Side by side
ABViewer vs CAD Viewer
Both stand on cad viewer software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial LinuxWindows
ABViewer covers file viewing and editing alongside 2D markups, 3D measurement, conversion, and CNC G-code generation. Check the license tier for Enterprise-only tools and the subscription or lifetime licensing terms that fit your work.
Visit ABViewer Free plan Web
CAD Viewer combines browser-based drawing access with editing, review, measurement, and offline export options. Check the mode and export requirements first, since read-only mode disables editing tools.
Visit CAD ViewerThe facts
| ABViewer | CAD Viewer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Windows | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Professional — user license, one-year subscription: $77 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 7 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | cadsofttools.com | mlightcad.com |
| On cad viewer software | #14 of 31 | #10 of 31 |
ABViewer: what it does well
- Supports DWG, DXF, STEP, IGES, PDF, and STL.
- Provides 2D drawing and markup tools.
- Measures 3D models and creates section views.
- Generates CNC G-code from 2D drawings.
- License activation can be done without internet.
What to know first
- PDF-to-DWG conversion is Enterprise-only.
- Batch tools are included in Enterprise.
- Major-version upgrades for lifetime Professional licenses are optional and paid.
CAD Viewer: what it does well
- Free and open source
- Supports DWG and DXF
- Includes drawing, review, and measurement tools
- Can export a self-contained offline HTML viewer
- Drawings are said not to be uploaded or cached
What to know first
- Read-only mode disables markup and editing commands
- Offline HTML export offers a narrower toolset than the full viewer
Alternatives to ABViewer Alternatives to CAD Viewer The whole list