Archicad vs AutoCAD
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Archicad and AutoCAD are credible cad tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Archicad — BIM software for architects.
Choose AutoCAD if you'd rather have a lower starting price (from $310/mo) and broader platform coverage. Industry-standard 2D and 3D CAD.
Archicad vs AutoCAD: side by side
| Dimension | Archicad | AutoCAD |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Custom | From $310/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Architects, Aec Firms | Engineers, Architects |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac, Web, Ios, AndroidWinner |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 |
Archicad key facts
- Vendor
- Graphisoft
- Pricing
- Subscription — Custom
- Free tier
- Free trial (30 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac
- Best for
- Architects, Aec Firms
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 1984
- Headquarters
- Budapest, Hungary
AutoCAD key facts
- Vendor
- Autodesk
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $310/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (30 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Engineers, Architects
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 1982
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Archicad better than AutoCAD?
Neither is universally better — AutoCAD edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Archicad or AutoCAD cheaper?
AutoCAD is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $310/mo. Archicad starts at custom; AutoCAD starts at from $310/mo.
Can Archicad replace AutoCAD?
Yes for most teams — both are cad tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.