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How to switch from AutoCAD to FreeCAD

FreeCAD is a free and open source CAD program for Windows, macOS and Linux. It handles 2D technical drafting, parametric 3D modelling, BIM architecture and dimensioned drawings. It opens DXF files directly and DWG files with a free converter. It works differently from AutoCAD, through workbenches, but this guide shows you where everything is.

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In short

  • 2D drafting, parametric 3D modelling, BIM and drawings with title blocks.
  • Opens DXF directly and DWG with a free converter.
  • Free forever, with no licences or subscription, in companies too.

It’s for you if…

  • You study engineering, architecture or industrial design and don’t want to pay for licences.
  • You design parts for 3D printing or machining.
  • You need a parametric model: change a dimension and the design recalculates.

Better pick something else if…

  • You only draw 2D plans and want something AutoCAD-like: LibreCAD or QCAD are more direct.
  • Your work depends on swapping DWG files daily with dynamic blocks, external references or company templates.

From AutoCAD to FreeCAD: equivalents

AutoCADFreeCAD
2D drafting: line, polyline, circleDraft workbench: Line, Polyline, Circle, Arc…
Object snapsDraft snaps: endpoint, midpoint, centre, intersection…
LayersDraft layers, with their layer manager
DimensionsDraft dimensions in the model and TechDraw dimensions on drawings
Layouts (paper space)TechDraw pages with a template and title block
3D modellingPart Design: constrained sketches and features such as Pad (extrude) or Pocket (cut)
AutoCAD ArchitectureBIM workbench: walls, windows, floors and IFC export
Command line and AutoLISPPython console and Python macros (AutoLISP doesn’t run)

Step by step

  1. Download FreeCAD

    Download it for free from freecad.org for Windows, macOS or Linux. Use the latest stable version: since 1.0 it is much more robust when you edit models.

  2. Get ready to open DWG files

    DWG is a closed format, so FreeCAD uses a converter. Install the free ODA File Converter and choose it under Edit › Preferences › Import-Export › DWG. DXF files open without installing anything.

  3. Open your drawings

    Open or import your DXF and DWG files from the File menu. Measure a dimension you know to check units and scale are right before you carry on working.

  4. Draft in 2D with Draft

    Switch to the Draft workbench, choose the working plane (for example, top view) and draw with lines, polylines and arcs. Snaps work like AutoCAD’s object snaps, and you can organise everything in layers.

  5. Model in 3D with Part Design

    Create a body, draw a sketch with dimensions and constraints and turn it into a solid with Pad or Pocket. Change a dimension in the sketch and the whole model recalculates.

  6. Produce drawings with TechDraw

    Create a page with a template and title block, insert views of the model and dimension them. Then export it to PDF for printing or to DXF for anyone still on AutoCAD.

Files and formats

Its native format is FCStd. It opens and exports DXF directly, and DWG with a free converter such as ODA File Converter or LibreDWG. It also works with STEP, IGES, STL, OBJ, IFC and SVG, and exports TechDraw drawings to PDF. To exchange files with AutoCAD users, DXF is usually the most faithful option.

What you won’t find

Tips

FreeCADOpen Source
Go to the official site of FreeCADSee all alternatives to AutoCAD →

Frequently asked questions

Does FreeCAD open AutoCAD DWG files?

Yes, with a free converter such as ODA File Converter, which you set up once in the preferences. DXF files open directly.

Is it good for 2D drawings?

Yes, with the Draft and TechDraw workbenches. If you only make 2D plans and want something closer to AutoCAD, LibreCAD or QCAD are simpler.

Is it free for professional use?

Yes. FreeCAD is free software (LGPL licence): you can use it for free at home, at school and in companies, with no licences or subscriptions.

Independent: we have no commercial relationship, sponsorship or affiliation with AutoCAD or with these alternatives, and nobody pays us to recommend them. Links go to their official websites and are not affiliate links; the site is funded only by Google AdSense ads, which don't influence the selection. Learn more.

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