NanoCAD icon

NanoCAD

nanoCAD is a free and open source 2D CAD application that runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It has a familiar AutoCAD-like interface and offers a basic set of 2D drafting and detailing tools for drawing floorplans, electrical schematics, and more.

What is NanoCAD?

nanoCAD is a free, open source, multi-platform 2D CAD application developed by Nanosoft. It works on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux operating systems.

nanoCAD has an AutoCAD-like interface and set of basic 2D drafting and detailing tools for creating architectural, mechanical, electrical, and construction drawings, schematics, plans, elevations, sections, etc. Its native file format is .dwg so it provides good support and compatibility with AutoCAD drawings.

Key features include:

  • Familiar AutoCAD-style ribbon UI and shortcut keys
  • 2D drafting, detailing, and annotation tools
  • DWG file support for AutoCAD compatibility
  • Block libraries and Block Manager
  • Command line and scripting support
  • PDF printing and export
  • Associative dimensioning and hatches
  • And more standard CAD capabilities

While not a full-featured CAD system, nanoCAD covers the fundamental 2D technical drawings needs of many individual CAD users, students, and design firms at no cost.

The Best NanoCAD Alternatives

Top Apps like NanoCAD

FreeCAD, Autodesk AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, ArchiCAD, LibreCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Catia, DraftSight, ZWCAD, TurboCAD, Designspark Mechanical, DeltaCAD, QCAD, SALOME, DoubleCAD XT, VARKON, Medusa4, CMS IntelliCAD, HeeksCAD, progeCAD Smart, uMake, Visual CADD, A9CAD, BricsCAD, IPocket Draw, Dune 3D, gCAD3D, NttCAD, General CADD Pro, ABViewer, ar-cad freeCAD, NaroCAD, CADintosh, IronCAD, WinCAD, TouchCAD, iCADMac, Punch! ViaCAD Pro, BabaCAD, ARES Commander, devCAD, CAD 6, hsCADCreator, CADKON+, CAD X11 Free, AcceliCAD, Pocket Plans, RealCAD, DesignCAD, BlueCAD 2.0, Punch! ViaCAD 2D, RealCADD, BlueCAD 1.0, Simulia are some alternatives to NanoCAD.

FreeCAD

FreeCAD is a free and open-source parametric 3D computer-aided design application. It is intended for mechanical engineering product design but also expands to a wider range of uses around engineering, such as architecture or electrical engineering. FreeCAD features tools similar to Catia, SolidWorks, or Solid Edge.FreeCAD allows users to...

Autodesk AutoCAD

Autodesk AutoCAD is a leading computer-aided design (CAD) software application that allows users to create detailed 2D and 3D drawings and models. Developed by Autodesk, AutoCAD has become a standard tool in various industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and product design. Key Features: Drawing and Drafting Tools: AutoCAD provides...

SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is a 3D CAD (computer-aided design) software application used by over 5 million engineers and designers across industries worldwide. First released in 1995 by Dassault Systèmes, SOLIDWORKS provides an integrated and user-friendly suite of tools for product design, simulation, visualization, data management, and manufacturing.At its core, SOLIDWORKS lets users...

ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is a leading BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for architects and designers. Developed by Graphisoft, ArchiCAD allows users to carry out the entire design process from conceptual design to visualization, documentation, analysis and facilities management.Key features of ArchiCAD include:Powerful 3D modeling and visualization tools to create photorealistic...

LibreCAD

LibreCAD is a powerful free and open source 2D Computer Aided Design (CAD) application for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It allows users to create professional technical drawings and blueprints for architectural, engineering, and construction projects.Some of the key features of LibreCAD include:User-friendly and intuitive interface, ideal...

Autodesk Inventor

Autodesk Inventor is a 3D CAD (computer-aided design) software application used for product design and engineering in industries like machinery, construction, automotive, aerospace, electronics and more. It provides a comprehensive set of design, simulation and manufacturing tools in one powerful software package.Some of the key features and tools in...

Catia

Catia is a multi-platform software suite developed by French company Dassault Systèmes for 3D CAD (computer-aided design), CAM (computer-aided manufacturing), CAE (computer-aided engineering), PLM (product lifecycle management) and 3D modeling applications. First released in 1977, Catia has become one of the most widely used CAD software packages in the world...

DraftSight

DraftSight is a feature-rich, professional 2D CAD software designed for architects, engineers, construction service providers, professional design studios and individuals. It lets users create, edit, view and markup any kind of 2D drawings and designs.Some of the key features of DraftSight include:Advanced 2D drafting tools like lines, arcs...

