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Head-to-head · Architecture Design software

Archicad vs AutoCAD

  • Updated Sep 2026
  • Both researched from official sources
  • 1 check side by side
Higher score Archicad #1 in Architecture Design software 9.0/10 From $201/user/mo (annual) · 30-day trial ✓ 0 of 4 features Visit Graphisoft
AutoCAD #8 in Architecture Design software 6.5/10 Paid ✓ 0 of 4 features Visit AutoCAD

Archicad leads on 0 checks, AutoCAD on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.

Our verdict

  • Highest scoreArchicad · 9.0/10

Archicad scores higher on our rubric for architecture design software: 9.0 against 6.5 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #8.

Archicad is the better fit for architecture teams needing mature BIM workflows. AutoCAD is the better fit for teams centered on 2D drafting and DWG workflows.

  • Archicad fits best

    Architecture teams needing mature BIM workflows

  • AutoCAD fits best

    Teams centered on 2D drafting and DWG workflows

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Side by side

Feature Archicad 9.0/10 Visit ↗ AutoCAD 6.5/10 Visit ↗
At a glance
Editor score 9.0 6.5
Ranking #1 in Architecture Design software #8 in Architecture Design software
Best for Architecture teams needing mature BIM workflows Teams centered on 2D drafting and DWG workflows
Pricing model Paid Paid
Starting price $201/user/mo Not published
Free plan — —
Free trial — —
Deployment Cloud, Desktop Cloud, Desktop, Mobile
Platforms Windows, macOS Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Support Email, Phone, Tickets, Community, Docs Live chat, Community, Docs
Integrations 7 integrations 6 integrations
Built for Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise
Features Archicad 0/4 · AutoCAD 0/4
BIM support Not published Not published
Rendering tools Not published Not published
Team collaboration Not published Not published
Mobile access Not published Not published
Specs
Deployment Not published Not published
Supported file formats Not published Not published
Our review
Pros
  • Parametric modeling with coordinated construction documents and schedules
  • OpenBIM support through IFC, BCF, and IDS, plus clash detection
  • BIMcloud enables real-time teamwork with Windows and macOS support
  • Works with native DWG drawings and exports to DXF.
  • Includes parametric constraints and batch sheet publishing.
  • Supports desktop, web, and mobile workflows, including offline mobile access.
Cons
  • Commercial pricing starts at $201 per user monthly when billed annually
  • Advanced MEP collaboration requires the higher-priced Collaborate plan
  • Desktop authoring is complemented by mobile viewing rather than full mobile editing
  • Paid subscription only, with no free plan.
  • Desktop use requires periodic internet verification.
  • Less tailored to BIM and architecture-specific workflows than specialist tools.
Our verdict

Archicad is Graphisoft’s building information modeling platform for architects, designers, engineers, and other AEC professionals. It combines parametric architectural modeling with construction documentation, coordinated drawings,…

Read the review →

AutoCAD supports the creation, editing, documentation, and sharing of precise 2D and 3D drawings. It suits architects, engineers, designers, construction professionals, project managers, students, and other technical users, particularly…

Read the review →
  1. ArchicadArchitecture Design software 9.0From $201/user/mo (annual) · 30-day trial
  2. AutoCADArchitecture Design software 6.5Paid

Strengths and trade-offs

  • Archicad — where it wins

    • Parametric modeling with coordinated construction documents and schedules
    • OpenBIM support through IFC, BCF, and IDS, plus clash detection
    • BIMcloud enables real-time teamwork with Windows and macOS support

    Where it doesn't

    • Commercial pricing starts at $201 per user monthly when billed annually
    • Advanced MEP collaboration requires the higher-priced Collaborate plan
    • Desktop authoring is complemented by mobile viewing rather than full mobile editing

  • AutoCAD — where it wins

    • Works with native DWG drawings and exports to DXF.
    • Includes parametric constraints and batch sheet publishing.
    • Supports desktop, web, and mobile workflows, including offline mobile access.

    Where it doesn't

    • Paid subscription only, with no free plan.
    • Desktop use requires periodic internet verification.
    • Less tailored to BIM and architecture-specific workflows than specialist tools.
  • Archicad9.0/10 · From $201/user/mo (annual) · 30-day trial

    Architecture-focused BIM with coordinated documentation, openBIM exchange, and BIMcloud teamwork.

    Visit GraphisoftFull verdict →
  • AutoCAD6.5/10 · Paid

    A broad CAD toolkit for teams working primarily in 2D and native DWG workflows.

    Visit AutoCADFull verdict →

More comparisons

All architecture design software comparisons → · Full ranking →

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026

Last updated · How we research and update