---
description: Discover and compare Free Architectural CAD Software Applications & Tools. Capterra is a free interactive tool that lets you quickly narrow down your software selection, contact multiple vendors, and compare platforms for your business.
image: https://gdm-localsites-assets-gfprod.imgix.net/images/capterra/og_logo-e5a8c001ed0bd1bb922639230fcea71a.png?auto=format%2Cenhance%2Ccompress
title: Free Architectural CAD Software - Capterra South Africa 2026
---

Breadcrumb: [Home](/) > [Free Architectural CAD Software](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/software)

# Architectural CAD Software

Canonical: https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/software

> Architectural CAD (computer-aided design) software is used by architects for creating 2D and 3D building plans and blueprints.

-----

## Products

1. [Visio](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/201133/visio) — 4.5/5 (3279 reviews) — Microsoft Visio is a diagramming solution that helps visualize data-connected business process flows, empower remote teamwork, and more
2. [AutoCAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/174021/autocad) — 4.7/5 (3205 reviews) — 2D and 3D CAD software with design automation and architecture toolsets, plus web and mobile apps.
3. [SketchUp](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/211798/sketchup) — 4.5/5 (1046 reviews) — 3D tool that helps teams use 3D modeler, 2D documentation, cloud storage, and AR/VR visualization to execute comprehensive projects.
4. [ARCHICAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/2018/archicad) — 4.4/5 (279 reviews) — Graphisoft develops Building Information Modeling software products for architects with Archicad and BIMx solutions.
5. [RoomSketcher](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/164021/roomsketcher) — 4.4/5 (174 reviews) — RoomSketcher is the leading floor planning software that makes it easy to create and share accurate, high-quality floor plans.
6. [LibreCAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/170177/librecad) — 4.0/5 (48 reviews) — LibreCAD is a free open-source 2D CAD software for Windows, Apple and Linux operating systems.
7. [Cedreo](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/177284/cedreo) — 4.4/5 (44 reviews) — Cedreo is the only architecture software designed for pros to win more jobs without the complexity of traditional design software.
8. [Shapr3D](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/184498/shapr3d) — 4.6/5 (22 reviews) — Radically efficient CAD tool maximizing the impact of design and manufacturing teams.
9. [BricsCAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/159378/bricscad) — 4.5/5 (18 reviews) — BricsCAD, the all-in-one CAD design solution in .dwg that answers all your needs; 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM.
10. [DesignSpark Mechanical](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/172985/designspark-mechanical) — 4.4/5 (17 reviews) — 3D CAD solution used by engineers to create prototypes and technical drawings.
11. [QCAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/172927/qcad) — 4.1/5 (7 reviews) — Open source 2D CAD software for creating technical drawings, including building plans.
12. [SolidFace](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/178854/solidface-pro) — 1.3/5 (4 reviews) — A complete 3D modeling solution allowing designers and engineers to collaborate and span multiple disciplines in real time.
13. [RFEM](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/1028440/rfem) — 5.0/5 (4 reviews) — RFEM is a 3D FEA structural analysis program for modeling and designing any type of structure.
14. [Draft it](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/136109/draft-it) — 5.0/5 (1 reviews) — Powerful, easy to use 2D CAD Software package that is free to use. Create, save and print your work with our unlimited free version.
15. [RootPro CAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/1025710/rootpro-cad) — 3.0/5 (1 reviews) — General purpose CAD software tool used by technical designers, engineers, and architects to design products.
16. [SOFiCAD](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/174898/soficad) (0 reviews) — SOFiCAD is 2D CAD software that provides reinforcement design and detailing tools for civil engineering projects.
17. [Infurnia](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/180273/infurnia-architecture-and-interior-design-software) (0 reviews) — Modern Architecture \& Interior Design Software
18. [ELITECAD Architecture](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/181839/elitecad-architecture) (0 reviews) — EliteCad provides their customers state-of-the-art tools, that help them with smart functionality, high flexibility and usability.
19. [4Reality](https://www.capterra.co.za/software/1061471/4reality) (0 reviews) — 4Reality is a free, user-friendly real-time rendering software offering advanced features for photorealistic rendering and simulation.

