LibreCAD vs nanoCAD

LibreCAD is a free, open-source 2D CAD application released under the GNU General Public License version 2. Its drawing tools include lines, circles, arcs, polylines and splines, along with entity modification, hatching, blocks, annotations and dimensions. DXF is its main format, with import and export; it can also export PDF and images and import DWG on a limited basis. The FAQ describes DWG support as basic and import-only, and suggests converting DWG to DXF if import fails. LibreCAD does not support every Autodesk DXF feature, and lists support for versions R12, R14, 2000, 2004 and 2007. The interface is available in over 30 languages, and the application runs on Linux, macOS and Windows. Community-developed plugins can help with some tasks. The project describes itself as non-profit and community-driven, with free support and documentation from its community. The software is free, with no trial, subscription, license cost or annual fee. It is distributed without warranty, including implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

nanoCAD is Windows software for 2D and 3D engineering drawing and design. It uses a hybrid modeling approach and supports parametric and direct modeling, assembly design, sheet-metal tools, and surface modeling. The platform is compatible with DWG natively and supports import and export formats including DXF, 3D PDF, DWF/DWFX, STL, Parasolid, IGES, STEP, ACIS, VRML, JT, COLLADA, C3D, and glTF/GLB. nanoCAD Free provides 2D engineering drawing tools without a time limit, while a 30-day trial includes all modules. The nanoCAD 26 Platform starts at $289 a year for one workstation license; other listed plans include nanoCAD Pro at $459 a year and nanoCAD Max at $849 a year. Listed prices exclude taxes, VAT, or levies. Network licenses work on computers on a local network and require the supplied License Server. The API supports JavaScript, VBS, Python via COM, LISP,.NET, and C++. Support includes email and help desk for subscribers, plus community forum support. The maker is headquartered in Lillestrøm, Norway.