Side by side
Autodesk Viewer vs CAD Reader
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 plan APILinuxMac+2
Autodesk Viewer provides a free way to inspect and share supported design files in a browser, with measurement and markup tools. Keep in mind that shared views do not expose source files, and the default retention period is 30 days.
Visit Autodesk Viewer Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
Visit CAD Reader The facts
| Autodesk Viewer | CAD Reader | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | See the plans |
| Plans published | 2 | 8 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | viewer.autodesk.com | dwg.fastcadreader.com |
| On cad viewer software | #1 of 31 | #2 of 31 |
Autodesk Viewer: what it does well
- Free plan; no trial required.
- Supports many 2D and 3D design formats.
- Includes measurement, section, and markup tools.
- Share views and collaborate with annotations.
- Available in browsers on Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS.
What to know first
- Requires an Autodesk Account.
- Shared-link access is available to anyone with the link.
- Views expire after 30 days by default.
- Data storage is limited to the United States.
CAD Reader: what it does well
Alternatives to Autodesk Viewer Alternatives to CAD Reader The whole list