## Related Categories

- [3D Rendering Software](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/34095/3d-rendering/software)
- [Engineering CAD Software](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/30556/engineering-cad/software)
- [Floor Plan Software](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/33775/floor-plan/software)
- [3D CAD Software](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31236/3d-cad/software)
- [3D Architecture Software](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31276/3d-architecture/software)

## Links

- [View on Capterra](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/software)
- [All Categories](https://www.capterra.co.za/directory)

-----

## Structured Data

<script type="application/ld+json">
  {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"name":null,"address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":null,"addressRegion":null,"postalCode":null,"streetAddress":null},"description":"Capterra South Africa helps find the best business software. With software reviews, ratings, infographics and a comprehensive list of business software.","email":"info@capterra.co.za","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/","logo":"https://dm-localsites-assets-prod.imgix.net/images/capterra/logo-a9b3b18653bd44e574e5108c22ab4d3c.svg","@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/#organization","@type":"Organization","parentOrganization":"Gartner, Inc.","sameAs":["https://twitter.com/capterra","https://www.facebook.com/Capterra/","https://www.linkedin.com/company/capterra","https://www.instagram.com/capterra/","https://www.youtube.com/user/CapterraTV"]},{"name":null,"url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/","@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/#website","@type":"WebSite","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/#organization"},"potentialAction":{"query":"required","target":"https://www.capterra.co.za/search/?q={search_term_string}","@type":"SearchAction","query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}},{"name":"Architectural CAD Software","description":"Discover and compare Free Architectural CAD Software Applications & Tools. Capterra is a free interactive tool that lets you quickly narrow down your software selection, contact multiple vendors, and compare platforms for your business.","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software","about":{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software#itemlist"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software#breadcrumblist"},"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software#webpage","@type":["WebPage","CollectionPage"],"isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/#website"},"inLanguage":"en-ZA","mainEntity":{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software#itemlist"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/#organization"}},{"@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software#breadcrumblist","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"name":"Home","position":1,"item":"/","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"Free Architectural CAD Software","position":2,"item":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/software","@type":"ListItem"}]}]}
</script><script type="application/ld+json">
  {"name":"Free Architectural CAD Software - Capterra South Africa 2026","@context":"https://schema.org","@id":"https://www.capterra.co.za/directory/31237/architectural-cad/pricing/free/software#itemlist","@type":"ItemList","itemListElement":[{"name":"Visio","position":1,"description":"Microsoft Visio is a diagramming solution with a robust library of templates and shapes, data connectivity capabilities, and integrated collaboration tools to empower remote workers and teams anywhere. Create impactful visualizations using provided shapes and starter files.  Edit diagrams stored online simultaneously with colleagues through a web browser to work with others anywhere securely and effortlessly. Even connect diagrams to real-time data to make decisions quickly.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/df25f33b-71a1-46b2-8520-02d04ac23097.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/201133/visio","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"AutoCAD","position":2,"description":"CAD software used for precise 2D and 3D drafting, design, and modeling with solids, surfaces, mesh objects, documentation features, and more. It includes features to automate tasks and increase productivity such as comparing drawings, counting, adding objects, and creating tables. It also comes with seven architecture toolsets for electrical design, plant design, architecture layout drawings, mechanical design, 3D mapping, adding scanned images, and converting raster images.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/27a50d30-49b3-4fb0-902d-34d05a775b15.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/174021/autocad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"SketchUp","position":3,"description":"SketchUp is an architectural CAD software that enables businesses to facilitate every stage of the building design process, from conceptual massing to detailed construction documentation. Architects, interior designers, and landscape architects leverage SketchUp's intuitive modeling tools to sketch ideas, explore design options, and create compelling 3D models of buildings and spaces. The software's capacity for rapid iteration allows designers to test various layouts, materials, and lighting conditions with immediate visual feedback. \n\nSketchUp integrates with other architectural software through import/export capabilities, supporting workflows with BIM applications and rendering engines. Its extensive 3D Warehouse provides a vast collection of manufacturer-specific models, furniture, and landscaping elements, significantly accelerating design development","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/dedd4569-445b-4cc1-bb86-7936010ab81c.