ZWCAD

ZWCAD is a feature-rich, budget-friendly CAD (computer-aided design) application used widely for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, engineering calculations, and design visualization across different industries like architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, etc.Developed by ZWSOFT based out of Guangzhou, China, ZWCAD is built to handle design engineering projects of any complexity and...

TurboCAD

TurboCAD is a feature-rich 2D/3D CAD software solution designed for architects, engineers, designers, and other professionals. First released in 1982 by IMSI/Design as VKCAD for DOS, TurboCAD has developed into a versatile and affordable CAD platform over 30+ years of updates.Key features of TurboCAD include:Powerful 2D drafting tools...

Designspark Mechanical

Designspark Mechanical is a feature-rich, free CAD software targeted for mechanical engineers to accelerate the product development process. This software is specially built to design and model mechanical parts and assemblies. It comes packed with all the necessary CAD modeling and simulation tools for creating professional 2D drawings and 3D...

DeltaCAD

DeltaCAD is a feature-rich 2D/3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) application built for architects, engineers, construction professionals, and designers. It provides a wide range of tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, photorealistic rendering, and collaboration.Key features of DeltaCAD include:Powerful 2D drafting tools for creating floor plans, sections, elevations...

QCAD

QCAD is a free, open source 2D CAD (computer-aided design) application available for Windows, macOS and Linux operating systems. Developed by Ries & Ries, QCAD allows users to create professional technical drawings such as plans, schematics, diagrams, models and more.Some of the key features of QCAD include:Intuitive and easy-to-use...

SALOME

SALOME is an open-source software suite developed by Open CASCADE for numerical simulation pre- and post-processing. It provides a flexible platform for managing CAD models, automated meshing, running solvers, and visualizing simulation results.Some key features of SALOME include:Unified CAD modeling tools support various geometries like B-rep, meshes, and...

DoubleCAD XT

DoubleCAD XT is a feature-rich 2D/3D CAD software solution for architects, engineers, designers, and drafting professionals. It provides a full set of drafting and detailing tools for creating accurate technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, plans, and more.Key features of DoubleCAD XT include:Powerful 2D drafting tools for drawing, editing...

VARKON

VARKON is a CAD/CAM software designed specifically for mechanical engineering applications like machine design, tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing. It provides a complete set of modeling and drafting tools focused on the needs of the mechanical engineering industry.Key features of VARKON include:2D drafting capabilities like automatic dimensioning and...

Medusa4

Medusa4 is an open-source, headless commerce engine that allows developers to build custom storefronts and shopping experiences on top of a robust backend infrastructure. It is designed to be highly flexible, scalable, and API-first.Some key features and benefits of Medusa4 include:GraphQL API - The primary API is GraphQL...

CMS IntelliCAD

CMS IntelliCAD is a feature-rich 2D and 3D CAD software used primarily for drafting, modeling, and visualization. As an AutoCAD alternative, IntelliCAD contains familiar tools and UI at a fraction of the price.Key features include:2D drafting tools like lines, arcs, circles, polylines for creating technical drawingsAdvanced 3D modeling...

HeeksCAD

HeeksCAD is a free and open source computer-aided design application developed primarily for machining purposes. It allows users to design parts from scratch, import existing CAD designs, and simulate machining operations like milling, turning, drilling, etc.Some of the key features of HeeksCAD include:Basic 2D drafting tools like lines...

ProgeCAD Smart

progeCAD Smart is a feature-rich, DWG-compatible 2D/3D CAD software that works with AutoCAD .dwg files seamlessly. It has been designed to deliver an AutoCAD-like experience and interface, while being more affordable and flexible.With progeCAD Smart, you get access to familiar AutoCAD-like commands and shortcuts, making it easy to...

UMake

uMake is a free and open-source 3D modeling software application developed by Ultimaker for their line of consumer-grade 3D printers. Released in 2015, uMake aims to provide a simplified 3D modeling experience to enable anyone to create 3D printable models and artwork.Key features of uMake include:Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for...

Visual CADD

Visual CADD is a feature-rich computer-aided design (CAD) software targeted at architects, engineers, designers, and draftsmen. It provides tools to create detailed 2D drawings and 3D models for architectural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and other design disciplines.Key features of Visual CADD include:Powerful 2D drafting tools for floor plans, elevations...

A9CAD

A9CAD is a feature-rich CAD software used for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, architectural design, mechanical engineering, and collaboration. It provides a wide range of CAD tools and functionalities aimed at architects, engineers, designers, and construction professionals.Key features of A9CAD include:Powerful 2D drafting tools - snap to...

