CAD software is an essential tool for professionals working in architecture, engineering, and design. While AutoCAD® has long been regarded as the industry leader, BricsCAD has emerged in recent years as a strong alternative. But is switching from AutoCAD® to BricsCAD truly advantageous? Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these two CAD solutions and explain why BricsCAD might be the right choice for you.
AutoCAD or BricsCAD?
1. Licensing and Pricing
AutoCAD:
The AutoCAD® licensing model is offered by Autodesk exclusively through a subscription system. Users can access the software by paying a monthly or annual fee. However, this model may lead to higher costs in the long term, and access to the software may be lost once the subscription expires.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD offers both subscription-based and perpetual license options. With a perpetual license, you can make a one-time payment and use the software indefinitely. This provides a significant cost advantage, especially for long-term use. In addition, thanks to BricsCAD’s update policy, users can choose to upgrade to newer versions whenever they wish.
2. User Interface and Ease of Learning
AutoCAD:
AutoCAD has long been recognized as the industry-standard CAD software and offers a familiar interface for professionals. However, the learning curve can be complex for new users.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD features an interface very similar to AutoCAD. In fact, users transitioning from AutoCAD to BricsCAD can quickly adapt by using the same commands and shortcuts. As a result, the learning curve is minimized, allowing users to focus on their projects more quickly.
3. Performance and System Requirements
AutoCAD:
AutoCAD is known for its high hardware requirements and can consume significant system resources, especially when working on large projects. This often necessitates the use of more powerful computers.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD features a more optimized software architecture and can run smoothly even with lower system requirements. It delivers high performance even on older or lower-spec machines, eliminating the need for additional hardware investments.
4. DWG Compatibility
AutoCAD:
Supports the DWG file format.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD is fully compatible with the DWG format. This means it can open, edit, and save files created with AutoCAD without any issues. AutoCAD users can continue working on their existing projects in BricsCAD without experiencing any compatibility problems.
5. Customization and Plugin Support
AutoCAD:
Supports LISP, VBA, .NET, and Python, with compatibility for more than 50 third-party plugins.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD offers extensive customization capabilities with support for LISP, VBA, .NET, and Python. Moreover, many plugins and scripts developed for AutoCAD can run seamlessly in BricsCAD. This allows users to transition to BricsCAD easily while preserving their existing workflows.
6. 2D & 3D Capabilities
AutoCAD:
AutoCAD’s drafting tools are very strong for 2D drawings. However, its 3D modeling capabilities may be limited compared to some alternatives.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD offers advanced 3D modeling features. Thanks to parametric modeling and BIM (Building Information Modeling) support, it provides more powerful and comprehensive 3D capabilities compared to AutoCAD. For professionals working with 3D, BricsCAD is a much more advantageous option in terms of price–performance ratio.
7. Support and Updates
AutoCAD:
AutoCAD’s drafting tools are very strong for 2D drawings. However, its 3D modeling capabilities may be limited compared to some alternatives.
BricsCAD:
BricsCAD offers advanced 3D modeling features. Thanks to parametric modeling and BIM (Building Information Modeling) support, it provides more powerful and comprehensive 3D capabilities compared to AutoCAD. For professionals working with 3D, BricsCAD is a much more advantageous option in terms of price–performance ratio.
Why Choose BricsCAD Instead of AutoCAD?
Lower cost: Thanks to the perpetual license option, it provides significant long-term savings..
Same user experience: Offers an easy transition with an interface and command set very similar to AutoCAD.
Better performance: Delivers a smooth working experience with lower system requirements.
Powerful 3D modeling capabilities: Provides greater flexibility than AutoCAD with parametric modeling and BIM support.
Flexible licensing model: Keeps costs under control by offering a perpetual license option instead of a subscription-only model.
Rather than paying high fees for AutoCAD and being locked into a continuous subscription model, a more economical and high-performance alternative like BricsCAD should be considered. Especially for professionals planning long-term use, BricsCAD is a smart choice.
MechSoft Is Bricsys’ Premium Partner in Türkiye!
As MechSoft, we are proud to be Bricsys’ Premium Partner in Türkiye. We provide all licensing, training, and technical support services related to BricsCAD with our professional team. To learn more about BricsCAD and obtain it at the best prices, feel free to contact us!