The Best Free 2D CAD Software for 2022
2D CAD drafting involves drawing sketches, plans, and objects from a top-down perspective, a valuable tool in situations where a full 3D model isn’t required.To get more news about
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Free 2D CAD software is the tool of choice for laser cutting, CNC machining, floor planning, technical and mechanical drawings in engineering projects, and PCB design where only an overhead is required.
The best free 2D CAD software offers various drafting and drawing functions, annotation options, and collaboration tools to define locations, dimensions, objects, and more to bring your projects to fruition.This guide will highlight a selection of the best free 2D CAD software currently available.
We’re stretching the definition of ‘free’ quite far here, including no-questions-asked free programs, trial versions, and licensed options only available for free if you meet specific criteria.2D CAD software is a computer-aided design program that allows designers, artists, architects, and engineers to create two-dimensional drawings, drafts, and plans thanks to a suite of shapes, layers, commands, and tools tuned to simplify the process.
Unlike 3D CAD software, which allows users to create a 3D model, 2D CAD restricts dimensional manipulations to the X and Y axes.
3D CAD programs often include a 2D sketching mode for projects that benefit more from a top view, whether to save time, for collaborative reasons, or due to the nature of the application.
For example, 3D modeling for laser cutting would be a waste of time and resources as cutters and engravers only process 2D images and vectors.
Similarly, a 2D drawing for floor planning or facades makes more sense than a full 3D model, removing the laborious task of creating complex, dimensionally accurate models for each singular element.It leans heavily into the open-source tradition with users encouraged to tweak and tame the program to suit their needs. It’s backed by a supportive community that regularly produces excellent documentation, support, and in-depth guides.
For this reason, we rate LibreCAD as one of the more accessible free 2D CAD software out there.
It’s not dissimilar to AutoCAD in its layout, so if you’re looking for a free alternative, it’s a solid option that you won’t need to learn entirely from scratch.
Alongside a full suite of sketching and drafting tools such as shapes, lines, dimensions, snapping, and mirrors, including fantastic multi-layering and hatching patterns, LibreCAD throws in CAM preparation tools for export to CNC software in a range of file formats.QCAD hits its stride for applications that need precise technical and mechanical drawings – building plans, floor plans, schematics for mechanical parts, etc. You download a free trial of QCAD Professional capped at 15 minutes per session, or opt for the reduced free QCAD Community Edition.
