18 Best CAD & Architecture Software For Mac (Beginners & Pro) 2026

In the past, Mac users were often forced to compromise when it came to CAD and architecture software, with many professional tools either unavailable or significantly behind their Windows equivalents. The good news is, that’s no longer the case.

In 2026, Macs are more than capable of handling architectural design, floor plans, and CAD projects, with a wide range of native desktop and cloud-based CAD applications available for both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs. From lightweight 2D drafting tools to full-scale 3D modeling and BIM software used by architects, there are now excellent options for professionals and home users alike.

Whether you’re designing building layouts, site plans, elevations, or mechanical parts, or you’re simply looking for a free tool, a one-time purchase app, or a professional subscription solution, this guide will help you find the right CAD software for your Mac.

Who This Guide Is For

• Architects & BIM professionals
• Mechanical & product designers
• Interior designers & home planners
• Students & educators
• Beginners & hobbyists
• Mac users switching from Windows CAD

Best CAD Software for Mac (inc. Architecture Software)

Software	Pricing	2D/3D Support	Best For
SmartDraw	Free to start / $6.95–$7.95+ per user/month. Includes Mac app.	2D	Beginners and professionals creating templated technical 2D drawings and diagrams
SketchUp	Free / Pro version with Mac app $33.25/month paid annually	2D & 3D	Architects and interior designers wanting easy 3D modeling
AutoCAD 2026	$175/month or $2,095/year	2D & 3D	Professionals needing full-featured CAD & DWG compatibility
FreeCAD	Free and open source	2D & 3D	Experienced CAD users looking for a free parametric modelling CAD app
Fusion 360	Free (non-commercial) / $85/month or $680/year	3D (with 2D capabilities)	Product and mechanical designers needing CAM integration
Shapr3D	Free for 2 designs / $25+/month	3D	On-the-go designers using Apple Pencil and tablets
ARES Commander	$350 per year	2D & 3D (DWG-centric)	Users needing DWG-based CAD with ribbon interface
TurboCAD Mac Pro	Approx $800 one time	2D & 3D	Power users needing full-featured CAD on Mac
HighDesign	Starts at $149 for LT version	2D CAD	Architects and engineers wanting lightweight 2D CAD
VectorWorks	Starting $153/month	2D & 3D (BIM support)	BIM-focused architecture and design professionals
MacDraft PE	$99 one-time	2D only	Hobbyists & small businesses needing simple 2D drafting
Graphite	$49.95/month or $450/year	2D & basic 3D	General-purpose CAD with Mac optimization
Archicad	From $225/month	2D & 3D (BIM)	Professional architects needing full BIM support
Onshape	Free / $1,500+ per year	3D only	Teams needing cloud CAD with real-time collaboration
SimpleCAD	$19.99 one-time (+ Pro)	2D only	Beginners and students needing basic 2D drafting tools
ProgeCAD	Starts at $799 for perpetual license	2D & 3D	Professionals looking for a non-subscription alternative to AutoCAD
ViaCAD	$599.99 for a perpetual license	2D & 3D	Intermediate designers looking for something less complex that industry standard CAD apps with a perpetual license.
Architect 3D	$399.99 for Ultimate Edition	2D & 3D	Mac users who want an easy-to-use home and architectural design tool without needing professional CAD experience.

1. SmartDraw

Best For: 2D design beginners and professionals needing quick, templated layouts with a Mac desktop app.

If you’re looking for something powerful for 2D CAD design but amazingly easy to use and value for money, SmartDraw is the best 2D CAD software for Mac we’ve used.

SmartDraw is easily the easiest CAD drawing tool for beginners on Mac making it easy to create everything from blueprints and floor plans to kitchen designs in minutes.

What we really like about doing 2D CAD with SmartDraw is:

• Thousands of Templates: SmartDraw has more templates than any other CAD tool on Mac with everything from floor plans and office plans to architectural designs.
• CAD Automation: As you add elements, SmartDraw also automatically “snaps” everything together to help keep your designs organized, symmetrical and connected. It basically automates the often annoying fiddly aspects to CAD design and this we find incredibly time saving and stress reducing.
• 34,000 Symbols & Objects: We’ve never seen so many high quality vector symbols and objects in a 2D tool than you can drag and drop into designs.
• Value For Money: Compared to most 2D CAD software on this level, it’s not outrageously expensive plus you’re not only getting a CAD software, you’re getting an entire host of other diagramming tools.
• Mac Desktop app: SmartDraw includes a Mac desktop app that works on both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs although you can also use it in any browser.
• Includes Whiteboard and data integration tools in subscriptions at no extra cost unlike most other similar apps.
• Sequoia & Tahoe Compatibility: SmartDraw works on all versions of macOS including the most recent macOS Tahoe whereas many major CAD applications still do not.

