QCAD logo

QCAD

by Ribbonsoft · Since 2005
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ActiveAvailable globally
Quick facts
VendorRibbonsoft
Year launched2005
StatusActive
LocationRibbonSoft GmbH Kernserstrasse 31 Postfach 1654 6061 Sarnen Switzerland
Countries servedGlobal
Languages13
Integrations
Free tier
Free trial
Contact sales

About QCAD

QCAD is a 2D CAD software from Ribbonsoft designed for Windows, Linux, and Mac operating systems. It provides features such as QCAD, QCAD/CAM, and QCAD Command Line Tools to assist users in creating detailed 2D designs. This open-source solution is suitable for users who require flexible and comprehensive tools for drafting and design work. QCAD allows users to generate technical drawings efficiently and supports various file formats. Key capabilities: 2D CAD QCAD/CAM Command Line Tools Best for: professionals and hobbyists that need a versatile 2D CAD platform for architectural, engineering, and design projects.

QCAD is an open-source application developed for two-dimensional computer-aided drafting (CAD), catering to a wide array of users who need to create technical drawings such as architectural plans, mechanical parts, and schematics. It is designed with an emphasis on usability and modularity, making it an appealing choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals. Key features include support for widely-used DXF and DWG file formats, a robust set of construction and modification tools, and an extensive library of over 4,800 CAD parts, all of which contribute to its versatility in various drafting tasks. The user interface of QCAD is notably intuitive, providing a clean and organized workspace that facilitates navigation and usability. Upon launching the software, users are greeted with a familiar layout reminiscent of traditional CAD systems, which aids those with prior experience in transitioning smoothly. The toolbar can be customized to prioritize frequently used tools, while contextual menus and logical navigation structures enhance the overall user experience. Additionally, the software supports keyboard shortcuts, allowing for increased efficiency and productivity, especially for users who prefer quick command access.

Pros & Cons

What users like
  • +Open Source and Free: QCAD is free to use, making it accessible to a wide range of users, including students, hobbyists, and professionals.
  • +User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive layout and customizable toolbars make it easy for users to navigate and utilize the software, even without prior CAD experience.
  • +Comprehensive Toolset: With over 40 construction tools and 20 modification tools, QCAD allows for detailed and precise drafting of technical drawings.
  • +Cross-Platform Compatibility: QCAD runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for users across different operating systems.
  • +Extensive Part Library: The inclusion of over 4,800 pre-defined CAD parts speeds up the drafting process and enhances productivity.
  • +Active Community Support: Users benefit from an active online community and numerous resources, including tutorials and forums, that provide assistance and foster collaboration.
What users flag
  • Limited 3D Capabilities: QCAD focuses solely on 2D drafting and does not offer built-in features for 3D modeling, which may limit its appeal for users needing comprehensive CAD solutions.
  • Steeper Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While basic functionalities are easy to grasp, more advanced features, like scripting, may require additional learning and familiarity with programming concepts.
  • Occasional Bugs: Some users report encountering bugs or glitches, which can affect performance or lead to crashes, particularly in older versions of the software.
  • Lack of Advanced Rendering Options: QCAD does not include advanced rendering tools, which may be necessary for users looking to create highly detailed visual presentations of their designs.
  • Limited Customization in Some Areas: While users can customize toolbars, some aspects of the interface and functionalities may not be as flexible as in other commercial CAD software.

Features

Key features

Cross-Platform Compatibility
QCAD is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
User-Friendly Interface
Designed with an intuitive user interface, QCAD allows users to start drafting immediately, regardless of their prior CAD experience.
Extensive Toolset
Over 40 construction tools and 20 modification tools enable the creation and editing of complex technical drawings with ease.
Layer Management
Users can organize their drawings using layers, enhancing the clarity and management of complex designs.
CAD Font Support
QCAD includes 35 CAD fonts and supports TrueType fonts, allowing for greater design flexibility.
Support for Standard Formats
It offers DXF and DWG input and output capabilities, ensuring compatibility with other CAD software.
Scripting Interface
QCAD features a robust ECMAScript (JavaScript) scripting interface, allowing users to automate tasks and customize functionality.
Part Library
A comprehensive part library containing over 4800 CAD parts simplifies the design process.
G-Code Export
The QCAD/CAM extension allows for G-Code export, facilitating machining processes.

Additional features

Cross-Platform Compatibility
QCAD is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
User-Friendly Interface
Designed with an intuitive user interface, QCAD allows users to start drafting immediately, regardless of their prior CAD experience.
Extensive Toolset
Over 40 construction tools and 20 modification tools enable the creation and editing of complex technical drawings with ease.
Layer Management
Users can organize their drawings using layers, enhancing the clarity and management of complex designs.
CAD Font Support
QCAD includes 35 CAD fonts and supports TrueType fonts, allowing for greater design flexibility.
Support for Standard Formats
It offers DXF and DWG input and output capabilities, ensuring compatibility with other CAD software.
Scripting Interface
QCAD features a robust ECMAScript (JavaScript) scripting interface, allowing users to automate tasks and customize functionality.
Part Library
A comprehensive part library containing over 4800 CAD parts simplifies the design process.
G-Code Export
The QCAD/CAM extension allows for G-Code export, facilitating machining processes.
Layers
Manage and organize drawings using layers for better clarity.
Blocks
Group related entities together for easier management.
CAD Fonts
Comes with 35 CAD fonts and supports TrueType fonts for text customization.
Units Support
Offers various metric and imperial units for measurement flexibility.
Input/Output Formats
Supports DXF and DWG file formats for compatibility with other CAD applications.
Printing Options
Print drawings to scale and on multiple pages, accommodating different paper sizes.
Construction Tools
Over 40 tools for creating points, lines, arcs, circles, ellipses, splines, polylines, and more.
Modification Tools
More than 20 tools for modifying existing drawings.
Entity Selection Tools
Powerful tools for selecting multiple entities easily.
Object Snaps
Snap to object edges for precise drawing.
Measuring Tools
Various tools for measuring distances and angles within drawings.
Raster Image Support
Ability to incorporate raster images into technical drawings.
Hatching and Filling
Tools to apply hatches and fills for better visual representation.
Command Line Tools
Includes tools for converting DWG files to PDF, SVG, and BMP formats.
QCAD/CAM Features
G-Code export, nesting capabilities for efficient material use, and more.
Documentation and Resources
Comprehensive manuals, tutorials, and video guides available for users.

Pricing

Free trial
Free version
Request a quote
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Countries & Languages

Global
Countries served
13
Interface languages
15
Billing currencies

Interface languages

EnglishGermanFrenchItalianSpanishRussianHungarianDutchPolishChineseJapaneseKoreanCzech

Billing currencies

🇺🇸USD🇪🇺EUR🇬🇧GBP🇦🇺AUD🇨🇦CAD🇯🇵JPY🇨🇭CHF🇨🇳CNY🇮🇳INR🇷🇺RUB🇲🇽MXN🇳🇿NZD🇿🇦ZAR🇭🇰HKD🇸🇬SGD

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