Head-to-head · CAD Software
AutoCAD vs CATIA
AutoCAD leads on 0 checks, CATIA on 0, and 2 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 2 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreAutoCAD · 9.4/10
- Most featuresCATIA · 1 of 4
AutoCAD scores higher on our rubric for cad software: 9.4 against 9.2 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #3.
AutoCAD is the better fit for established general-purpose CAD teams. CATIA is the better fit for enterprise aerospace and complex products.
- AutoCAD fits best
Established general-purpose CAD teams
- CATIA fits best
Enterprise aerospace and complex products
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Side by side
| Feature | AutoCAD 9.4/10 Visit ↗ | CATIA 9.2/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.4 | 9.2 |
| Ranking | #1 in CAD Software | #3 in CAD Software |
| Best for | Established general-purpose CAD teams | Enterprise aerospace and complex products |
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | — | Pricing on request |
| Free plan | — | Not checked yet |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile | Cloud, Desktop, Browser extension |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Web, Windows |
| Support | Live chat, Community, Docs | Community |
| Integrations | 6 integrations | 2 integrations |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Mid-market, Enterprise |
| Features AutoCAD 0/4 · CATIA 1/4 | ||
| Parametric modeling | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Direct modeling | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Simulation tools | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Cloud collaboration | Not checked yet | ✓ (best) |
| Specs | ||
| Modeling dimension | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Supported platforms | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| File format support | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
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| Our verdict | AutoCAD is Autodesk’s computer-aided design software for creating, editing, documenting, and sharing precise 2D and 3D drawings. Its audience spans architects, engineers, designers, construction professionals, project managers, students,… Read the review → |
CATIA is Dassault Systèmes’ CAD, engineering and manufacturing suite for teams developing products from individual components to complex assemblies. Its work spans mechanical engineering, industrial styling, aerospace and automotive. The… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
AutoCAD — where it wins
- Native DWG workflows plus DXF export and PDF underlays
- Parametric constraints and batch plotting support detailed drawing work
- Web and mobile access, including offline mobile access
Where it doesn't
- Paid subscription only, with monthly, annual, and 3-year terms
- Desktop use requires periodic internet verification
- Seven specialized toolsets may exceed the needs of narrow CAD workflows
CATIA — where it wins
- Combines parametric part, assembly, sheet-metal and surface design.
- Supports collaborative engineering through the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
- Includes mechanism validation, simulation and knowledge-based automation.
Where it doesn't
- Role-based configurations can make product and licensing choices complex.
- Some CATIA V5 sheet-metal software is Windows-only.
- File-format support varies by product or role.
- AutoCAD9.4/10 · Paid
A broad DWG-based CAD toolkit for teams working across desktop, web, and mobile.
Visit AutoCADFull verdict → - CATIA9.2/10 · Pricing on request
A broad engineering suite for teams designing complex parts, assemblies and surfaces.
Visit CATIAFull verdict →
More comparisons
All CAD software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update