As an old architect, I start out in 2D CAD and then bring it into MoI, to which I'm relatively new.

As a 2D CAD source I have so far used Draftsight, which is splendid. I has so far been free, but will from 31.12.19 only function as payware at a cost 150 USD/year. A fair price for what it is, and I might end up buying

Having retired, however, I'm on a budget and will still try to source good 2D CAD free- or shareware, which is not that easy. So far I've "only" found SolidEdge freeware from Siemens https://www.plm.automation.siemens.com/plmapp/education/solid-edge/en_us/free-software/free-2d-cad - I've used it before and might again. It is absolutely thorough and easy to use, but with a 3GB installment a bit heavy on my elder PCs.

So, it will interest me to learn if you guys can suggest good 2D CAD free- or shareware, which works well without to steep a learning curve?

Best from Claus
Denmark

Hi Claus ...
MoI3d works just fine as a 2d program. I use it for my 2d layout work (houses and other smaller buildings). As soon as the 'dimension' work is ready it will be all I will really need for plans and working details, as well as 3d modeling.
Sketchup Make (free) will also work pretty easily on that level.
cheers,
eric

Hi eric, just as a word of warning you're doing full on production drawings with your 2D CAD including such things as hatching. I don't think that Moi's dimensions will cover everything you need to do for 2D CAD, they are going to be pretty simple especially to start with. But they will likely be pretty useful and extend what you are able to do while in MoI but not likely totally fill in for a more full featured drafting toolset.

- Michael

Hi Claus, that's interesting that Draftsight won't be free anymore.

Maybe QCad is worth a test ?

ViaCAD has a 2D version which isn't free but is very inexpensive, something like $70 for an old style non-expiring license I think.

I think TurboCAD also has something similar, a really low cost 2D version that I think is a permanent license and not a yearly subscription.

- Michael

Free Nanocad 5.0 is a cool one! ;) https://nanocad.com/products/nanoCAD/download/ (i am working on its French UI :)

Free Double CAD V 5 also https://www.turbocad.com/content/doublecad-xt-v5

etc... :)

I use Turbocad designer for $60 its hard to beat.

Hi Kevin, and that's not a subscription right just a plain old permanent license?

- Michael

TurboCAD Designer is MAC only, isn't it.

Right, nanoCAD 5.0 seems cool. Have to have a look on the others, too. THANKS for great help !!

there's also LibreCAD
https://librecad.org/

https://www.deltacad.com/

I used this for @ my job for 8 years (1994-2002)

It fulfilled all my 2D needs back then and haven't needed anything more since. (Now not job, just hobby)

Impressive for $40.00

I have not tried Delta Cad, though its simplicity makes me quite interested. However, a bit hard to order from Denmark (money check, US bank etc).

Regarding the other suggestions I have tried some out before and have had a go at the new ones. Software probably OK, but either I did not seem to bother with the learning curve, or I came to short with specific details.

Except for nanoCAD 5.0 that is. I was up flying right away. It is fast and the interface and functions are very similar to the AutoCad Lt and DraftSight that I have used so far. Also the interface easily can be adjusted to suit your taste and needs ... it is free.

Once again, thank you all !!

best
Claus