You can check out our full SmartDraw review for an in-depth look at everything it can do.

Pricing: Free to use but to save designs $7.95/m/single user or $6.95/3+ users. Enterprise plans $5/user.

Pros:

• Very easy to learn compared to traditional CAD software
• Excellent automation for fast, accurate 2D layouts
• Huge template and symbol library
• Native Mac desktop app with Apple Silicon support
• Good value for non-engineering CAD workflows

Cons:

• 2D only (no 3D or BIM capabilities)
• Not suitable for mechanical or engineering-grade CAD
• Subscription required to export and save drawings

2. SketchUp

Best For: Architects and interior designers focusing on intuitive 3D modeling.

SketchUp is a 3D conceptual modeling tool, best known for its ease of use rather than precision CAD drafting. Originally developed as Google SketchUp and now owned by Trimble, it’s widely used for quick 3D visualisation, space planning, and early-stage design rather than detailed technical drawings.

Although SketchUp is sometimes mentioned as a free alternative to AutoCAD, it’s important to note that it is not a full CAD replacement. SketchUp lacks the precision drafting, annotation, and documentation tools required for professional 2D CAD, particularly in engineering and construction.

The main reason it remains popular and ranks so highly is because of its fast, intuitive 3D modeling rather than exact measurements and standards-based drawings.

SketchUp Free is web-based only and intended for non-commercial use. It allows users to create and view 3D models directly in a browser and includes limited cloud storage, making it suitable for hobbyists, students, and casual users experimenting with 3D design.

For professional use, SketchUp Pro is required. This includes a Mac desktop application and additional tools aimed at commercial use, such as advanced import/export options and layout features for presentations. Even then, SketchUp Pro is generally used alongside traditional CAD or BIM software rather than replacing it entirely.

You can read our full SketchUp review for a deeper breakdown of its strengths and limitations.

Pricing: Free (web-only, non-commercial use). SketchUp Pro with Mac desktop app is available via an annual subscription (approximately $30–35/month when billed annually).

Pros:

• Very intuitive 3D modeling, especially for beginners
• Large library of user-created models (3D Warehouse)
• Works on Mac via web and desktop (Pro)
• Popular with architects and interior designers

Cons:

• Free version is web-only
• Not ideal for precision CAD or engineering drawings
• Advanced features require a paid subscription

3. AutoCAD

Best For: Professionals needing full-featured CAD & DWG compatibility

AutoCAD is one of the CAD industry’s leading tools but it wasn’t until 2010 that Autodesk finally re-released AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT for Mac after a long hiatus.

You can download AutoCAD as a Mac desktop client and you can also use it online via the AutoCAD web app.

The full version of AutoCAD does both 2D and 3D design but if you don’t need 3D modelling, AutoCAD LT is significantly cheaper than the full version of AutoCAD.

Both AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are incredibly professional tools that virtually invented the industry standard DWG file format.

Here’s a few of the reasons we like AutoCAD LT 2026 and AutoCAD 2026 so much:

• They’re both powerful & easy to learn: Many architects start life learning the ropes on AutoCAD products because it’s powerful but has an extremely intuitive interface that makes it easy to get to grips with.
• TouchBar support: AutoCAD is one of the only CAD drafting tools which supports the TouchBar on the latest Macs. We find this seriously speeds-up your workflow because you don’t have to use the TouchPad or mouse all the time. This shows that Autodesk take Mac users seriously and aren’t just pushing the Windows version onto macOS like many developers do.

• Superb web & mobile apps: AutoCAD LT 2026 allows you to edit via a web browser and on your iPad or iPhone. The AutoCAD mobile and web apps are extremely close to the desktop version meaning you can edit projects anywhere.
• The 3D modelling features are amazing: AutoCAD produces probably some of the most stunning results on retina Macs you’ll see in any CAD software (although this is not available in AutoCAD LT).
• Value for money: AutoCAD LT costs 75% less than AutoCAD and you can always upgrade to AutoCAD later if you need 3D capabilities. With AutoCAD LT, you’re basically getting the same product as AutoCAD for a quarter of the cost only without the 3D features.

The latest version of AutoCAD 2026 For Mac has also been improved with a faster 3D graphics engine, trace tool, blocks counting tool and much better integration with AutoCAD Web.

AutoCAD 2026 also includes new tools such as Markup Import, Markup Assist, Smart Blocks Placement and Trace Updates.

However, it does still lag behind the Windows version and many of the subsets tools for electrical engineering, mechanical design and architecture are not available in the Mac version. For more on what’s different between the Mac and Windows version, checkout our look at AutoCAD for Mac vs Windows.