BricsCAD

BricsCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software application used for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and mechanical engineering design. It was first released in 2002 by Bricsys as an alternative CAD platform with .DWG file compatibility for greater interoperability with AutoCAD and other mainstream CAD applications.Key features of BricsCAD include:Compatible...

IPocket Draw

IPocket Draw is a vector graphics and diagramming application designed specifically for iOS devices including iPhones and iPads. It provides users with a set of vector shape and line tools to allow quick and easy creation of illustrations, diagrams, sketches, and notes.Key features of IPocket Draw include:Intuitive gesture-based...

Dune 3D

Dune 3D is an open source media center application developed specifically for set-top boxes and mini PCs connected to televisions. It provides an intuitive graphical user interface optimized for large screen displays and remote controls, making it easy to browse and play back media files stored locally or on the...

GCAD3D

gCAD3D is a free, open source CAD (Computer Aided Design) application built specifically for modeling and drafting in 3D. It is designed to deliver a lightweight yet robust set of modeling tools while remaining customizable and easy to use.As a CAD software, gCAD3D specialized in creating precise...

NttCAD

NttCAD is a mid-range computer-aided design (CAD) software application targeted at the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industries. It is designed to handle the specific needs of building design including 2D drafting, 3D modeling, collaboration features, accessibility standards support and tools for managing projects from conception to construction.Developed by...

General CADD Pro

General CADD Pro is 2D and 3D CAD software designed for architects, engineers, construction professionals, and designers. It provides tools for drafting, modeling, documenting projects, and creating professional designs.For 2D drafting, General CADD Pro includes features like advanced snap and dimensioning tools, layers and blocks for organizing your drawings...

ABViewer

ABViewer is a free, open-source PDF viewer for Windows. It is developed by Altermeta as a lightweight alternative to Adobe Acrobat Reader.Some key features of ABViewer include:Fast PDF loading and navigationBasic annotation tools like highlights, notes, shapesTabbed interface for multiple documentsSmooth scrolling, searching, and zoomingSupport for major PDF...

Ar-cad freeCAD

ar-cad freeCAD is a free and open source 3D parametric modeler for CAD, CAM, CAE, and more. It is customizable and scriptable software aimed at mechanical engineering and product design, but can also be used for other applications such as architecture, the creation of visual effects and animations, as well...

NaroCAD

NaroCAD is a free and open source CAD (Computer Aided Design) application for 2D design and drafting. It provides a basic set of CAD tools and features for creating technical drawings, floor plans, diagrams, sketches and other 2D graphics.Some of the key features of NaroCAD include:Intuitive graphical user...

CADintosh

CADintosh is a free, open-source computer-aided design (CAD) software application for 2D drafting, drawing, and design. It provides a basic set of CAD tools and features for creating technical drawings, floor plans, flyers, brochures, and other 2D graphics.As an open-source program, CADintosh is completely free to download and use...

IronCAD

IronCAD is a 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software application used for mechanical design and manufacturing. It provides tools for direct, history-free modeling as well as constraint-based parametric design.Key features of IronCAD include:Intuitive push-pull direct editing tools for fast 3D model creationParametric design capabilities for controlling model dimensions and...

WinCAD

WinCAD is a feature-rich 2D/3D CAD application designed for Windows. It enables professionals like engineers, architects, designers, and drafters to create high-quality technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, 3D models, and more for manufacturing, architecture, engineering, construction and other applications.Key features of WinCAD include:Powerful 2D drafting tools like lines...

TouchCAD

TouchCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software application designed specifically for touchscreen devices like tablets and smartphones. It provides an intuitive and natural way to create 2D sketches and 3D models using direct on-screen touch gestures.Some key features of TouchCAD include:Touch-based modeling tools like drag, pinch, pan, and...

ICADMac

iCADMac is a dental CAD (computer-aided design) software application created specifically for macOS to help dentists design dental prosthetics and restorations. It includes a library of tooth anatomies and provides tools for modeling crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, veneers, implant abutments, and more.Key features of iCADMac include:Streamlined and intuitive...

Punch! ViaCAD Pro

Punch! ViaCAD Pro is a feature-rich 2D/3D CAD software targeted at mechanical engineers, designers, and draftsmen. It provides professional-grade tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, assemblies and mechanisms design, sheet metal design, structure/frame analysis, customizable bills of materials generation, and more.Key features include:Powerful 2D drafting tools...

BabaCAD

BabaCAD is a free, open-source CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software application for 2D drafting and 3D modeling. It allows users to create precise 2D drawings and 3D models of objects and structures.Some of the key features of BabaCAD include:Intuitive and easy-to-use graphical user interfaceSupport for both 2D drafting and...

