LibreCAD - Open source CAD

Computer-aided design (CAD) software play an essential role in creating design sketches—be it for small design projects or complex Contruction Drawings. If you want to digitally draw designs for your project, LibreCAD comes as a handy CAD tool.

Documentation and guides are sufficiently available for users and developers alike.

The “Libre” part in this application’s name refers to the fact that it is a free and open source application.
The “CAD” part in this application’s name refers to the fact that it provides handy CAD functionality.
Put these two together and you end up with a statement like this one: handy CAD functionality available to the world as open source software



LibreCAD is available for multiple platforms.

From a functionality point of view, you can expect to get the following from LibreCAD: support for DXF, LFF, CXF, and JWW files; import and export data; view, edit CAD drawings; draw points, line, arc, circle, and more; rotate, mirror, scale, stretch, trim, lengthen, and more; snap; layers; and more.

Since LibreCAD is free software, you have all the time in the world to explore the functionality it has to offer.

If you find value in LibreCAD, if you use the application professionally, consider making a donation. The money will go towards keeping the LibreCAD website running, maintaining the source code, and implementing new features.



Features

LibreCAD is easy to learn and simple to use. As it is inspired by the popular AutoCAD software, users’ previous experience with this tool helps them start using LibreCAD straightaway.

LibreCAD supports only 2D drafting.
LibreCAD supports AutoCAD DXF file format for import or save.
So interoperatablity is quite convenient.

The overall interface is simple and organised. Any Experienced CAD Technician will have no problems migrating to this system.

The panel on the right shows the list of layers being worked on quite similar to most closed source apps.

Pros
LibreCAD is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. There’s a Welcome prompt that allows you to pick the default measuring unit, GUI language, and command language. From the View menu you can pick and choose which elements are displayed on LibreCAD’s interface. Lots of functionality is offered by LibreCAD It can give any Closed Source software a run for its money.

Cons
Not a tool for the novice user, this CAD package is something that is ideal for anyone with a little experience.

I have been a long time supporter of LibreCAD and I hold a strong affinty for the foundation of open source on which it was built. I have found it becoming an integral part of our office tool set.

Download LibreCAD here