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/211798/sketchup","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"ARCHICAD","position":4,"description":"Tailored BIM for Architects, by Architects. \nWith Archicad's comprehensive toolkit and user-friendly interface, empower your project design, visualization, documentation, and delivery, regardless of scale. It stands out as the market's most streamlined and intuitive BIM software, allowing you to concentrate on crafting exceptional architecture.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/40956206-8821-4bd6-80b7-239953dad620.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/2018/archicad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"RoomSketcher","position":5,"description":"RoomSketcher is the leading floor planning software that makes it easy to create and share accurate, high-quality floor plans.\n\nRoomSketcher projects can be created in five different ways. Draw plans from scratch yourself, send in existing blueprints to be redrawn, import and trace over existing sketches, convert existing plans quickly with AI Convert, or scan floors into RoomSketcher using AI Capture (iOS).\n\nCross-device cloud sync means you can work on your projects from anywhere you have your computer or tablet.\n\nRoomSketcher helps thousands of real estate professionals, interior designers and general contractors worldwide. It saves time, wins clients, and enhances marketing through impressive floor plan visuals.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/1faf8f7c-5eec-4463-adab-a2242b507529.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/164021/roomsketcher","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"LibreCAD","position":6,"description":"LibreCAD is free open-source 2D CAD software. LibreCAD offers drawing tools to create technical drawings including lines, circles, arcs, ellipses, and hatches. The software is available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux. LibreCAD is developed by volunteers and has community support through forums, chat, and documentation.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/88f65df4-6e9c-42aa-8d1d-c096539523f4.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/170177/librecad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"Cedreo","position":7,"description":"Cedreo is the only cloud-based Architectural software designed specifically for building and remodeling professionals — with zero learning curve required. Create professional conceptual designs in just 2 hours, even with no design experience.\n\nFrom concept to presentation:\n- Professional 2D and 3D floor plans\n- Detailed electrical and site plans\n- Cross-sections and elevation drawings\n- Photorealistic 3D renderings of interiors and exteriors\n- Automated surface area reports\n- Client-ready proposal documents  with your branding\n\nWhy building and remodeling professionals love Cedreo: \n✓ Learn in minutes, not months - Intuitive drag-and-drop interface anyone can master \n✓ Keep design in-house  - No more waiting weeks for external designers nor costly design fees\n✓ Close deals on the spot - Show breathtaking 3D renderings during your first meeting \n\nPerfect for professionals who want to win more jobs without the complexity of traditional architectural design software.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/5b63f633-ce24-428d-b960-7d4a02325749.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/177284/cedreo","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"Shapr3D","position":8,"description":"Shapr3D builds instinctive CAD tools, helping design and manufacturing teams complete complex tasks with speed and efficiency. Through our multi-platform structure, you can work flexibly across devices. A non-hierarchical toolset makes Shapr3D quickly accessible, so every team member can contribute to the workflow, boosting overall output. \n\nDownload Shapr3D from the App Store, Microsoft Store, or our website.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/2ce0de3e-b5f1-4311-9d51-9ed6b4c99593.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/184498/shapr3d","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"BricsCAD","position":9,"description":"Architectural CAD solution designed to help architects, contractors, and engineers create graded and TIN surfaces as well as corridors to create site designs. BricsCAD allows designers to automatically create bends and T-connections on moving around connected profiles. The platform offers inbuilt evaluation tools to calculate pressure loss, room book log, heating requirements, temperature drops, and more. BricsCAD can also design 3D ventilation systems for residential buildings.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/cb9afb20-2a2b-4bb5-8c49-cd3de3293123.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/159378/bricscad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"DesignSpark Mechanical","position":10,"description":"DesignSpark Mechanical is a 3D CAD solution designed to help engineers and educational institutions use inbuilt 3D models to create and export technical drawings in STEP & IGES file formats. It offers measurement tools, which enable designers to analyze the size and shape of designs created. Businesses can use its 3D sketch module to create intricate and realistic designs. It also lets administrators use price and stock information to generate online quotes and bill of materials.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/3c4dc9d8-9882-4fd3-a581-a78b52d17ffd.jpeg","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/172985/designspark-mechanical","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"QCAD","position":11,"description":"QCAD is a free, open source application for computer aided drafting (CAD) in two dimensions (2D). With QCAD you can create technical drawings such as plans for buildings, interiors, mechanical parts or schematics and diagrams. QCAD works on Windows, macOS and Linux. The source code of QCAD is released under the GPL version 3 (GPLv3), a popular Open Source license.\n\nA proprietary professional version is available with DWG support and many advanced features.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/361ed970-ac70-41d0-bcfe-3bf91d218ff8.