Overall though, when it comes to professional architecture, engineering and construction blueprints, AutoCAD LT & AutoCAD For Mac are still setting the standards in Computer Aided Design.

You can read more in our full AutoCAD For Mac review.

Pricing: Free Trial / AutoCAD LT $65/month / AutoCAD for Mac $175/month if you pay annually. Students and teachers can also use the Education Edition for free.

Pros:

• Industry-standard DWG compatibility
• Powerful 2D drafting and solid 3D tools
• Native Mac desktop app with Apple Silicon support
• Strong web and mobile apps for editing on the go

Cons:

• Expensive subscription pricing
• Not a full BIM solution
• Mac version still lags behind Windows in some features

4. FreeCAD

Best For: Mac users who want a completely free, open-source parametric 3D modeler with extensive customization.

FreeCAD is an incredibly powerful, community-driven 3D CAD application built around parametric modeling, making it ideal for engineering, product design, architecture, and mechanical parts.

It’s not for the faint hearted – you’ll need to be already familiar with professional CAD software to use it – but it offers many of the features of AutoCAD and other industry standard CAD apps for free.

Its modular “workbench” system lets you tailor the interface for your needs whether that’s sketching, solid modeling, simulation, or technical drawing.

Although the learning curve is certainly steeper than beginner-focused tools, FreeCAD is extremely flexible and supports a wide range of file formats.

There are also lots of add-ons and community plug-ins that expand what it can do.

It’s certainly not the best looking CAD software we’ve ever seen and the interface is clearly Windows inspired but considering its free, it’s an impressive package.

Read our full FreeCAD review for more.

Pricing: Free and open-source.

Pros:

• Completely free and open-source
• Powerful parametric 3D modeling
• Highly customizable via workbenches and plugins
• Supports many professional file formats

Cons:

• Steep learning curve
• Interface feels dated and less Mac-native
• Community support varies in quality

5. Fusion 360

Best For: Product designers and mechanical engineers seeking cloud-based collaboration and integrated CAM.

Fusion 360 is made by Autodesk – the creators of AutoCAD – and is easily one of the best 3D CAD modelling software for creating realistic prototypes of products and components.

Whereas AutoCAD is focused on 2D and 3D CAD, Fusion 360 is oriented around the entire design process from design to manufacturing the final product.

Autodesk Fusion 360 isn’t quite as powerful as AutoCAD but is aimed at the product design focused “prosumer” CAD market.

The other big difference with AutoCAD is that Autodesk Fusion 360 is entirely Cloud based whereas AutoCAD also has a desktop client for Mac.

The interface of Fusion 360 is more Windows-like than AutoCAD but it’s still an amazing tool for 3D product design and CAM.

The use of T-Splines and the Sculpt environment in particular makes it easy to conceptualize and model and it’s easily one of the best 3D CAD tools for product designer on Mac out there.

Fusion 360 is often compared to Solidworks but because Solidworks isn’t available for Mac, we think Fusion 360 is easily the best alternative to Solidworks for Mac.

If you’re looking for something focused on 3D product design and need something that takes you from blueprint to final product, Autodesk Fusion 360 is an impressive and cost effective alternative.

Fusion 360 also works natively on both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

Fusion 360 is free to use for personal non commercial use or those companies with a revenue of less than $1000 per year.

Commercial pricing for Fusion 360 is much cheaper than AutoCAD and you can currently get Fusion for $57/month paid annually, $85/month paid monthly or $680 per year.

Pricing: Free Trial / Free for personal non-commercial use, Commercial license $85/month

Pros:

• Excellent for 3D product design and mechanical engineering
• Integrated CAM, simulation, and manufacturing tools
• Native support for Apple Silicon Macs
• Free for personal, non-commercial use

Cons:

• Cloud dependency for many features
• Learning curve for beginners
• Subscription pricing for commercial use

6. Shapr3D

Best For: Designers and engineers using iPad or Mac for on-the-go 3D modeling.

Shapr3D is a well designed 3D CAD that has a free Mac desktop app.  Shapr3D is designed for beginners to 3D CAD and the basics can be learned in little more than an hour.

It can also be used with most major drawing tablets (such as Wacom tablets) for creating sketches and making 3D models.

On tablets, Shapr3D also supports pressure inputs on the Apple Pencil if you’re using the iPad as a drawing tablet for CAD.

Its designed to take your ideas from initial sketch all the way through to industrial blueprint although many people use it for sketching ideas quickly before finishing them in more powerful tools like Fusion 360.

Shapr3D syncs across macOS, Windows and mobile meaning you can start designing on a Mac but also switch to other devices such as iPad and Surface Pro if you’re on the move.

