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SPIRIT vs TAD Designer

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

SPIRIT

Free plan Windows

Choose SPIRIT if your planning work needs a Windows CAD-BIM tool with both 2D and 3D workflows, construction documents, and broad format exchange. Look elsewhere if you need a non-Windows version or the SPIRIT pro capabilities at a lower stated subscription price.

Visit SPIRIT

TAD Designer

Free plan LinuxMacWindows

TAD Designer Lite offers a free, flexible BIM workflow for early architectural design and model analysis. Its lack of drafting functionality means users should plan to export designs to other software when needed.

Visit TAD Designer

The facts

SPIRITTAD Designer
Free planYesYes
Open sourceNot publishedNot published
Runs onWindowsLinux, Mac, Windows
Lowest paid planSPIRIT lite (subscription): €37.50 per user a monthFree or on request
Plans published81
MakerNot publishedNot published
Websitesofttech.deteamtad.com
On architecture software#15 of 36#11 of 36

SPIRIT: what it does well

  • Choose between 2D drawing and 3D building-model workflows.
  • Includes BIM workflows, construction documents, and team collaboration.
  • Supports CAD, BIM, image, and office-document exchange formats.
  • Direct integration with AVANTI; SPIRIT 2026 links to AUSSCHREIBEN.DE.
  • Full-feature trial lasts 14 days and requires no payment information.

What to know first

  • Runs exclusively on Windows.
  • SPIRIT pro subscription costs €185 per user per month, excluding VAT.
  • Single-seat and floating pro purchases cost 4200.00 EUR and 5460.00 EUR, excluding VAT.

TAD Designer: what it does well

  • Free to use
  • Models can begin as 2D shapes
  • Queries areas and distances during design
  • Work is saved on a computer or LAN
  • Includes in-app help and online documentation

What to know first

  • Not drafting software
  • Full version requires free teamTAD Discord membership
  • Mac and Linux use requires WINE
  • Construction documents are not supported

Alternatives to SPIRIT Alternatives to TAD Designer The whole list