Simple CAD software to compete with Autodesk.
Updated May 28, 2024

Simple CAD software to compete with Autodesk.

John Bennett | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User

Software Version

Paid

Overall Satisfaction with DraftSight

Schematics, basic machine tool layouts, and data translation.

Pros

  • PDF underlays are useful to help create CAD data when the is no DWG option.
  • Image tracing is also helpful for the same reason.
  • Block editing is pretty simple to use.

Cons

  • The software can be buggy from time to time. Would be good if DraftSight could clean up after itself, I traded "Good " folder remnants for "ac-system-logfile" text files that need to be deleted manually.
  • Have yet to get 3D ContentCentral to drag and drop models into drawings.
  • Custom paper sizes for plotting. We use a laser engraver that insists on using a square paper size to reorient the zero point.
  • I started using DraftSight as an AutoCAD clone for data conversion and drawing schematics. I didn't think that the cost for DraftSight Professional was unreasonable since we also use LISP routines. Low-end users will be OK with DraftSight standard.

Do you think DraftSight delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with DraftSight's feature set?

Yes

Did DraftSight live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of DraftSight go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy DraftSight again?

Yes

We use DraftSight primarily because it's a cheaper option than AutoCAD and works just as well.

DraftSight Feature Ratings

Computer-Aided Design Software
Not Rated
3D Modeling
Not Rated
2D Drafting
Not Rated
Rendering and Visualization
Not Rated
Parametric Design
Not Rated
Collaboration and Sharing
Not Rated
Compatibility with other software and formats
Not Rated
Assembly Design
Not Rated
Simulation and Analysis
Not Rated
Documentation and Annotation
Not Rated
Customization and Extensions
Not Rated

Using DraftSight

17 - Engineering, Sales and Production.
1 - An understanding of CAD and general computer skills.
  • Viewing Engineering details and assembly drawings
  • Updating building layouts
  • Basic Engineering proposal layouts
I still like this product as an Autodesk alternative.

Evaluating DraftSight and Competitors

Yes - AutoCAD
  • Ease of Use
It is very similar to AutoCAD in functionality and layout.

DraftSight Implementation

DraftSight Support

I've had an occasion to have support help mostly with licensing, otherwise I've found my own solutions to problems the Draftsight was not able to provide a reasonable solution.
ProsCons
Quick Resolution
Good followup
No escalation required
Quick Initial Response
Difficult to get immediate help
Need to explain problems multiple times
If an issue can't be resolved without needing to pay more, I figure out the solution myself. Issues rarely arise so no need for continual costs.
No.

Using DraftSight

It's simple and intuitive in layout and functionality.
ProsCons
Like to use
Relatively simple
Easy to use
Technical support not required
Well integrated
Consistent
Quick to learn
Convenient
Feel confident using
Familiar
None
  • keyboard menu commands
  • Adjusting plotter selections each time I upgrade.

Comments

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