You can use Shapr3D for free for up to 2 designs and it’s also free for student or educators.

Pricing: Free for students or 2 designs, Commercial plans start at $25/m

Pros:

• Extremely easy to learn for 3D modeling
• Excellent Apple Pencil and tablet support
• Seamless syncing across Mac, iPad, and Windows
• Fast and responsive interface

Cons:

• Limited advanced CAD and BIM features
• Free plan is very restricted
• Less suited to complex engineering workflows

7. ARES Commander

Best For: Professionals needing DWG compatibility and cross-platform flexibility.

If you’re wondering what ever happened to CorelCAD then it became ARES Commander as part of Corel’s transition to the Alludo brand.

CorelCAD for Mac was discontinued in early 2024 and absorbed into Graebert’s ARES Commander CAD software.

CorelCAD was based on the same ARES engine as ARES Commander so not much has changed in the actual look and functionality of the product however.

Like CorelCAD, ARES Commander can be used for both 2D and 3D design and can work natively with AutoCAD DWG files making it one of the best alternatives to AutoCAD for Mac.

ARES Commander is certainly the best alternative to CorelCAD offering all of the functionality and features that were available in Corel’s product.

The move to ARES Commander also makes it one of the best Mac compatible CAD tools for 3D printing and exporting in STL format.

The software still uses a ribbon based interface which will be familiar to anyone that’s used Microsoft Office and is generally very easy to use and navigate around compared to complex CAD tools on this level.

Its a popular solution for Architects, Engineers and Construction (AEC) service providers that focus mainly on 2D designs but need to sometimes flesh-out things in 3D too.

ARES Commander for Mac also has flexible pricing options including perpetual, subscription and flex license options.

The subscription version starts at $350 which also makes it very good value compared to AutoCAD and one of the cheapest professional CAD packages available.

You can also try a free trial of ARES Commander for Mac before you buy.

Pricing: Free Trial / Starts at $350/year subscription

Pros:

• Excellent DWG compatibility
• Familiar ribbon-style interface
• Flexible licensing options (subscription and perpetual)
• Strong AutoCAD alternative on Mac

Cons:

• Interface feels more Windows-like than Mac-native
• Fewer advanced 3D tools than AutoCAD
• Smaller ecosystem than Autodesk products

8. TurboCAD Mac Pro

Best For: Advanced users requiring robust 2D/3D drafting and modeling tools.

TurboCAD Mac Pro is a more powerful version of TurboCAD Mac Deluxe and provides a cheaper alternative to AutoCAD for Mac.

Compared to TurboCAD Mac Deluxe, the Pro version has a much better 64-bit user interface, integrated Redway drawing engine, Page Layout wizard, BOM and mating tools.

The Mac version of TurboCAD is also easier to use than the Windows version of TurboCAD as it allows you to customize the palette and interface pretty much any way you want.

You can design almost anything in TurboCAD Pro from something as simple as designing a bike to creating the blueprint for an entire building.

There’s also a TurboCAD Pro Powerpack for an extra $99 which adds support for things such as 3D printing, advanced design and BIM.

Although TurboCAD Pro doesn’t quite match-up to industry heavyweight AutoCAD, TurboCAD Mac Pro costs $799.99 which is considerably cheaper than an AutoCAD subscription.

Pricing: $799.99. No free trial.

Pros:

• Strong 2D and 3D drafting capabilities
• One-time purchase available
• Highly customizable interface
• Good value compared to AutoCAD

Cons:

• Interface can feel complex and dated
• Smaller user community
• Features differs from Windows version
• No free trial

9. HighDesign

Best For: Architects and designers focusing on precision 2D drafting.

HighDesign is professional CAD application designed specifically for Mac that offers excellent value for money.

From humble beginnings at a small Italian developer, HighDesign has even attracted the attention of NASA for its CAD needs.

Although HighDesign only supports 2D CAD, it can import and export AutoCAD files (including DXF/DWG) and TIFF files.

HighDesign is easier for than most professional CAD applications and anyone that has used AutoCAD will recognize the interface straightaway.

The software puts a special focus on architecture and allows both photogrammetry and image editing for drafting of building plans which is quite unusual for MAC CAD software.

Other features in HighDesign R6.5 include Associative Linear Dimensions, PNG alpha export, vector information, tool tips and quick object info.

HighDesign is overall an incredibly accomplished CAD product that often goes under the radar of professional designers because of it’s surprisingly low price.

Pricing: Free trial. Available in 3 versions: the LT version is $149, the SE version is $249 and the PRO version is $499.

