AutoCAD LT vs BricsCAD: Which 2D CAD Fits Drafters?

Freelance drafters and small studios often ask whether they really need AutoCAD, or whether one of the popular AutoCAD alternatives will do the job. Two names come up most: Autodesk's own AutoCAD LT and Bricsys BricsCAD. Both read and write DWG files natively and feel familiar to AutoCAD users. This comparison focuses on practical 2D production work such as shop drawings, fit-out layouts and authority sets.

Where to Get Them Legally

Both products offer official trials. Download them only from the vendor websites: AutoCAD LT from Autodesk and BricsCAD from Bricsys. Check each site for current pricing, licence types and system requirements, because these change from time to time.

DWG Compatibility

DWG is Autodesk's native format, so AutoCAD LT gives the most predictable results with files from consultants using AutoCAD. BricsCAD also uses DWG as its native format and is widely used for production drawing. In daily work, most layers, blocks, xrefs, dimensions and layouts open cleanly in both. Test with real project files from your main clients, especially files with dynamic blocks, annotative objects or complex hatches, before switching your whole workflow.

Interface and Commands

Both programs use a ribbon, command line and similar command names, so LINE, TRIM, OFFSET, HATCH and most shortcuts work as expected. Experienced AutoCAD users can usually start producing drawings in BricsCAD within a day or two. AutoCAD LT has the advantage of matching the interface many employers use in job tests and office environments.

Automation and Customisation

This is one of the biggest differences:

AutoCAD LT historically lacked LISP. Recent versions added AutoLISP support, which is a significant change for drafters who rely on small routines. Check the feature list for your version.
BricsCAD supports LISP and other programming interfaces in its paid editions, and many existing AutoLISP routines run with little or no change.

If your workflow depends on custom routines for title blocks, numbering or quantity extraction, test them in both programs before deciding.

Licensing Models

Autodesk sells AutoCAD LT as a subscription. Bricsys has offered both subscription and perpetual-style licences for BricsCAD at different times. Compare the total cost over two or three years, including upgrades, rather than only the first-year price. Always buy from the vendor or an authorised reseller.

3D and BIM Features

AutoCAD LT is a 2D drafting product with limited 3D. BricsCAD offers higher editions with 3D modelling, mechanical and BIM features. If you only produce 2D shop drawings and layouts, these extras may not matter. If you want to grow into 3D or BIM without leaving DWG, the BricsCAD editions are worth exploring.

Collaboration With Clients

Consider who sends you files and who receives them:

Large consultants and contractors in the UAE commonly specify AutoCAD or Revit formats.
Your output, usually DWG and PDF, is what they check. As long as files open cleanly and plot correctly, the tool you used matters less.
Some clients specify a DWG version. Both programs can save to older DWG versions.

A Practical Testing Plan

Install both trials on the same computer.
Open three real projects: a marble shop drawing, a fit-out layout and a consultant background with xrefs.
Edit, plot to PDF with your CTB and save back to DWG.
Send the files to a trusted colleague who uses AutoCAD and ask for feedback.
Time how long common tasks take in each program.
Compare the results with the total licence cost.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose AutoCAD LT if most of your clients use AutoCAD, you want the most standard environment and you mostly work in 2D.
Choose BricsCAD if you need strong LISP automation, want 3D or BIM options in one DWG-based platform, or prefer its licensing model.

Many freelancers keep one main tool and use the other's trial only when a client specifically requires it. Whatever you choose, stay with licensed software. Clients increasingly ask about it, and it protects your files and your reputation.

Tips for Switching Smoothly

Copy your templates, CTB files, custom hatch patterns and block libraries into the new program first. Recreate your most-used aliases so muscle memory keeps working. Then run one small live project end to end before moving larger work across, so any compatibility surprises appear on a low-risk job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can BricsCAD open AutoCAD DWG files?

Yes. BricsCAD uses DWG as its native format. Test complex files from your clients to confirm everything behaves as expected.

Does AutoCAD LT support LISP?

Recent AutoCAD LT versions added AutoLISP support. Check the feature list on Autodesk's website for your version.

Is there a free trial for both programs?

Both Autodesk and Bricsys offer trials on their official websites. Check each site for the current trial length.

CEO M Shoaib Hasan

Salam & Hi everyone; i am a Civil Associate Engineer. (visit my blog) Every person have some skills, I know lots of software. Auto-CAD,3D Studio Max,VRay, , Revit, Blender (3D Animation Maker),SolidWorks (3D Designer),MS Office,Adobe Photoshop,Coral Draw,Inpage,Adobe After Effects,Ulead Video Studio,Eaglepoint Road Calc,Primavera P6,Adobe Dreamviewer (Web Designer). I got these all Skills by the grace of Allah . Pray for me ! Regards...