ZWCAD: The best CAD alternative

In this article, we will thoroughly analyze ZWCAD, a competitive alternative in the world of CAD software. We discuss the most widely used CAD software, the current subscription model, and how ZWCAD positions itself with its perpetual licenses and affordable prices. Additionally, we will address the main advantages of ZWCAD, such as its 100% compatibility with the DWG format and the constant improvements it makes. If you are looking for an affordable and effective option for your computer-aided design (CAD) projects, this blog is for you.

In the world of computer-aided design (CAD), choosing the right software can make a significant difference in terms of productivity and costs. ZWCAD presents itself as the most accessible alternative to traditional CAD programs. In this blog, we will explore why ZWCAD is positioning itself as the best option in the current CAD market.

Most used CAD software today

AutoCAD

Developed by Autodesk, it is one of the most popular CAD programs. Its versatility and wide range of tools make it a preferred option for many design and engineering professionals. The price of an annual AutoCAD subscription is approximately 2,342€ (VAT included), although it also offers monthly and triennial subscription plans.

SolidWorks

SolidWorks, developed by Dassault Systèmes, is widely recognized for its 3D modeling and simulation capabilities. It is especially used in the manufacturing and product industries for designing mechanical parts and complex assemblies.

SolidWorks does offer a perpetual license model with annual updates, which also vary in price according to its functionalities (Premium, Professional, and Standard). The price of the Standard perpetual license is around 6,600€.

Revit

Revit, also from Autodesk, is the leading software in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry for building information modeling (BIM). Revit allows users to design a building and its components in 3D, annotate the model with drawing elements, and access the model information from the building's database. The price of an annual subscription is 3,358€ (VAT included).

MicroStation

MicroStation, developed by Bentley Systems, is a popular tool in the field of design and engineering, especially in large infrastructure projects. MicroStation is known for its ability to handle large and complex projects with precision.

In the case of MicroStation, it also offers a perpetual license, although the price is not public and must be consulted directly with the sales department. In the case of the subscription, the license price would be around 2,918€ approximately.

ZWCAD - CAD Software

All these programs offer advanced design, modeling, and analysis functionalities that are essential for engineering, architecture, and manufacturing. They are compatible with multiple file formats, especially DWG and DXF, which facilitates collaboration between different platforms and software.

They are widely used in professional environments and are known for their robustness and ability to handle complex projects, but they have a quite high price compared to ZWCAD, and not all offer the option to purchase a perpetual license.

The current subscription model in CAD software

The subscription model offers a series of advantages such as access to the latest updates and software improvements, flexibility, continuous technical support, or a lower initial cost.

However, this subscription model also presents several disadvantages that can affect users in the long term:

  • Increase in long-term costs: Although initial costs are low, recurring subscription payments can accumulate significantly over time. In the long term, the total cost of ownership can exceed that of a perpetual license, making the subscription more expensive for users.
  • Dependence on the software provider: With a subscription model, users constantly depend on the provider for continuous access to the software. If the provider decides to increase prices or change the service conditions, users have few options but to accept the new terms.
  • Absence of software ownership: Unlike a perpetual license, where the user acquires the software definitively, the subscription only grants temporary access. At the end of the subscription, the user loses access to the software and all projects stored in it unless the subscription is renewed.
  • Usage limitations: Some subscription plans may come with limitations regarding available functionalities, the number of users who can access the software, or the number of projects that can be managed simultaneously.

Among all these factors, the comparison of long-term costs between subscription models and perpetual licenses is definitive.

Although perpetual licenses require a higher initial investment, they do not have significant recurring costs. In the long term, this can result in considerable savings, especially if the software is used for several years without needing significant updates.

Recurring subscription costs can quickly exceed the cost of a perpetual license. For example, software with an annual subscription of 1,200€ will have an accumulated cost of 6,000€ in five years, while a perpetual license could cost 3,000€ in a single purchase.

ZWCAD, thanks to its perpetual license option, positions itself as an attractive alternative for those looking to avoid these cumulative costs and the dependence on the subscription model.

What is ZWCAD?

ZWCAD is a CAD software developed by ZWSOFT, a company based in Guangzhou, China. First released in 2009, ZWCAD has become an essential tool for 2D design and is compatible with DWG files, one of the industry's standard formats.

ZWCAD has been adopted by more than 1.4 million users in over 90 countries. Its latest version, ZWCAD 2025, has significantly improved in terms of functionality and usability, especially for the surveying sector.

ZWCAD Features

Compatibility and Operating System

ZWCAD is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems, which expands its accessibility for different users. It can also read and save graphic information in common formats such as DWG, DWT, DXF, and DWF.

Available Languages

ZWCAD is available in more than 15 languages, making it easy to use globally and accessible to a wider audience.

License Model

ZWCAD has a perpetual license model, eliminating the need to pay recurring subscriptions and providing greater cost control. You can upgrade your ZWCAD version whenever you want without penalty. That is, if you have ZWCAD 2022 and want to upgrade to the 2025 version, you only have to pay for an upgrade.

Compatibility

ZWCAD is 100% compatible with DWG files, ensuring users can work seamlessly with industry-standard file formats.

Functionalities

The latest versions of ZWCAD include advanced functionalities that improve productivity and efficiency, such as parametric design tools and enhanced compatibility with other CAD formats.

ZWCAD Versions

ZWCAD Standard

ZWCAD Standard is the basic version of the software and is designed for users who need essential CAD tools for 2D design. This version includes all the basic functionalities that allow designers and drafters to create, edit, and view technical drawings efficiently.

