The “offset” (Parallel) command took me a second to get used to, as I was used to two clicks in AutoCAD to select the line then click again to offset to that side, but so far the one click offset by clicking on the side near the line seems to work pretty well.

I really like the recent command memory on right click, and the blue/green colorized selection box for inclusive or intersect selection. LibreCAD fits my need quite well, for drawing, offsetting, and trimming lines in 2D, and it works very similar to (if not more streamlined than) AutoCAD. Have you used AutoCAD or any of the software on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

They each have their own interface and toolset, but they are more than capable of doing what AutoCAD does! The programs listed above are all viable AutoCAD alternatives and most of them are free. Final WordsĪutoCAD is a great program, but it does have some downsides. It can also be used for architectural purposes as well. If you just need to fix something around the house, you can model it in SolveSpace and print it right on your 3D printer. This software actually comes with the added benefit of being able to use the models for 3D printing. Not only can you draw in 2D space like you can with AutoCAD, but you can model in 3D space as well.

This program will never cost you anything, and it can handle even the most complex CAD drawings. If you want something cheaper, SolveSpace, a free 3D parametric CAD program that is absolutely free, maybe for you. We’ve mentioned AutoCAD’s cost several times already, and that’s because it is a legitimate barrier for many users.

Autocad cost