Pros:

• Lightweight and fast 2D CAD for Mac
• Good DWG and DXF compatibility
• Affordable pricing compared to pro CAD tools
• Designed specifically for macOS

Cons:

• 2D only (no 3D modeling)
• Smaller feature set than AutoCAD
• Less well known, fewer learning resources

10. VectorWorks

Best For: Professionals in architecture, landscape, and entertainment design needing BIM capabilities.

VectorWorks for Mac is one of the most popular BIM CAD packages out there and supports both 2D and 3D design.

In fact VectorWorks was the first fully native BIM solution to be made compatible with Apple Silicon ARM chips.

For an industry level CAD application, it’s also surprisingly accessible because it’s been designed with both beginners and professionals in mind.

Although VectorWorks is most commonly used for Architecture and especially Construction Engineers, it can be used for any CAD task.

The interface of Vectorworks uses a clean WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) format which makes designing easier to conceptualize and get to grips with.

Some of the highlights of VectorWorks include graphical scripting tools, intelligent objects and a superbly implemented virtual reality feature.

Also ahead of the curve is VectorWorks Marionette which intelligently uses algorithms to shape design forms and customization (although this costs extra).

More recently, VectorWorks now supports rendering in Enscape which is one of the most powerful and widely used rendering tools on the market.

If you’ve struggled to learn AutoCAD and want something powerful and innovative, Vectorworks is an amazing piece of CAD technology.

Or if you need a native BIM CAD software for M-chip series Macs, VectorWorks is easily one of the best BIM solutions for Apple Silicon Macs.

Pricing: Starting from $153/month. No free trial.

Pros:

• Powerful BIM and 3D modeling tools
• Native Apple Silicon support
• Clean, WYSIWYG-style interface
• Strong support for architecture and landscape design

Cons:

• Expensive compared to non-BIM CAD tools
• Steep learning curve for advanced features
• Some functionality locked behind add-on modules
• No free trial

11. MacDraft PE

Best For: Home users and small businesses needing straightforward 2D drafting.

MacDraft Personal Edition (PE) is a simpler version of MacDraft Pro with a more basic toolset and functionality.

It’s a very good starting point for beginners to 2D CAD as it’s easy to learn.

It has a very limited library although you can purchase 2000 more from the developer website including architectural, electrical and graphic symbols.

Although it’s aimed at beginners, the interface can be a little tricky to navigate at first and adding basic elements such as windows and doors isn’t as clear and straightforward as it should be.

However, it doesn’t take long to get the hang of it and once you have, it’s surprisingly versatile.

Be aware that MacDraft PE can’t produce drawings of smaller than about 17 inches and only supports a maximum of 5 Layers unlike the Pro version which allows unlimited layers. It also does not support DWG and updates aren’t free like in the Pro version.

If you’re on a limited budget and want something to get started in 2D CAD software on Mac, MacDraft PE is an excellent stepping stone to the Pro version.

Pricing: Free Trial. $99.00 one time purchase.

Pros:

• Very affordable one-time purchase
• Easy entry point for 2D drafting
• Runs well on older Macs
• Simple interface for basic projects

Cons:

• Limited layers and drawing size
• No DWG support
• Quickly outgrown by professional users

12. Graphite

Best For: Engineers and designers requiring precision 2D/3D wireframe drafting.

Graphite for Mac, formerly known as Vellum, is a professional 3D and 2D CAD program. Graphite’s strength is high precision wireframe drafting although it is quite dated now.

However, if you’re mainly going to be doing wireframe drawings, Graphite specializes in this form of CAD. You can work with AutoCAD DWG files and it integrates with the developer Ashlar Vellum’s popular 3D modeling software Cobalt.

One of the main advantages users report with Graphite is speed – it has a very smooth and efficient workflow that makes producing complex designs very quick.

This is a result of what the developer Ashlar-Vellum calls an “Organic Workflow” between its products for maximum speed and efficiency.

There are many glowing testimonials to Graphite but we’d advise using the free trial first before deciding whether to go for it.

Pricing: Free Trial / $49.95/month or $495/year

Pros:

• Very precise wireframe drafting
• Fast and efficient workflow
• Strong DWG compatibility
• Integrates with other Ashlar-Vellum tools

Cons:

• Interface feels dated
• Limited modern 3D and BIM features
• Expensive compared to newer alternatives

13. Archicad

Best For: Architects seeking comprehensive BIM solutions.

Archicad is an incredibly powerful BIM CAD software that’s often compared to both AutoCAD and a good alternative to Revit for Mac which does not exist.

Archicad is designed for taking your design from initial idea to manufacturing and is designed to bring both architects and engineers together.

Archicad features algorithmic design tools and large model support for industrial sized projects to help identify problems in the earliest stages of design .

