AutoCAD vs TinyCAD

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.

TinyCAD is an open-source program for drawing circuit schematics, available as desktop software and TinyCAD Web. The browser version needs no installation, and both versions use the same .dsn drawing and .tclib library formats. Drawings can span sheets and include labels, buses, shapes, annotations, and automatic junction placement; search, undo, and redo are also available. Both versions can import symbols from KiCad.

A Design Rules Check flags common wiring and pin-type errors, but it cannot confirm that a circuit works correctly. TinyCAD can create netlists for downstream tools, including PADS, Eagle SCR, Protel, and gEDA PCB formats. Both versions support SPICE output and SVG export; browser PDF export is available, while VHDL output is desktop-only. In local-file mode, TinyCAD Web keeps work in the browser and sends no work or other files to TinyCAD servers. Google Drive mode stores drawings in the user’s Drive and requires permission to access Google files. TinyCAD is free and supplied as-is; the project advises backing up work and checking designs carefully.