List of the Top 25 CAD Software for Windows in 2025

Altium Designer® provides a cohesive design platform that is the result of more than 35 years of continuous innovation and enhancement. It encompasses everything from schematic creation to PCB layout, interactive differential pair routing, design documentation, and smooth integration between ECAD and MCAD, giving engineers a comprehensive perspective on all facets of the PCB design journey. This all-in-one approach allows engineers to utilize a singular, user-friendly environment to manage their entire design workflow efficiently, enabling the rapid delivery of high-quality products. Among its many features, Altium Designer includes stackup planning, anonymous sharing, effective data management, 3D visualization capabilities, multi-board assembly support, comprehensive documentation options, and output configuration tools. Additionally, with the introduction of Altium 365, users gain the flexibility to access the software either online or through on-premises installations, enhancing collaboration and accessibility for design teams. Overall, the platform's robust capabilities make it a valuable asset for engineers aiming to streamline their workflow and optimize productivity.

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.

CADhobby IntelliCAD is an accessible and robust CAD software solution that caters to both enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. With its extensive array of features, it allows users to engage in 2D and 3D modeling, as well as rendering and animation. Additionally, it is compatible with numerous file formats, such as DWG, DXF, DGN, and STL, making it highly versatile. CADhobby IntelliCAD stands out as a cost-effective option for those seeking to produce exceptional designs without overspending. Its user-friendly interface facilitates a smooth learning curve, and the vast community of users provides invaluable support and resources for newcomers and experienced users alike. As a result, it empowers individuals to enhance their creative projects effectively.

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.

OrCAD® X represents a comprehensive platform for PCB design that enhances user experience, boosts performance, and streamlines automation. This software suite encompasses various applications such as schematic design, PCB layout, simulation, and data management. Among its offerings, OrCAD X Capture stands out as a widely used tool for creating and documenting electrical circuits. Complementing this is PSpice®, an integrated virtual SPICE simulation engine within Capture, which empowers users to prototype and validate their designs through top-tier native analog, mixed signal, and advanced analysis capabilities. Additionally, OrCAD X Presto and OrCAD X PCB editor facilitate seamless collaboration between ECAD and MCAD teams, enabling designers to produce superior PCBs more efficiently. OrCAD X Presto features a user-friendly interface tailored for novice designers as well as electrical engineers and PCB designers who prioritize rapid PCB development, making it an essential tool in today's fast-paced design environment. The combined functionalities of these applications ensure that designers can meet the evolving demands of the industry effectively.

- Automatic True Form Nesting, Manual Nesting, and Partial Nesting options available (Triangular, Rectangular, Complex Mix, and Beam Layout). - A 2D Viewer that supports DXF import/export, allows for joined contours and lines, and provides a preview of the cutting sequence. - Features include a 2D.NC Viewer and NC1 DSTV viewer, with support for the SheetCam Rotary Plasma Plugin and an NC1 to DXF conversion tool. - The 3D .NC and NC1 DSTV Viewer includes a creator for profile hole clusters (matrices) with the ability to export as .NC1. - Additionally, basic G-code export functionality is provided for the Profile/Beams module, facilitating streamlined processing.

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.

MATLAB® provides a specialized desktop environment designed for iterative design and analysis, complemented by a programming language that facilitates the straightforward expression of matrix and array computations. It includes the Live Editor, which allows users to craft scripts that seamlessly integrate code, outputs, and formatted text within an interactive notebook format. The toolboxes offered by MATLAB are carefully crafted, rigorously tested, and extensively documented for user convenience. Moreover, MATLAB applications enable users to visualize the interactions between various algorithms and their datasets. Users can enhance their outcomes through iterative processes and can easily create a MATLAB program to replicate or automate their workflows. Additionally, the platform supports scaling analyses across clusters, GPUs, and cloud environments with little adjustment to existing code. There is no necessity to completely change your programming habits or to learn intricate big data techniques. MATLAB allows for the automatic conversion of algorithms into C/C++, HDL, and CUDA code, permitting execution on embedded processors or FPGA/ASIC systems. In addition, when combined with Simulink, MATLAB bolsters the support for Model-Based Design methodologies, proving to be a flexible tool for both engineers and researchers. This versatility underscores MATLAB as a vital asset for addressing a broad spectrum of computational issues, ensuring that users can effectively tackle their specific challenges with confidence.

The integration of version control with user-friendly management tools removes the costly need for a separate Product Data Management (PDM) system, guaranteeing that both you and your team can consistently access the latest design information. Each modification made by users is carefully recorded, creating a change history that can be reverted at any time and providing boundless undo/redo capabilities along with a detailed audit trail. The ability to branch and merge supports the concurrent development of multiple product ideas. A notable feature of SolidFace is its parameterization ability, which is applied throughout every stage of the design process. This feature greatly enhances 3D motion simulation, as it updates in real-time with any adjustments. Moreover, the software is capable of simulating 2D mechanisms, enabling analysis in both a 2D drawing context and a 3D sketch environment. In addition, SolidFace offers direct access to a vast online library of parts, featuring over 100 million part numbers from leading manufacturers and distributors, along with thousands of established standards like ISO, ANSI, DIN, NF, GB, and ASME. This extensive resource not only streamlines the design process but also significantly boosts efficiency and effectiveness for all users. Consequently, SolidFace stands out as a powerful tool for innovative design and development.

