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AutoCAD vs QElectroTech

Both stand on electrical design software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

AutoCAD

Free trial AndroidiPhoneMac+2

AutoCAD pairs drafting and modeling with specialized toolsets and collaboration features across desktop, web, and mobile platforms. Its named-user licensing and subscription costs are key considerations.

Visit AutoCAD

QElectroTech

Free plan LinuxMacWindows

QElectroTech offers diagram creation, symbol editing and several export formats without licensing fees. It is not suited to users who need native DWG support, simulation or calculations.

Visit QElectroTech

The facts

AutoCADQElectroTech
Free planA free trialYes
Open sourceNot publishedNot published
Runs onAndroid, iPhone, Mac, Web, WindowsLinux, Mac, Windows
Lowest paid planSee the plansFree or on request
Plans published111
MakerAutoCADNot published
Websiteautodesk.comqelectrotech.org
On electrical design software#13 of 41#9 of 41

AutoCAD: what it does well

  • Supports precise 2D and 3D work
  • Includes seven specialized toolsets
  • Includes web and mobile access
  • Supports shared DWG work and markups
  • Eligible students and educators can receive access

What to know first

  • No free plan is listed
  • Monthly subscription costs $260 a month
  • Each subscription is for one named user
  • One device can be used at a time

QElectroTech: what it does well

  • Free GNU/GPL software with no licensing fees.
  • Available on Linux, macOS and Windows.
  • Symbol collection contains over 8,000 symbols.
  • Drawings export to SVG, PNG, JPG or BMP.
  • Supports DXF.

What to know first

  • Does not support native DWG.
  • Does not perform simulation or calculations.
  • Desktop software; no mobile platform is listed.

Alternatives to AutoCAD Alternatives to QElectroTech The whole list