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Bonsai vs Archicad: catalog facts
Bonsai	Archicad
Best for: Architects wanting an open-source OpenBIM tool inside Blender	Best for: Architecture practices producing building models and construction drawings
Free Free and open source.	Paid Paid plans with a free trial available.
Windows, macOS, Linux	macOS
Native IFC authoring rather than import and export Broad BIM scope from drawings to costing and scheduling All 3 strengths for Bonsai Native IFC authoring rather than import and export Broad BIM scope from drawings to costing and scheduling Free and open source, built on IfcOpenShell	Full BIM workflow from concept to construction documents Modelling with architectural elements like walls and roofs All 3 strengths for Archicad Full BIM workflow from concept to construction documents Modelling with architectural elements like walls and roofs OpenBIM collaboration with other disciplines
Requires Blender and familiarity with its interface Still pre-1.0 (v0.8.5)	Commercial software aimed at professional practices Specialised for buildings rather than general 3D work
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Not open source
License: GPL-3.0	License not stated
No account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Offline features available	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Bonsai bonsaibim.org Catalog checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Archicad graphisoft.com/en-us/plans-and-products/archicad Catalog checked September 23, 2026

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