Altium Designer vs AutoCAD
Altium Designer
altium.comAutoCAD
autodesk.comSide by side
| Figure | Altium Designer | AutoCAD |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $460/mo | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | — | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 11 |
| Spec score · Electrical Design Software | 8.4 (#4) | 9.3 (#1) |
| Collaboration | Paired with Altium 365 applications, Altium Designer supports collaboration and simultaneous work on different parts of one PCB. | Shared DWG files, parallel work, and multi-user markups |
| Data management | Altium Designer with Altium 365 provides version-controlled project history and visual comparisons of schematics, layouts, BOMs, and Gerbers. | Forma Data Management Essentials is included with standalone AutoCAD subscriptions |
| Support | Altium lists documentation, a knowledge base, ticketed support cases, training, and community forums as support resources. | 24x7 online support options and resources |
Plans
AutoCAD
- AutoCAD MonthlyPrice not published
- AutoCAD MonthlyPriced on request
- AutoCAD AnnualPriced on request
- AutoCAD AnnualPrice not published
- AutoCAD 3-YearPriced on request
- AutoCAD 3-YearPrice not published
- Monthly subscription$260 a month
- Annual subscription$2,095 a year
- Three-year subscription$6,285 a year
- Education accessFree
In their own words
Altium Designer
Altium Designer has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
AutoCAD
AutoCAD is software for precise 2D and 3D drafting, design, and modeling. It uses DWG as its primary file format and also supports DXF and PDF underlays. Seven specialized toolsets address architecture, mechanical, MEP, electrical, plant, mapping, and raster design. Teams can share DWG files, work in parallel, and add markups with multiple users. AI capabilities include markup assistance, block replacement suggestions, and contextual productivity tips. Standalone subscriptions include Forma Data Management Essentials. AutoCAD runs on Windows, macOS, web, iOS, and Android; subscriptions include web and mobile access. Each subscription is assigned to one named user and can be installed on up to three devices, with use limited to one device at a time. A 15-day free trial is available. Pricing starts at $175 per month; listed options are $260 per month or $2,095 per year. Eligible students and educators can receive renewable one-year access while eligible.