4MCAD is a cost-effective CAD application that enables users to design and edit 2D illustrations. This dependable software serves as an alternative to AutoCAD and is built on the robust IntelliCAD and ODA frameworks. It offers a comprehensive suite for both 2D and 3D CAD design, along with features like raster image handling, rendering capabilities, AEC object modeling, VBA support, and the ability to convert PDF files to DWG format. With its extensive functionalities, 4MCAD caters to a wide range of design needs, making it an appealing choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.

You have the ability to design, share, and produce everything from a single platform without the hassle of installation or configuration. Altium Designer enables a direct connection to the platform, allowing you to maintain your usual electronic design processes. With Altium 365, there are no extra licenses required as it's part of your existing subscription. The transparency provided in reviews and design sharing can expedite your product development, giving you an edge over competitors. You can communicate real-time updates and project statuses with your team, manufacturers, clients, and other stakeholders without ever leaving your design environment, facilitating collaboration. Anyone with Internet access can easily view, compare, and comment on your projects, eliminating the need for additional licenses for Altium Designer. By overcoming electronic and mechanical collaboration challenges, you can turn them into a competitive advantage, ensuring efficiency across different domains without wasting time or losing focus. This integrated approach fosters innovation and streamlines your workflow, ultimately leading to higher quality outputs.

For over three decades, WSCAD has been at the forefront of creating electrical CAD solutions. Our diverse clientele ranges from small to medium enterprises to large international corporations and engineering service providers, especially within the machine-building, panel manufacturing, and building automation sectors. Currently, more than 40,000 electrical engineers rely on WSCAD software for their design needs. The software operates on a unified platform that encompasses six engineering disciplines: Electrical Engineering, Cabinet Engineering, Piping and Instrumentation, Fluid Engineering, Building Automation, and Electrical Installation. This innovative design allows for any modifications made to a component in one discipline to be automatically updated across all others, enhancing both efficiency and quality of work. Introducing WSCAD ELECTRIX, our latest and most advanced electrical CAD tool, which is now available. Whether you're focused on piping and instrumentation diagrams, fluid power designs, electrical schematics, or cabinet engineering, WSCAD is tailored to meet your needs. The cutting-edge ELECTRIX features a completely revamped design engine and supports compatibility with standard formats like DXF/DWG, alongside incorporating modern advancements such as augmented reality, multi-threading capabilities, and automation features. With this new offering, WSCAD aims to significantly elevate the design experience for engineers across various fields.

CAD Pro presents an accessible and powerful software solution for mechanical drafting and design. It allows users to dive right in, offering customizable symbols and examples that cater to individual needs. With its efficient computer-aided design tools, you can swiftly convert your mechanical sketches into professional-grade presentations. Users can quickly establish personalized symbol libraries that meet their unique drafting demands. Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience, CAD Pro’s mechanical drafting software guarantees results that are polished and ready for presentation. Furthermore, it streamlines the planning and visualization processes for home design projects, making it a preferred choice among homeowners, contractors, and architects. Many users appreciate how CAD Pro enables them to visualize their designs before construction begins, significantly enhancing project outcomes. Countless contractors and custom home builders have improved their workflow efficiency with this software, ensuring high-quality designs that accurately reflect their vision. In summary, CAD Pro is an indispensable resource for anyone engaged in mechanical drafting or home design projects, as it simplifies complex tasks while delivering exceptional quality.

JTS IntelliCAD 11.1 is a robust CAD software designed for native DWG/DXF file creation and editing. It integrates technologies such as IntelliCAD, Open Design Alliance DWG/DXF libraries, and the ACIS 3D Modeling Kernel, among various others. This software also provides numerous additional features and commands that enhance its functionality. With the inclusion of Block Libraries, JTS IntelliCAD 11.1 caters to diverse fields including civil, mechanical, electrical, structural, and P&ID applications. Additionally, it offers tools like batch file converters and unit converters to further streamline workflows. Users can also benefit from customizable options that allow for a tailored experience to meet specific project needs.