  • Full DWG Compatibility: Allows working with DWG files without problems, ensuring interoperability with other CAD software.
  • Drawing and Editing Tools: Includes a complete set of drawing and editing tools that allow creating and modifying 2D drawings with ease.
  • Familiar Interface: The user interface is similar to other CAD programs, making the transition easier for new users.
  • Support for Blocks and External References: Allows the insertion and management of blocks and external references (Xrefs), improving the organization and reuse of design components.

This version is ideal for designers and drafters who need basic 2D CAD tools.

ZWCAD Professional

ZWCAD Professional is an advanced version that offers additional functionalities for users who need more capabilities and design tools. It is designed for professionals working on more complex projects that require enhanced productivity tools.

  • All ZWCAD Standard Functions: Includes all the tools and functionalities of the standard version.
  • 3D Design Tools: Allows creating and editing 3D models, providing additional capabilities for more complex designs.
  • Advanced Rendering: Offers advanced rendering options that allow users to visualize their designs in 3D with greater realism.
  • Customization and Automation: Supports programming in LISP and VBA, allowing the automation of repetitive tasks and customization of the work environment.
  • Annotation and Dimensioning Tools: Includes advanced tools for adding annotations and dimensions to drawings, improving the precision and clarity of technical documents.

This version is intended for professionals working on complex projects that require advanced design capabilities.

ZWCAD Mechanical

ZWCAD Mechanical is a specialized version of ZWCAD Professional, specifically designed for mechanical engineers. This version includes additional tools and libraries that simplify mechanical design and improve productivity.

  • Standard Component Library: Includes an extensive library of standard mechanical components, such as screws, nuts, bearings, etc., making it easier to create mechanical drawings.
  • Mechanical Design Tools: Offers specific tools for mechanical design, such as centerline generation, construction lines, and section view creation.
  • Specialized Symbols and Annotations: Allows the insertion of symbols and annotations specific to mechanical design, such as geometric tolerances and technical notes.
  • Automation of Mechanical Tasks: Includes automated functions that reduce the time required for common mechanical design tasks, such as creating bills of materials (BOM) and weight calculations.

A version designed for mechanical engineers who need specialized tools for mechanical design.

Latest updates: the best CAD for surveying

ZWCAD is regularly updated, incorporating new features and improvements to keep up with users' needs. The latest versions of ZWCAD not only include advanced functionalities that improve productivity and efficiency, such as parametric design tools and enhanced compatibility with other CAD formats.

ZWCAD 2025 introduces a series of updates specifically designed to improve surveying work and facilitate the work of surveyors. These new features are aimed at increasing precision, efficiency, and ease of use, allowing surveying professionals to carry out their projects more effectively.

Point Cloud Processing

ZWCAD 2025 includes advanced functionality for managing point clouds. This tool allows users to read and process complex point clouds smoothly. Surveyors can attach and manage point cloud data, which is essential for creating accurate models of terrain and existing structures.

  • Fast Point Cloud Reading: Allows quick import of laser scan and LIDAR data.
  • Editing and Management: Facilitates the editing of point clouds, including data classification and filtering.
  • CAD Integration: Point cloud data can be used directly in CAD projects, improving design accuracy and efficiency.

Terrain and Contour Tools

Terrain and contour tools have been improved in ZWCAD 2025 to provide advanced terrain modeling and analysis capabilities. These tools are crucial for creating topographic maps and analyzing terrain features.

  • Contour Generation: Automates the creation of contour lines from topographic data.
  • Terrain Modeling: Allows creating digital terrain models (DTM) with high precision.
  • Slope and Volume Analysis: Offers tools for detailed slope analysis and volumetric calculations, essential for earth-moving planning.

GIS Compatibility and Mapping Tools

ZWCAD 2025 improves its compatibility with geographic information systems (GIS) and offers advanced mapping tools. This allows integrating topographic data with GIS systems and improving the accuracy and utility of maps.

  • GIS Data Import and Export: Facilitates data transfer between ZWCAD and GIS systems like ArcGIS.
  • Georeferencing Tools: Allows users to georeference their topographic data, ensuring all data aligns correctly with the used coordinate systems.
  • Thematic Mapping: Offers capabilities for creating thematic maps that highlight different terrain features and demographic data.

Annotation and Documentation Improvements

For surveyors, the ability to document and annotate their findings clearly and accurately is essential. ZWCAD 2025 introduces improvements in annotation and documentation tools, allowing users to add notes, labels, and dimensions more easily and precisely.

  • Real-time Annotations: Allows adding notes and labels directly in the field using mobile devices.
  • Enhanced Dimensioning Tools: Facilitates creating precise dimensions for topographic features, improving document clarity.
  • Voice and Video Support: Offers the ability to add voice and video annotations to projects, providing additional context and improving team communication.

These updates make ZWCAD 2025 an even more powerful and versatile tool for surveyors, facilitating the creation of accurate maps and models and improving efficiency in managing and analyzing topographic data.

Conclusion

ZWCAD presents itself as a viable and economical alternative to traditional CAD software, with significant advantages such as an affordable price, perpetual licenses, and full compatibility with DWG files.

With its constant evolution and improvements, ZWCAD continues to grow and gain popularity in the global CAD market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ZWCAD compatible with AutoCAD files?

Yes, ZWCAD is fully compatible with DWG files, which is the format used by AutoCAD, allowing for an easy transition and collaboration between both programs.

Does ZWCAD offer a free trial version?

Yes, ZWCAD offers a free trial version that allows users to evaluate its features and functionality before making a purchase decision.

You can download your free trial version here:

ZWCAD Trial Version

Which operating systems are compatible with ZWCAD?

ZWCAD is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems, making it accessible to a wide variety of users.

Does ZWCAD have technical support available in multiple languages?

Yes, ZWCAD offers technical support in multiple languages, facilitating assistance to users worldwide. Besides ZWSoft's support, at Global Geosystems we also offer free technical support with the purchase of your license.

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