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Design vs ZWCAD: catalog facts
Design	ZWCAD
Best for: Linux users who need a free 2D drafting tool that exchanges DXF files	Best for: Drafters and firms that need DWG-compatible CAD without a subscription
Free Free and open source under the GPL-3.0-or-later licence.	Paid Perpetual licences start at $899, with a 30-day free trial.
Linux, Web	Windows
Reads and writes the standard DXF format Command line prompts guide each operation All 4 strengths for Design Reads and writes the standard DXF format Command line prompts guide each operation Dimensions with full dimension style support Desktop and in-browser versions	Native DWG compatibility for sharing with AutoCAD users Perpetual licence option instead of a subscription All 4 strengths for ZWCAD Native DWG compatibility for sharing with AutoCAD users Perpetual licence option instead of a subscription Covers both 2D drafting and 3D work Supports add-on applications and custom development
Desktop version is Linux only 2D drafting only, no 3D modelling	Paid software with a high upfront cost Closed source
Downloadable app, Web application	Downloadable app
Open source	Not open source
License: GPL-3.0-or-later	License not stated
Not stated if an account is 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 Design design-app.readthedocs.io Catalog checked October 1, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for ZWCAD zwsoft.com/zwcad Catalog checked September 23, 2026

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