Archicad vs autocad software#

SketchUp has carved out a unique place in the world of CAD by offering free, easy-to-use modelling software for students and professionals alike. I found AutoCAD to be an important step up from mechanical drafting, but once I was introduced to BIM there was no turning back.Ĭlick here for more information on AutoCAD SketchUp – by Trimble

As Autodesk offers a suite of software, it is unlikely that AutoCAD will ever evolve beyond its CAD boundaries. While it allows for primitive 3D modelling, it does not produce BIM, and is useful primarily for Computer Aided Drafting.

Archicad vs autocad professional#

Released in 1982 and available on all operating systems, it remains widely used in many professional engineering, mechanical, and manufacturing industries, as well as architecture. Now that we’ve got a grip on the terminology, let’s talk options: Software Overview AutoCAD – by AutodeskĪutoCAD is synonymous with CAD for good reason. Adapting - workflow to maximise the BIM potential.Ĭlick here for more information on BIM implementation.Learning - to gain proficiency in the software.Rather, the biggest investment will be the time and effort of implementation: This investment is not just quantifiable in dollars and cents, or pounds and pence, as in the initial purchase (and the ongoing subscription) of the software. Granted, most people never unleash the full potential of BIM because they simply don’t need it, just like most owners of a sports car never get to test out its true speed potential.Īnother way to consider BIM is to liken it to shares you only make dividends on what you invest in. BIM allows you to assign real-world attributes to every modelled component, allowing you and your project time to extract information regarding: The ‘I’ in BIM is for information and is largely ignored or overlooked by many who pay handsomely for it. Accuracy in 3D modelling ensures integrity and continuity of 2D representation, even when changes are made. 2D projections are then output and annotated as required to conform to industry requirements.

Visualisation, design resolution and documentation are developed simultaneously. While CAD is used to manually produce 2D slices through an imagined building, BIM software virtually models 3D architecture. BIM = Building Information ModellingīIM represents a giant leap forward in architectural representation. By performing these same 2D tasks digitally we avoid mess, save time, allow for ease in file sharing, and can make changes faster than scratching ink off trace paper. However, the next generation of architects may never experience the joys (and pains) of setsquares, protractors, rapidograph pens, and razor blades. Traditionally I have explained CAD as a digital, computer-based, version of mechanical drafting, where we use orthographic projection to produce plans, sections & elevations in 2D. What is CAD, what is BIM, and which one is right for me? CAD = Computer Aided Drafting However, as we shouldn’t expect an orange tree to produce figs, we must also understand what each software package was created to do. Why? They all promise fruit, and given the correct conditions, they produce it according to their kind. When comparing AutoCAD, SketchUp, Vectorworks, Revit, and ArchiCAD, we are not comparing apples with apples, more like apple trees with orange, banana, or even fig trees. In order to compare software, we must first categorize it. If you would prefer a deep dive, I have also provided links to longer form articles I have written on each topic. In this short article I’ll do my best to explain each of the market leading software options and provide some insights into each. At least, this is the feedback I receive from many students and professionals. If you are new to architecture and searching for the best CAD solution for your time and money, you will discover a wide range of CAD or BIM programs that look very similar (and very expensive) from the outside.