ARES Commander

ARES Commander is a comprehensive, fully integrated project management software designed specifically for engineering teams and technical product development. It goes beyond basic project management and provides deep, specialized capabilities for managing complex projects involving hardware, software, and mechanical components.Key features of ARES Commander include:Advanced planning tools like...

DevCAD

devCAD is an open-source, free CAD software for Windows. It provides a wide range of tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, sheet metal design, and more. Some key features of devCAD include:User-friendly interface with familiar workflows for those with experience in other CAD programsSupports industry-standard DWG file format for...

CAD 6

CAD 6 is a feature-rich 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software used for drafting, modeling, design visualization, and collaboration. Developed by Dassault Systems, it enables professionals to design, document, visualize, simulate, analyze, render, animate, and collaborate on projects across a wide range of industries including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media...

HsCADCreator

hsCADCreator is a free and open-source computer-aided design (CAD) software application targeted at home improvement projects and residential design. It provides a simple and intuitive interface for creating detailed 2D floor plans and 3D models of homes or spaces.Key features of hsCADCreator include:Tools for drawing walls, doors, windows...

CADKON+

CADKON+ is a feature-rich computer-aided design (CAD) solution tailored specifically for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) workflows. Developed by AB Studio Software, CADKON+ aims to provide an affordable and easy-to-use CAD platform for small and mid-sized AEC firms and individual designers and drafters.Key features of CADKON+ include:Intuitive drafting...

CAD X11 Free

CAD X11 Free is a powerful yet easy-to-use open-source computer-aided design (CAD) software ideal for architects, engineers, students, and hobbyists for creating professional 2D drawings and 3D models. It comes packed with an intuitive GUI and a wide range of features for drafting architectural plans, mechanical parts, electrical schematics, and...

AcceliCAD

AcceliCAD is a 2D and 3D CAD software solution targeted at architects, interior designers, space planners, and construction professionals. It simplifies the drafting and design process with easy-to-use tools for creating floor plans, elevations, sections, 3D models, construction details, material takeoffs, and more.Key features of AcceliCAD include:Intuitive drafting...

Pocket Plans

Pocket Plans is a mobile app available for iOS and Android devices that enables users to easily create floor plans, interior designs, garden plans, and more. With an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, anyone can design the interior or exterior layouts of their homes, offices, landscapes, and other spaces.Key features of...

RealCAD

RealCAD is a feature-rich general-purpose CAD software used for 2D drafting and 3D modeling across architecture, engineering, and construction industries. First released in 1987 by RealCAD LLC, RealCAD integrates powerful 2D drafting, 3D modeling, photorealistic rendering, and collaboration tools in one platform.Key features of RealCAD include:Powerful 2D drafting tools...

DesignCAD

DesignCAD is computer-aided design (CAD) software used for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, architectural drawing, mechanical engineering, and other design applications. First released in 1991 by American company DesignCAD, it is one of the more affordable CAD packages aimed at small businesses, students, educators, and hobbyists.Key features of DesignCAD include:2D...

BlueCAD 2.0

BlueCAD 2.0 is an affordable yet feature-rich computer-aided design (CAD) software used for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, photorealistic rendering, and other design and visualization tasks. It provides an intuitive and customizable user interface optimized for productivity.Some of the key features of BlueCAD 2.0 include:Powerful 2D drafting tools for creating floor...

Punch! ViaCAD 2D

Punch! ViaCAD 2D is a feature-rich 2D CAD software solution targeted at architects, engineers, construction professionals, and designers who need to create detailed technical drawings, floor plans, layouts, schematics, and more. It comes packed with all the drafting, design, editing, dimensioning, annotation, and plotting tools you'd expect from a professional...

RealCADD

RealCADD is a feature-rich computer-aided design (CAD) software solution targeted at the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. It provides powerful 2D drafting, 3D modeling, rendering, analysis, and collaboration tools to streamline workflows for architects, engineers, contractors, and other AEC professionals.Key features of RealCADD include:Intuitive 2D drafting tools...

BlueCAD 1.0

BlueCAD 1.0 is an affordable and easy to use 2D CAD software for Windows. It provides a simple and intuitive drafting interface for creating professional quality drawings and plans.Some of the key features include:Basic 2D CAD drawing tools - lines, circles, arcs, texts, dimensions etc.Multiple layers for organized...

Simulia

Simulia is a suite of engineering simulation software used for predictive performance analysis across multiple engineering disciplines. It is developed by Dassault Systèmes for use in industries like automotive, aerospace, construction, consumer goods, energy, and shipbuilding.Some of the key capabilities and applications of Simulia include:Structural mechanics simulation...