What to know before choosing CAD software, in one place.
Our reference content on CAD, from what it is and the types of software to the DWG file format, licence models and the questions to ask when choosing. We describe the programs neutrally from their public sources and list separately the criteria a team working in Turkey should check.
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What is CAD?
CAD stands for computer-aided design. CAD software lets you prepare the drawings and models of a product, machine, building or plant on a computer rather than on paper, to scale and in an editable form.
Work done in a CAD program usually falls into three groups:
- 2D technical drawing: plans, sections, elevations, details and manufacturing drawings, with dimensioning, layers, blocks and sheet layouts.
- 3D modelling: three-dimensional models of parts and structures, and automatic views, sections and bills of materials generated from them.
- Documentation and sharing: preparing drawings for printing, production, the construction site or partners, and tracking revisions.
CAD is used in machinery and manufacturing, architecture, construction and infrastructure, building services, electrical design, furniture and industrial design. That is why most of the software people search for as “technical drawing software”, “architectural drawing software” or “project drawing software” is CAD software.
Types of CAD software
2D drafting software
For technical drawings, plans and details. Teams for whom 2D alone is enough, such as offices producing design and construction drawings, can start with leaner, more economical editions.
3D modelling software
Solid and surface modelling, parametric or direct. Used to generate drawings from the model, check for clashes and feed data to manufacturing.
Mechanical design and manufacturing
Assemblies, sheet metal, standard parts and bills of materials (BOM). CAM is a separate step: it prepares how the part designed in CAD will be machined (toolpaths, NC code).
BIM (building information modelling)
Models the building with information-carrying objects such as walls, slabs and doors; plans, sections and quantities are produced from the model. For architecture and construction teams it is a step beyond drawing.
Our articles on CAD
A comparison of two DWG-based CAD programs in features, licensing and use.
- DWG compatibility
- Licence models
Where CAD software fits in product and industrial design.
- From design to production
Ways to keep drawing versions, approvals and sharing in order.
- Versions and approvals
The main new features in BricsCAD V25.
- Release notes
What are DWG and DXF, and why do they matter?
DWG is the most common file format for CAD drawings. Developed by Autodesk for AutoCAD, it is now read and written natively by many CAD programs. DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) is an openly documented exchange format, also published by Autodesk, for moving drawings between programs.
For a team, DWG compatibility means that archived drawings, files from customers and partners, templates and blocks open without conversion, and a saved file looks the same on the other side. So when evaluating CAD software, ask whether it imports DWG or uses it directly as its own format.
What drives CAD software pricing?
CAD software prices cannot be compared on a single figure; the licence model and scope set the amount:
- Licence model: perpetual licence or annual/monthly subscription. With a perpetual licence, updates and support usually come with a separate maintenance contract.
- Edition: 2D only, 2D and 3D, or discipline-specific editions such as mechanical or BIM.
- Users and deployment: single licences tied to a person or computer, or network (floating) licences shared within the team.
- Project items: installation, moving templates and standards, LISP and application adaptations, training and support.
We therefore recommend comparing CAD software on the editions the team will use and at least a three-year total cost, not the annual licence amount.
Questions to ask when choosing CAD software in Turkey
Whichever program you evaluate, the answers to these questions decide how easy the switch is and the total cost.
- Does it open and save DWG files natively, without conversion? Do your archived drawings and blocks look the same?
- Are the commands, shortcuts and menus close to what the team is used to? Do your LISP routines and templates run?
- Can you stay on the same platform as you move from 2D to 3D, mechanical design or BIM?
- Is the licence perpetual or a subscription? Is a network licence available? How are updates and support provided?
- Which operating systems does it run on: Windows, macOS, Linux (including Pardus)?
- Where are your drawings stored? With desktop CAD, files stay on your own computers and servers; if a cloud sharing service will be used, ask in which country the data is stored and whether KVKK, Turkey’s data protection law, would require a transfer abroad.
- Is there an authorised partner in Turkey providing installation, training and support in Turkish?
- What is the three-year total cost including licences, maintenance, training and adaptations?
Answering these questions with BricsCAD
MechSoft is an Octave BricsCAD Premium Partner. We can evaluate BricsCAD against these criteria together, on your own drawings.
Native DWG
BricsCAD uses DWG as its own file format, so you work with your archive, templates and partners’ files without conversion.
A familiar way of working
A familiar command structure, menus and LISP support make switching easier and keep the team’s habits.
One platform from 2D to BIM
The Lite (2D), Pro (2D and 3D), Mechanical, BIM and Ultimate editions share one platform; you move up an edition as needs grow.
Windows, macOS and Linux
BricsCAD runs on Windows, macOS and supported Linux distributions.
Your files stay with you
BricsCAD is desktop CAD software; your drawings are kept on your own computers and servers.
Support in Turkish, in Turkey
Installation, training, migration and support are provided in Turkish by the MechSoft team; you can start with a 30-day free trial.
Frequently asked questions about CAD
What does CAD mean?
CAD is short for computer-aided design: preparing drawings and models on a computer, to scale and in an editable form.
What is CAD software?
Software used for 2D technical drawing, 3D modelling and their documentation, in machinery, architecture, construction, building services and industrial design.
Which is the best CAD software?
There is no single best CAD program for everyone. The right choice depends on the kind of drawing you do (2D, 3D, mechanical, BIM), your DWG archive, the team’s habits, your operating system and the three-year total cost. We recommend answering the questions above for each candidate.
What are the alternatives to AutoCAD?
The main programs that work with DWG files include BricsCAD, ZWCAD, GstarCAD, IntelliCAD-based products (such as progeCAD, CADian and ActCAD), DraftSight and nanoCAD. They differ in DWG compatibility, 3D and BIM scope, operating system support and licence model.
Is there free CAD software?
Open-source programs such as FreeCAD and LibreCAD are free, but they differ from commercial programs in working directly with DWG, support and business use. Most commercial programs, BricsCAD included, offer a free trial.
What is the difference between CAD and BIM?
CAD produces drawings or models from lines and geometry; BIM models the building with information-carrying objects such as walls, slabs and doors and produces plans, sections and quantities from that model. Products such as BricsCAD BIM combine both in the same DWG environment.
What is the difference between CAD and CAM?
CAD designs the part; CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) prepares how that design will be machined, that is, the toolpaths and NC code.
BricsCAD editions for your team
Let’s assess your CAD needs together
Let’s talk through the drawings you produce, your DWG archive and how your team works, and show BricsCAD on your own files.