If you are working in the dynamic world of architecture, engineering, and construction, you’re likely familiar with industry staples like AutoCAD® and Revit®.
While the applications of both tools may intersect at some point, they are quite different, and understanding the differences is key to deciding which tool to get for what project.
This guide takes an in-depth look into both tools from their capabilities, applications, and differences and is an excellent read before investing.
What Is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is computer-aided design (CAD) software. The other section of its name, “auto,” comes from the parent company’s name, Autodesk®. AutoCAD has been the industry standard tool for 2D designs for decades.
Today, the tool can create and modify 2D and 3D geometric models, but its usage is limited to drafting and drawing. With AutoCAD, architects, designers, and engineers can create detailed and accurate project drawings. Its core strength lies in creating floor plans, elevations, sections, and everything the user would need to develop a project plan.
What Is Revit
Revit is building information modeling (BIM) software with applications in the AEC industry but on a more sophisticated scale than CAD. While it can also be used for drafting, it uses more advanced and intelligent technology to create realistic 3D models for projects.
Its usage extends beyond creating building plans, creating house models, developing landscape designs, etc., to include data on the material to be used, quantities, and more for every stage and section of a project. It is also a shared platform where architects, engineers, and contractors can collaborate on projects.
Key Differences Between the Two
Both AutoCAD and Revit are software programs developed by the same company, Autodesk, and are accessible by paying a subscription monthly, yearly, and every three years.
The main difference between the two is that AutoCAD is a CAD software with applications limited to drawing and designing, while Revit is a BIM software whose applications extend beyond drawing to serve as a documentation and collaboration solution for projects.
Revit is the more advanced tool of the two as it can coordinate data input from different sources, including CAD, to produce project deliverables. The two can also be used in the same firm, but each tool has a specific role in the project.
The learning curve is also quite different for the two tools. Since AutoCAD has been around for decades, access to learning resources is easy. You also have to consider that limited functionalities mean less to learn, shortening the learning curve significantly.
Learning how to use Revit efficiently takes time. However, investing time and money in it has long-term benefits, considering its more advanced capabilities and potential to become the standard for all future AEC industry needs.
Which Tool Should You Choose?
The choice between AutoCAD and Revit should be advised by several factors, such as the types of projects you intend to use it for, the level of collaboration required in the project, your pain points, such as what you intend to have to tool handle, ease of learning, and budget.
For example, AutoCAD will be the best fit for you if you only handle small projects that involve much drafting but require little to no collaboration. However, if you handle complex building projects requiring collaboration from different quarters, Revit will be the best fit for you.
