Top Architectural CAD Software

Architectural CAD (computer-aided design) software is used by architects for creating 2D and 3D building plans and blueprints. Use our rankings below to compare Architectural CAD Software options and features, and find the best one for you and your business.

Architectural CAD Software Features

2D Drawing

Drawing and modeling designs within 2D flat dimensions

3D Imaging

Representation of any object in 3D

Annotations

Highlight content and/or make notations about parts of content

Automatic Formatting

Automatically formats data in a predetermined way

BIM Modeling

3D design and modeling tool enabling a virtual information model

Design Templates

Create designs using pre-built templates or customize them with flowcharts, mindmaps, wireframes, network diagrams and org charts

Document Management

Collect, upload, store, and share all documents in a centralized location making it easier for everyone involved to access information

Drafting

Initial, digital document or design mock-ups for review

Modeling & Simulation

Graphing and outlining possibilities of different scenarios and performance, 'what if' anaysis, yield analysis, cash flow projections

Rendering

Generation of non-photorealistic images from a 2D or 3D model

1

Visio

By Microsoft

4.6★★★★★(4,584 Ratings)

Microsoft Visio is a diagramming solution that helps visualize data-connected business process flows, empower remote teamwork, and more Read More

2

SketchUp

By Trimble Inc.

4.6★★★★★(1,769 Ratings)

With a powerful 3D modeler, 2D documentation, cloud storage, AR/VR visualization apps, and more, SketchUp's suite gets the job done. Read More

3

AutoCAD Architecture

By Autodesk

4.7★★★★★(513 Ratings)

On-premise and cloud-based CAD solution designed to help create architectural designs and documents quickly and easily. Read More

4

ARCHICAD

By GRAPHISOFT

4.5★★★★★(409 Ratings)

GRAPHISOFT develops Building Information Modeling software products for architects with Archicad and BIMx solutions. Read More

5

MacDraft Professional

By Microspot

4.5★★★★★(405 Ratings)

The 2D CAD App that makes floor plan design, architectural drawing and illustration simple and affordable on the Mac Read More

6

MicroStation

By Bentley Systems

4.4★★★★(345 Ratings)

3D engineering design software provides modeling,drafting and visualization for architects, engineers & infrastructure professionals Read More

7

ActCAD

By ActCAD

4.3★★★★(320 Ratings)

ActCAD is a true DWG & DXF CAD Software with complete 2D & 3D features to handle any Complex Project Easily. Low Price & Free Support. Read More

8

ArcSite

By Arctuition

4.7★★★★★(292 Ratings)

Our architecture and home building tool provides accurate pricing and proposals with professional results through drawing a picture. Read More

9

SmartDraw

By SmartDraw

4.2★★★★(205 Ratings)

Easy CAD software with hundreds of built-in templates, tools & symbols. Draw and print to any scale. Import DXF & Visio. Read More

10

Chief Architect

By Chief Architect

4.4★★★★(140 Ratings)

The industry leader for residential architectural home design software. This program is easy to use for the building professional. Read More