SilicaCAD Professional is an adaptable CAD platform that functions effectively in both 2D and 3D environments, making it suitable for DWG-native drafting across a wide range of applications. With over twenty years of experience in the CAD industry since its launch in 1999, SilicaCAD offers impressive compatibility with AutoCAD® alongside a suite of advanced features and specialized tools that are essential for professionals in the field. This software is ideal for those involved in architectural, engineering, construction (AEC), and mechanical computer-aided design (MCAD), serving multiple industries with ease. What sets SilicaCAD apart is its affordable perpetual licensing model, which provides users with access to a wealth of CAD capabilities at a fraction of the cost compared to competing software options. Since DWG is the same format utilized by AutoCAD, users can effortlessly open their existing DWG files in SilicaCAD without any concerns about conversion issues or potential data loss. Moreover, it guarantees adherence to industry standards with AutoCAD®, allowing for immediate use of DWG files, commands, fonts, blocks, hatches, and linetypes right from the beginning. As a result, SilicaCAD presents an excellent opportunity to secure a DWG-compatible solution that combines affordability with a rich feature set, ultimately enhancing your design workflow. In addition, the user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike, ensuring a smooth transition into advanced CAD functionalities.

BricsCAD stands out as the pioneering CAD design software utilizing the .dwg format, catering to all your design requirements with features that encompass 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and mechanical design capabilities. The BricsCAD® suite provides an economical, cross-platform CAD solution compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Users can opt for a perpetual license suitable for either standalone or networked setups, and they have the option to include All In Maintenance for simplified software updates. Additionally, BricsCAD® offers a flexible rental plan, commonly referred to as "Subscription," for those who prefer not to purchase outright. For newcomers, existing knowledge of other CAD applications along with comprehensive LISP support can significantly ease the transition to BricsCAD®. The software employs advanced multi-threading to leverage modern high-performance processors and incorporates innovative machine-learning features that enhance drawing precision while conserving time. BricsCAD®'s compact architecture and impressive performance are a testament to its creators' unwavering emphasis on delivering top-quality software design, ensuring users have a seamless and efficient experience.

Tailored for seasoned professionals, SharkCAD® features sophisticated mesh-based and solid modeling tools that streamline your work in fields such as architecture, mechanical engineering, prototyping, and creative design. This software caters specifically to users who have outgrown basic 3D modeling applications and are ready to utilize premium solutions. Steer clear of the frustrations associated with subpar software; select SharkCAD to meet your project requirements. Whether you are a solo creator or part of a collaborative team, SharkCAD delivers essential features at a cost-effective price point. With its extensive capabilities for both 2D drafting and 3D modeling, users can effortlessly switch between 2D and 3D perspectives. SharkCAD is vital for producing high-quality 3D prototypes and realistic renderings, suitable for a wide range of applications from product design to architectural planning and home renovation. Don’t settle for outdated tools that fail to accommodate your evolving needs; SharkCAD provides professional-grade functionalities that offer significant value without a hefty price tag. Its powerful features guarantee that you can confidently face any design challenge, making it an astute choice for your creative projects. Additionally, the user-friendly interface ensures that even complex tasks can be completed efficiently, enhancing your overall productivity.

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.

MakePrintable is a cloud-based platform designed to assess and fix any 3D model for 3D printing, developed by Mixed Dimensions. The goal of MakePrintable is to simplify the transition from 3D content creation to 3D printing, ensuring a smooth experience for users. By guaranteeing print success right from the start, it encourages more individuals to engage in 3D printing. This platform caters to 3D engineers, creators, and hobbyists who incorporate 3D printing into their projects, eliminating the hassle of resolving issues related to wall thickness and model integrity. Ultimately, MakePrintable empowers users to focus on their creative endeavors without being bogged down by technical challenges.

NanoCAD serves as a robust computer-aided design tool, providing users with extensive features for both 3D modeling and 2D drafting. It functions effectively as a standalone DWG editor but can also be tailored with additional modules like Construction, Mechanica, and Topoplan to enhance its functionality. The platform supports the creation of 2D drawings and 3D solid models, incorporating both two-dimensional and three-dimensional parametric constraints for added precision. Additionally, it offers a Dynamic UCS feature that facilitates sketching directly on 3D surfaces, ensuring a seamless design experience. Documentation drawings are intricately linked to their respective 3D models, maintaining coherence throughout the design process, while also ensuring full compatibility with DWG files for easy integration within existing workflows. This makes NanoCAD an ideal choice for professionals seeking a flexible and comprehensive design solution.

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.

Solid Edge comprises a suite of cost-effective software tools that are user-friendly and straightforward to manage. It enhances every facet of product development, encompassing mechanical and electrical design, simulation, manufacturing processes, technical documentation, data management, and collaboration through the cloud. Grounded in Siemens' cutting-edge technologies, Solid Edge provides an extensive and imaginative methodology for product development tailored to mainstream industries. This comprehensive toolkit is designed to streamline workflows and improve efficiency across various engineering disciplines.

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.

GstarCAD serves as a viable substitute for traditional CAD software, providing exceptional compatibility, robustness, and performance. Additionally, it includes a variety of practical features designed to enhance productivity and streamline the drawing experience for architects, engineers, and various CAD professionals. This makes it an appealing option for those looking to optimize their design workflows.

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.