🧭 Lesson 1-2: Types of AutoCAD Versions
📘 Lesson Type: Self-Study
⏱️ Estimated Time: 20–30 minutes
📚 Level: Beginner (Level 1)
🎯 Learning Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Identify the different versions of AutoCAD available.
- Understand the core differences between full AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, and specialized toolsets.
- Know when to choose which version based on your needs or profession.
- Learn about AutoCAD for mobile and web platforms.
🧰 1. Why Are There Different Versions of AutoCAD?
Autodesk offers multiple versions of AutoCAD to suit different user needs, industries, and budgets. Whether you’re a freelance designer, student, or engineer in a large firm, there’s likely a version tailored for you.
Let’s break them down:
🖥️ 2. AutoCAD (Full Version)
This is the flagship version of AutoCAD. Get your FREE 15 demo download here.
✅ Key Features:
- 2D & 3D modeling
- Rendering and visualization tools
- Parametric constraints
- Advanced customization tools (LISP, scripts, macros)
- Sheet Set Manager
- Full API access for automation
👥 Ideal For:
- Architects
- Engineers
- Designers who need both 2D and 3D capabilities
💡 Why Choose It?
- You need everything AutoCAD offers, especially for professional or complex projects that require 3D modeling and automation.
✂️ 3. AutoCAD LT
This is a lightweight, lower-cost version of AutoCAD designed primarily for 2D drafting.
Get your FREE 15 day demo download here.
✅ Key Features:
- Full 2D drawing and editing tools
- Layers, blocks, dimensions, annotations
- PDF export and basic collaboration tools
❌ Limitations:
- No 3D modeling
- No automation (no LISP support)
- No network licensing or tool palettes
👥 Ideal For:
- Draftspeople
- Small design offices
- Users focused only on 2D work
💡 Why Choose It?
- Budget-conscious users who only need 2D capabilities and don’t need advanced 3D or scripting.
🧰 4. AutoCAD Toolsets (Industry-Specific Versions)
When you subscribe to AutoCAD (Full version), Autodesk includes 7 industry-specific toolsets to improve productivity:
| Toolset | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Walls, doors, windows, schedules, and floor plans |
| Electrical | Wiring diagrams, circuit layouts |
| Mechanical | Gears, shafts, assemblies with engineering symbols |
| MEP | HVAC, piping, and plumbing |
| Plant 3D | Process plant design and piping systems |
| Raster Design | Edit scanned drawings, overlay raster images |
| Map 3D | GIS mapping and analysis |
💡 Why Use Toolsets?
- They save time with specialized libraries and commands.
- They help you comply with industry standards more easily.
📱 5. AutoCAD Web App
AutoCAD isn’t limited to desktop software anymore. The web version allows you to edit your drawings anywhere with internet access—no software installation required.
✅ Features:
- View and edit DWG files in a browser
- Works on Chrome, Edge, and Safari
- Basic drafting and annotation tools
💡 Why Use It?
- Quick edits on the go, especially helpful for teams in the field.
📱 6. AutoCAD Mobile App
Take your drawings with you on your smartphone or tablet.
✅ Features:
- View, edit, and annotate DWG files on iOS or Android
- Offline access
- Markups and measuring tools
💡 Why Use It?
- Ideal for site visits or showing clients designs without a laptop.
🆓 7. AutoCAD for Students and Educators
Autodesk offers a free educational license for eligible students and teachers. It’s the full version but licensed for non-commercial use.
Learn more about AutoCAD for Students here.
✅ Features:
- All the same features as the professional version
- Requires Autodesk Education registration
💡 Why Use It?
- Great for learning or teaching AutoCAD without any cost barrier.
📌 8. Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | AutoCAD Full | AutoCAD LT | Toolsets | Web App | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2D Drafting | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 3D Modeling | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Automation (LISP) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Industry Libraries | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Works in Browser | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Works on Mobile | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
🧠 Self-Check Questions:
- What is the main difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT?
- Name two industry toolsets and describe what they’re used for.
- When might the mobile or web version of AutoCAD be helpful?
- If you’re an interior designer only doing floorplans, which version would you consider?
- Can AutoCAD LT run LISP routines or custom scripts?
🎓 Optional Activity:
- Visit autodesk.com and compare pricing or features.
- Download a free AutoCAD trial and test switching between 2D Drafting and Architecture Toolset if available.
✅ Completion Checklist:
✔ Read all sections
✔ Answer the review questions
✔ Try exploring Autodesk’s website
✔ Save notes for your course journal