Envisioneer VR app, both clients and project teams can share engaging panoramas or Google Cardboard experiences, giving clients the flexibility to explore their projects at their convenience. For those interested in discovering more about Envisioneer’s capabilities, please visit www.cadsoft.com for detailed information.

Leverage a range of multidisciplinary BIM software to significantly elevate the quality and coordination of your design projects. The Revit® BIM (Building Information Modeling) software facilitates improved efficiency and accuracy throughout every phase of the project lifecycle, from the initial concept and visualization stages to analysis, fabrication, and construction processes. Initiate your modeling journey in 3D with an emphasis on precision and detail, as the software continually updates floor plans, elevations, and sections in real-time as your model progresses. By permitting Revit to handle routine tasks through its automation features, you can focus on more critical and impactful aspects of your work. This BIM software harmonizes all architecture, engineering, and construction disciplines within a unified modeling framework, fostering projects that are more efficient and economical. Furthermore, when paired with BIM Collaborate Pro, Revit allows project teams to work together effortlessly from any location, utilizing a secure and powerful cloud-based platform for data management and collaboration. This cutting-edge strategy not only keeps everyone aligned but also enhances overall project results, showcasing the transformative potential of integrated design and teamwork. Ultimately, adopting such innovative solutions leads to greater productivity and creativity throughout the entire design process.