DraftSight, where value far outstrips the tiny cost incurred.
October 01, 2019
DraftSight, where value far outstrips the tiny cost incurred.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Software Version
Paid
Overall Satisfaction with DraftSight
I use DraftSight in support of my self-build project. I use SOLIDWORKS professionally elsewhere, but I find the 2D drafting of DraftSight much simpler, better and quicker to work with on-site than SOLIDWORKS. I also use the API to grab details out of the drawings and to create BOM etc.
- I like the simple makeblock interface as it gives me full control and provides quick accessible editing features as I build the block.
- The dimension detail/builder is a great thing it allows me to quickly add notes to dimensions.
- I like the 'Classic' / 'Drafting & annotation' view switch as it allows me to switch between the whole toolbar layout in the workflow.
- Smart Leader does not feel that smart - you cannot edit the leader text after it is created, unlike all the text everywhere else which can be edited. This forces me to create composite groups to handle this.
- I often find the snap/ortho buttons are covered up at the bottom of the screen, they would be better on one of the side bars but I have not seen how to move them.
- There has been significant impact on our self-build project because DraftSight gives me access to a CAD package at a relatively low cost. I have been using the pro version so it is not free, but it allows me to provide commercial level drawings to our contractors. (Elsewhere in my professional life I have access to educational versions of AutoCAD and SOLIDWORKS but they cannot be used for commercial purposes so I have drawn our entire project in DraftSight.)
- The interface is simple and not greatly different from that of AutoCAD for the most part this made learning the package very simple.
Simpler interface, faster for most of the simpler things, fraction of the cost for commercial activities.