Archicad is also one of the best CAD packages for producing all the BIM documentation that are necessary in modern CAD, with a powerful publishing workflow that comply with local BIM regulations.

The visualization tools in Archicad are outstanding with powerful VR and rendering tools which feature BIMx 2D and 3D building navigation.

More recently, Archicad now supports rendering in Enscape too via a plugin.

Despite the fact that it’s aimed squarely at professional architects and engineers, Archicad is still one of the most user friendly CAD tools out there in this class and works on both Mac and Windows PCs.

Pricing: Free trial. Starting from $225/month

Pros:

• Industry-leading BIM tools
• Excellent performance on Apple Silicon Macs
• Strong visualization and documentation features
• Good alternative to Revit for Mac users

Cons:

• High cost
• Overkill for small or simple projects
• Learning curve for beginners

14. OnShape

Best For: Teams needing cloud-based CAD with real-time collaboration.

Onshape was started by the same team that built the incredibly popular SolidWorks 3D CAD design software for Windows.

Although you can run SolidWorks on Mac using a virtual machine it’s not an ideal solution and doesn’t work as well as on PC.

Onshape meanwhile claims to offer the functionality of Solidworks but in any web browser, running on any platform including Macs.

Onshape is the first serious attempt at a Cloud native 3D CAD and PDM software that enables teams to work on designs as the same time in real-time.

It works extremely well on a Mac too which isn’t surprising as the majority of programmers that created it coded it on Mac.

The main problem with Cloud or online CAD software is that it often can’t meet the technical needs of graphic intensive CAD demands but Onshape allows you to create complex parts, assemblies, detailed drawings and even rendering comfortably within a web browser on a Mac.

Although there’s no Mac desktop app as it works in any browser, there is an Onshape app for iPad and iPhone.

The basic version of OnShape is free for non-commercial use but projects are made publicly available.

Professionals and businesses will need to upgrade to the Standard plan for $1,500 per year to use it commercially or $2,500 for the Pro plan suitable for Enterprise teams.

Pricing: Free / Pro Plans starting from $1,500/year with 6 month trial available.

Pros:

• Fully cloud-based with real-time collaboration
• No installation required on Mac
• Strong version control and PDM features
• Works well across devices

Cons:

• Requires a constant internet connection
• Free version makes projects public
• No native Mac desktop app

15. SimpleCAD

Best For: Beginners and students needing a basic 2D desktop CAD tool

SimpleCAD is a beginner-friendly 2D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) application designed specifically for macOS.

It offers essential drafting tools, making it suitable for hobbyists, students, and professionals needing straightforward design capabilities.

This includes basic drawing tools for freehand lines, polylines, rectangles, polygons, circles, arcs and more.

You can move, copy, rotate, scale, trim and extend designs easily and there are a few advanced features like layer management.

There’s also a Pro version of SimpleCAD which supports advanced snapping options, enhanced image drag and drop plus advanced snapping support.

Pricing: $19.99. No free trial.

Pros:

• Very affordable one-time purchase
• Simple, beginner-friendly interface
• Lightweight and fast on macOS
• Good for learning basic 2D CAD concepts

Cons:

• Very limited advanced features
• No 3D modeling
• Not suitable for professional CAD workflows

16. ProgeCAD Professional

Best For: Professionals seeking a powerful AutoCAD alternative with native DWG compatibility.

ProgeCAD Pro 2026 is a professional 2D and 3D CAD software that’s one of the closest AutoCAD replacements available for Mac and Windows users.

It’s designed for architects, engineers, and designers who need full DWG and DXF compatibility without the high subscription costs associated with AutoCAD.

ProgeCAD uses the IntelliCAD engine and features a familiar AutoCAD-like interface, making it easy for existing AutoCAD users to switch to it with minimal retraining.

ProgeCAD Pro includes advanced tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, photorealistic rendering, and PDF import/export. It also supports AutoLISP, DCL, and other scripting environments, offering extensive customization for those that need it.

Unlike AutoCAD LT, ProgeCAD Pro includes a full suite of 3D modeling tools, dynamic blocks, and even integrates with Google Earth for geo-referenced design.

ProgeCAD is especially popular among professionals and firms looking for a perpetual license CAD solution that doesn’t lock users into annual subscriptions.

Pricing: Free trial. Perpetual license starting from around $799 (with optional annual maintenance plan).

Pros:

• Very close AutoCAD-like experience
• Full DWG and DXF compatibility
• Perpetual license option
• Supports scripting and customization

Cons:

• Interface feels less Mac-native
• Smaller ecosystem than AutoCAD
• Fewer learning resources

17. ViaCAD Pro

Best For: Designers, engineers, and makers looking for an accessible, affordable yet powerful 2D/3D CAD tool for Mac.