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/172927/qcad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"SolidFace","position":12,"description":"A complete 3D modeling solution allowing designers and engineers to collaborate and span multiple disciplines in real time.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/b80a0495-b9eb-4edf-ae01-14f167bd2520.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/178854/solidface-pro","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"RFEM","position":13,"description":"RFEM, the sixth generation of the state-of-the-art FEA software by Dlubal, is a proven solution for structural and civil engineers worldwide. The software allows for fast and efficient modeling of complex structures, as well as structural and dynamic analysis. It offers a comprehensive design of member, plate, wall, folded plate, shell, and solid elements.\n\nRFEM is characterized by its user-friendliness and flexibility, which allows for a precise adaptation to project-specific requirements. Due to the modular concept of RFEM, you can extend the software with a wide range of add-ons, and thus use it in various specialized areas, such as concrete, steel, timber, and glass construction.\n\nRFEM is an innovative solution that facilitates the work of structural engineers and designers.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/71a24e2b-0038-42d8-a30a-ff7fee2b2edf.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/1028440/rfem","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"Draft it","position":14,"description":"Draft It Version 4 is faster and more powerful than previous versions whilst retaining its acclaimed ease of use. It is a 2D CAD software for suitable for all users, in the office or at home.\n* Powerful drawing tools \n* Dynamic editing functions with visual handles and snaps\n* Support of various Metric and Imperial Units\n* Standard Metric, Imperial and Custom Sheet Sizes\n* Linear, Angular, Radial, Diameter and Arrow Dimension tools\n* Comprehensive Help system including tutorial exercises.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/1c45e896-054c-4b34-a48c-94e0941249ea.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/136109/draft-it","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"RootPro CAD","position":15,"description":"RootPro CAD is a 2D CAD software tool intended for general consumption, which enables users to create two-dimensional designs. It can be used for design, quality control, construction, mechanical, electronical, mechanical, and civil engineering applications. The tool comes in two variants. The free version features window docking, view controllers, in-place text editors, multi-level layer management, and multi-paper drawings. The paid Pro version also comes with customizable menus, code add-in via script menu, OLE object pasting to and from the application, support for AutoCAD files, and DXF/DWG file conversion.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/85b9924f-eec0-4165-a583-a348c7b2fd11.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/1025710/rootpro-cad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"SOFiCAD","position":16,"description":"SOFiCAD is a 2D CAD solution designed for reinforcement planning and detailing in building construction and civil engineering projects. The software allows efficient project planning and implementation of reinforcement with tools for formwork, position, and shop drawings, as well as steel bar and mesh layout. SOFiCAD integrates with AutoCAD and can exchange data with 3D BIM solutions.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/b95de8bd-4e4f-4108-9c3d-f3269cc4d357.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/174898/soficad","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"Infurnia","position":17,"description":"Infurnia is the world’s most powerful cloud-native architecture software made for professional users. Infurnia provides a very easy to use & intuitive user interface for architects to design any kind of project. Infurnia covers all facets of creating a project. From architectural floor plans to 3D elevation design to rendering to BOQ generation. From modular furniture design to complete interior design. A powerful 3D kernel is included in the software to facilitate custom shapes & geometries.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/d96db792-6540-4917-916c-a2f0a314dd7b.jpeg","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/180273/infurnia-architecture-and-interior-design-software","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"ELITECAD Architecture","position":18,"description":"EliteCad provides their customers state-of-the-art tools, that help them with smart functionality, high flexibility and usability.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/8e45e7ce-738a-4e43-a680-7cb9562259ca.png","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/181839/elitecad-architecture","@type":"ListItem"},{"name":"4Reality","position":19,"description":"4Reality is a free, user-friendly real-time rendering software tailored for designers, architects, and engineers. It offers advanced features such as real-time post-processing, dynamic scene control, saved camera views, and dynamic sky simulation with sun, moon, and stars. Users can import 3D models, utilize extensive material and model libraries, and create photorealistic renders and videos. \n\nThe software supports real-time discrete element modeling (DEM) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, enhancing its utility in engineering analyses. \n\nAdditionally, 4Reality is compatible with virtual reality headsets, providing an immersive experience for design presentations. \n\nAvailable in both French and English, 4Reality caters to a diverse user base. It is offered in three versions: Designer (free), Pro, and Advanced, each providing varying levels of features to suit different user needs and budgets.","image":"https://gdm-catalog-fmapi-prod.imgix.net/ProductLogo/4c7d93cb-e54f-402e-ad73-c8656b2552bc.jpeg","url":"https://www.capterra.co.za/software/1061471/4reality","@type":"ListItem"}],"numberOfItems":19}
</script>