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AutoCAD vs nanoCAD: catalog facts
AutoCAD	nanoCAD
Best for: Professionals who draft and exchange DWG drawings	Best for: Drafters who need DWG-compatible CAD for less than AutoCAD costs
Paid Commercial software sold by Autodesk, with a trial available.	Free + paid options Subscriptions from $289 per year, a full free trial, and a separate free edition.
Web	Windows
Native DWG format used widely across industries Desktop and web versions share drawings All 3 strengths for AutoCAD Native DWG format used widely across industries Desktop and web versions share drawings Covers both 2D drafting and 3D modeling	Native DWG editing as a lower-cost AutoCAD alternative Modular add-ons for mechanical, construction, raster and survey work All 3 strengths for nanoCAD Native DWG editing as a lower-cost AutoCAD alternative Modular add-ons for mechanical, construction, raster and survey work 2D and 3D parametric constraints in the Pro bundle
Expensive commercial licensing Requires an Autodesk account	Windows only Recommended hardware is fairly demanding, including a 1920x1080 minimum screen
Downloadable app, Web application	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
Account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for AutoCAD autodesk.com/products/autocad/overview Catalog checked September 23, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for nanoCAD nanocad.com Catalog checked September 24, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.