ViaCAD Pro by Punch software aims to brudge the gap between hobbyist and professional-level CAD software.

It’s designed for users who need precision 2D drafting and advanced 3D modeling without the high cost and complexity of tools like AutoCAD.

ViaCAD Pro supports modeling, surface modeling, and mesh-based tools to create concept sketches. It also supports DWG, DXF, STEP, IGES, STL, and SketchUp formats, making it suitable for switching from AutoCAD and most other CAD programs featured here.

In recent times, ViaCAD Pro has added some powerful 3D printing tools, such as mesh repair and analysis.

Note that Punch software also offer a higher-end tool, SharkCAD, which is based on a similar modeling engine but has more advanced mechanical, parametric, and assembly features.

Pricing: No free trial. Perpetual license starting from around $599 with 30 day money back guarantee.

Pros:

• Affordable one-time purchase
• Good balance between ease of use and power
• Strong file format compatibility
• Useful 3D printing tools

Cons:

• Interface can feel dated
• Limited BIM and collaboration tools
• Less suited to large professional teams
• No free trial

18. Architect 3D

Best For: Mac users who want an easy-to-use home and architectural design tool for creating floor plans, interiors, landscapes, and 3D visualizations without needing professional CAD experience.

Architect 3D Ultimate for Mac is a consumer-friendly architectural design application aimed at homeowners, renovators, and small design projects rather than professional CAD or BIM projects.

It allows you to create detailed 2D floor plans and instantly visualize them in 3D, making it especially useful for planning home layouts, extensions, renovations, and interior designs. Walls, doors, windows, roofs, and stairs can all be added using drag-and-drop tools, with real-time measurements to keep designs accurate.

Unlike professional CAD software, Architect 3D focuses on accessibility. You don’t need prior drafting experience to get started, and most tools are clearly labeled and guided, making it suitable for beginners and non-technical users.

The Ultimate version includes higher-quality 3D rendering, a large library of furniture and materials, terrain and garden design tools, and support for multi-storey buildings. You can also generate realistic walkthroughs and snapshots to visualize finished projects.

While it’s not suitable for producing construction-ready technical drawings or collaborating in professional architectural workflows, it excels as a visual planning and design tool for personal or small-scale projects.

Pricing: $399 one-time purchase (no subscription) but cheaper versions are available

Pros:

• Very easy to use with minimal learning curve
• Strong 2D floor plan to 3D visualization workflow
• Large library of objects, materials, and furniture
• One-time purchase rather than subscription
• Well suited to home renovation and interior design

Cons:

• Not a professional CAD or BIM solution
• Limited precision compared to AutoCAD-style tools
• Not ideal for producing technical construction drawings

Are There Any 100% Free CAD Apps for Macs?

Many of the options we reviewed feature a limited free version or free trial.

If you’re looking for something 100% free then:

• FreeCAD is the most powerful truly free, open-source CAD tool.
• SketchUp Free and Fusion 360 (personal use) are free but limited and harder to learn.

For more, check out our guide to the best free CAD software for Macs.

Can You Run Windows CAD Software on a Mac?

Yes, you can run Windows CAD apps on your Mac by using a virtual machine.

Although there are various ways of running Windows on a Mac, using a virtual machines is the only one we’d recommend due to the demands of CAD packages.

We’ve used the Parallels virtual environment to run both Revit on a Mac, AutoCAD Architecture on a Mac and nanoCAD Free on a Mac which all work pretty well as you can see below.

Choosing the Right Monitor for CAD

Precision and color accuracy are critical for CAD work. High-resolution monitors with wide color gamut and large screens are ideal. See our detailed guide to the best monitors for CAD on Mac for more.

Mac CAD Software Buying Guide

Finding the right CAD software for your Mac depends on your experience level, project type, and industry. Whether you’re a professional architect, an engineering student, a product designer, or a DIY enthusiast, there’s a Mac-compatible CAD solution for you – from lightweight 2D drafting apps to advanced 3D modeling and BIM platforms.

High-end tools like AutoCAD and Fusion 360 offer professional-grade features but have a steeper learning curve. Mid-tier apps such as TurboCAD Mac Pro balance usability and functionality, while simpler solutions like SmartDraw make it easy to create 2D diagrams and layouts with minimal experience. Browser-based CAD tools are accessible and easy to use, but may lack advanced modeling, parametric design, or BIM capabilities.

Here’s what to consider before choosing CAD software for your Mac.

1. Purpose: Industry-Specific or General Use?
CAD software caters to many fields – architecture, interior design, engineering, manufacturing, and more. Choose a tool with libraries and templates tailored to your needs, such as walls, doors, and windows for architecture, or mechanical parts for product design.

2. 2D or 3D?
2D CAD is sufficient for floor plans, basic blueprints, and simple technical drawings. For visualization, prototyping, or complex product design, choose 3D CAD. Keep in mind 3D apps usually require stronger hardware and more time to learn.

3. Free vs Paid Software
Free apps like FreeCAD, SketchUp Free, or Fusion 360 (personal use) are great for learning or light projects. Paid software unlocks professional features such as parametric modeling, advanced rendering, and BIM.

4. BIM Requirements
If you work in architecture or construction, consider software with Building Information Modeling (BIM). Tools like Archicad and Vectorworks offer intelligent, data-rich models, while many lower-cost apps do not.

5. CAD vs 3D Design Software
CAD focuses on technical accuracy and engineering precision. 3D design tools like Blender or SketchUp excel at visualization or animation but may not meet professional CAD standards.

6. Support & Resources
Complex software requires strong support. Check for tutorials, forums, customer service, and Mac-specific guidance.

7. Apple Silicon Optimization
In 2026, most major CAD apps run natively on Apple Silicon (M1-M5), offering faster rendering, smoother 3D navigation, and improved battery life. Cloud-based apps work across devices but may not offer the same speed or offline capabilities.

Other Things To Consider

• Features: Look for parametric modeling, object snapping, command lines, and design wizards.
• File Compatibility: Ensure DWG, DXF, DGN, STL, STEP, and IGES support.
• Graphics Tablet Support: Important if you sketch with Wacom or Apple Pencil.
• macOS Compatibility: Must run on the latest macOS versions, including Tahoe.
• Rendering Tools: For photorealistic visuals, check for integrated engines or support for Enscape, Lumion, or Twinmotion.
• Cloud vs Desktop: Desktop apps offer better offline performance; cloud apps excel in collaboration.

Key 2026 Trends in Mac CAD Software

• Apple Silicon as Standard: Most CAD apps now run natively, eliminating performance gaps from Rosetta translation.
• Clear Separation Between CAD, BIM, and Design Tools: AutoCAD dominates 2D drafting, Archicad and Vectorworks lead BIM workflows, and lighter tools like SmartDraw and HighDesign focus on fast 2D layouts.
• Cloud-First CAD: Apps like Onshape, Fusion 360, and Shapr3D enable real-time collaboration and cross-device workflows.
• AI-Assisted Productivity: Early AI features streamline repetitive tasks, such as intelligent snapping, parametric helpers, and layout suggestions.
• Mac + iPad Integration: Apple Pencil input, touch-friendly modeling, and cross-device syncing are increasingly common.
• Immersive Visualization: AR and VR headets are emerging for design reviews, client presentations, and architectural walkthroughs. Apple Vision Pro (and potential Vision Air) could make VR-CAD more accessible.

FAQ

What is the best CAD software for Mac overall?

• AutoCAD: Industry standard for 2D drafting and general-purpose CAD.
• SmartDraw: Easiest for quick 2D layouts and diagrams.
• Archicad / Vectorworks: Best for architecture and BIM workflows.

Best 3D CAD for Mac:

• Fusion 360: Product design, mechanical engineering, CAM.
• Shapr3D: Fast, intuitive 3D modeling (Mac + iPad).
• SketchUp Free: Conceptual 3D design, but not precision engineering.

Best BIM Software:

• Archicad: Full-featured BIM alternative to Revit for Mac.
• Vectorworks Architect: Architecture, landscape, and entertainment design.
• AutoCAD is commonly used but not a full BIM solution.

Easiest CAD for Beginners:

• SmartDraw (2D layouts)
• Shapr3D, SketchUp Free (3D concepts)
• SimpleCAD (basic 2D drafting)

Can I open and edit DWG files on a Mac?

Yes – supported by AutoCAD, ARES Commander, ProgeCAD, and Fusion 360. Some apps allow viewing but not full editing. You can also use DWG viewers for Mac too.

CAD Software for Interior Design / Furniture Layouts:

SketchUp: Intuitive 3D modeling and extensive library.
VectorWorks: Detailed interior and landscape design support.

CAD Apps that Work Offline:

• AutoCAD, Fusion 360, ARES Commander, TurboCAD Mac Pro
• Cloud-based tools like Onshape require internet access.

One-Time Purchase CAD Apps:

ARES Commander, TurboCAD Mac Pro, HighDesign, MacDraft, ViaCAD Pro, ProgeCAD

Best for Students & Hobbyists:

• SmartDraw (2D)
• Shapr3D, SketchUp Free, Fusion 360 Personal (3D)
• FreeCAD (learning professional CAD for free)